Theatregoers will be entertained by menacing mean girls and murderous misfits this week, courtesy of Heathers the Musical.
Based on an 80s film that became a cult classic, this high-octane rock musical reveals the sensational experiences of unassuming high school student Veronica Sawyer.
Veronica is just another nobody who dreams of popularity. When she falls in with the ‘Heathers’, an elitist trio of beautiful girls who rule the school, she finally finds herself at the top of the social hierarchy. Unfortunately, the Heathers are cartoonishly cruel and Veronica soon rejects their evil regime.
Enter a mysterious, moody rebel and cue Veronica developing a major crush. Somehow, she gets swept up in her dangerous new boyfriend’s plan to put the Heathers in their place – six feet under.
Veronica is about to learn a powerful lesson. It might kill to be a nobody, but it is murder to be a somebody!
Heathers the Musical enjoyed successful runs in Los Angeles and New York before two record-breaking West End seasons.
The award-wining show promises diabolically dark comedy and a timeless, twisted plot. Despite being written, and set, in the 1980s, the issues referenced (including bullying, mental illness, school violence and suicide) remain relevant today. Indeed, the musical is marketed as being for anyone who has ever been in love, in trouble or in high school.
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Heathers the Musical has a fanbase subculture that rivals that of The Rocky Horror Show. Heathers fans – known as ‘Corn Nuts’ – often attend performances in full Heathers regalia (think: preppy plaid, pleated miniskirts and structured blazers) and sing the lyrics or chime in on favourite phrases.
Director Andy Fickman describes the fans as “loud, proud and passionate about all things Heathers”.
Raid your wardrobe, change your name to Heather and prepare to be welcomed into the inner circle!
Heathers the Musical opens at Milton Keynes Theatre this evening (Tuesday 16 November) and performances continue until Saturday 20 November.
Georgina Butler is an editor, a dance writer and a ballet teacher. Visit https://georginabutler.co.uk and follow her on Twitter @GeorginaLButler and Instagram @glbdancewriter
