Legally Blonde - YOG

Photo: Adam James Chapman

“OH MY GOD YOU GUYS” Coventry Youth Operetta Group close their 2016 season with the stunning Legally Blonde. As Elle Woods seeks out to get back her man, she follows him to Harvard Law School and unexpectedly becomes 'Legally' Blonde herself.

Libby Simpkins led the piece well as the 'blonde' Elle Woods and was accompanied well by her on stage tutor Luke Bingham as Emmett. Another notably strong performance was from Jess Dorian as Vivienne who really shone towards the latter end of the play.

Overall, proscenium's set covered the Albany's challenging stage well and with the lighting it created a really strong feel of the glitz and glam of Malibu, and contrasted well to be scenes in Harvard Law School. The band tackled the complex score well and kudos must go to the ensemble for their performance in the challenging Whipped Into Shape. Although at times it was a little overcrowded on stage, it gave a great effect. One special mention goes to the two animal stars of the production Indie as Bruiser and Pablo as Rufus as they smothered the audience with love - a nice touch.

As with many opening nights, there were unfortunately sound issues in the performance. This resulted in dialogue and some parts of songs being missed. Hopefully these are just some opening night glitches, which can be easily ironed out.

The strongest lead male was undoubtedly the stunning performance of Callahan by Nathan Routledge. After experiencing this young actor stun as Collins in Wing It Theatre's Rent, after tonight's performance I am looking forward to seeing where his career takes him.

Despite a few opening night glitches, the overall production was well presented with some strong performances from individuals, as well as the large ensemble – a production well worth catching before it closes Saturday!