REVIEW
Leigh Operatic & Dramatic Society presents
Legally Blonde the Musical
Palace Theatre, Westcliff on Sea, Essex
Wed 1 - Sat 4 May 2024
Leigh Operatic & Dramatic Society presents
Legally Blonde the Musical
Palace Theatre, Westcliff on Sea, Essex
Wed 1 - Sat 4 May 2024
There was a great audience turnout and anticipation for Leigh Operatic and Dramatic Society’s (LODS) Legally Blonde on opening night. Despite the film being, unbelievably, over 20 years old it would seem that its popularity certainly hasn’t waned. Legally Blonde tells the story of Elle, a slave to fashion trends sorority girl and her journey from being dumped by her boyfriend to becoming fully fledged ‘legally blonde’ through a journey of self discovery and proving to her doubters to never to judge a book by its cover.
The LODS cast, as always, under the rein and vision of Sallie Warrington’s direction and choreography and with the addition of MD, Natalie Thurlow, have thrown themselves wholeheartedly into this production which has resulted in a beautifully crafted production.
Although there is an underlying message in the story of Elle’s transformation, this show essentially has a sit back and enjoy the ride kind of vibe and it kicks off with a fabulous introduction with the Omigod You Guys number, performed by Elle and her Delta Nu’s. It’s obvious the director knows where the strengths are in this cast and the Delta Nu’s have clearly been put through their choreography paces, performing tireless routines in all the numbers they are in and look and sound fabulous. There is a tendency to perhaps go a little too cheer-leader high in some numbers and maybe the volume button could be turned down a smidge when they are all collectively in full-on excitable song mode. That said, they are a joy to watch and every opportunity to raise a laugh is taken.
There are plenty of opportunities to bring comedic nuances to roles. This has been done in abundance, not just from the lead roles but from those members of the cast who have doubled, sometimes tripled, up parts and made them their own. Kudos in this respect to Kathy Ward and Suzanne Walters who stood out with their characterisations and costume changes; plus a nod to Nathan Gray for his completely contrasting yet hilarious takes on both Dewy and Kyle which were brilliantly executed.
There are some great songs in this show, some that stand out more than others, in particular the aforementioned Omigod You Guys, Whipped Into Shape, Bend & Snap, Gay or European and Legally Blonde. The best part of the show for me is Act 2 where the action really starts to move. That said, one of the stand out numbers of Act 1 has to go to Paulette and the Ireland number which is played to perfection by Michelle Taylor who has seemingly thrown herself headfirst into this role and is loving every moment, as were the audience. Again in Act 2, the Bend and Snap number had the audience giggling away.
Again there are some lovely comedic moments in the Gay or European numbers from James Boatright and Sam Blyth. Likewise with Eva Tobin’s portrayal of Chutney in the Court Room scene, proving that there’s no such thing as a small part and I also enjoyed Rachael Farrow as Enid with some nicely timed comedy moments plus a very wordy introduction song. Elle’s ex boyfriend Warner and new girlfriend, Vivienne, played by James Cohen and Anna Lawrance, do a nice job of making the audience dislike them which is never an easy task.
The constant pace in this show really keeps the action going and a real test of strength and stamina is shown by every member of the cast who is involved in the skipping number, Whipped Into Shape. I could only marvel at the ability of these guys to skip at the pace they do and sing at the same time too. Jo Halliday really shows us how it’s done here as fitness instructor Brooke Windham whose case in a murder trial is taken on by Elle.
A mention also, to the backstage tech team who manage to keep the bulky set moving and make scene changes look seamless throughout.
The star of the show, of course, has to be Eleanor Softly who has taken on the mammoth role of the ‘not so vacuous as she looks’ Elle Woods and is rarely off stage. This is a huge role for any performer to nail, yet Eleanor takes to it as if she’s been playing the part for ever and completely shines throughout with her triple threat skills. She looks and sounds fabulous and hat’s off to the costume department for providing some fantastic looking outfits not just for Elle but for the whole cast. As always, you know you’re in safe hands with Declan Wright who plays Emmett, with his gorgeous vocals, and he and Eleanor work well together in performance as well as song.
There are two little stars that really won the audience’s hearts and a big ‘woof woof’ and lots of doggy treats must go to the very adorable Ola and Snoopy who play Elle’s dog, Bruiser and Paulette’s dog, Rufus. Rufus in particular showed a fantastic no nonsense attitude to being on stage which I’m sure will stand him in good stead for any future productions he may audition for.
Legally Blonde has all the assets for a feel good night out with lots of laughs, some knock out choreography and ultimately a message that encourages women to believe in themselves, their abilities, and to pursue their goals no matter what obstacles they may face, even if they are blonde, wear pink and rocking high heels; in fact especially if they're blonde, wearing pink and rocking high heels - and that’s never a bad thing right?
Tickets are selling fast so grab yours fast because, Omigod you Guys, you won’t want to miss a great night out!
