Legally Blonde - LGYT

​Lichfield Garrick Youth Theatre have never been a company to shy away from a challenge, and they more than proved this tonight as they presented a polished production of the gloriously infectious Legally Blonde. Featuring a catalogue of wonderful numbers, LGYT exceeded their years (and then some) in this sparkling performance.
 
Under the dynamic trio of Julie Mallaband (Director), Oliver Rowe (Musical Director) and Jessica Lambert (Choreographer), the show was pacy, vibrant and energetic. There was never a lull and the band tackled the complex score with skill, with some nice additional musical touches.
 
The shining accomplishment in this production is the company’s astute grasp of comedy. It was perhaps one of the first amateur versions I had seen where every single comedic opportunity was exceptionally delivered and Legally Blonde, when done well, is hilarious. Boasting a suite of eccentric characters, each member of the cast relished their time on stage.
 
Leading the audience through the evening is pocket-rocket performer Sophie-Rose Dickinson. Her annoyingly squeaky Elle Woods really heightens the stereotype behind her character; however she played this to her advantage, successfully showcasing an amazing character transformation between Act One and Act Two. With a superb vocal, she was an absolute hit. Nathan De Giorgi complemented her well as the endearing Emmett Forrest, whilst Dominic Sterland delivered an impressively comedic performance as Warner Huntington III.
 
It would do the company a disservice to not individually name everyone involved, as all of them stepped up to the plate in this incredibly demanding show. However, there were some great supporting performances from Ella Fellows-Moore (Brooke Wyndham), Hudson Mitchell (Kyle) and the trio of Esme Wade (Serena), Bethan McCormick (Margot) and Hattie Rumsey (Pilar). And you cannot forget the laugh-out-loud pairing of Harry Singh (Nikos) and Ollie Willet (Carlos); their cameo appearance in Gay and European was an absolute highlight.

But it was the supporting principle ladies that really shone in this show. Georgia Waldron’s Paulette was a sheer joy. Her rendition of Ireland was expertly delivered and she brought a wonderful warmth, compassion and hilarity to the character. Meanwhile, Sophia Ford’s Vivienne was a truly sassy bitch and you couldn’t help but love her. She came into her own in Act Two, when she finally had the opportunity to show off her smashing voice; blimey, that girl has some pipes!

There is no doubt that this company is overflowing with talent and it is a credit to the fantastic creative team who work so hard week in, week out, to provide such a wonderful platform for young people to perform to a fantastically supportive audience of family, friends and the general public.
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Well done LGYT, you’ve done it again!