Legally Blonde

APAN Entertainment and HAMA Productions’ production of Legally Blonde is huge, lavish and unapologetically pink, bursting onto the stage with youthful energy and a heap of enthusiasm.

The show looks great, with a solid set that transformed smoothly throughout and stunning costumes.

At the second performance, sound was not at an optimum, with Frank La Cava’s excellent band often drowning vocals, making it difficult to hear - especially with solo lines in group numbers. Occasionally microphones were late on and they were not all set at even levels. Hopefully this will be sorted as the run progresses.

Anchoring the show is Perth teenager, and natural blonde, Elaina O’Connor. Rarely offstage, Elaina sings and dances beautifully, creating a likeable, sympathetic and believable Elle Woods who does not disappoint.

Headline guest performers join amateur and student performers in this Pro-Am production. Home and Away’s Lynne McGrainger makes two small cameos, most notably as Judge Winthrop, and while her stage time is brief, she makes an impact. John O’Hara has more to do as villain-of-sorts Professor Callahan, in a very strong performance, leading the song “Blood in the Water” which was a show highlight. Vincent Hooper looks great and charms both Paulette and the audience as UPS delivery man Kyle.

Elle’s friend and confidante, hairdresser Paulette is perfectly played in a warm and funny portrayal by Dixie Johnstone (she alternates with Gemma Luxton), while her mentor and friend Emmet is given lovely chemistry and awkward sex appeal by Lloyd Hopkins. Object of Elle’s affection, Warner, is played with suave sophistication by Presley Massara. Another stand-out performer is Lilyan Smith, who brought outstanding vocals and a mature performance to Vivienne (she alternates with Sarah Boniface).

Lots of smaller roles were played with great dedication. I particularly enjoyed Stephanie Stockbauer’s Enid, Lloyd Mattias and Jesse Watts’ lovely pairing as Nikos and Carlos, and Leah Cusma’s sales girl. Jamie Merchant pulls off a diverse doubling as Elle’s Dad and despicable Dewey. Megan Seymour shines (and looks amazing) in her first big role as Brooke Wyndham and Aili Hacket revels in her appearance as Chutney. Max Hughes is a pleasant Padamadan, Jesse James is a lovely choice as Mrs Woods and Shanae Van Kempen doubles the store manager and prosecutor nicely.

Elle’s Greek Chorus of Delta Nu compatriots is a dynamic and welcome recurring feature, led by Bella McSporran, Amy McCann, Caitlin Streatfield and Taylah Marie. There are myriads of supporting roles, and two alternating support ensembles, for a total of over 90 performers, all focused and working hard. Special mention to four-legged performers Jewells and Winston who are very, very cute.

Legally Blonde is great fun, and will delight lovers of the movie and those who love a big, bold, beautiful (and blonde) musical.

Kimberley Shaw

Photographer: Hamish McSporran