Written By: Reagan Metzger, Staff Writer
MEAN GIRLS: Straight from Broadway to the FOX Theatre comes Mean Girls in its vivid remake as a play.
Straight from Broadway, the production of ‘Mean Girls’ made its national tour stop at Riverside’s treasured FOX theatre. The downtown area was flooded with many enjoying the Holiday lights, but on Monday, December 30th, the scene was met with eager fans. Lines of people crowded the sidewalks of Market Street and there was no lack of appropriate attire. Attendees dressed in pink to pay homage to the iconic 2004 film, the 2018 Broadway musical, the 2024 movie revival, and the overall culture of personal authenticity that the ‘Mean Girls’ production strides to promote.
‘Mean Girls’ follows the main character, Cady Heron, in her adjustments to a new life in America. Naive to high school social constructs, she falls into a trio of ‘frenemies’ led by queen bee, Regina George. Cady devises a plan to end Regina’s reign but later learns lessons about remaining true to oneself.
Tina Fey crafted the original story and its adaptation to Broadway in 2018 was an instant hit. Guests at the FOX theatre were promised a similar experience and the production company, Live Nation, certainly delivered. The theatre’s foyer contained many bar stations with inspired food and drinks. Many were seen enjoying popcorn, Shirley Temples, nachos, and more! Attendees chatted among themselves within the FOX’s timeless ambiance and beautiful wooden architecture. Consistent Theatre volunteer, Melissa Pierce, admitted that she watches many FOX productions, but that she was “especially excited for Mean Girls.”
The show began and the audience was met with loads of music and humor. There was never a dull moment because all the actors passionately portrayed their well-known characters. Crowd favorites included Maya Petropoulos as Regina George because of her vicious intensity and outstanding passion. Along with Maryrose Brendel as Karen Smith and her ability to emphasize her character’s constant ditziness. Attendee, Stephanie Childs, explained that she values the ‘Mean Girls’ characters because “they all represent the generational norms of female hostility that were acceptable for so long. ‘Mean Girls’ brought light to some serious and real problems within girlhood.” There were multitudes of laughable moments with many references that related to younger viewers as well as touches of feminist ideas. The ensemble together sang out each song powerfully. Songs that highlighted Regina George’s cruelty such as “World Burn” and “Meet the Plastics” were widely adored. The show only included a few ballads compared to the louder numbers, but the live band had no problem playing the songs, accurately conveying any scene’s emotions. The music filled every inch of the theater with funkier tunes that matched the generational nuances of the “Mean Girls” musical which takes place in the mid-2010s. One of the more noticeable attributes of the show appeared in the set design. ‘Mean Girls’ is an intricate story told throughout many locations within a small town in Illinois. Designers utilized wheels on just about everything to make transitions easy and timely from scene to scene. From desks, couches, and even a bus, there were so many moving parts that were articulated with astounding attention to detail. The vibrant lighting systems also worked with the sets in aiding to illustrate the performance’s plot.
“Mean Girls” is a beloved narrative and when joined with the FOX theatre charm, created a memorable evening for all attendees in downtown Riverside. The cast performed on both December 30th and 31st to continue their national U.S. tour which will last through May 25th. If you ever have the opportunity to go see the Broadway performance or visit the FOX theatre, don’t hesitate to take part in the remarkable experience of live theater. As Gretchen Weiners from ‘Mean Girls’ would affirm, it’s “so fetch!”