Mean Girls The Musical Review

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Seeing Mean Girls on stage without having watched the original film felt like a real advantage. I could take the musical entirely on its own terms without comparisons or expectations. And in many ways, it absolutely delivered.

From the moment the curtain rose, the production values were outstanding. The staging was slick and imaginative, seamlessly moving between scenes while the costumes perfectly captured the high school hierarchy and personalities. The music was vibrant and energetic. But what truly stood out was the quality of the vocals. Every single cast member delivered, which is no small feat! There wasn’t a weak link, and the consistency across the ensemble was genuinely impressive.

That said, despite all of its technical brilliance, the show itself just wasn’t for me.

It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly why because there’s so much to admire. The musical carries some genuinely relevant and important messages. Lines like “Calling someone stupid doesn’t make you any smarter” feel especially resonant today, in a culture that arguably feels harsher and more judgmental than it did when the original story first appeared in 2004. Likewise, the song “I’d Rather Be Me” was a standout moment, delivering a powerful message about individuality and staying true to yourself even when faced with pressure to conform.

There’s no denying that stories about navigating school life, dealing with cliques, identity and the transition from childhood to adulthood still have a place. They remain relatable and important for new generations. However, for me, this particular take didn’t quite land emotionally or connect in the way I’d hoped.

In comparison, I found myself thinking that Grease handles similar themes with more charm and staying power.

Overall, Mean Girls is a visually polished, vocally impressive production with strong messages at its core. While it may not have been my personal cup of tea, it’s easy to see why it resonates with many and why it continues to draw audiences.

Verdict: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 

Mean Girls the Musical is playing at the Regent Theatre in Hanley until Saturday 4th April. Tickets are available online or via the theatre’s box office.