Legally Blonde - Youth Onstage

Legally Blonde is doing the amateur theatre circuit rounds at the moment, with many youth theatres tackling this feel-good show. The Old Rep this week plays host to local company Youth Onstage, who have gutsily taken on the challenge of this complex production.

The show wasn't without its glitches. There were some cues missed, projection issues, a disappearing dog and a premature caravan appearance. However, considering these challenges, the capable cast pulled through with professionalism, not letting these distractions detract from their individual performances.

Hannah Brook is, without doubt, the shining star of this show. She really is Elle Woods. Her voice is sublime throughout and vocally she is one of the best Elle's I have seen on the youth circuit. Coupled with an assured character performance, it was a treat to watch her. Matty Brook complemented well as Emmett and James Woodward made for a sleazy Warner.

Good support came from Charlotte Young as the hilariously quirky Paulette - she had a beautiful time to her voice. Alongside, assured performances from Tom Ashen as Kyle, Eboni Green in great voice as Vivienne and Renee Squire as Pilar. The Greek chorus harmonies were tight and the girls blended well together.

Sometimes the funniest moments can lie in the cameo appearances and this was true of the performance I saw last night. Kia Gates threw everything she could at the role of Enid and really played up the character. It's such a brilliant role and it was great to see it showcased in this performance. And the final cameos came from the utterly super Jay Alves and Jordan Matthews in Gay or European - as always this song is a personal highlight.

With direction and musical direction from Deb Brook and David Jones, there was a wonderful, supportive atmosphere in the theatre last night and audiences whooped and cheered throughout. The palpable camaraderie is a credit to Youth Onstage and they continue to work hard to deliver a good show.