Maybe like me, you recognise the title of this musical from the hit film back in 2001 that starred Reese Witherspoon. It was so popular which makes it very understandable that this would be turned into a theatre production.
Portsmouth Players have brought this show to the Kings Theatre and did not disappoint! Having seen the film quite a while ago, I was intrigued to see how the show would progress and how fun it would be.
For anyone who doesn’t know the story, it is a fascinating comedy that really does take a swipe at what people consider a ‘dumb blonde.’ Set in Beverly Hills, sorority queen Elle is heartbroken when her boyfriend Warner (Matthew Davis) takes her out for a meal and then dumps her, saying that because he is about to attend Harvard Law School, he should now start dating a more serious-minded woman.
Elle refuses to accept this news and follows Warner to Harvard, enrolling herself in law school and taking on what she considers highly intelligent students. Throughout the story, she realises that she is actually a lot smarter than she gives herself credit for.
When Elle and Warner then begin working as interns in a prestigious law firm, the California girl gets a chance to prove her worth by defending a fitness instructor who has been accused of murder. Along the way, Elle finds out who she is and what she truly wants from relationships and her future while meeting new friends.
I loved this musical, it is light, funny, and just has that go kick some butt vibes. It addresses sexual assault without being too deep but showing what can happen in the workplace.
My favourite characters in the Portsmouth Players show were the comedy characters, the ones that really made you laugh out loud. Elle’s dad played by Wez Sebastien stood out wearing a brightly coloured shellsuit that looked so funny and really lifted the first scenes. His big hair and funny facial expressions have you in stitches.
One of my favourite acts was with the stuffy Winthrop, played by Edward Chase. He is outraged that a girl like Elle would even apply and doesn’t want to allow her into Harvard. Elle actually wins him around in a funny sketch and I love the facial expressions that the cast have on stage during this scene.
My other favourite character was the dog, and the UPS guy who made us all laugh. There are great songs, and superb acting, which is a testament to the well-loved Portsmouth Players who always put on a great show!
Well worth a visit to go and see this musical. On now until Saturday the 22nd February with an afternoon matinee thrown in there too.
