Well, colour me stoked, Heather's The Musical is now performing at The Orchard Theatre, Dartford and it is a triumph! The UK Tour of Heathers is in full swing and it has brought Big Fun to Dartford. I went along to press night last night and what a fun night it was. The cast of Heathers know how to make an entrance.
I have to start by mentioning the power house that is Jenna Innes as the lead Veronica Sawyer. Originially played by Winona Ryder in the 80s film of the same name, Veronica is our tragic heroine who finds herself entagled with the new "bad boy" on the block, JD (played by Tom Dickerson). Jenna Innes is a flawless vocalist with incredible stage presence, despite their tragic deeds you find yourself routing for Veronica, and join in her triumph as she social climbs her way through high-school. This is a testament to Jenna's portrayal, as it would be easy to judge a character who allows such barbarity to take place, but in this show the audience are most definitely on her side.
The bad boy in question, is new kid JD, played last night by Tom Dickerson, who takes brooding anti-hero to a new level. His confidence and love-bombing sweep Veronica off her feet, and it's easy to see why, despite his murderous tendencies, she might be blinded by love. He's like a modern day Robin Hood, although instead of stealing money from the rich to give to the poor, he steals lives.
The Heathers themselves are little short of iconic, and this terrifying trio are no exception. Headed by the outstanding Verity Thompson as Heather Chandler, the three Heathers tirade over Westerburg High is both impressive and hilarious. Each of the Heathers have comedy chops and stunning vocals and they work so well as a team. Candy Store was a big highlight for me as the energy and vitriol was through the roof! Heather Duke (Elise Zavou) was hilarious as the unwilling side-kick, her rise to power was both funny and frightening, while Billie Bowman captured the duality of Heather McNamara perfectly, especially during her solo, Lifeboat.
Kurt Kelly and Ram Sweeney played by Alex Woodward and Morgan Jackson respectively brought comedy and "chad" culture to the stage, providing light relief, but managed to show the darker side of "lad" culture with the uncomfortable and menacing " You're Welcome" in which they attempt to abuse Veronica, thankfully, unsuccessfully.
Martha, played by Kingsley Morton, was the grounding force in the show, the only character who seemingly had morals, she served to remind us that good does exist, even in high school, but that it might just be overlooked, bullied and neglected. Her song, Kindergarten Boyfriend was a favourite of mine.
The set is very clever, with the cast moving and manipulating it well to provide us with bedrooms, cow fields, funeral parlours, schools etc. Simply but very effective and the songs, quite frankly, are excellent! I have had so many buzzing around my head still this morning.
The fast pace, the talent of the performers, the ear-worm songs and the high energy, high impact of this show make it a must-see. Iconic one-liners, power-house vocals, humour and a dark side, this show is pure entertainment from start to finish. I could happily go and watch it again and again, and it's clear to see why it has become a cult-favourite with its audience. It was great to see so many audience members dressed up in the famous blazers and scunchies, and if you'll excuse me, I'm off to get myself a red scrunchie as we speak!
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