Legally Blonde: The Musical – Review – York Theatre Royal

By Kirsty Reid, February 2024

Forget chocolates, roses, or a romantic meal – this February, I was all about Galentine’s Day. And what better way to celebrate than with a show packed with girl power, ambition, and an explosion of pink?

York Light Opera Company’s vibrant and energetic production of Legally Blonde is a fabulous take on the 2001 film, starring Reece Witherspoon, which was itself inspired by Amanda Brown’s novel of the same name.

For those unfamiliar with the plot, Legally Blonde follows fashionista Elle Woods as she trades sunny sorority life for Harvard Law School – all in the name of love.

But Elle’s journey isn’t just about winning back a guy. It’s about self-belief and breaking barriers.

She challenges stereotypes and proves that you should never judge a book by its cover. Elle shows that women can be both powerful and unapologetically themselves.

“Dramatic and empathetic”

With music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin, this stage adaptation perfectly captures the spirit of the story.

From the moment Elle (Emma Swainston) bounced onto the stage, I was captivated. Her energy is infectious, and every hand gesture was expressive and purposeful.

From her confident hair flicks to her assertiveness in the courtroom, Swainston radiated self-assurance. Both dramatic and empathetic, her character is one you can’t help but root for.

Elle’s Greek chorus (her supportive and enthusiastic sorority sisters) added an extra layer of fun to the production, reinforcing the message of female empowerment.

Vocally, Swainston was outstanding. She delivered powerful performances, especially in her duets with Zander Fick, who was equally impressive as smart, quirky law student Emmett. Their chemistry was fantastic, making their evolving relationship all the more engaging.

Kit Stroud was brilliant as confident and entitled Warner, especially in his rendition of ‘Serious’, which set the tone for his character.

Emily Hardy’s portrayal of Paulette was another highlight. I loved her in performance in the iconic Bend and Snap scene, where she owned the stage.

Jonny Holbek, who plays Paulette’s love interest Kyle, also deserves special mention. Comically strutting out on stage with a parcel, Holbek was a hit with the crowd. His dancing scene with Hardy was equally heartwarming, earning well-deserved applause.

“Likable charm”

The courtroom scene, which featured a group rendition of ‘Gay or European?’, was another memorable part of the show. Getting a few laughs from the crowd.

Pippa Elmes was fantastic as fitness guru Brooke, with an arrogant but likeable charm. Her high-energy performance of Whipped into Shape was spot-on.

Other shoutouts go to Helen Miller, who plays fierce feminist Enid, and Emily Rockliff as Warner’s competitive fiancée Vivienne. The dogs, Bruiser and Rufus, also deserve a special mention.

The set design was minimalist and impressive, allowing seamless transitions between various locations – from Elle’s room and Harvard Law School to the beauty salon and the shopping mall.

Aside from a few sound issues, York Light Opera Company’s production was flawless, fun and uplifting.

‘Legally Blonde The Musical’ is at York Theatre Royal until 22nd February