Rob Bridges enjoys an evening of drama and 90’s nostalgia at The Theatre Royal Bath
Growing up in the 80s I have loved watching iconic movies brought to the stage as a musical, with the results on the whole being pretty positive. So I was intrigued to see how the cult movie Cruel Intentions would fare with its visit to The Theatre Royal in Bath.
Cruel Intentions: The 90s Musical is based on the classic late 1990’s movie starring household names of the period, including Sarah Michelle Geller, Ryan Phillippe and Reece Weatherspoon in the pivotal roles. The musical previewed at the Edinburgh fringe in 2019 before transferring to the other palace in London in 2024 to rave reviews.
The film is based on the book Les Liaisons Dangereuses, with the stories surrounding two privileged step-siblings who engage in a bet to seduce their headmaster’s virtuous daughter.
Sebastian, played last night by Will Callan, is a rich boy with a bad reputation for ruining women’s reputations, while his step sister Kathryn, (Nic Myers) is cruel and manipulative, using money and sex to get her own way. The bet is complicated by Sebastian falling for Annette (Abbie Budden) but also still needing to destroy the reputation of Cecile (Lucy Carter).
We are pulled back into the 90s from the opening with the Ricky Martin banger Livin’ La Vida Loca , followed by 25 more 90’s hits during a very entertaining evening. Lucy Carter’s comic portrayal of Cecile brought smiles all round, especially with her rendition of Ace of Base’s The Sign.
Nic Myers exceptional vocals, especially on Garbage’s Only Happy When It Rains, was a personal highlight, with her convincing portrayal of the villain also allowing a contrast with her character’s softer side.
However, the standout performance of the night came from Will Callan who brought real depth to the role of Sebastian, moving from the self obsessed rogue who was so failed by his parents to the love struck hero. His rendition of Colorblind was a standout moment.
If you are looking for an evening of 90s nostalgia, polished performances, slick set changes and a script which allows you to follow a complicated story which remains true to the film, this is for you. And if you are a fan of the film, yes that scene is in it…
Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical appears at the Theatre Royal Bath from Wednesday 23rd to Saturday 26th April. To book tickets contact the Box Office on 01225 448844 or book online at theatreroyal.org.uk
