This spectacular musical follows Elle Woods, a determined girl who will do anything for love, including gaining admission into Harvard Law School.
We follow her along this journey as she realises that her ambition extends far beyond winning her ex-boyfriend back.
First and foremost, the set design was incredible. The iconic pink lighting set an uplifting, feel-good atmosphere almost immediately. The stage production was elaborate, using clever staging to transport the audience between locations. The attention to detail was particularly impressive, especially in Elle’s bedroom.
Equally, the show’s wardrobe was as striking as it is expected to be. I particularly appreciated the visual storytelling in Elle’s costumes, where she temporarily succumbs to wearing a navy two-piece suit before returning to her signature bright pink, symbolising her decision to stay true to herself and her identity.
Amber Davies has perfected the role of Elle Woods. She is a fantastic protagonist, skilfully portraying Elle’s bubbly personality while maintaining a believable American accent throughout. I must also mention the impressively quick dress change she executed in the first half. Vocally, she was absolutely captivating. Her duets with Emmett, played by George Crawford, beautifully showcased their chemistry, while his equally stunning vocals complemented hers perfectly.
Davies delivered every musical number with consistency and charm, making it impossible not to root for Elle from start to finish. She expertly balanced Elle’s comedic charm with moments of vulnerability, making her transformation all the more rewarding to watch.
The storyline was well adapted to the stage, incorporating modern elements such as references to Timothée Chalamet and the sorority sisters’ obsession with social media. I was especially excited for Paulette’s love interest, played by Ty-Reece Stewart, to appear. Their comedic scenes in the second half were hilarious and provided some of the show’s biggest laughs.
Although the musical moved at a brisk pace, it remained easy to follow and never felt rushed. The ensemble’s choreography was consistently sharp and energetic, adding to the production’s infectious sense of fun.
Paulette, played by Karen Mavundukure, stole the scenes she was in. She was naturally funny and captured the endearing qualities associated with Jennifer Coolidge’s Paulette in the film. Her voice was nothing short of phenomenal, frequently giving me goosebumps. Her powerful belt and flawless riffs demonstrated exceptional vocal ability.
The songs were extremely catchy, with standout numbers including Omigod You Guys and Gay or European. They ensured that the iconic, timeless story of Legally Blonde was just as exciting as watching the film for the first time.
I would like to give some extra shoutouts to Jocasta Almgill, who plays Brooke Wyndham, particularly during her performance of Whipped Into Shape. The stamina required to perform such an intense early-2000s-style fitness routine, complete with vigorous skipping rope choreography while singing live, was truly remarkable.
And of course, Bruiser the dog stole all our hearts and was a very adorable addition to the production.
Legally Blonde: The Musical is a must see – feel-good musical that doesn’t take itself too seriously. It has formidable energy, impressive choreography and a cast filled with exceptional voices. I would, without hesitation, see it time and time again.
Photography by Matt Crockett. Main image: Amber Davies as Elle Woods.
