Legally Blonde - The Musical

Many thanks to Thornton-Cleveleys Youth Theatre for inviting me along to see their fantastic production of ‘Legally Blonde – The Musical’ on Friday 2nd December 2022 at Thornton Little Theare. This feel-good production tells the story of Elle Woods who, upon being broken up with by her boyfriend, Warner, for being ‘too blonde’, decides to apply to Harvard Law School where he is due to study to try and win him back. Upon the way Elle surpassed everyone’s expectations and becomes top of the class despite being abused by her lecture, realised that Warner is not for her and finds a new love interest, who respects her for being herself.

Director Jenny Daniels did a fabulous job at crafting this iconic film on to the stage. Each of the characters created reflected traits of those in the film, but all felt like they were encouraged to bring their own interpretation of these roles to the stage. There was some real drama created through changes in dynamic and pace of the production and the entire piece flowed seamlessly from one scene to the next, with some impressive logistics being organised with quick set and scene changes throughout. The staging was creative and dynamic throughout and all of the cast, somewhat 54 strong, were well rehearsed and polished within their delivery.

Choreography was undertaken by Elaine Morrison and Jack Price, and this was of exceptional standard. Elaine and Jack echoed Jenny’s direction within the dance and movement and all characters were pronounced within their deliveries. There was some very intricate technical work being delivered onstage, but to me, the dances went beyond the movements of the dancers, to that of creating different notable shapes and structures within the space, they reminded me of Merce Cunningham’s mantra, ‘Dance is movement in space and time. Also of note was the choreography for ‘Whipped into Shape’ whereby the dance included lighting-up skipping ropes which we’re used as one would expect throughout the choreography, it was a wonder when the stage lights were killed mid-number and the ropes synchronically rotating was the only things visible of the movement.

Musical Direction was undertaken by Mark Birch, again which was to a very high standard. Am not sure if the backing was live or pre-recorded, either way, it didn’t matter, and the sound and balance was en pointe. The vocal arrangements were wonderfully produced with flare and good dynamics, and all the cast were well tuned in with one another.

Design elements were to a great standard, the set was simple yet suggestive with triangle trucks stage left and right rotating throughout the show to change the setting across the differing locations. There were also good use of trucks brought on by the cast to further add context and dimension to the production. Costumes were detailed and consistent to characters and setting throughout, I was impressed with the sheer volume of high-quality costumes and the coordination of the super quick changes throughout the production.

Now onto the cast, all members where exceptionally skilled and well-polished throughout the production, it was a real joy to experience a talented youth cast of a diverse array of ages performing to such a high standard. Every moment presented on stage was well delivered and there were some exceptional performances throughout! If your name is not called out in the below, please don’t be disheartened, everyone involved within this production should be proud of their efforts contributed to deliver a show to the standard it was at.

The lead role, Elle Woods, was performed by Maisie Brook who excelled in this part. Consistently, throughout the show, she delivered flawless vocals to every number and a high energy and continuous characterisation, which was unique yet realistic. She brought a real sense of vulnerability to the character journey throughout the show, especially within the song ‘Legally Blonde’. Maisie owned this iconic role and delivered throughout with a great presence and provided a genuine honesty to the character, which enabled great catharsis with the audience.

Luke Moore did a sterling job of the role of Emmett. Luke is a talented young actor and bring so much detail and thoughtfulness to his characterisations. He brought a humble feel to this character and delivered solidly in his musical numbers.

Declan Wilkinson delivered the part of Callahan with a Billy Flynn flair and achieved this competently, smoothly commanding the stage with his presence. Isaac Ashcroft played the part of Warner well. He had a real charm about him and was a great compliment to Elle. Both delivered their musical numbers with proficiency and provided a continuation of their characterisations through their songs.

Lydia Bell was first class in her delivery of Paulette. At all times she was deeply grounded, which was a great contrast to the bouncy Delta Nus. Her delivery of ‘Ireland’ was mesmerising with great storytelling throughout. At all times Lydia brought a comedic charm to the role.

Brooke was played by Olivia Kohl who demonstrated strong ‘triple threat’ skills within this role. To be able to deliver unspoiled vocals of the song ‘Whipped into Shape’ whitest skipping amidst complex choreography is no mean feat! Also, a grounded, mature and strong characterisation was delivered throughout, almost an older version of the Elle character.

Bethany Richardson played with part of Viven with class and earthiness, which was a great contrast to the Delta Nus. I was blown away by the vocals delivered within her featured moments, the power on her belt was phenomenal.

All the Delta Nu / Greek Chorus were fabulous throughout the production and complimented the context of each of the numbers and Elle’s characterisation perfectly. The level of vocal and dance technique throughout this cohort of the cast was extraordinary, it would be unfair to single any of them individually.

Leo Cole was superb in his role of Kyle (among other parts) and consistently delivered a comical physical character, having the audience in stitches when he appeared onstage.

Last but by no means least, the 2 canine cast members were an absolute treat. Chiwawa Minnie as Bruiser and Bulldog Iggy as Rufus. They both were super cute and all cast members who guided them throughout the production did an amazing job!

I would like to pay another special thanks to Thorton-Cleveleys Youth Theatre for inviting me to this wonderfully produced and executed show. It is with a heavy heart to hear that this will be their last production but am almost certain everyone involved continue their theatre journeys in some way or form. This really was an epic swansong, well done to all!

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