Legally Blonde: The Musical

Music and lyrics by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin

Book by Heather Hach

Directed and choreographed by Valerie Easton

Musical Direction by Danny Balkwill

Theatre Under the Stars

Malkin Bowl, Stanley Park

Playing alternate nights until August 17th, 2013

Vancouver, BC: It was another perfect night at Malkin Bowl in Vancouver. The sky was clear, the temperature hovered around 20ºC and I didn't even need a jacket. We Vancouverites, who have sat through cold and rainy summer nights in Stanley Park, prayed to the weather fairies that these glorious days and nights would last till September, and sat back to revel in musical theatre in the park.

As for Legally Blonde: the Musical, developed from the 2001 film which in turn was based on Amanda Brown's novel Legally Blonde, - I enjoyed it so much I hope to find a time to bring my grand-daughter (California blonde of course) to see it when she comes to visit. 

The plot follows the journey of Elle Woods (Breanne Arrigo), blonde fashionista President of the UCLA Delta Nu, to Harvard Law School in pursuit of her ambitious preppy boyfriend, Warner (Peter Cumins) who had dumped her for the more "serious" and well-connected Vivienne (Andrea Bailey). Bringing her unique style into the classroom, Elle runs into the feared Professor Callahan (Warren Kimmel) and the supercilious attitudes of her ambitious classmates.

But fortunately, teaching assistant Emmett (Scott Walters) sees beyond her perky exterior and gets her to take her studies seriously. Another unlikely ally is beautician Paulette (Cathy Wilmot) of the Hair Affair salon, who tells her to value her style and work with what she has, but herself dreams of Ireland and an Irish lover.

Achieving one of the coveted Callahan internships, Elle joins the team defending fitness guru, Brooke (Katie Murphy) and after some stormy moments discovers that she has the skills to help others through the law. Three years later as the class valedictorian, she lets Paulette tell where everyone has landed.

While the on-stage energy doesn't let up for a moment and I enjoyed the ensemble dancing, some of the musical numbers stood out for me. Specially loved the cleverly naughty Gay or European scene in the courtroom. As for Whipped into Shape, I was gasping for breath just watching the incredibly fit Katie Murphy.

Overall this production is fun, fun, fun and a great way to spend a summer evening.

Tickets are available by phone at (604) 696.4295  or book online at  www.tuts.ca/tickets. Tickets also available at the door. All performances begin at 8 pm except July 27, 31 & August 3 when show time is at 7 pm.