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Pictures: Pamela Raith Heathers - The Musical Malvern Theatres ***** This black comedy rock musical, produced
by Bill Kenwright and Paul Taylor Mills, won the WhatsOnStage award for
The Best New Musical in 2019. Although a comedy, the themes in Heathers cover darker subjects such as violence, suicide, murder, alienation, guns, imposter syndrome, homophobia and rape. Based on the eponymous 1988 film, the role of the angst-ridden teen Veronica Sawyer, is played by Jenna Innes (Les Misérables) and Jason (JD) Dean is played by Jacob Fowler (Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella.). Jenna Inness does an excellent job of leading the action through her diary, recording the series of rather shocking events at Westerburg high school, after she becomes adopted by the Heathers, led by the heartless and bitchy Heather Chandler played powerfully by Verity Thompson.
Jenna is partnered by Jason‘J D’ Dean, played excellently by Fowler. In an attempt to “put things right” JD commits three murders which are all made to look like suicides. Heather Chandler is first to be dispatched, followed by Kurt Kelly, played by Alex Woodward and Ram Sweeney, played by Morgan Jackson, but all three characters appear as ghosts from then on. Martha Dunnstock, the rejected “fat girl “ is sensitivity portrayed by Kingsley Morton. Heather Duke played by Elise Zavou, takes over Chandler’s role as “chief” Heather and Billie Bowman plays Heather McNamara the dance captain while Katie Payne gives a great performance as Ms Fleming,Veronica’s mum. All 19 of the talented cast members performed their roles with terrific energy and exuberance, making it a stunning show.Dazzlingly colourful costume and lighting enhance the energetic and vibrant dance routines, choreographed skillfully by Thriller Live’s Gary Lloyd. Not a show for the faint hearted. Directed by the acclaimed American screen and stage director Andy Fickman the musical runs at Malvern to 20 July then continues its national tour. Jane Lush 25-07-23 Heathers is back in the Midlands 19 September, at Coventry Belgrade. |
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