On LoveLondonLoveCulture, Emma Clarendon rounds up the reviews for Bill Augustin and Andrew Abrams’ new musical But I’m a Cheerleader, running at London’s Turbine Theatre until 16 April 2022.
The Guardian: *** “This is a story that deserves attention. Gay conversion practices continue to be legal in the UK. Although the musical is rooted firmly in comedy, it shines a light on the horrors of such unethical treatments.”
Evening Standard *** “I feel like I’m kicking a small, cute animal here, as this show is undeniably fun and admirable. It’s the first full production to emerge from the Turbine Theatre’s Musical Theatre Festival: I just don’t think it’s totally ready yet.”
Broadway World: **** “The production touches on adolescence, finding your place in the world and sexual identification. Despite all the frivolity, the irrationality of conversion therapy is placed at the centre. There’s no better way of exposing the absurdity of prejudice than skewering it with both parody and comedy. The production does both with wit, warmth and such conviction that you cannot help but root for a happy ending.”
West End Best Friend: **** “The Turbine Theatre’s latest original offering is a colourful riot of camp. This show, however, isn’t merely empty calories. A note in the programme from Artistic Director Paul Taylor-Mills reminds audience members that conversion therapy remains inexplicably and unforgivably legal in the UK, which makes this quintessentially American high school comedy surprisingly urgent.”
The Stage: **** “Buoyant musical adaptation of a cult movie featuring a host of cracking comedy performances and an important social message.”
Set the Tape: “But I’m A Cheerleader: The Musical is faithful to – as well as respectful of – the source material, while not being afraid to expand upon it, and make some very interesting, intelligent choices when doing so.”
Gay Times: **** “We had an absolute blast with But I’m A Cheerleader: The Musical. Does every punchline land perfectly? Not quite, but the jokes come thick and fast with a decent hit rate. Are some of the songs a bit chaotic? Yes, but the music is mostly excellent, and there’s some seriously impressive vocal talent on display amongst the cast. Do these minor quibbles matter? Not at all.”
But I’m a Cheerleader continues to play at the Turbine Theatre until the 16th April.
REVIEW ROUND-UP: What are critics saying about new musical @BIACheerleader? @LoveLdnLoveCul gathers the verdicts. Now running at @TurbineTheatre til 16 April. #ButImACheerleader #musicals #theatrereviews #LondonTheatre
