3.5 out of 5 stars

If there’s anything to criticize about “Giulia,” the new musical from country-pop star Jennifer Nettles, it’s that it’s overly ambitious. Based on an Italian legend, the show -- about a woman who concocts potions that leave bad men meeting an untimely end -- is a richly constructed, tunefully impressive tale of female empowerment. It’s further blessed in this production with a stellar cast, including Nettles, a vocal tour de force, in the title role. But Nettles builds in more songs – and weaves in more plot elements – than the musical needs. Pare things down and this could be a Broadway sensation. — Charles Passy

At Perelman Performing Arts Center, through Aug. 2, 2026; pacnyc.org. (Review date: July 11, 2026)