Heathers The Musical: Lorna Courtney and Casey Likes Lead the New World Stages
New Off‑Broadway Musical “Heathers: The Musical” Opens at New World Stages
Lead performers Lorna Courtney (veronica in the original film) and Casey Likes (noted for Back to the Future) take center stage in the fresh adaptation, which officially premiered at New World Stages.
Other notable cast members include McKenzie Kurtz (The Heart of Rock & Roll), Olivia Hardy, Elizabeth Teeter, Kerry Butler, Erin Morton, Xavier McKinnon, Cade Ostermeyer, Ben Davis, and Cameron Loyal. The stage production draws inspiration from the 1989 cult movie written by Daniel Waters.
Creative Team
- Music, book, and lyrics created by Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy
- Director Andy Fickman, a seasoned expert handling the project with skill
Backstory
The story transports a teenage audience to September 1989, where a group of high school students attend Westerberg High School in Ohio.
The academic setting is dominated by a ruthless trio of fashionable girls named Heather Chandler, Heather Duke, and Heather McNamara. These “Heathers” are known as the most popular and cruelest members of the Ohio high school. Veronica Sawyer (Lorna Courtney) challenges this tyrannical regime by courting a new boyfriend: the dark, sexy stranger J.D. (Casey Likes). J.D. has a plan to put the Heathers “in their place—six feet under.”
Spotlight on “Heathers: The Musical”
In this fresh take on a cult classic, three standout performers breathe new life into each character.
Lorna Courtney as the Strong Female Lead
Lorna Courtney impresses with an expansive vocal range that carries the show from opening to finale.
McKenzie Kurtz as the Sarcastic Heather Chandler
McKenzie Kurtz delivers a sassy and uproarious portrayal of Heather Chandler, echoing her memorable performance in “The Heart of Rock and Roll.”
Elizabeth Teeter as the Effervescent Heather McNamara
Elizabeth Teeter shines brightly as Heather McNamara, a character defined by vivacity and charm.
Olivia Hardy as the Feisty Heather Duke
Olivia Hardy brings a fierce and magnetic presence to the role of Heather Duke.
Casey Likes as J.D. – A Multifaceted Character
- Casey Likes adeptly navigates each scene’s demands as J.D.
- His performance showcases a range of traits: loving, manipulative, and vindictive.
- Casey Likes’ rendition of “Freeze Your Brain” becomes an unforgettable earworm, reshaping the audience’s perception of the 7‑Eleven setting.
Casey Expresses Admiration in “Heathers: The Musical”
Photo Credit: Evan Zimmerman for Murphy Made.
Stellar Performers
- Kerry Butler – Tony nominee who dominates as Ms. Fleming and Veronica’s mother.
- Erin Morton – a revelation in the tender role of Martha Dunnstock.
- Xavier McKinnon and Cade Ostermeyer – jock comic relief as Ram Sweeney and Kurt Kelly, while also eye candy in blue briefs and white socks.
- Ben Davis and Cameron Loyal – Tony honoree and loyal partner who play three different characters (educators, coaches, parents) with precision.
Audience Reaction
Dar Dowling, a New World Stages attendee, called the show a “fun‑fueled and magical musical adventure.”
The Verdict
Heathers: The Musical
In this off‑Broadway dark comedy, the set sparkles with wit and emotion while tackling heavy themes such as bullying, school violence, peer pressure, and suicidal ideation.
Themes That Resonate
Anyone who has survived the trials of high school, discovered the throes of love, or faced harsh consequences will find this musical echoing their own journey.
Individual Spotlight Numbers
Each main actor receives a solo musical number, giving them the chance to shine while contributing to the cohesive ensemble performance.
Fight Scenes
The choreography is crisp, and the musical score is both stirring and resonant, enhancing the emotional impact.
Audience Engagement
The crowd was loud, passionate, and craving feel‑good escapism—exactly what the world needs in these trying times. The show is uplifting, earning four out of five stars.
- Heathers: The Musical
- Off‑Broadway
- Dark comedy
- Witty & heartfelt
- Choreography & score
