Calling all StageSiders, welcome back to another review here at StageSideUK. This time around we are talking about the Bill Kenwright Ltd production of Cruel Intentions: The 90’s Musical which played at the Hippodrome on the 20th May. Let’s go, losers!
Disclaimer: We were gifted two free press tickets in exchange for an honest review.
First of all, this show completely delivered. From the opening scene to the final blackout, I was hooked.
The music was a perfect blend of ’90s nostalgia and emotional punch. Every track was placed so well that it felt like the songs were written for the story, not just dropped in for fun. And yes, I absolutely mouthed along to every single one, sue me.
The cast? Phenomenal. I can honestly say that every performance was sharp, confident, and totally dialled-in. Nic Myers absolutely owned the stage as Kathryn with a cool, calculated, and impossibly compelling. Will Callan brought charm and danger to Sebastian, nailing the morally questionable yet sexy anti-hero vibe. Abbie Budden gave Annette real depth and heart, grounding the chaos with sincerity. The chemistry between the cast was electric, and the comic timing was spot-on. I was laughing just as much as I was leaning in for the drama.
Vocally, the cast blew me away. Big numbers were delivered with serious vocal power but never felt overwrought. Lucy Carter, in particular, was a total standout as Cecile. Her brilliant comic timing and vocal chops made every one of her scenes a highlight. She had the whole theatre laughing out loud more than once.
The lighting and staging were slick and stylish. Scene changes flowed seamlessly, and the lighting added depth without going overboard. There were moments that genuinely looked cinematic. The whole thing was clean, moody, and stylish in all the right places.
I hadn’t seen the original film, so I walked in with no idea what to expect and left completely blown away. Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical is nostalgic without being cheesy, dramatic without being overblown, and just the right amount of funny. Easily one of the most entertaining nights I’ve had at the theatre in ages.
Accessibility
Now, let’s talk business. It’s worth nothing that this production contains haze effects, flashing lights, strong language, and mature content. The recurring themes include explicit sexual language and behaviour, drug use, racial discrimination, abuse, accidental death, and questions of consent. So maybe leave the kids at home for this one, unless you want a few tough conversations during the ride home. But if you’re a fan of clever storytelling, sharp performances, and a killer soundtrack, it’s absolutely worth the ticket price.
Of course, we love it when a show opens it’s arms for the wider community, and this one has done just that. There will be a BSL signed performance taking place on Wednesday 21st May at 7:30pm, so no-one has to miss out on the fun.
Value For Money
We were very kindly invited to see the show for free however, our seats would have cost £39 each. I could happily say that these prices are entirely worth it. The tickets ranged from £20 to £49 so most certainly accessible for a range of wallets.
Overall
I don’t think you will be very surprised when I say that this was an easy five stars from me! I would totally give it more if I could. Go see it while you can!
Have your say!
Have you seen Cruel Intentions: The 90’s Musical? Let me know in the comments and let’s get a discussion going.
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Jonathan Harper