Cruel Intentions: The '90s Musical ★★★★★ The Other Palace | Jan 11 - Apr 14, 2024


If this is your musical era, then you'll love this show! Old favourites take on whole new meanings as they are brilliantly repurposed in this delectable updating of the even older 18th century epistolary novel, Les Liaisons Dangereuses. You'll never hear Melissa Etheridge's "I'm the Only One" or The Cardigans' "Lovefool" in quite the same way again. Set in the world of wealthy Manhattan adolescents, this version of the Choderlos de Laclos' tale has two scheming step-siblings, menacingly embodied by Daniel Bravo and Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky, set out to seduce and destroy two innocents played by Abbie Budden and Rose Galbraith. While the former are malevolently manipulative, the latter are cloyingly credulous, and it all leads to wonderfully over-the-top skullduggery which the cast appear to be enjoying as much as the audience. To the role of Kathryn, McCaulsky brings an extraordinary voice and her rendition of No Doubt's "Sunday Morning" and "Kathryn's Turn" were standouts. We also loved Budden's interpretation of No Doubt's "Just a Girl" and Jewel's "Foolish Games." Full marks also go to Galbraith for her terrific performance of Paula Cole's "I Don't Want to Wait." In the end those Cruel Intentions end up leading to some absolutely outstanding outcomes. This is a wickedly funny show with some great music!

Rated: ★★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Pamela Raith

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When, Where, Getting there:
Map & Location: 12 Palace St, London SW1E 5JA, UK

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