Original Music and Lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe & Nell Benjamin. Script by Heather Hach. Presented by Andrew G & Theatrical Production
Harvard’s favourite Blonde takes to the stage in this sparkling, light hearted and uplifting story of self discovery
Reviewed by Annika Loci
The National Theatre, Melbourne
Until 27 July, 2025
Tickets: https://nationaltheatre.org.au/legally-blonde/
Type: Musical Theatre, Based on Movies, Upbeat
If you liked: Sister Act, Six, Mean Girls, Frozen
Oh my god you guys!! Legally Blonde has officially arrived at The National Theatre for a strictly limited season!
The success of the 2001 beloved motion-movie hit staring Reese Witherspoon has since inspired an award-winning musical version first opening on Broadway in 2007. The bright and energetic original music and lyrics from Laurence O’Keefe & Nell Benjamin, and the witty script from Heather Hach has seen both audiences and theatre companies from around the world gravitate toward and embrace the production.
Legally Blonde follows the life of Elle Woods, a fashion-savvy, fun loving sorority president who finds herself giving up her glossy LA lifestyle to follow her ex-boyfriend Warner to Harvard Law School, in an attempt to win his love back and prove she can be the “serious” girl that he dumped her for. On her journey she meets Harvard Law teaching assistant Emmett, who takes her under his wing, and salon-owner Paulette, who together encourage her to stay true to herself as she struggles with the critical opinions of her fellow peers and law professor. Elle begins to defy everyone’s expectations (including her own), and finds herself breaking stereotypes, proving you can be smart, strong and confident, whilst embracing femineity in a kick-arse pink suit.
The live twelve-piece orchestra under the skilled guidance of Musical Director Kent Ross and direction from Aimee Forrest, Theatrical’s production of Legally Blonde is enthusiastic and entertaining. Maggie Lynch‘s tight and high energy choreography effectively utilises each cast member’s differing dance skills, especially in her design of big ensemble numbers.
In the mammoth role of Elle Woods is Emily McDougall. Appearing in almost every scene, McDougall sustains an entertaining performance from her very first scene, consistently bringing emotion and purpose combined with witty humourous line delivery and spectacular vocals. Jackson Cross brings an engaging gentleness to the character of Emmett and provides great onstage support for McDougall. The juxtaposition between Cross and Joshua Sumner’s portrayal of suave and handsome, ex-boyfriend Warner is exciting to witness. Julian Dods‘ classically trained voice brings gorgeous diction to the highly successful but manipulative Professor Callahan which reinforces the authoritative persona he has with the students.
Get on your hot pink outfits and sparkly tiara’s for a light hearted and highly enjoyable night
Tabitha Galluccio plays the sassy fitness instructor Brooke Wyndham who is on trial for her husband’s murder, leading the opening number of Act II “Whipped Into Shape” with incredible energy and skill. This scene has the potential to be hit or miss with a combination of singing and skipping simultaneously and a scene and costume change mid song. This piece however was a standout for Galluccio together with some very fit ensemble members, a clever onstage quick change and nod to Lynch’s choreography. Liliana Braumberger gives a standout performance as ‘The Hair Affair Salon’ owner Paulette Bonaforte with a fabulous combination of comedic timing and vocals and great onstage chemistry with McDougall and the tight ensemble.
The performance faced the occasional technical difficulties on opening night, whether that be in mic sound or scene changeover speeds (even with a very hard-working crew moving set pieces), however I would expect that to improve as the show run continues. The main two-story set design feels overused for many scenes, with others missing the mark. Paulette’s salon especially lacked the details I’d expect when such an eccentric character decorated her salon. However, Sarah Browne’s set design of Elle’s bedroom was a spectacular success, painted bright pink with ‘Elle’ in glitter and pink draped curtains. Browne and Ella Campbell present bright, bold and fun costume design for some characters and scenes, however in other scenes felt somewhat confused. The designs for the multiple on-stage quick changes were very cleverly designed and well-executed.
*Snaps* for this vibrant and feel-good musical full of self-discovery, and the reminder that being true to yourself will never be out of style. Get on your hot pink outfits and sparkly tiara’s for a light hearted and highly enjoyable night at the theatre.
Theatre Thought: Films don’t always translate well to the musical theatre stage, but this one certainly does. What’s another movie you’ve seen that works well on stage?
One Response
Went back twice after seeing this review, I felt after the first time with friends I just had to take my daughter to see it too, its just like a professional show only cheaper and much more fun with everyone in pink in the audience, what a sparkly night we had!