WESTFIELD — Based on the cult classic movie, Heathers, the latest offering of the Westfield High School Repertoire Theatre Department The Heathers Musical: Teen Edition, wrestles with some dark issues. But let’s face it. Teenagers today are not the ilk of Happy Days’ The Fonz and Richie Cunningham. Just look at national headlines to see mass shootings, suicide, bullying, homophobia, and gun violence in high schools. This generation of students has had to grow up. And grow up fast. With a first-rate team of talented teens on stage, backstage, in the pit, and running sound and lights, the show is the perfect vehicle to confront these issues.
The story revolves around 17-yearold Veronica Sawyer, a typical “outsider” who tries to battle the social hierarchy at the fictional Westerberg High School in 1989. That year sets the scene for outfits that harken back to a distinct look yet with a wide variety of styles (costumes by teen Suzanna Rogers). Aclique of popular mean girls lures Veronica into their circle in hopes of using her talent of forging signatures. These gals, all with the first name of Heather, pull her into a world of misguided, nasty pranks. Veronica, (played masterfully by Rachel Klemm) leaves behind her moral compass as well as her lifelong friend Martha (Nadia Rego) to join the popular clique. Within the framework of the protagonist’s diary readings, the opening number “Beautiful” reveals how Veronica longs for a “better way for us all to be beautiful.”
The song “Candy Store” which urges Veronica not to “be a loser anymore” features the colorfully clad trio of Heathers: Heather Chandler (Kelsey Dix), Heather Duke (Alexa Marquet), and Heather McNamara (Lily Erneta), who blend in voice and perfect choreography (Christina Cruz) like animated M&M morsels. Fans of the original film of 1989, know this musical adaptation, the Teen Edition, softens the language but stays true to the intent of dark humor, satire, and clever songs. Under the expert direction of Daniel Devlin, satire is at the forefront in every dark scene. Specifically, when Heather Chandler dies by drinking poison, she does an exaggerated pirouette and collapses which elicits laughter. Again, that dark humor requires sensitive handling, and in the hands of veteran director Devlin, and a multi-talented teen, it comes off perfectly. And later when Veronica feigns her suicide, the direction calls for just a glimpse of the backlit image of the supposed hanging teen’s body. Those scenes are not done gratuitously but are there for the integrity of the piece.
The production uses a relatively small orchestra, including four accomplished WHS teen musicians. Under the baton and keyboard of John Brzozowski, the rock/rap instrumentals are well-balanced with the vocals. (Sound by teen Nolan Daly and crew) Speaking of vocals, how can one high school consistently come up with singers/dancers/actors of such professional quality? When teens sing full out in a solo number – be it belt or legit in a ballad – it requires several things. Confidence is number one. That means that the teens feel empowered, applauded, and uplifted by the community of other cast and crew members who help them float on that wave of support. That environment is shaped from the top down: an atmosphere of acceptance, collaboration, and encouragement is what theatre is all about. There may be solos and individual moments to shine, but like in so many sporting events, it is truly a team effort.
Standouts on the team are many. Lily Erneta’s velvet voice juxtaposes with Janis Joplin-like screaming in “Lifeboat” as one of the show-stopping numbers. Likewise, the song “Kindergarten Boyfriend” is tender but powerfully presented by Nadia Rego. The new kid in the town, the disturbed J.D., is played superbly by Skyler Lipkind who amazes with a mature, controlled voice that gives him the verisimilitude that a heavy role requires. The two football jocks Ram Sweeney (Jordan Mirrione) and Kurt Kelly (Ben Dickerson) affect the bravado and swagger needed to pull off the stereotype without being trite. The boys’ fathers – Ethan Young and Garret Gao – are hilarious as closeted gay men who find the courage to come out to the whole town. For the teacher role of Mrs. Fleming, Cara Cogan shines literally and figuratively in characterization in the cleverly staged “Shine a Light” backed up by stellar ensemble members. The duet, “Our Love is God,” is both beautiful and scary, for it’s clear that Veronica has fallen under the spell of the demented J.D. who has retribution and revenge in his heart. When Veronica realizes that J.D. is like a drug that has hypnotized her, she sings “I Say No.”
Rounding out the creative team for the visually stunning show are set designer director Roy Chambers with Mo Lemberg and Victoria Rubinetti, lighting designer Emily Clare Gocon, technical supervisor Jack Frankola, and stage manager Emma Darrow.
With insightful adult directors, an incredible ensemble, and a cast that understands the severity of the issues portrayed, the WHS Theatre Department bravely revealed topics that must be addressed. Bravo to the school’s willingness to trust the artistic team to share an important message of acceptance and inclusion for all.
