Podcast Title: All Of It
Host: Alison Stewart
Episode: "Heathers: The Musical' Returns to NYC"
Release Date: July 21, 2025

Episode Overview

In this episode of All Of It, Alison Stewart delves into the resurgence of "Heathers: The Musical" on the New York stage. The show, a dark comedy originally adapted from the 1989 cult classic film, is making a significant comeback to Off-Broadway at New World Stages. Stewart engages in an insightful conversation with Casey Likes, the actor portraying the enigmatic character J.D., offering listeners a deep dive into the musical's themes, its evolution, and the vibrant energy surrounding its current iteration.

"Heathers: The Musical" Revival: A Second Life

"Heathers: The Musical" captures the essence of high school hierarchies and the tumultuous journey of its characters. The musical, first adapted in 2014, enjoyed a brief Off-Broadway run before garnering a dedicated fan base through various recordings. Eleven years later, it returns with renewed vigor, blending dark humor with electrifying performances by young Broadway talent. The story revolves around the Heathers, a dominant clique in high school, and the arrival of outsider J.D., whose alliance with Veronica leads to unforeseen chaos.

Interview with Casey Likes

a. Casey's Connection to "Heathers"

Alison Stewart (00:15): "What was your first exposure to Heathers: The Musical?"
Casey Likes (02:19): "Probably listening to it in the car on the way to rehearsals when I was like 14 years old... I kind of lost track of it for a little bit, and now I'm a new fan."

Casey shares his long-standing connection to the musical, highlighting how his early exposure fostered a lasting appreciation that resurfaced as he took on the role of J.D.

b. Audition and Casting as JD

Stewart (02:50): "So when did you get the call to audition for the new version of Heathers?"
Likes (02:55): "I got it about three weeks before they announced me in the cast... it just came to me really naturally."

Casey's journey to securing the role was serendipitous, underscoring the natural fit he felt with the character.

c. Character Development of JD

Stewart (03:26): "What did you see in the part of JD that appealed to you?"
Likes (03:31): "It's one of the greatest gifts of a role I've ever received... it's a show that feels important. It's saying a lot of things about today that I think people can learn." [03:31]

Casey emphasizes the depth and transformative potential of JD's character, appreciating its divergence from his previous roles and its societal relevance.

d. Comparison to Christian Slater's JD

Stewart (04:28): "I think you do a really good job because I don't remember Christian Slater when I watched you."
Likes (04:35): "I really just like taking... breaking down what someone does in a performance and then going, okay, how can I do that?" [04:36]

Choosing not to imitate Christian Slater, Casey focuses on creating a unique portrayal of JD, blending subtle influences with his personal interpretation.

e. Themes and Updates in the Musical

Stewart (05:50): "We've talked about how time has passed since the film was released, but some things remain the same. What remains the same about Heathers and what is different?"
Likes (06:02): "I think literally, like, it's the same exact scenario, but a different font. Nowadays, we have bullies... specifically women targeting them." [06:02]

The musical retains its core narrative while updating its themes to reflect contemporary issues such as female bullying and mental health, making it resonate with today's audience.

f. Audience Engagement and Performance Dynamics

Stewart (12:21): "How do you tap into that as an actor? The audience being so engaged?"
Likes (12:46): "It's just such a party... it's important to have a place where these people can express themselves." [12:46]

Casey highlights the unique, immersive environment of Off-Broadway performances, where audience participation enhances the overall experience, creating a vibrant and inclusive atmosphere.

g. Operating in NYC Theatre Scene

Stewart (14:33): "You've been in the business for a long time, but what have you learned about performing in New York houses that you didn't know?"
Likes (14:51): "Treat it like it's no different... imagine that I'm in the theater I grew up in." [14:51]

Navigating the bustling New York theatre scene, Casey advises maintaining a sense of normalcy and drawing from foundational experiences to manage the pressures of performing in major venues.

h. Reflection on Jimmy Awards and Personal Growth

Stewart (16:23): "When you think about the Jimmy Awards experience, what was it like for you?"
Likes (16:53): "It was like, it's a mixed experience... it's like magic and also extreme determination." [16:53]

Recalling his time as a finalist in the Jimmy Awards, Casey reflects on the blend of excitement and perseverance that shaped his career, emphasizing resilience and passion.

i. Implications of the Show's Extension

Stewart (18:42): "What does it say to you that the show has been extended until January 2026?"
Likes (18:54): "It tells me that as an actor, I have work... it's made this show work for whatever audiences have come." [18:54]

The extension signifies the musical's enduring popularity and Casey's appreciation for the show's impact on both audiences and his professional journey.

Upcoming Projects: Casey's Solo Show

Stewart (20:19): "You have a solo show coming up, though."
Likes (20:21): "It's a cabaret style solo show at 54 Below... about my musical influences and how they've shaped me." [20:23]

Beyond his role in "Heathers," Casey is set to showcase his versatility in a solo cabaret performance, highlighting his musical inspirations and personal artistry.

Conclusion

This episode of All Of It offers a comprehensive exploration of "Heathers: The Musical" through the lens of Casey Likes' portrayal of JD. From the character's intricate development to the musical's thematic evolution and the vibrant dynamics of New York's theatre scene, listeners gain a multifaceted understanding of what makes this revival a compelling addition to the cultural landscape. Casey's insights illuminate the dedication and passion driving both the production and his personal career, underscoring the enduring relevance of this dark comedy masterpiece.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Casey Likes on JD's Importance:
  "It's one of the greatest gifts of a role I've ever received in my entire career." [03:31]

• On Modern Themes:
  "Nowadays, we have bullies... specifically women targeting them." [06:02]

• Regarding Audience Engagement:
  "It's important to have a place where these people can express themselves." [12:46]

• On Navigating Broadway Debuts:
  "Treat it like it's no different... imagine that I'm in the theater I grew up in." [14:51]

• Reflecting on Show Extension:
  "It tells me that as an actor, I have work... it's made this show work for whatever audiences have come." [18:54]

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of the podcast episode, providing an engaging and comprehensive overview for those who haven't tuned in.