Legally Blonde

WAAPA's production of Legally Blonde is being rapturously received; and little wonder. In a line of excellent annual big musical theatre productions at The Regal Theatre, Legally Blonde stands out as particularly special, and not just because it is the WA premiere.

Featuring Third Year and Second Year Musical Theatre students, with more WAAPA students in the pit and in production and creative roles, WAAPA's 'Regal Show' is the biggest opportunity for Perth's general public to see what WAAPA can produce.

Anchored by Kate Thomas as Elle Woods, the Music Theatre class of 2015 features some excellent performers, with enviable triple threat skills. Kate Thomas has the power to lead a show and does it with absolute flair.

In a strong female line up, Taryn Ryan shows fabulous characterisation and made a loveable Paulette. Matilda Moran was a beautifully elegant Vivienne, Baylie Carson was a gorgeously awkward Enid and Megan Kozak shone as the super-fit Brooke. The sorority sisters, come Greek Chorus, led by Tayla Jarrett, Heather Manley and Jess Phillipi were outstanding.

Joel Granger merged boy-next-door with leading man as a wonderful Emmett, while Callum Sandercock mastered snobby Warner. Matthew Hyde managed the role of Professor Callahan very well, while Chris Wilcox charmed the audience in the dual roles of Kyle and Dewey.

There were no week links in the cast who were all more than fully engaged at all times and there were some delightful cameos including Daniel Ridolfi as Nikos the pool-boy, Marissa Economo as murderous Chutney and Rosabelle Elliot and Alex Thompson as Belle's parents.

Set designer Steve Nolan has created a set that equals major touring productions. Moved mostly by actors and crew, transitions were smooth and it functions beautifully. Costumes, designed by Isabel; O'Neill are a visual feast. Trudy Dalgleish's lighting feels big budget and the sound design by Toni Lodge is smooth and well managed.

David King's orchestra is excellent while choreography by Lisa O'Dea is exciting and well executed.

Legally Blonde is testament not only to WAAPA as a superb training ground but as an excellent production company. I have enjoyed Legally Blonde in the past (overseas) but this production had a joie de vivre that I have not experienced with this show before, that made this rendition outstanding.

Kimberley Shaw