All Natural and Legally Blonde!

On a blustery, rain-soaked evening in Belfast, the Grand Opera House was aglow with excitement for the opening night of "Legally Blonde the Musical" presented by The Ulster Operatic Company. This beloved production was eagerly awaited, and judging by the electric atmosphere within the theatre, it more than delivered.

Directed by the accomplished Tony Finnegan, the show lived up to its expectations and then some. Known for his creative work on Emmy-winning TV specials, Finnegan brought a polished, cinematic vision to the stage that elevated the narrative of Elle Woods' transformation from a seemingly shallow sorority girl to a Harvard Law sensation. His direction ensured that each scene transitioned seamlessly, maintaining an engaging flow that held the audience captivated from start to finish.

Musical Director Wilson Shields, a stalwart at the Grand Opera House for over a decade, demonstrated his expertise in managing the musical elements of the show. The score, lively and catchy, resonated beautifully throughout the historic venue, capturing the exuberance of Elle Woods' journey with vibrant precision.

Karen Hawthorne, in the role of Elle Woods, was a standout, capturing the essence of the character with a charm and vivacity that drew frequent comparisons to Reese Witherspoon's original portrayal. Her performance was met with admiration during the interval, as whispers of her likeness to the original Elle spread throughout the audience. Hawthorne’s sparkling stage presence, along with her vocal talent, embodied Elle’s transformation in a way that was both inspiring and immensely entertaining.

However, the evening’s unexpected scene-stealer was Jordan Arnold of Q Radio fame, who played Paulette. Arnold’s portrayal was a masterclass in comedic timing, vocal strength, and an unforgettable Boston accent. Her Q Radio colleagues Ibe Sesay, Gareth Woods, and Jane Veitch joined the rest of the house in raucous applause during her scenes. Arnold's rendition of "Ireland" was a standout moment, complete with lively Irish dancing and comedic flair, which resonated joyously with the audience.

Sean Harkin as Emmett Forrest brought warmth and depth to his character’s relationship with Elle. Harkin’s portrayal was both endearing and credible, perfectly encapsulating Emmett’s supportive and humble nature. As the narrative unfolded, his chemistry with Hawthorne’s Elle was tender and believable, adding to the production's heart.

The role of Vivienne Kensington was impeccably executed by Caitlin Johnston, whose performance cleverly navigated the character's complex transition from antagonist to ally. Her resemblance to Salma Blair was not only physical but also emotional, as she captured the nuances of a character more conflicted than initially perceived.

Adam Johnston provided comic relief as Kyle, Paulette's UPS delivery guy. His deep voice and charismatic stage presence had the audience in stitches, particularly over the infamous "package" jokes that were playfully executed throughout his appearances. Johnston’s ability to draw laughter from the simplest gestures made each of his scenes memorable.

A delightful surprise came from four-legged actors, Pippa and Ty, who portrayed Bruiser and Rufus. Their presence on stage was well-received, disproving the old adage about the unpredictability of working with animals. The audience adored their charming antics, adding a dash of irresistible cuteness to the show.

A noteworthy highlight of the production was its ensemble, whose cohesive performances and spirited choreography — the handiwork of AIMS Award winner Matthew Watsonwere executed with precision and flair. Watson, who also lectures in Performing Arts Dance, brought a vibrancy to each scene, ensuring the cast’s every step resonated with the audience.

The seamless set, lighting, and costume design, all contributed to enhancing the production’s immersive quality. Transitions between scenes were executed with finesse, ensuring that the audience remained enveloped within Elle’s world without distraction. These technical elements, often unsung heroes of theatre, underpinned the production's success.

Furthermore, the diverse representation on stage underscored Ulster Operatic Company's commitment to inclusivity within theatre. The cast’s varied backgrounds contributed to a richer, more authentic storytelling experience, resonating profoundly in today’s cultural landscape.

Despite the relentless rain outside, the atmosphere inside the Grand Opera House was one of warmth and community, a testament to the company’s ability to bring people together through shared experience and joy. There wasn’t an empty seat in the house, a reflection of both the production's popularity and its quality.

For those who haven’t yet experienced the magic of "Legally Blonde the Musical," there is still time to catch this captivating production, running from October 8th to October 12th. Tickets and further information are available at www.goh.co.uk. It's an event not to be missed, promising an evening of laughter, catchy tunes, and an uplifting message that resonates long after the final bow