Legally Blonde: The Musical! By Brenna Bozigian

 I was slightly embarrassed to stand outside the Savoy Theatre anxiously holding my Legally Blonde: The Musical ticket. A huge fan of the film, I took advantage of seeing what I thought was a bizarre story to turn into a musical. I had low expectations and only went due to my allegiance to the movie…and my curiosity. I was pleasantly taken aback by how endearing the cast and Elle’s plight proved to be on stage. Though Legally Blonde does not transcend to all audience members (like my Grandpa, who accompanied me), its strong lead voices and humor ensure, at the very least, mild entertainment for those who are unfamiliar with the film.

            The play opens with energetic main character Elle and her equally perky sorority sisters, an ensemble that make appearances throughout the show to add humor to scenes the movie took more seriously. Elle’s transition from sorority undergrad to Harvard law school and her personal growth throughout the transition make for a plot that is easy to follow. The play is, thus, able to add in many comedic scenes and still keep the flow of the plot without losing audience members. Scenes that prove to be over the top, yet shamelessly fun to watch, include a large dance number when Elle turns in her pink Harvard application as well as the infamous “bend and snap” sequence that fans of the film will enjoy. Scenes like this make the story and the show fun and universal.

            The musical was entertaining in that it mocked itself and the stereotypes that Legally Blonde addresses, such as “dumb blondes”, sorority girls and uptight east coast law students. As Elle transitions from one world to another she finds herself, which leads to an endearing, sincere ending to a show that is pure fun. The talent of the cast allows the musical to have both comedy and a teary, satisfying conclusion. The main cast all have strong voices, especially leading lady Elle, yet the grasp they have on the characters they play allows the show to be humorous. The energy of the sorority sisters, east coast law students and other supporting groups give Legally Blonde an even stronger backbone and lend theatre elements to the story that the movie lacked such as dance numbers and musical commentary.

            Legally Blonde is not your typical London theatre experience nor would anyone argue that it is a West End staple. Due to its West End talent, however, it pleases audiences and proves that it does deserve its place on stage. The musical is unique in its parody of American stereotypes as well as in its enduring cast of characters whom combine to make a likable production. I thoroughly enjoyed the show and appreciated the balance it achieved between keeping the overall feel of the characters and story line, yet adding more humor and performance to make it come alive on stage. I have recommended Legally Blonde to other American students, yet do not exactly consider the show a reflection of quality British Theatre. Sorry, Elle.