Legally Blonde Jr

This was a first visit to Theatre Factory for me, deputising for my colleague Bruce Wyatt, and what a great visit it turned out to be, as this talented group of young performers put on a performance of Legally Blonde Jr to be proud of! 

Legally Blonde Jr tells the story of Elle Woods, a feisty young woman who rises above the expectations that people have of her to pursue a law degree at Harvard University.  Never mind that the real reason she has gone there is to pursue the boyfriend who dumped her and who has since begun dating someone else.  When the chance arises to defend Brooke Wyndham from the charge of murdering her husband, it’s Elle who rises to the challenge, whilst also finding true love with colleague Emmet along the way. 

On entering Malvern’s Rogers Theatre we were greeted by a striking, split level set, featuring black and white striped parallel lines (perhaps in allusion to another great Blondie?) with a central white door on the ground level sporting a fetching pink doorknob.  This set was used to great effect throughout the performance, the upper level in particular coming into its own when Brooke’s legal team discussed her case, and during the Court scene, allowing the Judge to sit above the other participants.  I also liked the strip lighting around the edges which lit up from time to time in bright pink, and also an emerald green during ‘Ireland’.

The show began with a superb, high energy opening number, an ‘Omigod You Guys’ full of engaging, precisely executed choreography.  I particularly liked the excited jumping section towards the end, and the little frozen tableau as the ensemble observed the introduction of Elle and her friends.  This very high standard of performance would continue throughout the show.  It was particularly interesting to see many of these role filled by actors who are of a similar age to the characters, which added a real layer of authenticity.

As Elle Woods, Rosie Brookes gave a confident, snappy performance, full of energy and strong singing.  This was Rosie’s last show with Theatre Factory, (as we found out during an emotional post-curtain farewell) and she certainly went out with a bang!  At the other end of the spectrum, Ellis Harding was enjoying his first performance with the group as Emmett Forrest, with an equally successful result.  He and Rosie formed a good partnership, as a believable romance developed between their two characters. 

The role of Elle’s hairdresser friend Paulette was split between Olivia Dyde (also saying goodbye to Theatre Factory with this performance) and Amelia Walmsley (who performed on the night I attended).  Amelia gave us a good comic characterisation, combined with a strong singing voice, which served her particularly well during ‘Ireland’.  A word here for Ziame Stewart, who had a great time as the Kyle the delivery guy, strutting his stuff with a wink and a cheeky smile – absolutely perfect for the role and great fun.

On arrival at Harvard, Elle soon encountered her ex, Warner Huntington III, played by Keiran Lilley, who appears to be cornering the market in playing charming douchebags, having recently played Chuck Cranston in Footloose.  Alongside him, Demi Delord gave a strong performance as his new squeeze Vivienne Kensington - I particularly enjoyed her about turn at the end to provide solidarity with Elle.  Alfie Thompson was also good as the stern Professor Callaghan (adding an enjoyable ad lib about having to duck through the door!)  I was impressed that the moment when Callaghan attempts to kiss Elle – so often an awkward non-event – was acted with proper conviction by both performers.

As the story progressed into the trial that shapes the second half of the show, Flo Sinfield gave us a confident Brooke Wyndham, executing the tricky choreography during ‘Whipped into Shape’ with ease.  Grace Laurenson also did well as her resentful step-daughter Chutney Wyndham, accidentally admitting her guilt from the balcony! 

The cast was completed by a sixteen strong ensemble, including many younger performers, who showed great energy, matching their older compatriots with ease.  I particularly liked the little background characterisations that were going on, much more interesting than people just standing around, whilst avoiding upstaging.  Good work by director Leanne Cook, who clearly had a strong vision for how the show should look.  If perhaps some of the jokes didn’t land as fully as they might have done, the pace was well maintained by the whole cast as we raced to the finish, with great spirit and evident enjoyment in performance.

Finally, a word for the costume designers and makers Vicky and Mandy Shone, who worked wonders in dressing the cast, many of whom had multiple outfits.  Pride of place must go to Elle’s Warner-themed dressing gown, which was great fun and made me chuckle. 

My thanks to all at Theatre Factory for giving me such a warm welcome, and congratulations on an excellent show.  I wish you all good luck with your forthcoming performances!

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