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Review: Legally Blonde The Musical at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

10:26, 20 March 2018

updated: 10:41, 20 March 2018

I have never seen so much pink.

Legally Blonde is a film I love dearly. It’s so incredibly uplifting and includes themes of love, friendship and… dogs?

It’s the story of a ‘dumb blonde’ who gets into Harvard to win back her ex-boyfriend and prove herself to him - but actually finds something she's good at in the process.

I went into the musical at the Marlowe theatre in Canterbury just praying that Lucie Jones as Elle Woods would do one of my favourite characters justice.

And she did.

Legally Blonde the Musical (1227094)
Legally Blonde the Musical (1227094)

With incredible vocals and an obvious respect for Reese Witherspoon’s portrayal of Elle, Lucie perfectly encapsulated the dramatic and often over-the-top nature of the character.

The show itself was vibrant with incredible energy all the way through. I genuinely don’t know how they kept their energy levels that high.

There were also some brilliant dance numbers, with Brooke Windham’s skipping fitness DVD routine and I cannot forget the UPS guy- it’s a brilliant thing to behold.

Legally Blonde the Musical: Rita Simons stars
Legally Blonde the Musical: Rita Simons stars

Undoubtedly the stand-out performer for me was Rita Simons, who played Paulette Bonafonté. You might know Rita better as Roxy Mitchell from Eastenders, but this lady has got pipes.

Her vocals were incredible and her portrayal of Paulette was so faithful, yet still brought through her own personality.

The supporting cast were fantastic too, everyone really gelled and the vocals were perfect all the way though.

Legally Blonde the Musical Picture: Robert Workman
Legally Blonde the Musical Picture: Robert Workman

One minor criticism though was the dogs they cast for Bruiser and Rufus, who definitely seemed not to want to be on stage, and took every opportunity to attempt to run, but couldn’t because of the slippery stage. I’d have prefered to have had toy dogs, which would have added to the comedic value, rather than use actual animals.

Overall though, it was a great and uplifting night out and I can highly recommend seeing it whether you’re a fan of the film, or have never heard of it before.

The show is at the Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury until Saturday, March 24. There are very limited tickets left. To book call 01227 787787 or visit marlowetheatre.com

Lucie Jones and Rita Simons star in Legally Blonde the Musical Picture: Robert Workman
Lucie Jones and Rita Simons star in Legally Blonde the Musical Picture: Robert Workman
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