Get in, losers! Mean Girls has finally made its much-anticipated debut in London’s West End at the Savoy Theatre, and it’s a show that has been long awaited by fans of the original 2004 film, the 2024 remake, and musical theatre enthusiasts alike. Adapted by Tina Fey from her own screenplay, this vibrant musical brings the iconic high school drama to life. It’s great for anyone looking for a night of laughter, catchy tunes, and a little bit of school (okay, US based high school, with far more nookie than I ever had) nostalgia.
The Savoy Theatre has been rekitted out for the show, with bright pink branding and decor immediately setting the tone and inviting you into the world of North Shore High School.
Mean Girls follows the story of Cady Heron, a teenager who moves from Africa to suburban Illinois and finds herself navigating the treacherous waters of high school social hierarchies. After being homeschooled for most of her life, Cady is thrust into a world filled with cliques, gossip, and the ever-dreaded ‘Plastics’, a group of popular girls led by the formidable Regina George. As Cady befriends the outcast duo of Janis and Damian (described, hilariously, as “too gay to function”), she devises a plan to infiltrate the Plastics and take Regina down. As Cady gets deeper into the world of popularity, she begins losing her sense of self and the friendships that truly matter. The musical captures the essence of teenage life, exploring themes of identity, friendship, and self-esteem, all while delivering a healthy dose of humor and catchy musical numbers.
The performances in Mean Girls are spectacular. Charlie Burn shines as Cady Heron, expertly portraying her character’s evolution from an innocent newcomer to a girl caught up in the complexities of high school politics. Burn’s ability to convey Cady’s internal struggle is superb, making her relatable and endearing throughout the show.
Georgina Castle’s portrayal of Regina George is a standout performance. Castle embodies the character’s icy demeanor and manipulative charm with impressive vocal prowess, particularly in numbers like ‘World Burn’ and ‘Someone Gets Hurt.’ Her physicality adds an extra layer to the performance, making Regina both captivating and terrifying.
Elena Gyasi as Gretchen Wieners and Grace Mouat as Karen Smith complete the Plastics trio, each bringing flair to the roles. Gyasi captures Gretchen’s insecurities and desperation for acceptance, while Mouat’s comedic timing and childlike innocence provide some of the biggest laughs of the night. The chemistry among the three actresses is remarkable, making their interactions entertaining and believable.
Tom Xander as Damian and Elena Skye as Janis also deserve special mention. Their dynamic is refreshing, and their performances are filled with energy and humor, providing a perfect counterbalance to the more serious moments in the show. The duo’s musical number ‘Where Do You Belong?’ is a highlight, showcasing their vocal talents and comedic chops.
Directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw, Mean Girls is lively and engaging, with standout moments that highlight the characters’ personalities and the show’s comedic tone. The use of video projections and vibrant set designs by Scott Pask enhances the storytelling; how the creators generated authentic looking yet rapidly changing 3D backgrounds is something far beyond the technology normally seen on stage. Meanwhile, the stage’s LED screens shift and change by the minute, reflecting the high school setting and the characters’ emotional states.
The musical score, composed by Jeff Richmond with lyrics by Nell Benjamin, is catchy and memorable. Songs like ‘Revenge Party’ and ‘Apex Predator’ are not only fun to listen to but also serve to advance the plot and develop the characters. The variety in musical styles—ranging from pop to rock—adds depth to the show, allowing each character to shine in their own musical genre. It’s one of the strongest scores of recent musicals.
The theatre was filled with fans donning pink attire; who whooped and hollered at key moments throughout. A bit yuk, but also strangely endearing. From the moment the show began, the high-energy performances and the infectious humor that permeated the theatre captivated everyone. The laughter was constant, punctuated by moments of heartfelt connection.
The show balances comedy with a meaningful message about friendship and self-identity. Nor does it shy away from addressing the darker aspects of high school life, such as bullying and peer pressure, but it does so with a lighthearted touch that keeps the audience engaged and entertained.
Mean Girls, with its stellar cast, catchy songs, and vibrant production elements, it is a show that will resonate with both fans of the original movie and newcomers alike. This show is going to run for years. So grab your best pink outfit and prepare for a night that’s simply fetch!