Legally Blonde

Right from the start this show displayed a very high level of energy and performance which continued throughout the production. There was an array of talent, and it is fair to say that Clydebank Musical Society just goes from strength to strength. It is great to read in the programme that several of the cast have been with CMS since they were young people in the junior section.  

The performances from all the principals were strong in singing, acting and dance. Isla Haddock showed a great talent in the massive role of Elle Woods and was strong in equal measure of singing, acting and dance. Supported by her Sorority Sisters they all displayed their many talents as we enjoyed Daughters of Delta Nu, What You Want and Positive, not forgetting the Bend and Snap! Chris Laoudi playing Elle’s ex-boyfriend Warner Huntington III was strong both vocally and in his acting. Kevin Rodgers, as Emmett Forrest brought great contrast in his support of Elle with the trials and tribulations of her time at Harvard, and he gave an excellent performance. Lewis Brown was an extremely convincing Professor Callahan, and his strong vocal ability and acting were evident throughout the entire performance. Vivienne Kensington played by Niamh O’Donnell and Enid Hoops played by Gillian Stewart both delivered the roles extremely well. Brooke Wyndham played by Alana Lederle gave a strong performance and certainly had everyone ‘Whipped Into Shape’. Added to all of this we had a great vocal performance from Paulette played by Iona McHugh, and alongside Ben Anderson playing Kyle B. O’Boyle kept us entertained. The cameo roles of Aaron Shultz/Carlos played by Murray Brown and Sundeep Padamadan/ Dewey played by Daniel Connolly were well executed. Within the supporting roles we experienced some great performances and the entire cast worked well together. Both Bruiser Woods played by Stella and Rufus Bonafonté played by Sasha were great, well suited to the roles they played and at times stole the show!  

The overall quality of this production stood out and credit must be given to the work of the production team. Kieran Young, musical director, ensured the singing from both the principals and ensemble was strong and vocal harmonies were clear and precise.  The band were well balanced and overall the sound was great. The direction and choreography were detailed, and it was very evident that a lot of work had gone into both the preparation and rehearsals to showcase the level of performance we experienced. Carolyn Anderson, artistic director and Iona McHugh, assistant choreographer ensured that every movement was sharp and precise. The set design was well thought out and the use of projection brought the set elements together. Synchronised lighting particularly round the proscenium arch was used to good effect with the framing of some of the smaller scenes. With the band at the back of the stage behind the screen it all made for a very cohesive production.   

With a very warm and heartfelt welcome from Front of House this was a night to remember at the theatre. Well done! 

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