A Fun but Safe Reimagining
Bursting onto the London theatre scene Scissorhandz: A Musical Reinvented promised a dazzling celebration of individuality, eccentricity, and pop-culture brilliance. With an award-winning cast and visionary creator-director Bradley Bredeweg at the helm, this musical adaptation of Edward Scissorhands embraced themes of acceptance, self-love, and celebrating our differences. After a smash-hit debut in Hollywood, where it played to sold-out crowds, Scissorhandz arrived in the UK with the same quirky magic—but did it truly deliver?, asks Luigia Minichiello.
I went in expecting a bold blend of dark humour, camp, and spectacle—perhaps even a moral punch—but while the show was undeniably entertaining, it ultimately felt a little too safe. At its core, Scissorhandz is an homage to anyone who has ever felt like an outsider. However, the script felt thin, the narrative lacked depth—although this could reflect Tim Burton’s original film, which was more about atmosphere and emotion than intricate storytelling. Still, the humour never quite reached the subversive, high-camp heights I had hoped for. It seemed like a version polished for mainstream appeal rather than something truly daring and boundary-pushing.
The cast delivered solid performances, complete with slick dance routines. Standout stars included Scissorhandz inventor Dionne Gipson and Emma Williams as Peg, whose powerhouse vocals stole the show. Belting out contemporary bangers, they kept the audience engaged, with a soundtrack featuring pop icons like Taylor Swift, Lady Gaga, and Alanis Morissette. The use of live musicians added to the feel-good energy of the production.
There were moments that hinted at something more playful and interactive—cast members moved through the audience, even sitting on laps, and a TV interview scene saw the host ad-libbing and engaging with the crowd. If these elements had been explored further, they could have elevated the show into something more exciting and immersive.
Given Michelle Visage’s involvement as a co-producer, I had high hopes for extravagant, over-the-top costumes akin to RuPaul’s Drag Race. Instead, they felt more East Street Market than high-fashion spectacle that would slay, missing an opportunity to truly lean into the show’s potential for visual excess.
Ultimately, Scissorhandz is a fun, high-energy ride, perfect for fans of the original film and lovers of feel-good musicals. But if you’re seeking something truly daring, subversive, and packed with an unforgettable “wow” factor, you might leave feeling it fell just short of its full potential. The production value and performances were strong, but it felt like a missed opportunity to deliver something truly unique.
Would I recommend it? Absolutely—for a lighthearted night at the theatre. Just don’t go in expecting a revolution.
Southwark Playhouse Elephant, 1 Dante Place, London, SE11 4RX until 29th March.
Full Details and Booking: 020 7407 0234 / www.southwarkplayhouse.co.uk
