⭐⭐⭐
302 Cowbarn at Underbelly, Bristo Square
7th–30th August — 3.40pm (60 minutes)
📝 Overview
Muse drops audiences straight into the creative crisis of a young William Shakespeare, who finds himself facing a surprisingly modern problem: his publisher will only print one of his plays. With his legacy suddenly at stake, the pressure mounts — and when Puck decides to intervene, the Bard’s most iconic characters burst into open rebellion. What unfolds is a frantic, pop‑fuelled battle for artistic survival, as Juliet, Cleopatra, Lear, Macbeth and more fight to become the chosen story. It’s a concept brimming with theatrical potential, offering a playful twist on Shakespeare’s world and the muses who shaped it.
🎭 The Show
Rightly branded the Shakespeare mayhem musical, Muse embraces chaos with open arms. The production thrives when it leans into its “organised chaos” energy — characters colliding, narratives clashing, and the stage buzzing with comedic tension. However, there are moments where the chaos overtakes the clarity, leaving the story feeling scattered rather than intentionally wild.
The pop‑influenced soundtrack is where the show truly shines. Contemporary musical styling gives Shakespeare’s characters a fresh, youthful edge, and several numbers land with real impact. Juliet’s solo is the standout moment of the entire production: a soaring, emotionally charged performance that cuts through the mayhem and delivers genuine heart. Megan Elizabeth Colton’s vocals are breathtaking, and her ability to anchor the scene with raw vulnerability makes her the undeniable highlight.
With so many Shakespeare‑inspired musicals appearing at this year’s Fringe, Muse enters a crowded field — and while it has flashes of brilliance, the book doesn’t always support the scale of its ambition. The narrative feels underdeveloped compared to its musical strengths, and the show occasionally struggles to stand apart from its contemporaries. Still, the foundation is strong, and with refinement, Muse could grow into something bold and memorable.
👥 Performances
The ensemble are at their best when Shakespeare’s muses interact directly — bouncing off one another with sharp comedic timing, playful rivalry, and bursts of chaotic energy. These moments capture the spirit the show is reaching for: witty, vibrant, and joyfully self‑aware. Each performer brings a distinct flavour to their character, creating a dynamic mix of personalities fighting for the spotlight.
Juliet’s solo remains the emotional core of the production. Megan Elizabeth Colton delivers a performance that feels fully realised, offering a glimpse of the depth the show could reach with further development. Her vocals, presence, and emotional clarity elevate the entire piece, grounding the chaos with sincerity.
⭐ Final Thoughts
Muse is a musical with ambition, energy, and flashes of genuine brilliance. While the narrative doesn’t always land and the chaos occasionally overshadows the clarity, the show offers strong ensemble work and a soundtrack with standout moments — particularly Juliet’s unforgettable solo. With further development, Muse has the potential to become a sharp, witty, and fully realised addition to the ever‑growing world of Shakespeare‑inspired theatre.
Written by Suzzi Hirst
@suzzisspotlight
*media accredited/press ticket
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