Clueless: The Musical – Trafalgar Theatre, London

When it was first announced that Clueless, the iconic 1995 teen comedy film, would be adapted into a musical, expectations were high. The original film, starring Alicia Silverstone as the bubbly, fashion-conscious Cher Horowitz, has achieved cult status for its sharp wit, unforgettable catchphrases, and commentary on high school social hierarchies. So, could a musical do justice to this beloved piece of 90’s cinema while bringing something new to the table? In short, yes. Clueless: The Musical is a fun and energetic take on the original, that blends the essence of the film with the vibrancy and fun of live theatre. 

First off, the musical succeeds in capturing the spirit of the film. For those familiar with the movie, the characters are instantly recognizable. Cher (played by the talented and charismatic Emma Flynn) retains her lovable, self-absorbed charm, and her journey from superficial matchmaker to self-aware individual feels as fresh and endearing as it did on-screen. Her iconic yellow plaid ensemble is also faithfully replicated, adding an element of nostalgia for fans of the original film. 

The musical maintains many of the film’s most iconic elements. The storyline follows Cher’s efforts to matchmake her classmates, culminating in her own personal growth and romantic awakening. The witty, fast-paced dialogue remains intact, with Cher’s iconic catchphrases like “As if!” and “Ugh, as if!” being injected with plenty of humour. However, what truly elevates the stage adaptation is how it adds to the material without feeling forced. The inclusion of musical numbers gives the characters more room to express themselves, with each number reflecting their personalities and desires in a way that the film’s dialogue alone could not convey. 

The music in Clueless: The Musical is catchy, with songs written by the talented team of KT Tunstall and Glenn Slater, and manages to feel both contemporary and timeless. From the energetic opening number, “Clueless,” to the strangely titled “All That, and a Bag of Chips”, the score is packed with earworms that stick with you long after the curtain falls. Each song is carefully crafted to reflect the emotions and character development happening on stage, and the catchy melodies ensure that the show never drags. Cher’s songs are particularly fun, giving her the opportunity to express her growth through pop-inspired numbers, while her best friend Dionne (a superb performance by Chyna-Rose Frederick) brings a sassier, yet equally entertaining flair to her songs. 

One of the standout aspects of the musical is how it updates the characters and their relationships for a modern audience. Cher’s transformation from a well-meaning, naïve girl to someone who better understands her privilege is central to the story. The musical subtly handles issues like class, race, and gender, all while still being light-hearted and fun. It’s clear that the creative team understands the original film’s cultural impact and has thoughtfully addressed these topics while making sure the tone remains as uplifting as it is entertaining. 

The set design is another triumph. The stage is designed to look like a high school dream world, with bold colours and sharp lines, while still providing the flexibility to transform from Cher’s luxurious Beverly Hills home to the school hallways. The lighting, costumes, and scenery complement the upbeat tone of the musical, creating a lively, visually stimulating experience for the audience. 

That being said, Clueless: The Musical does face some challenges in balancing its nostalgia with modern sensibilities. For instance, certain plot points, while true to the film, feel slightly dated when viewed through the lens of 2025. Some of the humour can occasionally lean into outdated stereotypes, which may raise eyebrows among younger audiences. Nevertheless, the show’s charm and energy keep things moving forward with enough heart to compensate for the occasional mis-step. 

Overall, Clueless: The Musical is a fun show that stays true to the spirit of the original film while adding its own flair. It’s funny, heartfelt, and filled with infectious energy, making it a must-see for fans of the 90’s classic, as well as those new to Cher Horowitz’s world. With a cast that delivers memorable performances and burst with energy, Clueless: The Musical is a playful and modern reinvention that shows how a cult classic can still resonate today. 

****    Four Stars 

Reviewed by Paul Scott, who presents “The Afternoon Show” every Wednesday from 3pm to 6pm.