Theatre review: Fresh take on Legally Blonde uplifts and empowers at Theatre Under the Stars

Core elements of this audience favourite remain in a production full of touches that feel unmistakably contemporary

By Vince Kanasoot

Legally Blonde. Photo by Emily Cooper

Theatre Under the Stars presents Legally Blonde at Malkin Bowl to August 16

TRENDS MAY COME and go, but as Elle Woods wisely reminds us, “being true to yourself never goes out of style.” This enduring mantra is a key reason why Legally Blonde—the story of Elle’s unexpected journey to Harvard Law School—continues to strike a chord with audiences. 

Theatre Under the Stars, having found great success with Legally Blonde in 2013 and 2014, has brought it back for a new generation, with a production that feels fresh and unmistakably 2025. And beneath the comedy and infectious song-and-dance numbers lies a heartfelt message about self-belief and authenticity. It’s a show that not only entertains, but also uplifts and empowers.

With a book by Heather Hach that adeptly transfers the 2001 film to the stage, the musical follows Elle, a former sorority queen bee who suddenly finds herself an outcast among the academically dedicated students at Harvard Law. In trying to keep her head above water, while also pursuing love, she discovers her untapped potential—which can only be realized if she learns to embrace her true self. 

Given the zany humour and colourful characters, it makes sense that the film transfers well to the stage. Additionally, Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin’s catchy tunes elevate the narrative, especially when set to choreography. Elle’s Harvard application now includes “What You Want”, where choreographer Lyndsey Britten has created a pep rally–style number with a marching band and cheerleaders performing a high-energy routine, stamped with an impressive tumbling pass by dance captain Ava Maddison. Elsewhere, the videos of fitness mogul Brooke Wyndham (Angella Cody) translate into “Whipped Into Shape”, with its impressive feats of choreographed jump rope. 

 At the wheel is a sensational Abby Woodhouse, driving the show as Elle. With her infectious energy and enthusiasm, she’s a joy to watch. Her strong vocal chops allow her to use her songs to express the full range of Elle’s emotions, the highlight being the triumphant “So Much Better”. 

Legally Blonde. Photo by Emily Cooper

The Broadway production of Legally Blonde: The Musical premiered back in 2007, but this version feels current under the direction of Jayme Armstrong. The opening number, “Omigod You Guys”, now has Elle’s Delta Nus sorority sisters shooting social media content. What was a CD in the original is now a playlist, and a reference to MTV has been changed to Instagram. And as a nod to sexual diversity, Elle now states that the bend-and-snap appeals to bisexual men, in addition to straight men. 

Adding to the present-day feel are costume designer Brian Ball’s trendy streetwear looks that include textured shirts and wide-legged pants. Other fresh elements include Madeleine Suddaby’s unique interpretation of Elle’s aesthetician, Paulette, which is a departure from, say, Jennifer Coolidge’s film version. Here, Suddaby’s Paulette is based on earnestness and sensitivity, and her soaring rendition of “Ireland” includes an impressive ending riff added from the original Broadway version. 

Nathaniel Johnson is also a breath of fresh air as Emmett, Elle’s teacher’s assistant. Johnson’s Emmett has an innocence that plays nicely off Woodhouse’s emotionally mature Elle, resulting in a meaningful version of the pair’s duet, “Take It Like a Man”, when Elle takes Emmett shopping. And as Elle’s Delta Nu besties, the trio of Madison Raybould, Madison Simms, and Lexi Limin light up the stage with Gen Z energy to the max. 

Amid this refreshed look, all of Legally Blonde’s iconic elements are intact, including a charming Sam Hall strutting his stuff as UPS delivery man Kyle, and Elle’s chihuahua, Bruiser, played by the adorable Buttercup. The orchestra, led by music director Eliza De Castro, plays all the songs terrifically, as well as the numerous interludes that underscore scenes, adding to the fun. 

With style, smarts, and a whole lot of sparkle, Theatre Under the Stars’ Legally Blonde is a feel-good show with a meaningful message at its core. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the story or meeting Elle for the first time, this version will prove that staying true to yourself—complete with pink, pep, and purpose—never goes out of fashion.

---

Related Articles