Oxford’s New Theatre played host to a deliciously twisted treat this week as the hit stage adaptation of Cruel Intentions delivered big laughs, big songs, and a standing ovation-worthy performance.
This bold and risqué jukebox musical, based on the cult 1999 teen movie, runs until Saturday and offers an outrageous mix of 90s pop anthems, twisted plotting, and unexpectedly heartfelt moments.
Plot Summary: Scandal, Seduction & Schemes
Set in a world of prep school privilege, Cruel Intentions follows scheming step-siblings Sebastian Valmont (Will Callan) and Kathryn Merteuil (Nic Myers), two manipulative “trust fund casualties” with a penchant for breaking hearts and ruining reputations.
Their latest plan? A wager. If Sebastian can seduce the new Headmaster’s virtuous daughter Annette Hargrove (Olivia Brookes), he wins the right to sleep with Kathryn. If he fails, he loses his beloved sports car.
What begins as a cruel game soon spirals into something more emotionally complex, as Sebastian unexpectedly begins to fall for Annette, forcing both siblings to confront the consequences of their actions.
A Soundtrack of 90s Perfection
One of the show’s biggest joys is its nostalgia-loaded soundtrack, with hits that weave perfectly into the story. Expect crowd-pleasers like:
- “Just a Girl”
- “Bitter Sweet Symphony”
- “No Scrubs”
- “Livin’ La Vida Loca”
- “I Saw the Sign”
Rather than feeling forced, the song choices are surprisingly clever, often hilariously timed or packed with emotional punch.
Standout Performances
- Nic Myers (Kathryn) oozes charisma and cruelty in equal measure, commanding the stage with icy precision and a powerhouse voice.
- Will Callan (Sebastian) balances charm and vulnerability with nuance, making his character’s redemption arc feel surprisingly affecting.
- Cecile Caldwell, the naïve socialite, is a scene-stealer, especially in a post-romance scene that had the entire audience howling with laughter.
- The unexpected romance between Greg (Joe Simmons) and Blaine (Luke Conner Hall) added warmth and humour, earning big cheers.
Special mention to Gabriella Williams and Kevin Yates whose sing-off of “No Scrubs” brought the house down.
Direction, Design & Vibe
Fast-paced and slickly choreographed, the show doesn’t slow down. The staging is minimal but dynamic, letting the cast and soundtrack do the heavy lifting. The energy rarely dips, and despite its risqué content, the tone remains more cheeky than crude.
Underneath the high drama and iconic soundtrack, the story hints at deeper themes of emotional neglect, identity, and transformation. It’s more than just scandal, there’s substance.
Need-to-Know
- Dates: Now playing until Saturday 19th April
- Venue: New Theatre Oxford, George Street
- Tickets: From £13 – Book online here
- Recommended age: 14+ (due to mature content and language)
- Running time: Approx. 2 hours (with interval)
Final Verdict
Whether you loved the original film or just want a fun, outrageous night out, Cruel Intentions delivers. It’s slick, sassy, full of bops, and much more emotionally layered than expected.
★★★★☆ | A darkly funny, nostalgia-fuelled night at the theatre
A masterclass in musical mischief, and a must-see for 90s fans and theatre lovers alike.
