Midwife Kieri delivers performance of a lifetime in Townsville production

Kieri Darrigan is no stranger to caring for others, whether it’s welcoming new life as a midwife at Townsville University Hospital (TUH) or bringing joy to theatre audiences.

This August, she’ll be doing just that as she takes the stage in the Townsville Choral Society’s vibrant new musical production of &Juliet.

Running from August 14 to 23 at the Townsville Civic Theatre, &Juliet flips the script on Shakespeare’s classic tragedy. 

Instead of following Romeo in death, Juliet chooses to rewrite her own story, embarking on a journey of self-discovery set to a soundtrack of pop anthems by Max Martin, including hits like “Roar,” “It’s My Life,” and “Can’t Stop the Feeling.”

Kieri has worked at TUH across the maternity birth suite and emergency department for the past eight years and very fittingly will be playing the lead role of Angelique, Juliet’s nurse, in the August production. 

Kieri said it had been fun leaning into the role of Angelique, a sharp-tongued and spirited nurse who leads Juliet through her journey. 

“I think my real-life nursing experience helps me to bring a nurturing quality to the character,” Kieri said.

“Though there aren’t any technical medical skills required for the role, I still feel like it’s helped me hone the role and add an extra layer to her story.” 

Kieri said she had been involved with the musical theatre community in Townsville for about ten years, participating in countless shows. 

“I’ve performed on stage, worked backstage, and even played French horn in the band,” Kieri said.

“Some of my favourite shows have been Les Misérables, Legally Blonde, Spring Awakening, 9 to 5, Heathers, and Alice by Heart.

“Theatre is a great hobby and a stress-reliever from my everyday life and what can be a very demanding job. 

“It also offers a sense of community, creativity, and joy, and on top of all of that I have met some of my closest friends through my involvement in shows.

“&Juliet will definitely be one of the highlights of Townsville’s theatre calendar and I encourage everyone to get their tickets.” 

Townsville HHS public affairs officer Louise Hayes will also be taking the stage in the production. 

Tickets are available now via TicketShop (townsville.qld.gov.au).