A comedic delight, promising a killer soundtrack and a riotous good time!
If you have seen Roger Kumble’s 1999 Cruel Intentions then this show is perfect for a fun, boozy night out. It is the classic story of debaucherous step-siblings, Sebastian and Kathryn, with an added dose of eccentricity in the form of an iconic 90s pop soundtrack. I will admit that I had rather low expectations going into this, but I was pleasantly surprised by what the cast was able to deliver. Though far from a perfect show and lacking in some of the poignancy of the original film, it was entertaining and kept the audience laughing and singing along.
Polly Sullivan’s set was simple and effective as were the costumes, though Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky’s (Kathryn) wardrobe felt unsatisfactory and underdeveloped. Choreography from Gary Lloyd was the most disappointing aspect of this show. While there was excellent use of the stage, the choreography was basic, bordering on juvenile at times. The boyband numbers were successful, such as “Bye, Bye, Bye”, but failed to excite overall.
Musical Director Denise Crowley did a wonderful job in creating an auditory masterpiece out of the nostalgic soundtrack; under Crowley’s direction, the cast delighted with faultless vocals throughout every number.
Daniel Bravo as Sebastian perfectly embodied the suave, angst-ridden playboy; it is almost eerie how alike Bravo’s portrayal was to Ryan Phillippe’s original characterisation. He was a joy in the musical numbers and had excellent chemistry with Abbie Budden (Annette). Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky gave a strong, though somewhat grating, performance as Kathryn Merteuil. McCaulsky is a vocal powerhouse and a good actress, but her lines were given in what seemed to be a poor attempt to mimic
Sarah Michelle Gellar’s unique voice. Abbie Budden was wonderful as Annette Hargrove, though her opening number “Just a Girl” was rather risque given the virtuous nature of her character. Rose Galbraith delighted in the role of Cecile Caldwell, proving herself to be a talented comedic actress. Nickcolia King-N’Da was lovely as Ronald Clifford, and his chemistry with Galbraith (Caldwell) was superb. My hat goes off to the comedic highlight of this show, Josh Barnett in the role of Blaine Tuttle. His mannerisms, line delivery, vocals, and facial expressions had the entire audience doubling over in laughter. The addition of the Spice Girls’ “Wannabe” to his setlist was sensational!
Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical was an overall good time. This show does not shy away from the controversial content of the original film, and I must advise that you see the film before the musical. While the show is lacking some of the depth of the original film, it is not lacking in humour or good tunes. If dark humour, debauchery, and a good dash of raunch is your cup of tea, then catch Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical at The Other Palace while you can!