Elise Zavou, Verity Thompson & Billie Bowman in HEATHERS THE MUSICAL. Photo Credit: Pamela Raith
Retaining the sharp wit and satirical edge of the cult 1989 film, HEATHERS THE MUSICAL juxtaposes catchy songs with dark humour.
Following two smash-hit West End seasons and a record-breaking run at The Other Palace, HEATHERS THE MUSICAL makes a welcome return to Manchester’s Palace Theatre as part of a new national tour.
Based on the cult 1989 film starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater, HEATHERS THE MUSICAL follows Veronica Sawyer, a teenage nobody dreaming of a better day. Her chance to become popular arrives when she becomes a part of the beautiful yet ruthlessly mean Heathers clique. But Veronica’s life takes an unexpected turn when she meets mysterious teen rebel JD, reignites her disdain for the Heathers, and takes plans for revenge to murderous levels.
The cast of HEATHERS THE MUSICAL UK Tour 2023. Photo Credit: Pamela Raith
The initial appearance of HEATHERS THE MUSICAL might deceive newcomers with its vibrant colours and catchy songs. Yet, beneath its high school musical exterior lies a much deeper and darker narrative.
The stage adaptation retains the sharp wit and satirical edge of the original film, largely thanks to the clever script by Kevin Murphy and Laurence O’Keefe. The production values are equally impressive, with David Shield’s iconic costume and set design, Andy Fickman’s dynamic direction, and Gary Lloyd’s bold, nuanced, and energetic choreography, keeping things punchy.
The immensely talented ensemble cast effectively balances the story’s darkness with moments of light and hope. Jenna Innes shines in the pivotal role of Veronica, effortlessly transitioning from emotional vulnerability to dark humour. Her strong chemistry with Jacob Fowler, who portrays JD with captivating mystery, drives the show’s momentum.
Jenna Innes and Jacob Fowler in HEATHERS THE MUSICAL. Photo Credit: Pamela Raith
As Heather Chandler, Verity Thompson comes close to stealing the show with her electric stage presence and stunning vocals. Elise Zavou as Heather Duke and Billie Bowman as Heather McNamara complete a fantastic comic trio, while Alex Woodward and Morgan Jackson entertain as clueless jocks Kurt and Ram.
However, HEATHERS THE MUSICAL delves into dark themes such as bullying, teen suicide, sexual assault, and school violence, which hit close to reality. The social climate has undoubtedly changed since the film’s release, making certain scenes, like Veronica’s faked suicide, difficult to watch. The second act could also benefit from some trimming.
That said, it’s the musical score that truly makes this show stand out with catchy pop numbers like “CANDY STORE,” power songs like “DEAD GIRL WALKING,” and the creepy yet beautiful duet “OUR LOVE IS GOD” earning the cast a well-deserved standing ovation at the end of the performance.
If you have an appetite for dark comedy, HEATHERS THE MUSICAL is bound to captivate your interest.
HEATHERS THE MUSICAL runs at the Palace Theatre, Manchester, until 12 August 2023
Donna is the Founder and Editor of Frankly, My Dear UK. By day, she works as a digital marketing specialist, by night she reviews film, theatre and music for a wide range of publications including WhatsonStage and The Reviews Hub. Loves Formula 1, prosecco and life.
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