Express and Echo – April 05, 2016
Exeter Musical Society’s latest production of Legally Blonde is a wonderfully uplifting two hours of entertainment. Plenty of pink, fluffy fun ensues with some lovely heartfelt moments and real canine stars playing Elle and Paulette’s furry friends.
A vibrant adaptation of Amanda Brown’s novel and based on well-known 2001 film version starring Reese Witherspoon; the musical was brought up to date with references to online dating and amusing ‘booty-shaking’ dance moves.
As a huge fan of the film, I wondered how the musical would translate onstage. It nicely mirrors the film, with innovative artistic choices to portray the story in a theatre setting, making for an enthralling show.
It is the ultimate tale of one woman’s empowerment and corporate success, whilst maintaining her femininity and sense of fun. The audience are taken on heroine Elle Woods journey of heartbreak and growth, as she rises like a phoenix from the ashes.
Sophie Greig who plays Elle is extremely likeable, with a powerful singing voice. Elle and Emmett’s (Samuel Neal) singing during Chip on my Shoulder in act 1 is particularly beautiful.
Kyle (Tim Landy) the UPS guy was hilarious. Paulette (Emma Williams) plays alongside Kyle wonderfully. The scenes were choreographed perfectly.
The ‘Scene of the Crime’ with quick set transformation is fantastic, complete with live demonstration of the perm in the shower incident.
Pacing throughout the piece was strong, with the second half being particularly punchy. The cast did well to engage in the action at all times. Bold, bright sets added to the overall colourful spectacle, with beautiful fairy lights and live violin playing onstage.
It is astounding and highly commendable that the cast led by Director Lyn Burgoyne, and crew managed to put together such an excellent quality musical in only three months.
There are too many fantastic group and individual performances to mention. It was well directed and choreographed with a wonderful live orchestra, playing to a full house.
The fun factor was energetically emanated, giving the auditorium a real buzz. Large dance numbers had me jigging in my seat, longing to jump onstage and join the cast.
Overall – a great ensemble effort utilising cast talents effectively.
Hilarious, laugh out loud entertainment is guaranteed with this production. I would highly recommend watching Legally Blonde for feel good entertainment.