Heathers - The Musical (Teen Edition) - 8.5 out of 10
NOW Productions
TICKETS: Heathers: the Musical | Adelaide Fringe
Heathers: The Musical (lyrics, book and music by Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy) is based on the 1988 film of the same name. It is described as a high-energy, black comedy that covers issues including bullying, teen suicide, sexual assault and school violence; and as such is not recommended for younger viewers. Despite this being the Teen Edition, it still retains most of the dark intensity and explicit content of the original, a fact reinforced in the initial voiceover before the show.
Director Joe Russell has utilised the small stage well, using the simplified staging and intimate theatre to draw the audience into the world of Westerberg High from the very first scene. The flexibility of the sets facilitated several quick changes, that occasionally left a piece without brakes on, resulting in a moving set when actors moved in and out of it. The cast negotiated these seamlessly, and Stage Manager Emily Cumming will no doubt ensure that these opening night glitches are overcome.
Musical Director/ Vocal Coach Robert Young would be extremely proud of his cohort, as both individually and collectively they produced a “Beautiful” tone and took us on a rollercoaster ride of highs and lows. Lynda Cook’s costumes created a “Candy Store” of different characters, encompassing the full spectrum of High School characters, whilst retaining the quintessential essence of the show through the identifiable Heathers’ outfits. Choreographer Maisy Jo ensured that the dancers were well drilled and able to own the stage in the whole cast numbers.
Veronica Sawyer is the main character of this story, and Lily Cotton played her to perfection. Her strong voice carried confidently throughout the theatre and her facial expressions were exceptional in defining the gamut of emotions experienced by her character.
With a performance worthy of a review of his own, the moody and disturbed teen Jason “JD” Dean was played by Joel Ewens. His portrayal of this conflicted, and at times maniacal character, was expressed compellingly through his use of both vocal and facial nuances. I am sure that Intimacy Choreographer Ruth Fallon would be delighted with the strong chemistry between his character and Veronica which allowed us to develop a genuine connection with their obsessive relationship throughout their collective journeys.
Skye Annalyce Gerlach provided a convincing characterisation of the manipulative and conniving Heather Chandler. She projected an aura of dominance that was ideal for the role. Likewise, the heir apparent, Heather Duke (Zoe Wachla) contributed positively to the collective realism of the trio. Abby Hall (Heather McNamara) produced a powerful performance during “Lifeboat”, contrasting the excitable energy that her character portrayed earlier to full effect.
Owen Fagan (Ram Sweeney) and Rhys Young (Kurt Kelly) nearly stole the show on several occasions, as they demonstrated excellent comedic timing and the triple threat of amazing acting, melodic singing and crowd-pleasing dance moves. All brought to bear in their performance of “Your Welcome”, that was as good as any professional version.
The ever-suffering Martha Dunnstock was confidently portrayed by Kaylee Vincent. Her vocal strength was evident, and she used her physical mannerisms to maximum effect.
Alison Button brought a relaxed, Magic School Bus vibe to her characterisation of Ms Fleming. Her confidence in the role provided a strong character for others to connect with, as they moved throughout the whole cast numbers.
They were strongly supported by Alexandra McMahon (Mrs Sawyer), Flynn Hawkey (Mr Sawyer), Thomas Baker (Principal Gowan / Kurt’s Dad), Rohan Eldridge (Mr Sweeney / Coach Ripper), Bailey Magin and Andrew Oster (Officers), Bryce Young (Big Bud Dean) and all the other ensemble members with their scattered lines throughout.
As all theatre goers know, the performances of the leads can be highlighted even further by the contributions of their ensemble and this one left nothing in the wings. Their characterisations and facial expressions kept ones eyes darting around the stage, trying valiantly to take in the full experience. Along with their powerful vocals, they ably provided the leads with an animated backdrop of tableaux and choreographed moves. Particular notice needs to be made of Flick Barry’s brief appearances as the Beleaguered Geek, when her delivery kept the audience wanting more.
Despite several occasions where the spotlight failed to “Shine a Light” on the leads at crucial moments (well done to the cast for handling them so effortlessly), the lighting also provided some great highlights. For example, the coloured lights on the Heathers during “Candy Store” were very effective. Likewise, there was a recurring microphone issue when the leads became intimate, but I am sure that these were all opening night issues that will be resolved in later performances.
With several roles double cast across the performances the experience may vary, however I am quite confident that the overall experience will “Freeze your brain” as you take it all in and walk away feeling both satisfied and wanting more, all at the same time.
Technical issues aside, the individual cast members combined to create an enjoyable and entertaining show. So do yourself a favour and support this local community theatre group by grabbing a few friends and catching a show before their season concludes.
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