We round up the reviews for the touring production of the musical based on the classic film.
Broadway World: **** “There’s nothing better than theatre that truly surprises you. While Cruel Intentions didn’t teach me anything new about the world around us, it certainly advocates for the place of Jukebox musicals within the theatre landscape. If nothing else, book a ticket to see some top-class performers belt out your favourite 90s hits.”
West End Best Friend: **** “Nic Myers showcases her vocal skills during an incredibly emotional medley where we almost started to feel sorry for the manipulative scheming Kathryn and the poignant use of the Verve’s ‘Bittersweet Symphony’ during the final scene have a really powerful effect in setting a more sombre tone.”
Stage to Page: “My biggest issue with the show is the music. I love a 90s hit as much as the next person, but being a child of the 90s myself, I am flabbergasted by the choices made. There’s 26 songs in the show, of which only four felt fitting, and the arrangements throughout were lacking.”
Musical Theatre Musings: **** “Cruel Intentions is a fun show, especially if you are looking for a nostalgia boost with a camp, upbeat 90’s score that can’t help but win you over.”
The Reviews Hub: ** “A strong cast performing popular music hits with high-energy choreography makes for a visually pleasing evening.”
Musical Theatre Review: **** “the pacing is perfect and director O’Boyle knows exactly what he’s doing with material that’s often tricky. It is nearly a very good musical.”
Fairy Powered Productions: *** “The true standout of the evening was Will Callan who played Sebastian Valmont. Will’s voice is absolutely gorgeous – reminiscent of musical icon Ben Platt at times – and his rendition of Iris, which started acapella, was one of the best of the evening. Abbie Budden also showcased her beautiful vocals with Abbie and Will’s duets, Lovefool and Torn, being two of the more memorable performances of the evening.”
Sound and Stage.com: *** “That said, there were undeniable moments of joy. The cast’s infectious energy and undeniable talent elevated the production, and I had to resist the urge to dance in my seat or sing along—because, theatre etiquette. But the party atmosphere on stage was unmistakable, and in those moments, I couldn’t help but smile.”
Rated Reviewed.co.uk: **** “The joy of the show is that it never takes itself seriously – fully leaning into the exaggerated storyline and ridiculously added song segues with a brilliant dose of humour. Scenes that could easily be cheesy are playfully performed, turning the cringe into an almost satirical take on the movie.”
London Theatre Reviews.co.uk: **** “The show is a fun, light, and very ’90s experience. It is not trying to be a deep theatrical experience, but a fun night out, and it succeeds in this.”
London Theatre 1: ***** “The musical even pokes fun at its source material and never takes itself too seriously. This, combined with its crowd-pleasing soundtrack, allows us to fully immerse ourselves into what is ultimately an unapologetically camp comedy that solely sets out to entertain. It more than achieves its intentions, showcasing stellar talent both on and off the stage, and providing some welcome respite from reality. For fans of the film and / or ‘90s pop music or for those simply seeking a fun night out, this one is for you.”
Adventures in Theatreland: *** “Despite its issues, Cruel Intentions is still a very fun night out with a twisted story and a talented cast. However, it did not fully live up to the legacy left behind by last year’s production, perhaps proving that this show was made to thrive in smaller and more familiar theatres.”
To find out more about the tour visit: https://www.kenwright.com/productions/cruel-intentions-2025-tour/