Legally Blonde

I was delighted to be invited to the Cast Theatre, and my first visit to Doncaster Stage Productions. This was made all the more special with the show being Legally Blonde - one of my all time favourites. 

The story of Legally Blonde is simple - boy leaves girl, girl follows boy to law school, girl finds she rather good at law, boy wants her back, girl tells him where to go. 

For Legally Blonde to work, you need a great leading lady. DSP struck gold here, as Megan Leigh Basset was exceptional in the role of Elle Woods. Megan acted, sang and danced her through this entire show with such ease that her performance could have easily graced the professional stage. 

As Emmett Forrest, Chris Webster gave a brilliant performance, treating the audience to his wonderful vocals. Megan and Chris made a perfect on stage partnership. 

Jack Huntington as Warner Huntington III, performed with great style and gave a great interpretation  of this superficial character. From one Warener to another, I was hoping that on this occasion that Warner would get the girl, but alas. 

The character of Elle’s friend Paulette is always a crowd pleaser, and here was no exception. Ria Westhead was comedy gold in this role, with impressive vocals and the cutest Rufus ever. Her rendition of Ireland was one of the highlights of the night. Ria’s Irish dance with Brendan Culshaw as Kyle B O’Doyle brought the house down. 

Emily Wallbank, as exercise queen Brooke Wyndham, was simply stunning. Her energy lit up the stage, and performed with so much stamina I was tired just watching her whilst she was whipping her fellow cast members into shape. 

Musical Director Ian Gude had obviously worked this cast hard. From solo’s to full ensemble numbers, the energy was heard within each note. He also managed to get some great harmonies out of the cast. My favourite number being ‘ Gay or European’. This was performed with great gusto and had the whole audience laughing and clapping along. Big congratulations to Stephen Snaith and Jack Poskitt. 

The dancing was first rate in this production and a big congratulations to choreographers, Sue Teale and Gemma Wigham. The choreography was contemporary and full of energy and vigour. 

Amy Coates did a great job directing the show, and brought new ideas to the production. 

On the night I attended the company was let down by microphone issues, especially during the number ‘What You Want’, I hope the sound team had this rectified for the rest of the run. 

With a great set, fabulous costumes, this is one legal trial I want to experience again and again.

Thanks to all at DSP, especially Tony and Frances for your wonderful hospitality. Here’s to ‘Our House’ 

 

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