London Premiere of ‘Cruel Intentions’ Musical Announced with Star-Studded Cast
The highly anticipated London premiere of the ‘Cruel Intentions’ musical, a theatrical adaptation of the 1999 cult movie, is set to open at The Other Palace. The original film, directed by Roger Kumble and starring notable actors such as Sarah Michelle Gellar, Reese Witherspoon, Ryan Phillippe, and Selma Blair, has inspired the creation of this musical by Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin, and Kumble.
Adapted from the French novel ‘Les Liaisons Dangereuses’, the musical explores the manipulative games of step-siblings and affluent Manhattan high schoolers Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil. Their sinister bet to deflower the headmaster’s virtuous daughter, Annette Hargrove, forms the crux of the narrative. The production received acclaim at its Edinburgh Fringe performance in 2019, including a positive review from WhatsOnStage.
The cast for the London premiere includes Josh Barnett as Blaine Tuttle/Court Reynolds, Daniel Bravo in the pivotal role of Sebastian Valmont, Jess Buckby as Mrs Bunny Caldwell/Dr Greenbaum, Abbie Budden portraying Annette Hargrove, Rose Galbraith as Cecile Caldwell/Marci Greenbaum, Nickcolia King-N’Da playing Ronald Clifford, Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky as Kathryn Merteuil, and Barney Wilkinson as Greg.
Featuring iconic ’90s pop hits from artists like Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Boyz II Men, TLC, Natalie Imbruglia, The Verve, *NSYNC, Ace of Base, and R.E.M., the musical promises a nostalgic journey for its audience.
The creative team for this production includes director Jonathan O’Boyle, choreographer and associate director Gary Lloyd, musical director Denise Crowley, set and costume designer Polly Sullivan, lighting designer Nick Richings, sound designer Chris Whybrow, associate choreographer Matt Nicholson, and costume supervisor Hugo Aguirre. The casting has been expertly managed by Will Burton.
Produced by Bill Kenwright Ltd, ‘Cruel Intentions: The ’90s Musical’ will run from 11 January to 14 April 2024 at The Other Palace. The press night is scheduled for 19 January, with tickets already available for purchase. This premiere promises to be a spectacular blend of drama, nostalgia, and iconic music, capturing the essence of the beloved film in a new theatrical light.
