Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham – until 15th March 2025
Reviewed by Jacqui Radford
3***
A Bill Kenwright production, Cruel Intentions is a flashback musical production based on the 90s cult classic film of the same name. ‘90s music supports the plot, adding a ‘good night out’ feel to a twisted tale of seduction and rivalry.
The play centres around step siblings, Sebastian (Will Callan) and Kathryn (Nic Myers) who engage in a plan to ruin the reputation of two girls through seduction and manipulation. Kathryn goads Sebastian into seducing Annette (Abbie Budden), who has declared her commitment to chastity. They simultaneously work together to destroy a young girl, Cecile (Lucy Carter), who idolises the siblings but is in Kathryn’s sights as the cause of a relationship breakdown.
The cruel plot is interspersed with renditions of songs of the 90s, adding a comedic slant to the production that is sometimes magnified by the exaggerated choreography. A perfect example of this is Cecile’s exaggerated interpretation of “I’ll make love to you”.
Against the backdrop of an imposing, bright stage set, this production is not at all serious but there are elements that do cast back to the’90s and bring a few questions to the fore. For me, this aspect was the hardest to balance against the uplifting tone of the music.
With all that said, the finale delivers a medley of hits that get the audience onto their feet to participate in a celebration of ‘90s music, dispersing the edginess of sexual manipulation that is so strongly portrayed throughout the play.