The Alberta Youth Theatre Collective has published a review of Oscar Romero Catholic High School's production of Heathers: Teen Edition, written by student reviewer Kornelia Teresinska. The review, hosted by the Edmonton Journal, offers an in-depth look at the show's performances, technical elements, and overall impact.
A Darkly Satirical Take on High School Life
Heathers: Teen Edition, with music and lyrics by Kevin Murphy and Laurence O'Keefe, is adapted from the 1988 cult classic film. The musical follows Veronica Sawyer, a student who becomes part of the powerful clique known as the Heathers at Westerberg High. As she navigates the pressures of popularity, her relationship with the mysterious new student J.D. leads to increasingly destructive consequences.
Strong Ensemble and Live Band
The production featured a cast of 43, including a 32-member ensemble, whose coordination was a highlight. In the number "Big Fun," the ensemble's synchronization was particularly striking, creating a polished and unified performance. A live band provided fuller, more immersive sound, enhancing the atmosphere of each scene.
Standout Performances
Emma Stoddart delivered a compelling portrayal of Veronica Sawyer, capturing vulnerability and intensity. Her vocals in "Seventeen" carried a chilling edge. Yannis Lau, as Heather McNamara, brought emotional honesty to "Lifeboat," creating a grounded moment. Kurt Kelly and Ram Sweeney, played by Owen Biel and Dwayne Wowk, showcased strong onstage chemistry that made their scenes engaging despite their characters' unlikable traits.
Technical Excellence
Costuming by Gabe Hoberg clearly reflected each character's personality and social status. The student-built set supported smooth scene transitions. Lighting by Damian Nadeau-Karnik, combined with fog effects, shaped the atmosphere of each number, adding intensity without distracting from performances.
Conclusion
The review concludes that the production successfully brought the chaotic world of Westerberg High to life, with red scrunchies and bad decisions at the forefront. The Alberta Youth Theatre Collective continues to provide valuable coverage of local high school theatre.
