Brisbane Festival at QPAC has been buzzing this season, and Shake & Stir’s production of The Lovers proves exactly why. Written by Laura Murphy, this dazzling Australian original musical takes Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and gives it a TikTok-era remix, mashing up centuries-old dialogue with infectious pop hooks, rap verses, and lush harmonies. It’s a glorious mashup that makes Shakespeare feel both fresh and feverishly fun.
On this particular night, Jenni Little (Titanique, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical) stepped into the role of Hermia – a role usually played by Loren Hunter (Six the Musical) – with magnetic energy, her comedic timing and powerhouse vocals lighting up the stage. Hermia’s fiery determination came through not just in her line delivery – still Shakespeare’s original text – but in her pop-ballad solos that wouldn’t sound out of place on an Ariana Grande playlist.
Natalie Abbott (Muriel’s Wedding The Musical) brought warmth and wit to Helena, delivering some of the show’s funniest moments with a voice that soars. Opposite her, Jason Arrow (Hamilton) as Demetrius balanced swagger with charm, making his journey from stubborn to smitten a satisfying watch.
As Lysander, Mat Verevis (Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical) delivered effortless vocals and a playful stage presence, making the lovers’ quarrel scene an absolute standout. The romantic chaos between Hermia, Helena, Demetrius, and Lysander played like a perfectly choreographed pop video, brimming with energy and modern-day relatability.
Jayme-lee Hanekom (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical) was a scene-stealing Puck – mischievous, magnetic, and delivering rap-infused rhymes with electrifying precision. Stellar Perry (The Rocky Horror Show, Jesus Christ Superstar) brought a commanding presence as Oberon, with a voice that effortlessly cut through the score, especially in the show’s powerhouse duets and buttery harmonies.
The set deserves its own round of applause – a lavish, neon-lit playground that feels like stepping into a dream sequence curated by a pop princess. Coupled with the vibrant costumes, which blend Elizabethan silhouettes with modern-day festival chic, every frame of this show is Instagram-worthy.
Directed by Nick Skubij (Frankenstein, Fourteen), the production keeps the pace snappy and the tone irreverent, leaning into the comedy and romance with just enough self-awareness to keep the Gen Z audience engaged.
Choreographer Yvette Lee delivers slick, playful movement that feels pulled straight from a viral music video, keeping the energy high and the lovers’ antics physically dynamic. Music Director Heidi Maguire ensures Laura Murphy’s pop-driven score pulses with life, balancing lush vocal harmonies and tight instrumentals that make each number sparkle.
It’s worth noting that alternates Indigo Hunt (Hamilton) and Nic Van Lits (Jesus Christ Superstar, The Rocky Horror Show) also step into roles throughout the season, ensuring the show’s energy never falters across performances.
By the curtain call, the audience was cheering like they’d just witnessed the finale of a stadium concert.
The Lovers is a celebration of love in all its messy, magical forms. It’s proof that Shakespeare’s words still have bite – especially when paired with beats, bangers, and a little bit of glitter. Whether you’re a theatre purist or a musical newcomer, this is the show to see for a joyful, modern night out.
★★★★
Shakespeare for the Spotify generation – witty, wild, and impossible not to love.
TICKETS
Now Playing until 5 October
Playhouse, QPAC
All images Supplied.
The Fame Reporter 