Most people will remember the 2001 comedy film, but this modern musical theatre classic is actually based on a novel of the same name. Legally Blonde follows the story of glamorous Elle Woods, the sorority girl who people wrongly have down as an 'airhead.' In an attempt to win her ex-boyfriend back she enrols at Harvard, overcoming people's prejudices against her in the process.
Legally Blonde is one of those musicals that I have somehow always missed. So, when the opportunity arose to finally see this show whilst also supporting local amateur theatre, I jumped at the opportunity. There was however absolutely NOTHING amateur about this polished and accomplished performance. With an impressive band of 11, they were only 3 off the full orchestra for Phantom in London! This goes to show the level that KMTC strive to for their performances. KMTC are an award-winning musical theatre company based in Northwich, Cheshire. Having put on productions since 1943 they more than know what they are doing!
The staging and sets were absolutely superb, even extending into the auditorium with Harvard banners adorning the walls. Not being a typical theatre, they were able to use the high walls either side of the audience to cleverly project lighting effects, really helping the audience to feel part of the show. In fact, everything about this show blurred the lines between am dram and professional productions. The friends I went with tonight agreed that this knocked the socks off several west end shows we had seen!
Dani Fray shines as Elle Woods and I was far from the only one blown away by her powerful voice, judging by the sound of the cheers during the bows. It wasn’t a case of having one strong vocalist to carry the show, the whole cast were outstanding. And it was one hell of a company with 42 performers (well 39 people and 3 dogs). Other standouts included Oliver Ball (Professor Callahan) and powerhouse Victoria Carney (Vivienne Kensington), who were both sensational. The performance of the night however came from Clare Moorhouse who was absolutely hilarious as Paulette. She had the audience in the palm of her hand with her impeccable comedy timing and facial expressions throughout. She really gave heart to the show and was hysterically funny in ‘Bend and Snap.’
Legally Blonde is full of absolute bangers from the very beginning, with opening number ‘Omigod You Guys’ really setting the tone for this hilariously camp musical. The audience couldn’t contain their laughter during ‘Gay or European’ (sometimes referred to as ‘There! Right! There!’ in some productions). I will definitely be adding a few songs to my stagey playlist to take me back to this wonderful night!
Legally Blonde remains at Northwich Memorial Court until Saturday 29 October 2022. However, with some performances completely sold out you’ll have to be quick to secure tickets! See link below for booking information.
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