title: The Lovers (musical)
text: # The Lovers (musical)
  
  The Lovers is a musical by Laura Murphy based on William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.
  
  ## Premise
  
  The Lovers is described as a fresh and magical pop-infused reimagining that refocuses the story with a modern perspective and questions our enduring search for true love.
  
  ## Production
  
  The original production was performed from 23 October to 20 November 2022 at the Sydney Opera House, presented by Bell Shakespeare. Directed by Shaun Rennie, the original production featured a live four-piece band. It is the first musical performed by Bell Shakespeare.
  
  ## Reception
  
  The musical was generally well received, being described as "a thrilling piece of theatre" and "a great time".
  
  ## Awards
  
  It was nominated for Best Production of a Musical and Best Performance in a Supporting Role in a Musical (Natalie Abbott) at the 2022 Sydney Theatre Awards.
  
  ## Principal cast
  
  | Role | Actor |
  | - | - |
  | Helena | Natalie Abbott |
  | Demetrius | Blake Appelqvist |
  | Oberon | Stellar Perry |
  | Puck | Monique Sallé |
  | Hermia | Brittanie Shipway |
  | Lysander | Jerrod Smith |
  