It is sobering when younger generations begin to experience nostalgic moments, but 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of Clueless, the film loosely based on Jane Austen’s Emma (published 1815) that made stars of Alicia Silverstone and Paul Ruud and turned yellow plaid into a fashion statement. Amy Heckerling, writer of film and book, has now done the same with Clueless, The Musical, its West End première chiming with the 250th anniversary of Austen’s birth.
Student Cher Horowitz (Emma Flynn, perfect for this role) is young and good-hearted, ensuring that her widowed father has his daily orange juice while matchmaking her teacher and friends at Beverly High, assisted by best friend Dionne (Chyna-Rose Frederick). Like Austen’s Emma Woodhouse, Cher’s exuberance and lack of experience leads her to many comedies of error along the way, while her own leading man lies hidden in plain sight.
Strong performances include Romona Lewis-Malley as Tai (evoking for this reviewer a young Bette Midler / Lady Gaga) and Max Mirza’s satisfactorily arrogant Elton, with a fine-voiced ensemble who all benefit from the golden pairing of KT Tunstall for original score and Glenn Slater for lyrics (award-winners both), infusing musical numbers with melody, wit and depth at opportune moments.
Rachel Kavanaugh’s classy direction shines throughout, but it is part two that really picks up the pace and includes in Lizzi Gee’s choreography a joyous pastiche of early '90s boy bands (think Take That, Backstreet Boys) led by strong vocals from Keelan McAuley’s Josh.
The production sits nicely with current interest in the '90s as bands reform and fashions are reimagined. Familiarity with the film, while attracting original viewers, is not necessary, as phrases such as ‘whatever’ and ‘as if’ (new, then) are with us today, and we can all feel a stab of lost time for phone boxes and pagers.
With an age suggestion of 5+ (there are brief moments of mild adult content), all may enjoy this musical’s touch of bright yellow sunshine, one that could include a visit to the pages of Jane Austen. Happy birthday, Jane—and Clueless.