Review: Kim Tobin
The LODS cast, as always, under the rein and vision of Sallie Warrington’s direction and choreography and with the addition of MD, Natalie Thurlow, have thrown themselves wholeheartedly into this production which has resulted in a beautifully crafted production.
Although there is an underlying message in the story of Elle’s transformation, this show essentially has a sit back and enjoy the ride kind of vibe and it kicks off with a fabulous introduction with the Omigod You Guys number, performed by Elle and her Delta Nu’s. It’s obvious the director knows where the strengths are in this cast and the Delta Nu’s have clearly been put through their choreography paces, performing tireless routines in all the numbers they are in and look and sound fabulous. There is a tendency to perhaps go a little too cheer-leader high in some numbers and maybe the volume button could be turned down a smidge when they are all collectively in full-on excitable song mode. That said, they are a joy to watch and every opportunity to raise a laugh is taken.
There are plenty of opportunities to bring comedic nuances to roles. This has been done in abundance, not just from the lead roles but from those members of the cast who have doubled, sometimes tripled, up parts and made them their own. Kudos in this respect to Kathy Ward and Suzanne Walters who stood out with their characterisations and costume changes; plus a nod to Nathan Gray for his completely contrasting yet hilarious takes on both Dewy and Kyle which were brilliantly executed.
There are some great songs in this show, some that stand out more than others, in particular the aforementioned Omigod You Guys, Whipped Into Shape, Bend & Snap, Gay or European and Legally Blonde. The best part of the show for me is Act 2 where the action really starts to move. That said, one of the stand out numbers of Act 1 has to go to Paulette and the Ireland number which is played to perfection by Michelle Taylor who has seemingly thrown herself headfirst into this role and is loving every moment, as were the audience. Again in Act 2, the Bend and Snap number had the audience giggling away.
Again there are some lovely comedic moments in the Gay or European numbers from James Boatright and Sam Blyth. Likewise with Eva Tobin’s portrayal of Chutney in the Court Room scene, proving that there’s no such thing as a small part and I also enjoyed Rachael Farrow as Enid with some nicely timed comedy moments plus a very wordy introduction song. Elle’s ex boyfriend Warner and new girlfriend, Vivienne, played by James Cohen and Anna Lawrance, do a nice job of making the audience dislike them which is never an easy task.
The constant pace in this show really keeps the action going and a real test of strength and stamina is shown by every member of the cast who is involved in the skipping number, Whipped Into Shape. I could only marvel at the ability of these guys to skip at the pace they do and sing at the same time too. Jo Halliday really shows us how it’s done here as fitness instructor Brooke Windham whose case in a murder trial is taken on by Elle.
A mention also, to the backstage tech team who manage to keep the bulky set moving and make scene changes look seamless throughout.
The star of the show, of course, has to be Eleanor Softly who has taken on the mammoth role of the ‘not so vacuous as she looks’ Elle Woods and is rarely off stage. This is a huge role for any performer to nail, yet Eleanor takes to it as if she’s been playing the part for ever and completely shines throughout with her triple threat skills. She looks and sounds fabulous and hat’s off to the costume department for providing some fantastic looking outfits not just for Elle but for the whole cast. As always, you know you’re in safe hands with Declan Wright who plays Emmett, with his gorgeous vocals, and he and Eleanor work well together in performance as well as song.
There are two little stars that really won the audience’s hearts and a big ‘woof woof’ and lots of doggy treats must go to the very adorable Ola and Snoopy who play Elle’s dog, Bruiser and Paulette’s dog, Rufus. Rufus in particular showed a fantastic no nonsense attitude to being on stage which I’m sure will stand him in good stead for any future productions he may audition for.
Legally Blonde has all the assets for a feel good night out with lots of laughs, some knock out choreography and ultimately a message that encourages women to believe in themselves, their abilities, and to pursue their goals no matter what obstacles they may face, even if they are blonde, wear pink and rocking high heels; in fact especially if they're blonde, wearing pink and rocking high heels - and that’s never a bad thing right?
Tickets are selling fast so grab yours fast because, Omigod you Guys, you won’t want to miss a great night out!
Review: Kim Tobin
A fabulously fun international award-winning musical based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, snobbery, and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. This action-packed musical explodes on the stage with memorable songs and dynamic dances. Equal parts hilarious and heart-warming warming, this musical is so much fun it should be illegal!
Legally Blonde The Musical will take you from the sorority house to the halls of justice with Broadway's brightest new heroine (and of course, her chihuahua, Bruiser). Based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical stays true to form with a peppy score and playful book. This musical is ridiculously enjoyable from start to finish. Elle Woods appears to have it all. Her life is turned upside-down, however, when her boyfriend dumps her so he can start getting serious about his life and attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle uses her charm to get into Harvard Law.
