But I’m A Cheerleader: The Musical ★★★★ The Turbine Theatre | Oct 7 - Nov 27, 2022


Reviewed earlier in February this year and back due to popular demand, Megan returns as the cheerleader who is not sure what team she is on. Her parents and friends worry she might be playing for team lesbian. So, in order to be 'straightened' out, she is shipped off to the 'conversion therapy' camp, True Directions. Based on the cult film of 1999, this energy-packed musical attacks the horrors of such so-called therapeutic interventions with some sharp satire and plenty of delightful silliness. Director, Tania Azevedo, sets a furious pace and this strong cast rise to the occasion. Alice Croft is simply perfect; she is completely credible as the wide-eyed, seventeen-year-old Megan. She also brings to her role a lovely voice which completely woos the audience with numbers like "Graham's Kiss." Oliver Brooks as Dad/Larry and Jodie Jacobs as Mom/Lloyd are hilarious in both their roles and they get the comic timing just right. Edward Chitticks does a fine job as the dense and beautiful Jared/Rock, while Lemuel Knights brought an infectious enthusiasm to Mike. Tiffany Graves as the villain, Mary Brown, is in danger of stealing the show. She creates a terrifying and gleefully comic bigot. She seems to be channeling a combination of Cruella de Vil and the Wicked Witch of the West. Kudos also have to be given to Bill Augustin's clever lyrics and Andrew Abrams tuneful score – both held our attention and kept us rocking throughout the show. By the end of the evening, the whole audience has gotten the message to move beyond blue and pink binaries and is ready to cheer for team diversity!

Rated: ★★★★

Reviewed by J.C.
Photo by Mark Senior.

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Map & Location: Arches Ln, Nine Elms, London SW11 8AB, UK

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