This latest American high school romcom opens with the irrepressible Cher Horowitz opining that "Everything is perfect," and while that might be an overstatement, Clueless - The Musical is certainly an excellent example of its genre. The show, which is based on a popular film, which was in turn a version of Jane Austen's Emma, is full of energy and has some very catchy songs from KT Tunstall. Emma Flynn as the obtuse, but well-meaning, Cher is a delight and Keelan McAuley as the serious-minded young altruist, Josh, displays some great vocals and considerable gymnastic ability. Both these principals manage to make their simple stock teenage characters appealing while invigorating the formulaic plot. While we have been down this path many times before, both Flynn and McAuley make the very familiarity of this journey thoroughly enjoyable. They are nicely supported in this endeavour by an enthusiastic cast who look like they are enjoying themselves and who manage to communicate their energy and exuberance to the audience. The direction of Rachel Kavanaugh sets a pace that never flags and creates characters that are nicely detailed despite their lack of real complexity. The choreography of Lizzi Gee is full of fun, and the jive sequence is simply terrific. Kudos also to set designer Mikiko Suzuki MacAdams. Who knew there were so many ingenious ways of suggesting an automobile on stage? This is theatre that does not seek to challenge. Its predictability is reassuring, and when it is done well, that is totally satisfying. In this case, it is done very, very well.
Rated: ★★★★
Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Pamela Raith
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