Heathers Musical Revival Opens Off-Broadway to Fan Acclaim

The Off-Broadway revival of Heathers: The Musical, running at New World Stages and extended through January 2026, revisits the cult 1988 film with a fresh cast led by Lorna Courtney as Veronica Sawyer and Casey Likes as J.D. Critics note the musical's campy, darkly comedic portrayal of high school cruelty, though some find the tone uneven and the protagonist's characterization less edgy than the original film. The show maintains a devoted fanbase, drawing enthusiastic audiences who embrace its bold rock/pop score and iconic lines, despite some critiques about story depth and length. McKenzie Kurtz’s portrayal of Heather Chandler is widely praised as a standout performance, adding to the revival's appeal. While the musical smooths some of the film's edginess for broader appeal, it retains its core themes of teenage angst and toxic relationships, resonating strongly with longtime fans. Overall, the production balances nostalgic reverence and contemporary adaptation, securing its status as a cult favorite with lively performances and energetic direction by Andy Fickman.