Book, Music and Lyrics: Kevin Murphy and Laurence O’Keefe
Director: Andy Fickman
Due to popular demand,Heathers the Musicalis back on the road and this week returns to a sold out Lyceum Theatre in Sheffield. Telling the story of Veronica Sawyer who gets ‘in’ with the Heathers, the popular girls at high school, who then gets pushed over to the dark side by mysterious boyfriend J.D.,Heathershas found a fan base in Gen Z, as well as being loved by fans of the original film. After many London runs and numerous UK tours,Heathers the Musicalnow feels in the strongest shape it has been in in some time.
Directed by Andy Fickman, this production still feels fresh and energetic, helped by Gary Lloyd’s fabulous choreography. No matter how many times you’ve seen the show, Kevin Murphy and Laurence O’Keefe’s jokes land and this score of 80s inspired musical numbers is catchy and uplifting, with plenty an emotional or angsty ballad too. David Shields’ costumes are colourful, as is Ben Cracknell’s lighting design. Shields’ set design is fairly simple but transforms into a multitude of locations seamlessly.
Whilst no casting director appears to be credited, an incredibly strong cast has been assembled for the current UK tour.
Jenna Innes is a very believable Veronica Sawyer. Where recent predecessors have leaned very heavily into the comedic side, Innes makes Veronica feel completely human. She finds moments of comedy but portrays the character’s struggles and emotions brilliantly. She is a powerhouse vocalist, singing the challenging score with ease. Keelan McAuley is hugely impressive opposite Innes as Jason ‘J.D.’ Dean. McAuley’s vocals are spot on and he makes wonderful acting choices. He brings to life J.D.’s somewhat demented joy and anger perfectly, whilst also finding moments of vulnerability.
Esme Bowdler delivers impeccable comic timing as Heather Chandler, whilst also playing the unpleasant side to the character really well. Sedona Sky makes an impressive professional debut as Heather Duke, giving a solid rendition of the challenging song I Will Never Shut Up Again. Daisy Twells completes the trio of Heathers as Heather McNamara. She brings to life McNamara’s inner conflicts beautifully, meaning her final moments in the show don’t come completely out of the blue – you’ve already seen that she’s not fully convinced being part of the Heathers is the right thing.
The rest of the supporting cast is full of very strong performances as well. Lucy Sinclair is funny as Ms Fleming, with some wonderful vocals. Amy Miles is perfectly likeable as Martha Dunnstock and Conor McFarlane blows the roof off with a powerful rendition of Dead Gay Son. Iván Fernández González and Jason Battersby are a fantastic duo as Kurt Kelly and Ram Sweeney, both demonstrating comic timing to perfection. They also, alongside McAuley as J.D., demonstrate impressive movement ability during Fight For Me.
On its current UK tour, Heathers the Musicalis a feel good, yet somewhat dark and moving, show packed to the brim with powerhouse performers. Tickets are selling like hot cakes, so get one before it’s too late.
The Reviews Hub Score
Outstanding performances
