“September 1st, 1989, Dear Diary”. Today I went to the Other Palace Theatre to go see this Heathers thing and honestly, I had no idea what all the hype was. Like a year ago who even knew this thing existed? But like, whatever, here’s what I thought of it. #Review
Heathers is a dark comedy musical focusing on Veronica Sawyer, a smart but unpopular girl trying to survive high school. But that all changes when she becomes friends with The Heathers – three girls who are the evil queens of Westerberg High, and who rule with an iron fist. Meanwhile, the mysterious Jason Dean (“JD for short”) joins the school, Veronica takes a particular interest in her new schoolmate. But after The Heathers push her too far against her friend Martha ‘Dumptruck’ Dunnstock, Veronica decides enough is enough. But when leading a revolution, someone’s bound to get hurt, something JD is all too happy to assist with.
This musical is a blast. An intense, crazy, hilarious and emotional blast. Seeing this cast and creatives bring this story with such a drive and a deep passion is wonderful to see. The sound and lighting design is done so well (the coloured spotlights on each of The Heathers at the end of ‘Candy Store’ and throughout is ingenious and gives their characters an added intensity). The use of their set is great as well, with steps that transform into a 7-Eleven and several other set pieces. The costumes, particularly those of The Heathers and Veronica are simple yet striking, perfect for this plot and story. This is clearly a very well thought-out and very well-choreographed show. It is simply brilliance.
This cast is packed with talent. Every single member of the cast brings such a strong dynamic to this show, they really are a joy to watch. But to single out a few, Maddison Firth as Heather Chandler is such a powerhouse. She gives her character such an intensity & darkly comedic edge that you can’t help but love, but also be slightly fearful of the entire performance. Her voice carries so well around The Other Palace and makes what could be seen as an unthreatening girl come across with such ferocity that means all eyes are on her when she’s on stage. Vicki Lee Taylor is also sensational in her portrayal of Ms. Fleming. She is a classic, 60s-style hippie and Taylor’s homage to that is perfect and more! The character is hilariously funny throughout the show, especially when locating ‘Steve’ in the audience during the ‘Shine a Light’ song. Great character, exceptional portrayal. What a talent.
Heathers is very dark, is a very unusual story but is such a joy to go and see. The magic the cast and creatives bring to the small space of The Other Palace is great and the staging is a brilliant example of modern theatre in action. I can’t recommend Heathers enough (although please check the content warnings for this production before you book, as it contains several potentially triggering themes).
Rating: ★★★★★
Heathers is playing at The Other Palace Theatre in London until September 3rd. A touring production is playing around the U.K. until October 28th, and a show recording at The Other Palace is available on DVD
