Legally Blonde Jr

MY Theatre (Morecambe Youth Theatre) may be a relatively new company — Legally Blonde Jr. marks only their third production — but on this evidence, they’re already building something really special. 

Performed to a full audience at Lancaster’s Dukes Theatre, this high-energy, pink-powered musical comedy was bursting with confidence, charm, and some seriously impressive young talent.

The role of Elle Woods was taken on with style and confidence by 12-year-old performer Abi Woods, who led the show with a sparkling mix of self-belief, clear vocals, and natural comic timing. Abi's  growth in confidence over the last couple of years has been a privilege to watch.

Of course, with any production, it doesn't matter how good the leading performer is if the rest of the cast aren't of a similar level. No fear of that with this company.

Arman Sidhu, gave us a warm, genuinely intelligent portrayal of Emmett Forrest - the transition from caring, geeky nerd to Elle's rock was handled really well.

It's all because of Warner Huntington III, that Elle goes off to pursue a career in law and Charlie Dingle's portrayal of the character was spot on as the initially charming but ultimately shallow, self absorbed, privileged rich kid. Charlie's dry delivery (something he's honed well over the last couple of years) and timing made the role his own.

His search for a more "appropriate" girlfriend brings him to Vivienne. Vivienne's arc in the story from being antagonistic to sharing a mutual respect is quite a subtle one- this was handled adeptly by Iya Doctor.

I think one of my favourite characters in the the show is that of Paulette- most of the characters in the show come from a level of entitlement and privilege, Paulette, as the hairdressing confidante of Elle is probably the balance the show needs to actually make the other characters more relatable. Amber Harvey's warm, slightly eccentric, Irish loving Paulette was performed to a T, with Ireland and Bend and snap being a couple of many ensemble highlights.

Professor Callahan, the respected lawyer with a pompous, conniving and quite nasty streak was played well by Eric Cartledge- never allowing his character to be overshadowed by the other leads.

All other supporting cast members handled their roles with ease- and as ever, Kyle (Lewis Porter), stole the show in the moments we see the character.

Vocals were strong across the cast, which must have had musical director, Claire Allcock beaming from ear to ear.

Really good diction and projection made the story easy to follow, with confidently handled group harmonies and accurate, heartfelt solos. It was also lovely to see a cleverly used toy dog for Bruiser, which added just the right touch of silliness without ever distracting from the story.

The whole cast made for a lively ensemble and brought a real energy to the stage, especially in the big dance numbers. 

Scene changes were brisk and seamless, keeping the pace up throughout. The set was minimal but smartly designed — everything had a purpose, and transitions from classroom to courtroom to beauty salon were always clear. Lighting was simple but effective, helping to shift mood and location with ease.

While there were one or two moments of off-stage giggling,waving from the wingsand errant bunny ears, the performance on stage was remarkably focused and polished. 

Considering the group’s youth and the scale of the show, the standard of discipline and attention was genuinely impressive. There were no missed cues, no forgotten lines — just a slick, spirited show from start to finish.

With no live orchestra, the production used backing tracks — a sensible choice that helped keep things tight and cost-effective. Sound levels were well-balanced, allowing every lyric to be heard clearly. The cues between tracks and dialogue were confidently handled, and the lack of a pit band did nothing to dampen the show’s momentum or musicality.

The choreography and direction was excellent throughout - Sophie Jade Butler in both roles must have been really happy with the sharp, well-drilled cast who delivered everything with real enthusiasm. You can tell when time has been spent on characterisation- especially when performers are expressing genuine emotions and reactions to events they’ve yet to fully understand, but are shown so effortlessly.

MY Theatre’s Legally Blonde Jr. was a vibrant, funny, and thoroughly entertaining production that shows just how much can be achieved with commitment, talent, and good direction.

The cast clearly had a great time — and so did the audience. It’s easy to forget just how young this company is, which makes this performance all the more impressive.

A definite crowd-pleaser, and another proud moment for Sophie, Claire and Anna Kenny (Production Co-ordinator)

MY Theatre’s Legally Blonde Jr. was a vibrant, funny, and thoroughly entertaining production that shows just how much can be achieved with commitment, talent, and good direction.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.