Berkhamsted goes Blonde!

December evenings can be dark and cold, but the Senior and Sixth production of Legally Blonde brought a bright pink whirlwind of nonstop fun to the Centenary Theatre.

Based on the now-iconic 2001 film starring Reese Witherspoon, the musical charts sorority sister Elle Woods’ journey to becoming a ‘serious lawyer’. Although she initially applies to Harvard Law School in the name of love, she quickly discovers she has more to offer. With an all-singing, all-dancing ensemble cast – led by a Greek chorus of sorority sisters – the show is a joyous reminder of the importance of believing in yourself.

As ever, Berkhamsted pupils brought immense talent and energy to the stage. Anna M kept the audience captivated throughout the show, balancing humour with vulnerability as a pitch-perfect Elle. Both Harry V and Ellie H delivered hilarious performances as Warner and Paulette, while Tom C brought earnest compassion as Elle’s love interest Emmet.

The quirky characters at Harvard law were brought to life by Zoe A, Matilda H and Ollie M, who were sternly overseen by Byron B as their law professor Callahan. Hannah-Maria B whipped the second act into shape with a spirited portrayal of Elle’s new defendant Brooke, delivering some impressive multitasking of singing, dancing and skipping! Meanwhile, enthusiastic support from Delta Nus was never far away, with a bubbly trio (Seren M, Alex H, Tilly W) lighting up the stage throughout the night.

While principle cast members shone, it was ultimately the combined efforts of every pupil involved that made this show the uplifting and moving experience that it was. Whole ensemble numbers were electric and showcased some fabulous choreography. Much of the play’s comedy was found in its smaller parts, with one-line deliveries and comedic timing bringing the audience to raucous laughter on many occasions.

The incredible set pieces transformed the Centenary Theatre from UCLA’s sorority house to Harvard Law School, to a hair salon, to the courtrooms, and even a bathroom! With every scene change came a new and exciting piece of set to feast your eyes on. The pupil stage management team led by Scarlett J and Leah E ensured everything moved like clockwork, despite difficult and fast-paced scene changes. A live band provided an immersive musical experience and included two pupils, Bea M and Charlie M, who took on the extremely challenging task.

A huge thank you to the hard work and dedication of our teachers, particularly Miss Thackray for directing this fantastic production – it could not have happened without you! Thank you also to Mr Bond, Mr Melling, Mr Curtis and Miss Johnson for their support with the show, and to the Centenary Theatre team for pulling the production together and creating a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Finally, congratulations to every pupil involved in the production. Whether on stage or behind the scenes, every cog in this bright pink machine worked incredibly hard and should be extremely proud of themselves! It was a worthy reminder that “being true to yourself never goes out of style.”