Review: HEATHERS THE MUSICAL at Wellington Opera House
Playing Wellington 28 May- 7 June and Auckland 10-14 June.
Heathers the Musical is a darkly comic stage adaptation of the 1988 cult classic, and over time it has built a fiercely loyal following. Premiering in Los Angeles in 2013 before moving Off-Broadway in 2014, it’s a show that somehow escaped my radar, until now.
The story follows Veronica Sawyer, an unpopular high school student who unexpectedly finds herself welcomed into the inner circle of the Heathers,three ruthless “mean girls” who dominate the social hierarchy. Things take a turn when she meets the enigmatic Jason Dean (JD). Their relationship quickly spirals in ways Veronica could never have anticipated, as the show dives into themes of popularity, bullying, and suicide with a sharp, satirical edge.
From the moment we entered the theatre, the tone was set. The set, a simple two-level high school environment was already on display, immediately grounding us in the world of Westerberg High. When the show began, the audience energy was electric. The raucous cheers and applause for each principal cast member created an atmosphere that carried through the entire performance.
Coming in with no prior knowledge of the songs or story was refreshing. I found myself completely absorbed as the narrative unfolded, growing darker and more gripping all the way to its dramatic conclusion.
The cast were exceptional across the board. Emma Caporaso’s Veronica was a standout, her vocal power is astonishing, and her Stage Presence effortlessly anchors the show. Among the Heathers, Calista Nelmes shone as the icy and commanding Heather Chandler, delivering both the attitude and the vocals with precision. Amelia Rojas and Aimee Jones were equally strong, rounding out the trio with confident, well-balanced performances.
Connor Beaumont’s JD struck the perfect balance between charm and menace. His introduction, particularly the stylised slow-motion fight sequence, was a highlight of the evening, staged with impressive precision and control.
The supporting cast added plenty of humour and heart. Nic Van Lits and David Cuny as the jocks were hilarious, their tightly synchronised choreography enhancing the comedy. Jocelyn Scott also impressed as Martha Dunnstock, bringing warmth and vulnerability to the role of the bullied outsider. The ensemble as a whole maintained an excellent standard throughout.
Technically, the production excels. The lighting design was a standout, creating striking tableaux, especially in a moment where the Heathers were lit in their signature colours. The sound design was equally effective, with deep, resonant bass punctuating key moments and heightening the impact of the show’s climax.
Choreography was sharp and polished, as expected from a touring production, and the costuming was spot-on. There’s even a much-talked-about quick change that I somehow missed, though judging by the audience reaction, it alone might be worth a return visit.
This production arrives as part of an exceptional year for theatre in Wellington, following & Juliet and with Matilda and Jesus Christ Superstar still to come. It’s a strong reminder of the calibre of performances currently on offer.
Heathers is confronting, funny, and packed with talent. While it may not feature widely recognisable songs, its compelling story and bold execution more than make up for it. If you have the chance, go and see it, you’re unlikely to be disappointed.
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