Heathers High School Edition” is a PG-13 version of the off-Broadway show. Considered a “dark comedy,” “Heathers” revolves around serious issues that students continue to face today, including bullying, homophobia, mental illness, sexual assault, suicide and unhealthy relationships. Between the humor and the upbeat music, this show will definitely entertain you, but it will also bring an awareness to the struggles of students, inspiring others to reach out and help.
Heathers the Musical (High School Edition) is a new adaptation of the Broadway musical based on the 1990s cult classic movie. It follows the story of Veronica Sawyer - a brainy teenage misfit who hustles her way into the most powerful and ruthless clique at Westerberg High: the Heathers. But before she can get comfortable, she falls for the wrong boy and finds herself ostracized by the popular group. Adapted to be appropriate for a teenage cast and audience, the show deals with the important issues of teen suicide, bullying, homophobia and gun violence. While the high school version of this musical has removed much of the language, sexual situations, drinking, and drug use found in the original, the author chose to leave in some language that can be shocking to some. The musical is rated PG13, which means Parents Strongly Cautioned – some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. This show is for high school aged students and older. Parents are advised to do their own research on the show and make a decision about attending that they think is most appropriate for their individual families.
WHY do it?
Heathers was chosen this year in Musical Theatre Ensemble not only because it feels especially relevant to our students, but also because it demonstrates the use of theatre as a means to provide a greater dialogue where we can discuss openly the universal social hardships faced by teenagers today. The show is seen through both our contemporary eyes as a play based on a cult classic film from the late 80s and also reinvents itself through the eyes of our current students in our contemporary Charlottesville Community. We have had a tremendously joyful experience producing this show. These students are collaborative and loving, bringing hope for the future in our community and others that they will touch.
Enjoy the show!
David Becker
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