Interview

Wherefore Art Thou?

This performer is bringing a pop sensibility to one of theatre’s most famous roles in & Juliet, a reimagining of Shakespeare’s classic play.

Juliet and Angelique, Original Australian Company, Melbourne. Credit: Daniel Boud
Juliet and Angelique. Credit: Daniel Boud

She’s been in Melbourne for months, both rehearsing and performing in & Juliet at the Regent Theatre. Here, Kuungkari and South Sea Islander performer Lorinda May Merrypor, who stars as Juliet, tells us what she loves doing when she’s not on stage belting out Katy Perry’s ‘Roar’ or Britney Spears’ ‘…Baby One More Time’.

 

How do you spend your time when you’re not performing? 
I love roller skating by the beach in St Kilda or at the Caribbean Rollerama in Scoresby. 

Where does the cast get together when not on stage? 
We all just recently had a get together at basement bar, Juliet Melbourne – very on brand – and it was so much fun. Great vibes and perfect location right in the heart of Melbourne’s theatre district.

Where do you get your morning coffee? 
I’m not a coffee drinker, but lately my favourite cafe for a tea or sweet treat around the theatre has been Puzzle Coffee on Swanston Street. 

What must-do activity do you recommend to visitors? 
Go to the Regent Theatre to see & Juliet! Other than that, I always recommend an afternoon at the NGV and dinner on Lygon Street in Carlton. Do you have any nightlife hot spots you like to hit? I love HER Bar in the city. Who doesn’t love a nice rooftop? The Music Room downstairs is absolutely amazing. 

Juliet and cast. Original Australian Company. Credit: Daniel Boud
Juliet and cast leaving fair Verona. Credit: Daniel Boud

What can viewers expect from & Juliet? 

What’s exciting is that it’s a new show people don’t know a lot about, so we have the element of surprise. It’s joyously funny and heart-warming, and all you want to do is sing and dance along. It’s got all the atmosphere of a pop concert while also making you feel so many things. I can’t wait for audiences to join the party. 

 
"Audiences are going to be totally blown away by & Juliet."

Lorinda May's Melbourne must-dos