TRW Reviewers - Sarah Prendergast - Cruel Intentions Review

TRW Reviewers’ first review is here! Sarah Prendergast shares her thoughts on Cruel Intentions at Theatre Royal Windsor. Don’t miss her take on this nostalgia-packed show!

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Cruel Intentions – The 90s Musical 15th February 2025 (7:30pm) – Theatre Royal Windsor

“Captivatingly Devious Entertainment”

This is THE show you’ll definitely “Wannabe” at!

Cruel Intentions – The 90s Musical combines sharp wit, a gripping twisted plot, nostalgic 90s tunes, and mesmerising acting into a thrilling theatre experience that will leave you wishing you could turn back time to re-live it, re-watch the movie, and hum the tunes for days. Adapted from the iconic cult classic 1999 film, Jonathan O’Boyle has masterfully transformed and directed Cruel Intentions into a captivating stage production, alongside choreography by Gary Lloyd.

Prepare yourself to be transported back to the lavish world of the 1990s, where the opulent lives of manipulative step-siblings, Sebastian Valmont (Will Callan) and Kathryn Merteuil (Nic Myers), unfold on the Upper East Side of New York. These complex characters become embroiled in a cruel bet involving seduction and revenge as the musical’s plot unfolds…

Kathryn bets Sebastian that he cannot seduce Annette Hargrove (Abbie Budden), the daughter of the school’s headmaster, before the start of the school year. As Sebastian accepts the challenge and begins his pursuit of Annette, he finds himself genuinely falling for her, which complicates his plans and emotions. There are no plot spoilers here—will he win the bet? You’ll have to watch the show to find out!

Other characters include Blaine Tuttle and Greg McConnell, played by Luke Conner Hall and Joe Simmons, who strike up an illicit secret relationship which is uncovered by Sebastian. Kevin Yates, Lucy Carter, and Gabriella Williams played their roles with impeccable physicality, providing the audience with many laugh-out-loud moments. Olivia Brookes, Sophie Hutchinson, Ben Fenwick, and Onuri Smith all provided dynamic ensemble support.

The set design, lighting arrangements, costumes, and props were all masterful (Polly Sullivan). The highly talented Cruel Intentions band was integrated within the balcony of the tiered stage, visible to the audience.

Dynamic colour changes and the use of smoke made the lighting “pop” (Nick Richings). Props were stylised, and scene transitions were slick and seamless.

Costumes perfectly portrayed the characters’ personalities and the era—sleek and revealing for Kathryn, geeky for Cecile Caldwell (Lucy Carter), and stylish for the self-assured Sebastian. Sebastian’s spa scene was especially noteworthy!

The choice of 90s music integrated seamlessly with the story. The impeccable powerful singing, especially by Will and Nic, showcased immense talent.

“Bye Bye Bye” – the actors enjoyed a standing ovation with thunderous applause. There aren’t many shows that leave you buzzing with conversations long after the final curtain falls. However, Cruel Intentions had us reminiscing on “Sunday Morning” and beyond!

Cruel Intentions has become my latest musical obsession—go see it and make it yours too! “I don’t want to wait” too long before I can enjoy it again!

Rating – 5 stars (would award more if possible!)