At school, she struggles with peers, professors, and Warner Huntington. With the help of Paulette and Emmett, though, Elle quickly realizes her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world.
TICKET INFORMATION
£21 - £23
A transaction fee of up to £3.95 may apply to your order.
Wed 1 - Sat 4 May 2024
7.30pm, 2.30pm
Legally Blonde The Musical will take you from the sorority house to the halls of justice with Broadway's brightest new heroine (and of course, her chihuahua, Bruiser). Based on the adored movie, Legally Blonde The Musical stays true to form with a peppy score and playful book. This musical is ridiculously enjoyable from start to finish. Elle Woods appears to have it all. Her life is turned upside-down, however, when her boyfriend dumps her so he can start getting serious about his life and attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle uses her charm to get into Harvard Law.
At school, she struggles with peers, professors, and Warner Huntington. With the help of Paulette and Emmett, though, Elle quickly realizes her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world.
TICKET INFORMATION
£21 - £23
A transaction fee of up to £3.95 may apply to your order.
Wed 1 - Sat 4 May 2024
7.30pm, 2.30pm
CURTAIN CALL with Michelle Taylor and Eleanor Warner-Larthe
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Michelle Taylor, who tells us she's over 30 but under 50 plays the role of Paulette
How long have you been a member of LODS? I've been a member of LODS since 2013. Why did you join? I joined as I had seen previous shows and wanted to continue performing after I had my kids If you could play any role, what would it be? Roxy Hart What’s your dream role? Glinda from Wicked! |
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When not at rehearsals I can mainly be found…
38 thousand feet in the air on a BA 777 aircraft
What is your favourite part of the play and why?
My favourite part of the show is the Legally Blonde Remix, as the number shows lots of emotions, has a great dance routine, is uplifting and makes you wanna clap, cheer and whoop.
Describe your character in Legally Blonde in 3 words.
Paulette is funny, ballsy and vulnerable
How do you learn your lines?
I learn my lines by repetition scene by scene
Who is your favourite actor?
Sheridan Smith and Olivia Coleman
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed?
I have had line blanks a few times in dialogue and songs and when I was dancing in a touring production as a dancer my wig came off during a dance, which was a tad embarrassing.
Why do you think people should see the show?
People should come and see Legally Blonde as not only is it a great musical with an amazingly talented cast, it’s a very beautiful story but to support local theatre.
38 thousand feet in the air on a BA 777 aircraft
What is your favourite part of the play and why?
My favourite part of the show is the Legally Blonde Remix, as the number shows lots of emotions, has a great dance routine, is uplifting and makes you wanna clap, cheer and whoop.
Describe your character in Legally Blonde in 3 words.
Paulette is funny, ballsy and vulnerable
How do you learn your lines?
I learn my lines by repetition scene by scene
Who is your favourite actor?
Sheridan Smith and Olivia Coleman
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed?
I have had line blanks a few times in dialogue and songs and when I was dancing in a touring production as a dancer my wig came off during a dance, which was a tad embarrassing.
Why do you think people should see the show?
People should come and see Legally Blonde as not only is it a great musical with an amazingly talented cast, it’s a very beautiful story but to support local theatre.
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Eleanor Warner-Larthe, 34, plays the leading role of Elle Woods
How long have you been a member of LODS? Just over a year now, this is my third show Why did you join? I joined after a big break through Covid times, I really missed being on stage and I'd heard such great things about the people in LODS, as well as the quality of the shows What was the last play/musical you saw? Mrs Doubtfire If you could play any role, what would it be? Regina George in Mean Girls What’s your dream role? Elle Woods haha; but also as above and probably Elphaba When not at rehearsals I can mainly be found… Sending Disney Princesses to children's birthdays! What is your favourite part of the play and why? I'd say the Legally Blonde Remix, as pretty much everyone is on stage together, the energy and vibes are amazing, such a fun number! Describe your character in Legally Blonde in 3 words. Strong willed, loyal, passionate |
How do you learn your lines?
I take small chunks at a time (usually the scene we're doing that night at rehearsals) and ask someone to just keep repeating them with me till I know them!
Who is your favourite actor?
Tom Holland or Chris Hemsworth
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed?
When working abroad, I slipped over and broke my finger on stage - and carried on till the end!
Why do you think people should see the show?
You will leave in the best spirits with a huge smile on your face and singing the opening/closing song for eternity!
I take small chunks at a time (usually the scene we're doing that night at rehearsals) and ask someone to just keep repeating them with me till I know them!
Who is your favourite actor?
Tom Holland or Chris Hemsworth
Have you ever had any stage mishaps/corpsed?
When working abroad, I slipped over and broke my finger on stage - and carried on till the end!
Why do you think people should see the show?
You will leave in the best spirits with a huge smile on your face and singing the opening/closing song for eternity!
Below: the cast in rehearsal
Photo Credit: Kim Tobin Photography
Photo Credit: Kim Tobin Photography