Heathers: The Musical

 A Note from Julie

I have loved this musical for a long, long time. I would argue the musical is better than the classic 80s film, because as opposed to writing era-appropriate tunes of the late 80s, the music transcends, focusing on the inner emotionally charged worlds of the characters. It captures the gutsy, teenage-angst of it all, with a driving, contemporary rock score. The story of Heathers is not for the faint of heart. It goes there and stays there and is relentless in its unabashed quest for what’s right. And by the way, everyone does think they’re doing what’s right. Heathers The Musical forces us to wrestle with, laugh at, love, and accept our inner mean girl. It’s complex and ridiculous and hard and heartbreaking and funny as all hell. Literally. It’s surviving high school with every ounce of dark humour and courage.

I can’t write these directors notes without paying a heartfelt tribute to the late Courtenay Dobbie. Courtenay and I began talking about this show over the pandemic, she wanted to know what I thought - I raved about the music and the darkness and the edge and how I think it’s a perfect show for college students to attack. She and I share a love of dark, gutsy musicals – when she finally programmed it and I was on board, I was so excited to have her witness the work - from the first stumble through right up until opening night. Courtenay, I know you’re with us and I know you’re guiding us from above, I hope we’ve made you proud.

“Let’s pick it up from F*** me gently with a chainsaw”