by Bonnie Collings
Warragul Theatre Company's opening weekend of "Legally Blonde the Musical" kept audience members smiling from start to finish. Despite challenging dance breaks, quick costume changes and intense vocals, the cast made it look easy, almost to say "what, like it's hard?"
Teaming up again after successful performances of "Wicked" and "Jekyll and Hyde", co-directors Liam Charleston and Kasinda Dalton did an incredible job bringing the world of "Legally Blonde" to the stage. Putting their own creative spin on the iconic story, the pair made the decision to set the show in the early 2000s, much like the iconic Reese Witherspoon film.
The show hit a perfect balance of comedy and seriousness and got better as the night went on.
More than 100 different costumes graced the stage, co-ordinated by production manager Leane Gooding and a team of dedicated assistants.
From the moment audiences stepped into the theatre, they were completely immersed in the world of the show. With ushers sporting pink bowties, a pink glitter curtain and a shimmering disco ball, you felt right at home in the Delta Nu house.
As the house lights dimmed, Warragul's very own Elle Woods, the Kim McFarlane, welcomed the audience.
Instead of jumping straight into the opening number, the iconic opening bars of Hoku's "Perfect Day" began to play as Delta Nu sisters made their way across the stage and through the audience.
The set design was creative and clever, using levels and lighting to create different spaces. While the backdrop and risers were pink enough to rival a Barbie Dream House, set pieces flying in from the wings and above stage quickly transformed the space into a courtroom, Harvard classroom, the Hair Affair and Elle's bedroom.
The cast made great use of the space available to them, and excited the audience when they made their way off stage to parade through the crowd.
Appearing both in real life and as a Greek chorus in Elle's head, the Delta Nu ensemble dazzled in numerous outfits. Using creative costume changes and a repeated lighting que, audiences were able to tell if the Delta Nus were real or in Elle's imagination.
After months of rehearsals and ups and downs, it was clear the cast shared a special bond. Through their interactions on stage and smiles on their faces, you could tell the cast were having fun.
Kayla Precht brought a wealth of knowledge and skill to the role of choreographer. Every dance number was full of energy and passion.
The show featured a whopping 33 musical numbers, packed with long dance breaks and exceptional vocals.
After finishing a strong and energetic dance break in "What You Want", the cast immediately snapped back to singing with barely a moment to catch their breath.
A highlight for the audience was the act two opening number "Whipped Into Shape". An intense challenge of vocal strength and physical stamina, the number involved singing in harmony while jumping rope in time. The dance team didn't miss a count, performing in unison.
The ensemble coverage throughout the show ensured each cast member had their own moment to shine. It was lovely to see familiar faces pop up in multiple cameo roles and was testament to the importance of an ensemble in such a large show.
At only 19 years old, Melody Paulet shone as leading lady, Elle Woods. Melody captured Elle's character perfectly, embodying her bubbly and confident nature but also encapsulating her emotional and heartbroken side.
Melody left the audience with chills after her emotional performance of "Legally Blonde", a song that symbolises having your ambitions crushed.
Michael Barron took on the role of Emmett Forrest, law graduate who helps Elle find her true potential. Michael did an excellent job of portraying Emmett's dorky but loveable nature and sounded so similar to the iconic, Broadway original Christian Borle.
"Legally Blonde the Musical" explores the relationship between Elle and Emmett in greater depth than the original film. Throughout the show, the audience watch on as their friendship develops and eventually blossoms into love. The chemistry between Melody and Michael on stage made the relationship feel real.
Stepping into the role with only three weeks until opening night, Taylah Trew's performance as Paulette Bonafonte was a fan favourite. Nailing Paulette's Boston accent and passionate nature, Taylah stunned audiences with her vocal power.
Another fabulous vocal talent was Hayley Abery as Vivienne Kensington. The role of Vivienne is known in the theatre world for the challenging belt during "Legally Blonde Remix". Hayley did not disappoint, showing off her incredible vocal range and power.
Teddy and Henry, the two puppy performers were perhaps audience favourites. The theatre filled with awws and ahhs when the doggy performers appeared on stage.
A group of incredibly skilled local musicians brought the sounds of the show to life, led by musical directors Yolette Stewart and Sam Stephens. The orchestra did an amazing job, producing high quality and fast past sound throughout the show.
Overall, WTC's performance of "Legally Blonde the Musical" was testament to the incredible talent Gippsland has to offer.
Tickets are still available for the remaining performances this weekend. Don't miss out on an opportunity to see such a fabulous show.