Legally Blonde
★★★★☆ Energetic
Saint Stephen’s Theatre (Venue 166): Fri 2 – Sun 25 Aug 2024
Review by Eilidh Sim
Sound Events Scotland’s Production of Legally Blonde at Saint Stephen’s Theatre for the whole Fringe, captivates the audience with an inspiring performance of the well loved musical.
The story of Elle Woods, the Californian sorority queen, who enrols in Harvard Law to win back her ex boyfriend, after he dumps her, and prove she is more serious than others consider her. Legally Blonde is most familiarly known from the 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon.
Taylor Crum and company. Pic: rc_photopgraphy
This production – with a cast of 20 – has an energy right from opening number, Omigod You Guys. It is a production which shows a considerable amount of effort in both the design and choreography, as well as showcasing the cast’s exceptional singing capabilities.
While the set remains minimal throughout – metal steps acting as different levels is the most prominent element – other pieces of set and props such as boxes and chairs are brought on for specific scenes. These add just enough depth to allow the audience to imagine the full picture.
engaging and powerful
The songs and characterisations are done full justice to by the company’s vocally strong actors. Taylor Crum, dominating the stage as Elle, has an engaging and powerful stage presence, which really brings the musical to life.
Kathleen Mcclenagh. Pic: rc_photopgraphy
The role of the beautician Paulette, who befriends Elle, is played by Kathleen Mcclenagh. While nailing the comedic aspects of her character, she also has a phenomenal singing voice, giving her signature song Ireland a compelling feel, engaging you right into the story.
emotional and compelling
Strong male leads come from Aaron Hastings, as Elle’s ex: Warner, as well as Rhys Crawford who plays the role of trainee lawyer Emmett. Both roles are thoughtfully characterised, in addition to both being strong singers. During Chip on My Shoulder Crawford produces a particularly emotional and compelling performance.
The ensemble, collectively have strong singing voices. Occasionally some of the singing gets lost amongst the backing tracks, however the amount of spirit presented in each song makes up for it.
Taylor Crum and company. Pic: rc_photopgraphy
The energy does not falter into the second act, kicking off with an enthusiastic Whipped Into Shape. Linzi Devers’s choreography impresses time and time again, particularly here, where the actors are jumping and singing simultaneously.
The directing by Zoe Mcrae keeps everything in check, ensuring the company don’t overdo the fun and excitement, draw them back when necessary. Which give the production an emotional and engaging feel.
The love and enjoyment that the cast have for this production is obvious, and it is notably clear that many aspects of the performance have had a lot of thought put in. This as a whole allows the production to be successful in creating a funny and engaging story.
Running Time: Two Hours and 25 Minutes (including one interval)
Saint Stephen’s Theatre (Ian McKellen Theatre), 105 St Stephen Street, EH3 5AB
Fri 2 – Sun 25 Aug 2024
Daily: 11am.
Tickets and details: Book here.
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Calum Phillip. Pic: rc_photopgraphy
ENDS
