The verdict is in… York Light Opera Company’s production of Legally Blonde is guilty of being bright, bold and brimming with energy.
Head on down to York Theatre Royal until Saturday 22 February for this not-to-be missed cult classic.
Laurence O’Keefe, Nell Benjamin and Heather Hach took one look at the 2001 film of the same name and knew it was destined for the stage… and when watching this production you can see exactly why. A musical ready to school its audience with a powerful moral, whilst still offering the much loved preppy and perky content well received by the crowd.
Emma Swainston is certainly a name to remember, shining effortlessly as the charismatic Elle Woods – despite barely leaving the stage her energy never wavered. She stayed true to the blonde bombshell we know and love whilst adding her own unique flair, making the character even more endearing. Just as Elle learns to root for the underdog, the audience couldn’t help but root for Swainston, whose charm, wit, and powerhouse performance lit up the stage.
And as we watch our Elle learn lessons bigger than can be found in her law books, we see her develop thanks to her new found friend Emmett Forest, played by the wonderful Zander Fick.
Swainston and Fick brought a natural, evolving chemistry to Elle and Emmett. Their performances in ‘Take It Like a Man’ and the bittersweet ‘Legally Blonde’ not only showcased their impressive showmanship but also highlighted their beautifully complementary vocals. Fick, in particular, embodied the kind of storybook character you can’t help but fall in love with, bringing warmth and sincerity to the stage.
Speaking of the stage, it may have been one of the busiest in York Light’s history, packed with an abundance of moving set pieces that transported us from Harvard to Delta Nu, Paulette’s Salon, to the county jail, and beyond. With so many locations to bring to life, navigating these transitions was seen to be no easy feat, and there is no doubt Martyn Knight and the creative team had an ambitious vision.
This alongside the various sound and technical difficulties added a challenge for the audience wishing to hear the vast array of talent on offer.
Through the many transitions, we were introduced to more of the show’s outstanding company – including Emily Hardy as the ever-hilarious, big-hearted Paulette and Neil Wood, returning for another commanding performance as the formidable Professor Callahan after his portrayal of Sweeney Todd previously.
Hardy’s vocals were a delight, while Wood delivered the most compelling portrayal of Callahan I’ve ever seen. I certainly didn’t expect ‘Blood in the Water’ to be my act one high point, but with Wood’s razor-sharp delivery, it was a true highlight.
While our fabulous Delta Nu’s brought endless enthusiasm and the ensemble ensured the production was whipped into shape, a special mention must go to the four-legged stars who may have stolen the show! What’s better than one adorable pup on stage? Two! Lily-Rose, Harry, Barkey, and Sulley add an extra dose of charm, making an already delightful production even cuter—an absolute treat for the audience!
Under the expert direction of Martyn Knight and Paul Laidlaw, the entire company delivered a joyous and heartfelt production. Whilst Legally Blonde is packed with fabulous fun, it also leaves a lasting message: one of transformation, acceptance, and defying the odds. This production embraced both its humour and heart, making it a truly uplifting experience.
Omigod you guys! Bend and snap up those tickets via the York Theatre Royal website, available from £15.