Legally Blonde - GMTG

Since the rights were released for amateur performance, Legally Blonde has graced many a local stage. With music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin, this show is exuberantly brought to life by a stellar cast courtesy of GMTG (Guild Musical Theatre Group) based at University of Birmingham.

There was a brilliant energy from the very beginning and this group is certainly not short of vocal talent. The excellent trio of Margot (Meg Russon) Serena (Lizzy Ives) and Pilar (Annabel Parsons) ensured a punchy opening with Omigod You Guys and set the audience up for a night that showcased exceptional talent. 

It was clearly a monumental ensemble effort, with every member of the company delivering assured performances. Leading this cast was the practically faultless Emily Taylor as Elle Woods. Vocally stunning, she was a force to reckoned with. She was paired well with the lovely Jacob Marshall as Emmett Forrest. His honest portrayal and brilliant voice made for an endearing performance. There was great support from Helen Parsons as the quirky Paulette Bonafonté, Rob Russo was a suitably sinister Professor Callahan with a superb rendition of Blood in the Water, Lucy Robinson vocally impressed as Vivienne Kensington and the sheer athleticism of Gaby Songui was a feat in itself in her role as Brooke Wyndham. 

Further support of note came from Zoe Farrow as Kate and Lara Sprosen as Enid Hoops, plus a shout out to Dan Gray who excelled in his multiple roles. 

Some of the scene changes felt a little clunky and with the level of talent this company has, they could get away with reducing the amount of set used to help assist in ensuring slicker transitions. However, that aside, many congratulations to the creative team of Thomas Kershaw-Green (Director), Alice Brown (Musical Director) and Lauren Shirley (Choreographer) who have brought this show together. It was an absolute pleasure to witness such an immense amount of talent on stage. 

Here’s to the next.