“A standalone interesting watch with modern, relatable and relevant plot lines”
It’s safe to say expectations of Mean Girls the musical were high going in. Following the box-office success, endless quotability, memes and pop-culture references of the original film adaptation, expectations were high. Now, this month with the crisp autumnal breeze came the annual ‘Mean Girls Day’ of October 3rd. What better way for devoted and passionate fans to celebrate their beloved season than to watch their favourites take to the stage?
How did it compare to the 2004 film? One of the key differences was the change in narration. The original film is narrated by the protagonist Cady Heron. It serves as a retrospective retelling of her experiences adjusting to the social food-chain of North Shore High School. In the staged production, Cady’s friends Janis and Damien break the fourth wall and narrate the plot as a cautionary tale of high school cliques. This decision poses strengths and weaknesses, as the comedic duo of Janis and Damien successfully deliver many sarcastic and witty wisecracks, though this particular change in structure leads to a rift in the audience’s ability to deeply connect with the central role of Cady. The film’s first-person voice-over and internal diary-style monologues from Cady allow for a depth of character, and for watchers to understand and empathise with her in a way that the theatre show is lacking. As a result of this and the scripting, the principal character of Cady does not feel as compelling, interesting or perhaps as profound as she could have been, nor is she explored to her full potential, or rather as the film presented.
Additionally, a further contrast to the original depiction is the wardrobing decisions. The show steps away from the iconic 2000s styling of low rise and towards current Gen-Z fashion trends and silhouettes. The quite modernised look takes away from the deep nostalgia that intensely loyal followers may be expecting, however, adapting may be necessary to appeal to today’s youth and crowd. Although it may be crucial to stay relevant to a contemporary audience and captivate a new generation who can continue publicity for the franchise, arguably the cult-following of Mean Girls has stood the test of time. It is still being quoted and referenced today. Why fix something that isn’t broken? It is a pop culture phenomenon that continues to this day due to the archetypal nostalgia of the classic 2000s film. The 2000s are well and truly back so if there was ever a time when the original Mean Girls would be appreciated in all its glory, it would be now. Straying too far from the original concept risks losing the iconic version it is loved as. However, that being said, the stage depiction has a healthy balance of attempting to refresh the high school experience to stay current and relatable whilst still staying true to the plot and core principles of the original.
There are a few points this version does very effectively. The comedic timing and delivery of the script from the cast was excellent. Damien in particular served as incredible comedic relief as well as overall really selling a convincing performance; the sassy writing of his character was jaw-droppingly funny. Furthermore, the character of Karen was also well played with her actress feigning a very believable ditsy act, eliciting many a laugh. The tragic scene of Regina being hit by a bus was so sudden and dramatic that it was extremely comical. The audience were engaged and laughing throughout the entirety of the production. As well as this, another triumph was the numerous and very well-choreographed dance scenes. From whole cast numbers to just Regina and the Plastics, the cast did a wonderful job in lighting up the stage. With many props and moving elements, it was a riveting watch. The poignant and dramatic songs from Regina were very enthralling to witness and made her character all the more interesting and complex.
Ultimately, is Mean Girls the musical successful? Well, that depends on how you look at it. If approached in a vacuum, thinking of it as a musical adaptation and not as a comparison to the original work, it can largely be viewed as successful as the aims of the plot and a cautionary tale ring true. It is a standalone interesting watch with modern, relatable and relevant plotlines fit for present day. More importantly, will fetch ever happen?
Mean Girls plays at the Liverpool Empire until 31st October. Tickets are available here.