New Wimbledon Theatre – until 28th October 2023
Reviewed by Fiona Leyman
5*****
Dear Diary,
Why can’t we just be 17? It’s 1989 and the first day at Westerberg High School and who doesn’t love a bit of teenage drama? We have those popular girls, the Heathers ‘Red’ (Verity Thompson), ‘Green’ (Elise Zavou) and ‘Yellow’ (Billie Bowman) who everybody loves to hate, and those at the bottom of the pecking order, like Veronica Sawyer (Jenna Innes) who simply just wants to be noticed. All topped off by that mysterious new bad boy, ‘Jason ‘JD’ Dean’ (Jacob Fowler) who’s just moved to town. But, joining this group of elite girls has some dire consequences when that drama turns to murder. Do you stand by your new beau, or try and save the lives of those who mock you?
Heathers The Musical, which completed a record-breaking run at The Other Palace in September, is currently touring the UK. Based on the 1980s cult hit directed by Daniel Waters, this musical, written by Kevin Murphy and Laurence O’Keefe was produced by the late, renowned Bill Kenwright.
Designer David Shields masterfully transports you back to the 1980s with his choice of costumes. The iconic Heathers Red, Green & Yellow outfits stand out and clearly puts these girls at the centre of the stage. This show has a clear cult following, with audience members seen wearing the recognisable red, green and yellow blazer, sock and scrunchie combos sported by their favourite Heathers’ character.
With a relatively small cast, several actors are portraying multiple parts, and are able to transition between them with ease. Ms. Fleming, played by Katie Paine (We Will Rock You) has perfect comedic timing and her audience interactions will have you in tears of laughter. Verity Thompson’s portrayal of head Heather shows the extent of the talent this young actress has. Easily switching between the ‘Mythic Bitch’ and funny girl with her glances towards the audience and jeering taunts as Veronica’s world comes crashing down.
You’ll be tapping your feet the entire time thanks to the incredible score composed by Murphy and O’Keefe, which has hits like “I Say No” and “Seventeen”, as well as catchy songs like “I Love My Dead Gay Son. Performed by the amazing Connor McFlarlane (Once, Queen Of The Mist) and Jay Bryce (Motown: The Musical, Mamma Mia International Tour), their performance at the beginning of Act 2, was the showstopper of the night, seeing them receive the loudest cheers from the audience. Veronica, played by rising star Jenna Innes (Animus), blows the roof off with her incredible vocals and effortlessly carries every song she performs.
It’s Bright! It’s Bold! It’s just pure Bloody Murder! It’s A Must See! Heathers The Musical is full of teen drama, campness, sarcastic wit that is worthy of those 5 stars. This cult classic stays true to form and will see you wanting to come back for more.