If you’re looking for a shot of ‘90s nostalgia with a wicked twist, Cruel Intentions: The Musical delivers a guilty-pleasure theatrical cocktail, writes Neil Edwards.

Based on the iconic 1999 teen drama Bill Kenwright’s stage version is a seductive blend of scandal, satire, and song.

The show follows the scheming step-siblings Sebastian Valmont and Kathryn Merteuil, as they manipulate their privileged peers in a twisted game of seduction and revenge.

All the movie’s razor-sharp dialogue and scandalous plot twists remain intact, but here they are backed by a live band in the heavens, playing a jukebox of ‘90s hits — including “No Scrubs,” “Bittersweet Symphony,” “Genie in a Bottle,” and “Bye Bye Bye.”

Standout performances anchor the show: Nic Myers who plays Kathryn, exudes icy control and devilish charisma, while Sebastian, portrayed by the smooth Will Callan, balances charm and cruelty with surprising nuance.

All the supporting cast were on point, especially Abbie Budden who plays Annette and my absolute favourite Cecile, a show-stealing performance for me by Lucy Carter, leaning into their roles with heart and humor.

And on the theme of humor, wow it is constant - I cannot remember the last time I consistently laughed and smiled throughout a show as well as tap my foot - there may have even been an elbow to the lady to my right when Bye, Bye, Bye was performed!

The production’s strength lies in its smart use of irony. The musical choices are cheeky but well-placed, with clever ‘Glee-style’ mashups often used to heighten emotional beats or hilariously undercut them and with intelligent set design, although minimal, was very slick, never slowing the pace.

Make no mistake, this production knows exactly what kind of show it is: sexy, soapy, and self-aware. Being set in the 90’s (I remember it well unfortunately), there is license to use language and ideals that these days may be frowned upon, but which was so very true of that period.

I read somewhere that Cruel Intentions: The Musical isn’t for everyone.

I completely disagree.

It may walk the fine line between tribute and parody, but for fans of the movie — or anyone who lived through the late ‘90s with a Walkman, massive tongued trainers and a personal journal — this is a fast, flirty, and fun night out and even during a two hour performance it left me wanting more!

Cruel Intentions: The Musical is a raunchy, nostalgic rollercoaster with a killer soundtrack and I would strongly recommend bringing all your friends, but maybe leave your morals at the door and I am sooooooooo - in the words of Cecile, happy to give it my first 5-stars!!

The show runs until Saturday, June 14, at the Princess Theatre, Torquay.