Legally Blonde

Every now an then you notice one of the groups in your region who appears to have dusted themselves down, given themselves a shake and suddenly bounce on stage with a real boost of enthusiasm and vigor.  That’s very much what I witnessed when I visited Ferryhill Stage Society to see their latest production “Legally Blonde”.

It’s a fairly tough show to get on stage to be honest, demanding on cast and crew alike but Ian Patterson as Director, John Hudson as musical director and Abby Monaghan as choreographer have clearly worked very hard to give this musical their all with a Ferryhill flavour.  A clever fixed raised set was used with effective lighting spelling out “Elle” in the upper windows, and clever use of banners to direct us to the relevant scene.  There were also two satellite fixed sets set up to provide for the additional scenes requires in Paulette’s hair salon and Elle’s study room.

Costumers were largely self-provided, and were appropriate and relevant for the show, complimenting the piece well.

Jade Carney was perfect as the bright and bubbly Elle Woods, looking beautiful throughout and performing with style and innocence.  Director Ian Patterson, who the more I see him is possibly one of the most versatile people I’ve come across, played the loyal and steady Emmett Forest and the two of them together had lovely chemistry on screen, you could really feel the friendship from the audience.  “Chip on my shoulder” was delivered really very well indeed.  Ann-Marie Clayton as always excelled as Paulette Buonufonte delivering her part with comic grace and impeccable timing and had us all in stitches with her impeccable comic ability.  She really does light up a stage.  “Bend and Snap” was truly fabulous.  David Stothard played the sleazy Professor Callahan well, Dan Riches whom I do enjoy seeing on stage and his confidence growing played Warner Huntington III very well indeed, the Serious” number being delivered confidently.  Faye Rogerson was a strong and sassy Vivienne Kensington (rocking a brunette bob too) and Zoe Cullen excelled as Brooke Wyndham with me utterly in awe of her ability to sing confidently and look stunning, while skipping on stage!  She didn’t miss a beat and looked absolutely immaculate throughout.  The Delta Nu’s played by Abby Monaghan (Serena), Vicky Tweddle (Margot) and Sadie Morley (Pilar) were full of energy and pzazz every time they were on stage, ad had lovely voices very well-arranged, well-done ladies.  Their enthusiasm really was Kayomi Koya, always with incredible comedic timing played Enid, with Steve Hill wowing us all with his version of Kyle the UPS guy.  Supporting were a fabulous and supportive ensemble of supporting roles all of whom contributed to a lovely show.

Stealing the show however was Kieran Watson as Nikos and Matthew Pegden as Carlos who had the audience in stitches with their antics in “Gay or European” again very well-choreographed with precision.  Really well-done guys, you were absolutely fab!

We of course can’t forget the two gorgeous doggies playing Bruiser and Rufus, however as they were not featured in the programme, I’m afraid I’m unable to credit them!

The choreography was well rehearsed, ability appropriate and well executed, really well-done Abby, your hard work was visible to see.  Well done all of you and keep up the good work!  The change is noticeable and I’m fully in support of it!

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