Kings Theatre Portsmouth – until 10 August 2024
Reviewed by Lucy Hitchcock
5*****
The closure of Heathers on the West End was a blow to the fans that didn’t get to see it, but Portsmouth has been transported back to 1989 for a weekend of ‘Big Fun’ with this great cast!
Veronica Sawyer, an outcast, integrates into the world of the ‘Heathers’ and finds herself trying to fit in whilst making some wild mistakes. She meets her new beau J.D, who ends up ridding Veronica of the toxic people in her life in some unexpected ways – leading to revelations, changes and some fabulous numbers in the show! Both Veronica and JD played by Jenna Innes and Kieran McAuley were superb-having some explosive chemistry and spectacular vocals that were enough to blow your socks off (and maybe even blow a school up!). McAuley’s portrayal of the psychopathic JD was impeccable and his singing was rippled with the most beautiful vulnerability – which was harmonious when paired with Innes and her fabulous singing which made me smile with joy.
There are some brilliantly well known songs in this show, with Dead Girl Walking, Candy Store and Lifeboat getting rapturous applause. However, my favourite was ‘My Dead Gay Son’ which opened act 2 to a wildly cheering auditorium. Kindergarten Boyfriend, sung by Amy Miles as ‘Martha’ (the unfortunate character who ends up being the butt of every joke) was beautiful and was delivered perfectly.
There are some sensitive subjects featured in this show, such as bullying, suicide and homophobia being featured, alongside some swearing rippled through the script – it may not be suitable for younger members. However, I was brought to tears by the end of the show and had an inane grin when seeing how much fun the cast have. This is definitely not one to miss, so get your tickets Corn Nuts!!!! How Very!