Two musicals reimagine Shakespeare as genius and rock star in 2025
William Shakespeare is taking centre stage in two very different musicals this year. In Toronto, George Krissa portrays the Bard as a conflicted genius in & Juliet. Meanwhile, Jeff Lillico brings a rock-star energy to the role in Something Rotten! at the Stratford Festival. Both productions offer fresh, bold interpretations of the legendary playwright.
George Krissa has been playing Shakespeare in & Juliet at Toronto’s Royal Alexandra Theatre since December. The musical presents him as a mix of insecure writer and divine creative force. David West Read, the show’s writer, pointed out that almost no solid facts exist about Shakespeare’s life—leaving room for imaginative portrayals. Krissa noted that audiences remain fascinated by the person behind such timeless works.
Jeff Lillico, on the other hand, took on the role of Shakespeare in *Something Rotten!* during the 2024 Stratford Festival. His version leans into rock-star charisma, inspired by icons like Mick Jagger and Elvis Presley. To prepare, Lillico studied biographies and concert films, shaping a performance that blends theatrical flair with musical swagger. The role proved so memorable that locals in Stratford would stop him to sing refrains from the show. Lillico is now reprising his performance in the 2025 season of *Something Rotten!*. The contrast between the two productions highlights how Shakespeare’s legacy continues to inspire wildly different artistic visions.
Shakespeare’s works have been performed for over 400 years, yet his life remains shrouded in mystery. These musicals keep his spirit alive by reimagining him in modern, unexpected ways. Both & Juliet and Something Rotten! prove that the Bard’s influence shows no signs of fading.
