Legally Blonde

This fast moving show was action packed and full of memorable moments delivered by a varied, dynamic and highly talented cast of predominantly young players. Although I was not hugely familiar with the show or the music, this production was, to my mind, a perfect show for this remarkable Border company.

The well constructed band handled the score flawlessly in the hands of a highly experienced MD, supporting the cast throughout from the energetic opening to the celebratory finale.  A special mention has to go to inspiring young Director and Choreographer, Stuart  Mitchell, who not only co created the visual spectacle but managed to shine on stage also, which is no mean feat. Very clever use of props, set and synchronised lighting was a new model for Selkirk this year and it worked extremely well to produce a visually slick performance. 

Taking centre stage in the massive role of Elle Woods was Kirsty Cleland, a very talented young woman. As a player who ‘has it all’, perfectly portrayed her character and deserved all the plaudits showered on her from audience, fellow cast members and crew for her consummate professionalism to her role. Congratulations! Her Sorority Sisters, Serena, Rachel Inglis, Margot, Rose Roberts and Pilar, Lauren Boomer, all had a strong role to play and shone in every one of their numbers, ‘Daughter of Delta Nus’, ‘Positive’, ‘So Much Better’ and ‘Bend and Snap’.

The first act numbers worth highlighting were ‘What You Want’ and ‘Harvard Variations’ featuring counterpoint and great harmonic choral singing.

Elle’s ex-boyfriend Warner was well cast in Alex Matthews who excelled in ‘Serious’ and the fabulous ‘There, Right, There!’ courtroom number. New caring friend Emmett and finally Elle’s love interest was superbly played by Richard Platt. Vocally flawless, and harmonically suited to Elle, he shone in ‘Chip On My Shoulder’, ‘Take it Like a Man’ and culminated in a superb duet after Elle’s fabulous solo, ‘Legally Blonde’.

Making his big entrance, Harvard Lecturer Callahan, played by Craig Douglas, struck a chord with stature and vocal ability in his number with students, ‘Blood in the Water’. This reprehensible character was well acted by a very likeable lad who also shone in the big number ‘Whipped into Shape’, perfectly played, sung and skipped by Brooke, Amy Welsh.

Cameo comedy role Nikos was superbly captured by Ross Aitkin and UPS Delivery man, Jodie Miller, who donned his short shorts, raised a pantomime giggle from the audience as he drew the attention of Paulette, Amanda Blacklock, Elle’s friendly beauty therapist. Amanda is another hugely talented stalwart of the company, and as Paulette, she performed one of the shows most gorgeous solos ‘Ireland’ with total aplomb. Special mention has to go to the ‘Legally Blonde Remix’ which included a highly entertaining form of Irish dance. Ellie Bryson-Welsh, a young star in the making, deserves much credit for her larger than life portrayal of Enid. She’s one worth watching for the future. Also, Chutney, Ellen Halliday added extra comic input to the courtroom proceedings in ‘Scene of the Crime’, not forgetting the pooches on stage that night, for the live animal awe-factor.

This was certainly a production to be massively proud of, with a feel good graduation celebration to crown the finale. Thank you also for your outstanding welcome and  hospitality.

 

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