Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical comes to Chelmsford Theatre

Chelmsford Theatre is set to host another major production next spring. Following sell-out seasons in London and New York, the brand-new smash hit musical Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical is coming to the venue for eight performances only from 4–8 March 2025.

The nostalgic ‘90s musical is packed with millennials’ favourite throwback tunes including Bittersweet Symphony, Bye Bye Bye, No Scrubs and Genie in a Bottle.

Tickets are on sale to Chelmsford Theatre members today, 24 September, and go on sale to the wider public from 10am on Wednesday 25 September.

Based on the iconic 90s film

The musical is based on the popular ‘90s film of the same name, starring Sarah Michelle Gellar and Reese Witherspoon. The film was inspired by French novelist Pierre Choderlos de Laclos’ 1782 book, ‘Les Liaisons Dangereuses’.

Cruel Intentions follows stepsiblings Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil as they engage in a cruel bet: Kathryn goads Sebastian into attempting to seduce Annette Hargrove, the headmaster’s virtuous daughter.

Weaving a web of secrets and temptation, their crusade wreaks havoc on the students at their exclusive Manhattan high school. It’s not long before the duo become entangled in their own web of deception and unexpected romance, with explosive results.

The musical adaptation features the best songs of the ‘90s from the likes of Britney Spears, Boyz II Men, Christina Aguilera, TLC, R.E.M., Ace of Base, Natalie Imbruglia, The Verve, *NSYNC and many more!

Another great opportunity for Chelmsford residents

Chelmsford residents will get the chance to see Cruel Intentions locally for the first time as it comes to the city in March during its first major national tour. The 2025 tour follows sold-out runs in London and New York, which received more than 40 4* and 5* reviews from critics. the Mail on Sunday said “It’s a hit! Stuffed with 1990’s pop hits” while the New York Times called it “Funny and nostalgia fuelled”.

Produced by Bill Kenwright Ltd., Cruel Intentions: The ‘90s Musical is created by Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin, and Roger Kumble, who was the writer and director of the original 1999 film.

It’s not the first Bill Kenwright Ltd. production to come to Chelmsford. The theatre also hosted their multi-award-winning musical Blood Brothers back in August 2023. Theatre Director, Rhys Thomas, says the theatre is thrilled host another of their productions:

“

“This is another smash hit musical coming to Chelmsford Theatre from the brilliant Bill Kenwright Ltd. We have grand ambitions to bring top quality, popular shows for Chelmsford’s audiences to enjoy locally, and Cruel Intentions is just the latest in a string of renowned productions we’ve welcomed to the theatre. I’m proud to see Chelmsford added to its first major UK tour. Fans of the original film, and really anyone who turned the radio on in the ‘90s, should prepare for a treat – you’ll undoubtedly feel the nostalgia flowing through this lively and daring production!”

Rhys Thomas, Theatre Director, Chelmsford Theatre

Booking Tickets

If you’re nostalgic for the days of NSYNC, Britney Spears and The Verve then you won’t want to miss this ultimate ‘90s night out. Book your seats now via the Chelmsford Theatre website.