Clueless - West End - Review

★★★★☆

Clueless: The Musical brings a blast of '90s nostalgia to the Trafalgar Theatre in London’s West End. Written by Amy Heckerling and featuring a brand-new original soundtrack by KT Tunstall, this bright and witty adaptation of the iconic 1995 film proves that, even with the West End becoming increasingly saturated with jukebox musicals and movie adaptations, there is always room for more. In a world where we seem stuck between Michael Jackson hits and endless reboots, Clueless manages to stand out — and delightfully so.

Set against the sunny backdrop of Beverly Hills, Clueless follows the ever optimistic Cher Horowitz as she navigates the pitfalls of teenage matchmaking, friendship dramas, and self-discovery. Cher’s carefully curated world of designer labels and social clout is turned upside down when she realises that true love and growing up are far more complicated than a quick shopping spree. Bursting with humour, heart, and '90s flair, Clueless translates the spirit of the beloved film onto the stage, offering a production that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new.

Taking centre stage as Cher, Emma Flynn is categorically perfect. Flynn embodies the role with infectious energy and dazzling charisma, capturing the mannerisms and effervescent spirit of Alicia Silverstone’s original portrayal without falling into imitation. Her frequent breaking of the fourth wall feels warm and genuine, instantly connecting with every member of the audience from the front row to the very back of the circle. Flynn’s performance is the glittering heart of the show — bright, playful, and effortlessly charming — exactly what a production like Clueless demands.

Opposite Flynn, Keelan McAuley shines as Josh, Cher’s socially conscious former stepbrother and eventual love interest (go with it, it’s fine). McAuley strikes the perfect balance between the laid-back cool and stern earnestness needed for the role, and his performance is a consistent highlight. His solo number early in Act 2, a foot-tapping law-school-themed pop song, is a show-stealer, showcasing not only McAuley’s rich vocal ability but his knack for bringing real character depth through musical storytelling. (And yes, with that brooding charm, it’s no surprise he’s already played JD in Heathers.)

KT Tunstall’s original songs serve the narrative well. While there aren’t any obvious chart-toppers, each number moves the story forward with energy and heart. The musical focuses on giving its characters emotional space through music. While the melodies and arrangements occasionally feel safe, leaning more towards solid album tracks than daring breakout anthems, they never drag the pace. With more adventurous orchestrations and bolder dynamics, these songs could soar to the next level, but as it stands, the musicality just doesn’t take the risk of being epic.

The humour and camp spirit of the original film are alive and well on stage. Clueless never stops setting up the next delicious dilemma for Cher, keeping the stakes high and the audience thoroughly engaged. While it lovingly embraces the nostalgic touchstones of '90s culture, the show feels vibrant and contemporary rather than dated. Iconic lines, fashion moments, and hilarious props pay tribute to the film without letting nostalgia bog down the lively momentum of the plot as some other remakes do.

Mikiko Suzuki MacAdams’s set design is endlessly inventive. Using fly-ins, moving revolves, and clever transformations, the stage transforms from high schools to shopping malls to Beverly Hills boulevards, with cars seemingly materialising out of any piece of set — seriously, is every set piece a car? It’s a playful, visually smart design that matches the tone of the show beautifully.

Isaac J Lewis is an absolute standout as the effortlessly stylish Christian. With a voice as smooth as his dazzling smile, Lewis delivers a charming, charismatic performance that leaves a lasting impression. There is a bright future ahead of Isaac J Lewis, so remember this name! Equally impressive are Chyna-Rose Frederick as Cher’s loyal bestie Dionne and Ramona Lewis-Malley as the sweet and earnest Tai. Both women bring powerhouse vocals, strong comic timing, and tons of heart to the stage, injecting the ensemble scenes with electric energy.

The whole production is unapologetically fun — wigs, costumes, and American accents cranked up to the max. The costume design, much like Cher’s wardrobe, is a whirlwind of colours, textures, and iconic looks that instantly evoke the beloved style of the movie. The attention to detail and the commitment from the entire cast and crew make this a sparkling night at the theatre, designed to delight fans both old and new.

Clueless: The Musical is a fantastic reminder that while the West End may be full of film-to-stage adaptations, when they are crafted with as much tongue-in-cheek and charm as this, there's absolutely space for them. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the original cult hit or just looking for a joyful, feel-good night out, this show is totally worth it. Totally!