Pink and fluffy on the outside, but with the Delta Nus strutting their stuff, AODS’ production of Legally Blonde The Musical was packed with high energy numbers plus so much depth, humour and a genuine feel good factor.
Based on Amanda Brown’s novel and the 2001 film Legally Blonde, it tells the story of Elle Woods, a sorority girl who enrols at Harvard Law School to win back ex-boyfriend Warner.
Very few characters have faith in Elle, but she surprises them by defying expectations while staying true to herself and discovering how her law knowledge can help others.
The simplistic Alton Assembly Rooms set was effective, with pink pictures dressing the stage and pink televisions either side setting the scene.
Director Sue Sampson gave dramatic flair, choreographer Anna Lang’s dances were sharp and fun, and musical director Sophie Borrell’s band packed each number with energy.
Sam Brown played not-so-dumb blonde Elle to perfection. On stage practically throughout, she was a super bubbly, energetic and warm performer.
Dan Wigmore (Warner Huntingdon III) and Nick Main (Emmett Forest) contrasted against Elle excellently as the lawyers and love interests.
Sapphire Heath (Vivienne) and Annie Veneti (Paulette) sang beautifully, while Rebecca Norton (Brooke Wyndham) added dancing and skipping to her vocals.
Martin Sampson took being a pompous, smooth and manipulative law professor in his stride. Arabella Davis played a strong, passionate and outwardly feminist law student with great comic timing. And dogs Teddy Main (Bruiser) and Roman (Rufus) provided the “ahh” factor!
Chrissie White