Heathers the Musical is back at Milton Keynes Theatre this week, and it’s as bold and unapologetic as ever. Now on its third UK tour, this high-octane, black comedy rock musical continues to defy the conventions of the typical high school musical, much like the cult movie it’s based on.
For fans of the original Winona Ryder and Christian Slater film, the bizarre premise might seem like an odd fit for musical theatre, but Heathers fully embraces its dark themes with sharp lyrics, energetic choreography, and a brutally witty script.
Returning as Veronica Sawyer, Jenna Innes once again brings perfect comedic timing and believability to the role, making her transition from nobody to somebody — and beyond — entirely believable. Innes’ portrayal continues to shine, balancing vulnerability and strength as her character gets tangled up with high school’s queen bees, all named Heather, and the enigmatic JD. Keelan McAuley steps into the role of JD with charisma, capturing the chilling allure of a teen rebel on the edge. Together, they create an unsettling but compelling chemistry on stage.
The new Heathers cast — Esme Bowdler as Heather Chandler, Sedona Sky as Heather Duke, and Daisy Twells as Heather McNamara — prove to be a tight-knit trio. Their performances are full of sass and attitude, with a chemistry that feels akin to a perfectly synchronized girl band. And a special shoutout goes to Amy Miles as the endearing Martha Dunnstock, whose portrayal adds emotional depth to the production.
As with previous tours, Heathers isn’t just entertainment; it touches on serious themes like bullying, teenage suicide, and the pressure to conform — but it does so with a quirky, dark sense of humor. The songs are packed with wit and energy, and the dialogue never misses a beat, ensuring that the audience is as engaged with the story’s brutal undertones as they are with its catchy tunes.
Opening night at Milton Keynes was buzzing, with the audience full of fans sporting Heather-esque outfits, reminding me of how this show has created its own cult following, much like SIX. The atmosphere was electric, and it’s clear that Heathers continues to attract a fresh, younger demographic to the theatre.
Ultimately, this 2024 tour proves that Heathers is still “very,” with a refreshed cast and the same sharp edge that made it a hit in the first place.
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