Irene didn't fancy listening to fake American accents all night but I had insisted that we go and watch 'Legally Blonde' because we hadn't done anything 'Different' for a while even though I hadn't a clue what it was about.
To be honest, when the opening number started, I wasn't sure if we would make it to the interval, as everything was pink, the accents were indeed a little grating and it looked like being a saccharine version of 'Grease.'
We stayed with it and were both extremely glad that we did because it was very funny (particularly after the interval) and uplifting, with great singing, dancing and athleticism (How anyone can skip at full tilt and still sing is mind boggling.) It even has a bit of a plot and though you'd basically guess the ending after a few minutes, there's murder and suspense along the way.
If anyone is familiar with the director and choreographer, Anthony Williams' and/or his work, you could see his personality shining through this musical, with its humour, big dance numbers, costumes and the slick professionalism with which it was performed and staged.
Anthony's sense of fun pervaded the cast and they all seemed to enjoy being there; as usual with these local productions, you have to constantly remind yourself that they are all amateurs, with the exception of the brilliant, Harry Lydon, who is hilarious as Kyle B O'Boyle.
The lead role is played by Ann-Marie Craine and there are other starring performances by Lisa Dancox and Liam Kaneen.
My mother also saw the show but was very near the front in the stalls and found it a little noisy for her taste, so a tip may be to be a little further back or sit in the dress circle where we had no issue.
This show deserves success, so make sure it's a sellout.
