Legally Blonde The Musical

Legally Blonde: The Musical follows Elle Woods, a bubbly, fashion-loving sorority president who seems to have it all—until her boyfriend, Warner Huntington III, dumps her to find someone “more serious.” Determined to win him back, Elle follows him to Harvard Law School, where she faces nothing but judging and doubt from her peers and professors. It’s a high-energy, feel-good musical about self-confidence, empowerment, and breaking stereotypes. 

This lively junior production of Legally Blonde by Gateshead Musical Theatre Company’s talented young performers was a joyful explosion of colour, energy and enthusiasm from start to finish. Under the direction of Scott Brannigan-Howes, making his directorial debut, and Musical Direction by John Hudson and Claire Garbutt, the show was vibrant, slick, and full of heart – a true celebration of teamwork and youthful passion for musical theatre.

From the very first number, the ensemble set the tone with infectious energy and precise choreography, creating a bright and engaging atmosphere throughout. Their enthusiasm never dipped, and they provided strong vocal and visual support in every scene. The clever use of projections by Mark Kilgallon added great visal aides that hepled set the scene, i really liked the added touch of advertising their next show on the notice board. The sound and lights provided by Terry Cain and Anthony Heslop complimented the show throughout. 

Elle Woods, was beautifully played by Lucy Wilkinson – her vocals were stunning, and her dancing effortless. She carried the show with confidence, charm, and charisma, giving a performance well beyond her years.

Paulette, Olivia Armstrong delivered one of the stand-out moments of the evening with her solo – her powerful vocals and natural comedic timing made her a firm audience favourite.

The Delta Nu chorus were a constant delight, adding humour, sparkle and warmth at every opportunity. Serena, Emilia Sellars, what an amazing voice. Margot, Erin Kilgallon, great energy. Pilar, Millie Thompson brilliantly cast. Each girl brought their own unique flair to these iconic roles.

Brooke Wyndham played by Katy Lawson impressed immensely – her vocal strength combined with the stamina to skip and dance with such precision and power was remarkable.

Chloe Cutter as Vivienne was perfectly cast as the cool, confident “mean girl” who finds redemption, while Nina Clarke who played Enid made the most of her witty one-liners, landing every comic moment with great timing.

It was also fantastic to see so many young men taking part in the production. Thomas Nugent’s Emmett was gentle, sincere and his performance made the audience root for him from his first entrance – his acting and vocals were both strong and heartfelt. Warner, George Anglesea, played the charming yet selfish “bad boy” with style, and Evan Appleby as Professor Callahan brought authority and strength to his role.

The male ensemble particularly shone in “What You Want,” performing with energy and precision. The supporting roles, including Kyle (Atticus Lamb), Nikos (Ethan Fowler) and Carlos, added extra sparkle – with Nicholas Johnson as Carlos truly stealing the scene in the courtroom when he revealed the truth, to great audience reaction!

I must mention Lilly Johnson as Bruiser who stole the hearts of the audience a very brave but brilliant decision to use a real dog for the show. 

The joy and enthusiasm on stage were matched by the excitement in the audience, who were clearly loving every moment. It was evident that everyone – on stage, backstage, and in the creative team – had poured their hearts into this production.

A huge well done to Scott on a confident and impressive directorial debut, and to the entire company for delivering such a fun, high-energy, and heart-warming evening of musical theatre.

 

Congratulations to all involved – it was a great show!

 

 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.