MEAN GIRLS - UK TOUR **** REVIEW (WOKING)

This afternoon I visited ‘Woking Theatre’ for the matinee performance of Mean Girls as part of their UK tour. As it’s a Wednesday, of course I wore pink and headed to North Shore High for an afternoon of fun! — the atmosphere was buzzing through the auditorium as we approached showtime, fans of all ages (most, like myself, donning their finest pink outfits). It is always a nice feeling when people are anticipating a show so much.

Mean Girls is based on the 2004 film of the same name. The musical has a book by Tina Fey, music by Jeff Richmond, and lyrics by Nell Benjamin. Every song in this show is punchy and catchy. I particularly enjoyed numbers such as ‘Where Do You Belong’ and ‘I’d Rather Be Me’ — the UK production of the show has a brand new song, ‘I’m Blowing Up’, which is a great addition and slots right into the already established score well.Tina Fey’s book is packed with laughs and comedy, keeping the story light-hearted throughout, even with themes of bullying and body shaming, which leaves you positive at the end of the show without ever really having moments of deep emotion throughout.

Unfortunately, the set of the show is a slight letdown. The West End production used video screens; these were effective, though I still prefer a full, real set. Assumedly due to the costs and logistics of touring, they had removed these video screens and replaced some of them with light projection — but many of the scenes no longer used this. I noticed it the most during the beginning of ‘Sexy’ and during ‘World Burn’. This lets the show down slightly and takes away from the quality of what is a fabulous performance.

Emily Lane leads the show in the role of Cady Heron. I really enjoyed Lane’s performance throughout the show; her journey as a character is interesting to follow, and she makes a big switch from mathlete, to Plastic, to mathlete once again. I thought her portrayal was well thought out and full of depth.

Vivian Panka commands the stage as Regina George — serving killer vocals and sass. Her rendition of ‘World Burn’ was exciting to watch, as she had such a powerful grip over the audience in that moment.

Kiara Dario brings a light and warmth to the character of Gretchen, who is totally misunderstood and just wants to be liked by Regina. Dario effortlessly gave comedy and life to this character, and I really enjoyed her portrayal.Karen Smith was played by Sophie Pourret, who has sensational comedic timing and brings so much charm and charisma to this role!

Steps star Faye Tozer is a big audience draw to this production, as she plays the role of Mrs George, Mrs Heron, and Mrs Norbury — all played with exceptionally different characterisations. Tozer is the perfect example of star casting going extremely well.

Max Gill gives a very camp and free ‘Damian’, who catches your eye onstage every single time.

The biggest standout for me was Georgie Buckland in the role of Janis. Her performance was nuanced and entertaining, bringing comedy, angst, and emotion throughout. Buckland gives powerhouse vocals through the entire score, but especially during her number ‘I’d Rather Be Me’, which was followed by a well-deserved rapturous applause.

Georgie Buckland (Janis Sarkisian) and Company. Photo by Paul Coltas

The show itself is a light-hearted and energetic piece directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw. I love the way the show rolls from moment to moment, driving the plot forward one comedic moment at a time.I think Mean Girls carries a great message of acceptance and kindness, something the world today needs a lot more of.

If you get the opportunity to see it, I think it is well worth a visit to North Shore High School for the UK touring production of Mean Girls. It’s playing at Woking Theatre until Saturday, 2nd May! Tickets available here.

Then it’s continuing on its UK tour with tickets available here.

Have you seen Mean Girls on tour?

Let me know what you thought — robbiesbackstagebants@gmail.com

29th April 2026

Robbie Davies | Robbie’s Backstage Bants