Legally Blonde Jr

By Laurence O’Keefe, Nell Benjamin and Heather Hach. Western Theatrics. Directed by Stephen Carr. Koorliny Arts Centre, Kwinana, WA. May 24-26, 2024

Western Theatrics is presenting Legally Blonde Jr for a short season at Koorliny Arts Centre. Presented in tandem with “little sister” production Finding Nemo Jr., this production features a predominantly older and more experienced cast, all of whom are still youth performers.

Sharing a set with Finding Nemo Jr, the set has a facelift between the two shows, to give it an Ivy League feel (kudos to Stephen Carr for versatility) and uses trucks to set up some internal scenes. Atmospheric lighting was designed by Kat Brieden, and costumes (of which there are dozens) were designed by Dani Bentley - giving this show a polished look.

Central character Elle, is played with confidence and depth by Lizzie Martin, anchoring the show beautifully. Object of desire, Warner Huntington III was given credence and eventually polish by Pace Baudains (although I would have preferred a preppier look in early scenes). Rival girlfriend Vivienne Kensington is played by Kelsey Morandin, who charts a lovely journey of growth.

Our ‘real’ leading man. Emmet Forrest is beautifully played by James Leber, who conveys charm and genuine affection. A good Pauline can always steal scenes in Legally Blonde, and Jocelyn Dale does this to perfection, quickly becoming an audience favourite - and deservedly so.

So many actors throwing 100% into smaller roles and chorus members working their socks off, that it is impossible to mention all that impressed. In midsize roles I enjoyed Ash Brady’s Aaron, Chloe Schiller’s outspoken Enid, Max Murray’s narcissistic Professor Callahan, Kirra Francis’ Whitney, and Emily Sweeney’s proud Brooke Wyndham. Logan Bin Bakar’s confident swagger and self-assuredness as Kyle was a delight.

Making the most of fleeting appearances were Braydee Audrain’s lovely Pilar, Salesgirl Skye Witshire, Zach Murray’s slovenly Dewey, Alice Kosovich’s expressive Sabrina, Samara Bicknell’s bookish client and of course Peregrine Carr’s lying Chutney Wyndham - among many very well-crafted appearances.

The choreography of Ash Winter was fun, and well executed, with voices well trained and in fine form under the care of Musical Director Nicole George. The cast performed to a quality backing track, as is usual for MTI’s Junior Shows.

Western Theatrics will be taking a performance team to the Junior Theatre Festival in Newcastle, NSW later in this year, and if Legally Blonde Jr is any indication, they will be very well received. Well done on a quality production.

Kimberley Shaw