Legally Blonde

Not having seen the film or the stage show before I didn't know what to expect.  I seem to have said this quite a few times during 2015 which shows that Sheffield societies are quick off the mark with new releases.  Although the music is not particularly memorable everyone gave their all and looked as though they were enjoying every minute.

Mark Feakin's direction and Claire Harriott's choreography were full on and packed with action from the very start.  In Abi Weigold the Company could not have had a better Elle Woods, who sang (she was involved in 18 out of 22 musical numbers), acted and danced the demanding role with style and commitment throughout the show.  Gina Townend was excellent as Paulette Bonafonte - a great sense of comic timing and fun. Congratulations to Aggie Gryszel on her first principal role in Sheffield as Brooke Wyndham (a fitness fanatic) - singing and skipping at the same time and not out of breath!  Richard Granger did extremely well in the part of Emmett Forrest and  newcomer, Nick Plummer-Walsh (Warner Huntington lll) gave a first class performance. As usual Mark Harris (Prof. Callahan) played the part with great attention to characterisation and detail. You could tell that Ellie Hudson (Margot), Rachel Hemstalk (Serena), Heather Taylor (Pilar) and Helen Kempton (Judy) had a lot of fun playing the Greek chorus parts.

There were many other smaller roles and everyone showed their commitment to the production.  What can I write about Bruiser ( Elle's pet Chihuahua) and Rufus (a Bulldog) - they didn't steal the show but almost - there were plenty of oohs and aahs!!!!

The set supplied by Scenic Projects worked well - the scene changes were efficient and the team had a busy time! Costumes were good and very appropriate - the Costume team working very hard particularly as the Company had provided their own.

Looking forward to "Made in Dagenham" next year.

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