Playcrafters presents ‘Heathers, the Musical’
High school angst takes things to the cutting-edge extreme in Playcrafters’ summer stage play, “Heathers, the Musical.”
A dark, musical comedy written by Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy, the show takes its cues from the 1988 edgy film bearing the same title and starring Winona Ryder and Christian Slater.
“There’s always a sense of humor, and the music is upbeat,” said Director Rachel Fisher, “but it’s surprising how dark and deep it can get. The first layer of the show is fun, colorful,
and light…and then there’s the second layer that has deeper implications.”
Set in the 80s in the
suburban Ohio town of Sherwood, a local high school is ruled by a pack of cruel female bullies — all named Heather (played by Jesica Counts, Christie Lohr, and Jane Vitelli. One of the classmates, Veronica (played by Avery Gallagher) — a nerdy but optimistic nobody — wants to be part of the tribe and tries to cozy up to the popular shoulderpadded clique … until it’s apparent to her that she really doesn’t have much in common with them — nor does she even like them. As she rejects the culture they bring to the school, her eyes turn to an attractive new guy named J.D. (played by Adam Kimmel), who has his own game plans for the school.
When the tables turn on the elite group by an accidental mix-up, the tragedy lends to even more calamity as things spiral out of control. Lust for power and revenge take the situation over the edge, and one tragic moment after the other ensues. While Veronica and J.D. have a connection, it’s apparent that she’s fighting her convictions that bring her to question their relationship and his motives.
Within the high energy, musical rock tunes and a spirit of light-heartedness that comes from teen life, some darker moments take center stage. Due to heavy themes, including murder, revenge, and homophobia, there is a parental discretion disclaimer.
While there can be a little bit of darkness in everyone’s soul, trying to seek out the goodness is paramount. Just how does one love bad people? Selfawareness is a good place to start.
The show is produced by Max Minkoff.
Playcrafters presents “Heathers, the Musical”
July 14, 15, 16*, 21, 22», 23*, 27, 28, 29
*matinee @ 2 PM»matinee @ 2PM and performance @ 8PM Tickets: $17. 610-584-4005 www.playcrafters.org