Blackpool Grand Theatre – until 31 October 2026
Reviewed by Annabel Southern
4****
If you are looking for a theatrical thrill that perfectly captures the spooky spirit of late
October, look no further than Westerberg High. Currently unleashing its razor-sharp
wit at the Blackpool Grand Theatre as part of an extensive nationwide tour, Heathers
The Musical is the absolute perfect Halloween viewing. It trades traditional
ghosts and ghouls for pitch-black humor, teenage angst, and a monstrous body
count.
Based on the iconic 1988 cult film starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, this
award-winning rock musical tells the story of misfit Veronica Sawyer, who navigates
the cutthroat high school social ladder by aligning with the beautifully cruel
“Heathers” trio. Things take a deadly turn when she crosses paths with the brooding,
trench-coat-wearing new kid, J.D., turning high school drama into a literal
life-or-death battleground.
Half the magic of last night’s performance was the audience. The Blackpool Grand
was a sea of vibrant blazers and pleated skirts as dedicated fans turned up fully
dressed as their favorite characters, making the auditorium feel like Halloween
party
Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy’s score is packed with relentless, pop anthems
like Candy Store and the rock-infused power ballad Dead Girl Walking had the
audience completely under their spell. These were perfectly executed by the cast,
hitting the high notes effortlessly.
The synchronized, stiletto-sharp choreography keeps the stage bouncing, while the
powerhouse vocals during emotional standouts like Kindergarten Boyfriend give you
literal goosebumps.
The show was fast, funny, unapologetically loud, and delightfully twisted.