LEGALLY BLONDE The Musical at Kings Theatre Portsmouth Review
DISCLOSURE – TICKETS TO SEE THE SHOW WERE GIFTED TO THE REVIEWER AND GUEST FOR THE PURPOSES OF WRITING THE REVIEW
Reviewed by Jan Dixon
I had the pleasure of reviewing the above show at the Kings Theatre, Southsea on the opening night of 19th February 2025. This was an amateur production by The Portsmouth Players; directed and choreographed by Lee Thompson. music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin with Louise Helyer as Musical Director. The musical is based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture.
The main character, Elle Woods (Beth Evans) is introduced, she is the head of her UCLA sorority Delta Nu, and has a great love of fashion and style. She expects her boyfriend Warner (Archie McKeown) to propose to her, but instead he tells her he doesn’t want to go out with her anymore because he doesn’t think she was serious enough. He has ambitions to go to Harvard Law School and thought Elle would hold him back. In an act of revenge Elle decided to prove Warner wrong and show him she too could go to Harvard.
She is accepted into Harvard after singing “What you want” supported vocally by her loyal female sorority sisters. Elle rightly takes centre stage in this song as the main character, showcasing her amazing vocal talent. Energetic choreography and singing from Elle and her female companions are enthusiastically received by the audience. To try and win the errant Warner back, who is now with Elle’s nemesis Vivienne (Amanda May Bishop) Elle decides to change her image. Elle goes to the Hair Affair Salon to dye her distinctive blonde hair brunette but is advised by the owner Paulette (Georgina-Rose Rust) to remain true to herself. Accompanying songs “Positive” by the sorority sisters is sung with great gusto and the exceptional voice of Paulette is heard singing “Ireland”. Elle then attends a party, having been tricked into wearing a fancy-dress costume by Warner’s new girlfriend Vivienne. Her supportive teaching assistant Emmett (Charlie Frame) persuades her to stay by singing “Chip On My Shoulder” and also to be true to herself “So Much Better”. Emmett had a wonderfully powerful and clear voice which resonated with emotion.
Fitness guru Brooke (Maddison Cathrow) demonstrated a physically demanding workout routine to the song “Whipped Into Shape”. Excellent choreography, especially with skipping ropes, for the cast members involved. Elle then decides that Emmett should wear attire more appropriate for his role in a legal team, so she takes him to buy a suit. The song “Take It Like A Man” was beautifully sung by Elle as Emmett’s new image emerged. It was then the turn of Paulette to be encouraged to change herself to catch the eye of a UPS delivery man by the sorority sisters cheekily singing “Bend and Snap”. Very funny routine, well received by the audience, who made all the right noises!
The Harvard Law students vied for the position of Intern for Professor Callahan (Robert Day) but he abused his position by attempting to kiss Elle, his chosen Intern. Being saved and supported by Emmett, Elle at last realised she is in love with him, and they both sing a heartfelt and emotional rendition of “Legally Blonde”. The final song “Find My Way” poignantly sung by Elle is the realisation that she has changed and is worthy of her success in the legal profession.
All the cast came on stage for the finale, singing and dancing enthusiastically, being cheered on and applauded by the audience and receiving standing ovations!
The excellent Band, which consisted of Louise Helyer, Bart Thiede, Millie Ramsden, George Storry, Mark Streather, Louise Martin, Jen Flatman, Tim Love, Mick Goulden, Mark Upton and Lorna Beckett were faultless and a perfect accompaniment for the performance.
There were nearly 50 cast members in this production and many supporting roles, including the wardrobe team and stage crew; all of whom should be congratulated on such a well-honed and professional production.
Performances from 20th February 2025 to 22nd February 2025 from 7.30pm. Matinee performance at 2.30pm on 22nd February 2025. Prices start from £19.00. Kings Theatre, 24 Albert Road, Southsea PO5 2QJ. Box Office 023 9282 8282. www.kingsportsmouth.co.uk
This is certainly worth a 5-star rating – do look out for Paulette’s dog; an unconscious UPS delivery man; the court scene where the comedy song “I’m Gay” is performed; Irish dancing and two proposals!
Rating: 5/5