Chicago Tribune - Recommended
"...The sweet spots in the piece, which was created by Jordan Ross, Lindsey Rosin and Roger Kumble, are the moments just as the songs kick in, when you get the surprise of what is going where. It's not unlike how "Mamma Mia!" used to be, years ago. Young as they are, the performances are good enough to work, with Jeffrey Kringer an amusing Valmont, showing off his bod for the crowd and Taylor Pearlstein similarly adept at ballad belting. With truly bravura vocals, this thing could really hit, although there is something sweet about this earnest young cast, taking all this nonsense just seriously enough and clearly having a blast."
Daily Herald - Somewhat Recommended
"...But in execution, the pop hits come off as a self-aware and smirky exercise rather than being seamlessly integrated into the storytelling. It doesn't help that the musical's tone veers so jarringly from somber tragedy to silly camp."
Chicago Reader - Somewhat Recommended
"...It's not compelling stuff, but the cast's energetic commitment (particularly Brooke Singer as hilariously awkward-virgin-turned-sex-enthusiast Cecile, who celebrates being part of the "secret society!" of the carnally initiated) keeps it from feeling like a completely cynical affair. Jeffrey Kringer's libertine Sebastian and Betsy Stewart's good-girl Annette have moments of real chemistry, even when warbling the Cardigans' sugary "Lovefool" to each other. Cruel Intentions is slick and self-conscious, like the film, but as 90s nostalgia trips go, you could do worse."
Let's Play at ChicagoNow - Recommended
"...Casting directors Henry Russell and Bergstein, CSA does an excellent job with casting the perfect look-alikes lead from the original movie for the musical with a well-rounded cast that provokes habit in their classmate's lives. This musical by far isn't the best acting and singing you will see in Chicago Theaters; however, you will go home entertained."
Around The Town Chicago - Somewhat Recommended
"...Over the years, I have stated that movies do not always convert to great musicals and vice-versa. I know that a lot of people were very excited to hear that Broadway In Chicago was bringing the touring company of “Cruel Intentions :the 90s Musical” to its Broadway Playhouse ( the most intimate space for a ditty such as this), but for us older folk, this is probably not the evening we expected."
Chicago Theatre Review - Highly Recommended
"...Overflowing with 90’s nostalgia and oozing with sex, this high octane musical is anything but subtle. It’s comedy is campy and its story assaults the senses, taking no prisoners. This production explodes with powerful voices and bristles with athletic choreography. The cast features a stand-out company of strong, triple-threats who obviously understand their craft. Costumed by Tilly Grimes, she creates an homage to both the Kumble film and the era of AOL, George Bush and Madonna. She outfits her actors in navy blue blazers, tiny plaid schoolgirl uniforms, contrasted by Katherine’s black satin bustier and an oversized crucifix. The infectious jukebox score, which is the real star of this musical, features 21 nostalgic hits from the 1990’s that infuse this story of romance, rancor and revenge. High art, this isn’t. But this may be the best show to play the Broadway Playhouse in a long time."
Chicagoland Theater Reviews - Somewhat Recommended
"...It may be that “Cruel Intentions” was actually entertaining on both the west and east coasts with productions that profited from more professional skill levels in all the key artistic categories. But after enjoying recent accomplished road versions of “Anastasia,” “A Bronx Tale,” and “Jersey Boys,” it was a really downer to witness a musical with so many miscalculations in so many crucial areas. I don’t care how much enthusiasm gushed from sections of the opening night audience. This production is a clinker."
Picture This Post - Recommended
"...CRUEL INTENTIONS is a great fit for those who absolutely love the original movie since you’ll find fellow diehard fans in the audience. Even those who haven’t seen the movie would enjoy this musical if you’re a fan of bands like No Doubt, N’SYNC, TLC, and The Verve. Though if you’re not into either of those or teen dramas, this might not be the best fit for you."