UWG Theatre Department Performs “Heathers the Musical”

The University of West Georgia Theatre Department performs the spring production based on the 1989 cult classic film “Heathers” for “Heathers the Musical”. The show will run April 19-24 at the Townsend Center Mainstage. 

With music, book, and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Kevin Murphy, this rock musical has become one of the most widely recognized shows of the past decade; guests can expect to laugh, cry and uncover the mysterious murders of Westberg High with Veronica, JD and the Heathers for UWG’s spin on the film. 

The show was cast in December 2021 and the cast and crew began preparing for “Heathers The Musical” beginning in mid-January with hours of work and rehearsals in preparation for opening night on April 19. 

“Heathers is a popular musical and we thought that it would be something audiences would enjoy,” said Dr. Amy Cuomo, co-director of “Heathers The Musical”. “It has strong roles for women, which is great for our company.  The music is challenging, so it also is a great educational opportunity for students working on developing their craft.” 

The production follows the ups and downs of navigating High School for Veronica Sawyer and Westberg High’s queen-bees, the Heathers. After the Heathers bring Vernonia into their group, it only complicates Veronica’s life after she falls for the new boy in school, JD. 

“Heathers is a satire that provides a razor-sharp look at how cruel we can be to each other. One of the lyrics, ‘I can’t promise no more Heathers; High school may not ever end,’ implies that the constant jockeying for position and power experienced by the characters may go on long past graduation,” said Dr. Cuomo. “However, there is hope. The central character, Veronica, grows into an adult who realizes that integrity and kindness must not be sacrificed for popularity or social position and that true friendship is one of the greatest treasures. 

“The best part for me has been watching actors develop their character and become more proficient musically,” continued Dr. Cuomo. “I have loved watching our student designers Kalitxa Tabares and Ramey Ward explore the innovative solutions needed to create the props and design hair and make-up.” 

Student tickets will be available for purchase for $5 at the door or online.