Scissorhandz: A Musical Reinvented at Southwark Playhouse Elephant is a bold, joyous, and wonderfully inventive reimagining of Edward Scissorhands. This jukebox musical takes the beloved 1990 film and infuses it with a fresh queer perspective, high-energy performances, and an electrifying setlist that spans multiple decades. The result is one of the most fun and immersive theatre experiences in recent memory.
The cast is absolutely phenomenal. Jordan Kai Burnett is utterly brilliant as Scissorhandz, bringing both heart and humour to the role. Instead of the pale, brooding outsider Johnny Depp portrayed in the 1990 film, Burnett’s Scissorhandz is exuberant, wonderfully expressive, and undeniably queer, making the character’s journey of self-discovery and acceptance even more powerful. Emma Williams delivers a fantastic turn as Peg, the warm-hearted Avon lady who introduces Scissorhandz to suburban life, while Lauren Jones and Richard Carson bring compelling depth to Kim and Jim. Jodie Jacobs as Joyce, Tori Scott as Helen, and Elouise Davies as Esmeralda each bring unique energy and comic timing to their roles, making the suburban neighbourhood come to life with both hilarity and heartfelt moments. Travis Kerry, Gracie Lai, and David Muscat round out a strong ensemble, who not only shine in their individual roles but also contribute to the production’s seamless flow by assisting with props and staging in creative ways. Their presence enhances the artistry of each scene, making transitions feel like a natural extension of the story rather than a break in the action.
One of the biggest highlights of the show is its brilliantly curated setlist, which spans from the 1950s to the 2010s. Hearing "Creep," "Dream On," and "Heaven Is a Place on Earth" in a new theatrical context is a delight, and the audience’s reaction to familiar tunes adds to the dynamic, high-energy atmosphere. The musical talent on display is impressive across the board, with the entire cast delivering exceptional vocal performances that breathe new life into these well-known hits.
The production is also visually and creatively stunning. The design of the scissors themselves is fantastic, and their use in shaping bushes and carving ice—enhanced by clever use of fans and confetti—is a stroke of theatrical genius. The stage design, costumes, and props all contribute to a beautifully stylised world that feels both nostalgic and refreshingly new. But what truly sets this show apart is its hilarious, fourth-wall-breaking audience interaction. Actors frequently engage with the crowd, sometimes even sitting among them or on them, creating an immersive and unpredictable experience that feels truly alive. The improvisational moments that stem from these interactions are handled masterfully, keeping the energy fresh and electric throughout.
Dionne Gipson, who plays the Inventor, has an undeniably powerful voice and delivers some of the show’s most vocally impressive moments. However, her frequent presence on stage during scenes that had nothing to do with her character felt unnecessary and occasionally distracted from the main narrative. While her musical contributions were stellar, the Inventor’s continued involvement outside her direct story left me wondering why the creative choice was made.
Ultimately, Scissorhandz is a celebration of self-expression, queerness, and individuality, wrapped up in a wildly entertaining and deeply heartfelt musical. This production deserves a bigger stage and a longer run—ideally in the West End—but until then, don’t miss the chance to see it at Southwark Playhouse Elephant before 29 March. Book tickets here—you won’t regret it.
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