Catchy 80’s music, gorgeous clothes designed by Gucci, lots of humor, and an entertaining love story: what more could you ask for in a musical? Head Over Heels the 2018 jukebox musical set to an incredible soundtrack by The Go-Go’s, is loosely based upon the 16th century poem The Countess of Pembroke’s Arcadia by Sir Philip Sidney. However, the production completely turns the poem on its head by incorporating sequined costumes, rock music and gender fluid roles. The Shakespeare-esque story takes place in the fictional kingdom of Arcadia, where the King and Queen find themselves in a jaded relationship while their two daughters begin to explore their respective sexualities and love lives.
Princess Pamela (Bonnie Milligan) and her younger sister Philoclea (Alexandra Socha) are both fantastic in their roles, but Milligan is particularly superb in her portrayal of a narcissistic, closeted lesbian, who is the heir to the throne. Both of the girls and their crushes are star-crossed lovers: for Philoclea, a shepherd, of whom her father does not approve, and for Pamela, her dutiful female servant. Andrew Durand, who plays the shepherd, is also hilarious and has particularly great comedic timing.
The timing of the music is also especially clever. When, for example, Princess Pamela comes to terms with her sexuality and the shepherd and Philoclea finally have a secret reunion, the four characters burst into song, belting “Our Lips Are Sealed.”
Head Over Heels is one of the most original, fun shows I’ve seen on Broadway in several years; I especially appreciated how the musical combined the Shakespearian tropes of star-crossed lovers and mistaken identities in a fresh, contemporary way.
As cliché as it sounds, I absolutely fell head over heels for Head Over Heels. And to make the production even more outstanding, Peppermint from RuPaul’s Drag Race has a marvelous part portraying a seemingly evil oracle named Pythio. Toward the end of the musical, when Pythio’s true identity is revealed, her former husband sings a hilarious, politically-correct version of “Mad About You,” switching the lyrics to “Mad about them,” respecting Pythio’s wishes to not conform to any particular gender identity.
I could not possibly recommend a better production on Broadway at the moment, and it will be sure to bring lots of laughter and smiles to your day. Ultimately, Head Over Heels is a rapturous, wicked-smart, charming story about finding love and acceptance. I also love the musical’s tagline
Currently, Head Over Heels is showing at the Hudson Theatre in New York City. I hope the success of this Broadway production allows for a national tour— I, for one, can’t wait to see it again.
Featured image source: Head Over Heels the Musical’s Official Website.
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