Review by Elle
Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review
Tickets were gifted in return for an honest review
Heathers the Musical, commonly known as Heathers, is a stage adaptation by Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy based on the 1988 cult-classic film starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater. The production follows Veronica Sawyer, a high‑school senior navigating the brutal social hierarchy of Westerberg High. After joining the elite trio known as the Heathers, thanks to her talent for forging handwriting, Veronica becomes entangled with the enigmatic JD. What begins as an attraction to his rebellious charm soon reveals a far darker reality, culminating in the death of her best friend and others in her senior class.
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| Louis Hearsey and Gerardine Sacdalan. Photo by Pamela Raith. |
Directed by Andy Fickman, this production maintains the sharp, satirical edge that has made Heathers a fan favourite. Gary Lloyd’s choreography is dynamic and tightly executed, while Ben Cracknell’s inventive lighting design elevates each scene with bold colour palettes and atmospheric shifts. The lighting during “Candy Store,” with each Heather illuminated in her signature colour, is particularly striking.
Gerardine Sacdalan delivers a vibrant and nuanced performance as Veronica Sawyer. Her expressive physicality captures Veronica’s shifting emotional journey from awkward uncertainty to newfound confidence. Her vocal tone blends seamlessly with Louis Hearsey’s JD, especially in numbers such as “Seventeen” and “Our Love is God.” Hearsey’s portrayal of JD is compelling, leaning into the character’s unsettling intensity through controlled vocal choices and chilling facial expressions, most notably in “Meant to Be Yours.”
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| (L to R) Jessica Ibadin, Liberty Stottor and Lou Henry. Photo by Pamela Raith. |
The iconic Heathers, Liberty Stottor (Chandler), Jessica Ibadin (Duke), and Lou Henry (McNamara), bring a captivating mix of ferocity, intimidation, and vulnerability. Jessica Ibadin’s powerhouse performance in “Never Shut Up Again” stands out as a highlight of the production. Beau Jackson (Ram Sweeney) and Markus Sodergren (Kurt Kelly) contribute excellent comedic timing, ensuring every appearance is lively and entertaining.
The ensemble is integral to the show’s momentum, delivering high‑energy choreography and polished harmonies that support the narrative and maintain the production’s pace.
Fans of the original film and “cornnuts” across the country will find much to love in this vibrant, nostalgic staging. It’s a slick, engaging production that honours the spirit of the 80s while offering fresh, dynamic performances.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Heathers The Musical plays at Nottingham's Theatre Royal until Saturday 12th September. For tickets and more information visit https://www.trch.co.uk/whats-on/heathers-the-musical-yvcl#book
The UK and Ireland tour continues with dates currently booking until 1st May 2026. For full tour dates and information visit https://heathersthemusical.com/uk-ireland-tour/tour-dates-uk-ireland/
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| The company of Heathers. Photo by Pamela Raith |
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