REVIEW | Heathers The Musical UK Tour.
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| Photo Credit: Pamela Raith |
UK Tour
★★★★★
When a new musical becomes a colossal hit in the West End, the announcement of a UK Tour definitely comes with an expectation. Heathers, originally a 1989 film, is certainly making 2021 its year with both the UK tour and limited run in the West End until 11th September. Their devoted following creates an electric atmosphere like no other in the auditorium throughout the show, showcasing their passion for a production that is becoming more iconic.
The show is unforgettable and from the moment we hear the first line 'September 1st 1989.. Dear Diary...' you are drawn right into the action of Westerberg High School. This cult classic musical adaptation packs in vibrancy and punch with a new cast taking on the task of bringing these iconic characters to life. There is a definite buzz in the air that this new cast bring to the show, making it feel just as fresh and original, despite its established reputation with previous casts.
Rebecca Wickes leads the cast as the naïve, yet fierce and determined Veronica Sawyer. Wickes breathes new life to this story, her performance is effortless from start to finish, especially when hitting all of the right notes. Her rendition of I Say No was astounding and I enjoyed every moment watching how she created her own take of Veronica Sawyer in this touring production. She demonstrates her natural ability to be the perfect leading woman and I'm really excited to see what will be next for her once this tour has finished. Alongside her as the smooth, rebellious and psychotic JD is Simon Gordan. He was superb at bringing his characteristics to life in detail but at times I felt his vocal ability didn't match the strength of Wickes'. Though the pair do in fact work well together and have chemistry that flows well through the story.
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| Photo Credit: Pamela Raith |
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| Photo Credit: Pamela Raith |
Heathers wouldn't be what it is without the pinnacles of the toxic high school hierarchy, the Heathers themselves, and boy didn't they ensure their presence was felt throughout the show. Their differing personalities really combined with one another to make for a strong trio on stage - with Maddison Firth, Merryl Ansah and Lizzy Parker stepping into the shoes of these big characters and executed it with ease. Firth does a great job of bringing something fresh to Heather Chandler, her moments of humour interjected into the production so well.
Liam Doyle and Rory Phelan are fantastic as the high-school jocks, their klutzy portrayals were hilarious and the audience clearly adored them.
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| Photo Credit: Pamela Raith |
One particularly unforgettable moment of the show for me was in the character Martha Dunnstock, played by Mhairi Angus. Angus' rendition of Kindergarten Boyfriend really stole the second half for me. It was gorgeous!
The entire cast in this show are impressive, nailing slick choreography from Gary Lloyd that really emphasises the unforgettable London original cast recording soundtrack that has probably been played on repeat since its release. Their infectious energy leaves you wanting more from this BIG FUN musical. Although it touches on several dark themes throughout the show including bullying, teen suicide, homophobia, sexual assault and loss - director Andy Fickman has managed to make it light and manageable to watch. I would definitely note the guidance for this show as it beyond PG, there are glimpses of unsettling moments that I would be mindful of for any younger audience members.
This musical has everything you could want! Whether you are seeing it for the first time, or the 50th, Heathers still manages to make theatre beautiful. This show will continue to be one of the hottest tickets in theatre, so if you do miss the opportunity to see it in London then get your ticket during its UK tour.
Heathers The Musical is currently performing at the Theatre Royal in Nottingham until 4 September. Further information on how to book your tickets and where to find the tour in a venue near you, visit their website.