Heathers The Musical in London – UK Tour Review

I was invited to the press night of ‘Heathers The Musical’ at London’s New Wimbledon Theatre. Currently on its UK Tour, showing at New Wimbledon Theatre in London until 28th October 2023. This award winning, West End smash hit theatre production is a black comedy rock musical, based on the 1988 cult hit film.

Described as ‘Westerberg High’s Veronica Sawyer is just another nobody dreaming of a better day. But when she joins the beautiful and impossibly cruel Heathers, her dreams of popularity may finally come true. Meanwhile, mysterious teen rebel JD teaches her that it might kill to be a nobody, but it is murder being a somebody.’ Here is my Heathers The Musical Review:

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So what is Heathers The Musical all about? Find out everything you need to know about the show and it’s UK tour!

The Show:

Heathers The Musical UK explores the gripping dynamics within a high school where the ruthless ‘Heathers’ and the jocks rule, while the geeks and nobodies endure relentless ridicule and bullying. Veronica Sawyer, who initially identifies as a geek, finds herself drawn into the world of the Heather’s, meeting their constant demands and gaining popularity whilst losing her sense of self in the process. This is where the tale takes a compelling turn as she encounters JD, a rebel who stands up against the bullies. Veronica finds JD’s defiance attractive and desires his protection. Their romance unfolds amidst the darkness of JD’s secrets, culminating in an accidental death disguised as suicide. Trust me, that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

While the set design may have been relatively simple, with its outdoor portrayal of Westerburg High, it effectively set the scene for the unfolding drama.

The Characters

Jenna’s portrayal of Veronica Sawyer was nothing short of incredible. She convincingly transformed from a seemingly timid character into a strong and confident young woman who stands up for her beliefs. Her vocal range was nothing short of impressive, effortlessly hitting every note and delivering a memorable singing performance. I particularly loved her rendition of ‘I Say No’!.

The Heathers, those popular and mean girls in high school, were cast brilliantly. Verity Thompson’s portrayal of the most popular ‘Heather’, Heather Chandler, was a standout. She made you both love and hate her character with her mean yet brilliantly executed performance.

The Jocks and their dads played brilliantly comedic roles with the audience erupting into laughter throughout. Their performance of ‘My Dead Gay Son’ was one of the highlights of the show and was incredibly well received, both heart warming and hilariously funny.

My thoughts on the show

Heathers the Musical UK appears to have cultivated a dedicated following, with enthusiastic crowds, cosplay, and standing ovations, akin to a cult phenomenon. Personally, I found the show to be enjoyable and entertaining, but it didn’t quite blow me away. It’s the type of production that may reveal its true depth upon subsequent viewings, with the opportunity to notice things previously overlooked. While I may not have fallen head over heels for ‘Heathers,’ I wholeheartedly appreciated the cast’s outstanding performances. The second act, in particular, resonated with me as the story unfolded and the musical performances truly shone. In the end, the cast’s brilliance was the undeniable highlight of Heathers the Musical.

Meet The Cast & Team

• Jenna Innes – VERONICA SAWYER
• Jacob Fowler – JASON “J.D.” DEAN
• Verity Thompson – HEATHER CHANDLER
• Elise Zavou – HEATHER DUKE
• Billie Bowman – HEATHER MCNAMARA
• Katie Paine – MS FLEMING / VERONICA’S MUM
• Kingsley Morton -MARTHA DUNNSTOCK
• Alex Woodward – KURT KELLY
• Morgan Jackson – RAM SWEENEY
• Jay Bryce – Veronica’s Dad / Principal Gowan / Kurt’s Dad
• Conor McFarlane – Ram’s Dad / big bud dean / Coach Ripper

• The company is completed by Tom Dickerson, Eleanor Walsh, Liam Dean, Eliza Bowden, Markus Sodergren, Maeve Byrne, Summer Priest, Lizzie Emery.

Everything you need to know to book tickets for Heathers the Musical:

Heathers the Musical UK Tour show dates and to book:

• Book tickets London New Wimbledon Theatre 24th-28th October 2023.

What is the expected running time?

Approx 2 hour 30 including interval.

Warnings:

Please note that this production contains strong language and mature themes including: references to suicide and eating disorders; moments of violence; murder; sexual content; sexual violence; gunshots and flashing lights.

Enjoyed this review? Check our review of Shrek the Musical.

I was invited to the press night of Heathers The Musical but all thoughts and opinions are strictly my own.

Thank you for reading ‘Heathers the Musical London – UK Tour Review’.