SCISSORHANDZ: A POP MUSICAL PARODY THAT CUTS DEEP

By Tanya Howard | Founder, The Live Review London · @glamglitzlondon ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Press Invite

Scissorhandz isn’t your typical West End musical! It’s camp, chaotic, and a joyous reimagining of the Tim Burton classic. With Michelle Visage and *NSYNC’s Lance Bass at the helm, there was no doubt Scissorhandz would be a musical explosion. This parody is packed with nostalgia-fuelled bangers. And at the centre of the show is a heartfelt message of embracing your weirdness.

From the moment the show kicks off, you know you’re in for something special. It’s stuffed with hit after hit from the 90s and 00s, seamlessly woven into the story. Sometimes with hilarious and somewhat ridiculous effects. Who knew Chaka Khan, Beyonce and Lady Gaga would fit so well into the Edward Scissorhands’ tale? And yet somehow it just worked.

POWERFUL PERFORMANCES AND STANDOUT PERFORMANCES

Jordan Kai Burnett really looked the part of Edward, nailing the signature awkward mannerisms and physicality. However, vocally, the role felt like a stretch at times. Their voice strengthened as the show went on, which could have meant it was nerves or a slow warm-up. But, in the early numbers, I found myself wishing for a bit more power on those big notes.

That said, there were a lot of vocal powerhouses in the cast. Emma Williams (Peg), Annabelle Terry (Esmerelda), Dionne Gipson (The Inventor), Lauren Jones (Kim), and Tricia Adele-Turner (Joyce) all delivered sensational performances. The audience was living for it, with hollers and cheers after almost every number. Lauren Jones is a dead ringer for a young Winona Ryder, adding an extra layer of nostalgia to her performance.

CAMP, FUN, AND FULL OF HEART

Scissorhandz is pure fun! It doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of the charm. It’s playful, a little chaotic, and absolutely knows it. The Southwark Playhouse Elephant’s stage is quite small, and you can’t help but feel this production would thrive in a bigger space. But credit where it’s due, they made it work.

But beneath the glitter and ridiculousness, Scissorhandz carries a genuine and touching message about celebrating what makes you different. Jordan Kai Burnett described it as “a safe haven where everyone could come together and celebrate their uniqueness.” And that’s exactly what it felt like. Scissorhandz is more than show, it’s a movement, a party, and a reminder to unapologetically embrace your weirdness.

Scissorhandz is running at Southwark Playhouse Elephant until Saturday 29 March.

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Photo Credit: Danny Kaan