Clueless: A wonderful, joyous 1990s Beverly Hills night out

Sometimes the success of a musical exceeds even the expectations of the show’s producers, and just runs and runs.

And it would not be a surprise if the already extended run of the wonderful, joyous Clueless at the Trafalgar Theatre just proves to be one of those.

My 12-year-old daughter, Nellie, and I made our way down to The Strand last night, filled with a sense of excitement.

We’ve seen a couple of Shakespeare plays recently and, brilliant as they were, we were in need of some light relief and warmth.

And boy, does Clueless give you that – in abundance.

For those not in the know, the musical, which has now extended its run until March next year, is an adaptation of the Paramount Pictures film which is 30 years old this year – the film in turn was loosely based on Jane Austen’s Emma.

As the show’s press release says: “Welcome to 1990s Beverly Hills, where Cher Horowitz has a heart bigger than her allowance and a unique talent of finding love for others.

“When awkward new girl Tai arrives in town, Cher takes on her biggest project yet – but is she matchmaking or meddling?

“And what about her annoying ex-stepbrother, Josh, who she can’t stop thinking about? Suddenly, Cher’s life isn’t quite so perfect, maybe she’s the one being clueless.”

New York actress Emma Flynn is superb as star of the show, Cher. She is bright, bouncy, funny and brilliantly engaging with her audience.

But she’s not the only star. Canadian Keelan McAuley plays a great Josh – who Cher initially finds boring but who she – spoiler alert – eventually discovers is the man for her.

Chyna-Rose Frederick is a fine Dionne – Cher’s best mate – while Romona Lewis-Malley takes centre stage for large parts as geeky, but actually quite cool, Tai.

Isaac J Lewis is superb as Christian – Cher’s first would-be love, until that is she discovers he is gay.

And Max Mirza is hilarious as the vacuous high school heartthrob, Elton.

If you find yourself with a spare night, or afternoon, then this one is a must-see. What a fun way to start the Easter holidays.

Trafalgar Theatre, 14 Whitehall. London, SW1A 2DY
Booking Until: March 28, 2026
Performances: Monday-Saturday at 7.30pm and Thursday and Saturday at 2.30pm
Tickets from £25
Website: CluelessOnStage.com
020 7321 5400
Instagram, Facebook, X and TikTok:
@cluelessonstage
#CluelessTheMusical

Pictured top: Emma Flynn as Cher, and cast (Picture: Pamela Raith Photography)