10/06/2026
The five ⭐️ do not surprise us 🎓 Terrific pic; thank you! 🎀 It’s bean fabulous fun bending & snapping Legally Blonde Show tour progs for Grand Theatre 💖
🎭 🎶 Leeds Heritage Theatres 🐶 ROYO
This evening TheatreBean were delighted to be welcomed back to the Leeds Grand Theatre, this time for the Press Night of Legally Blonde - The Musical.
Nikolai Foster has left his mark on this production. Similarly to recent Foster projects such as My Fair Lady and Sound of Music, there is a modern edge that brings pace, vibrancy and memorability to the performance. He combines clever set design with fast paced momentum that truly transfixes the audience and grips you throughout.
Amber Davies takes centre stage as Miss Woods, Elle. The former Love Island star has made waves in the Theatre World for roles such as Lorraine in Back to the Future, Vivienne in Pretty Woman and Jordan in The Great Gatsby as well as her astonishing performance in 2025’s Strictly; there really has been no challenge that Miss Davies cannot reach! She leads the cast with vibrance and energy, bringing audience admiration across the UK.
Davies brings a touching vulnerability to the role, portraying Elle’s raw emotional depth and openness rather than reducing the character to a stereotypical “silly Malibu girl.” She never borders on annoying, and rather shines with inspiration. Her breathtaking vocals had control and clarity, yet brought a husky quality that deepened the performance. In previous productions and cast recordings, performers can be cheesy and nasally; this is not the case with Davies. Warm, graceful and undoubtedly iconic!
Every show needs a greek chorus, and Elle’s best friends and backup lies safely in the hands of PMS. This fierce, feisty trio includes Pilar played by Remi Ferdinand , Serena played by Rosanna Harris, and renowned Tiktok star and podcaster Hannah Lowther as Margot who alternates as Elle on Thursday Matinees.
Remi Ferdinand is stunning as Pilar. Her character is grounded and her voice is flawless. She is a calm anchor amongst the three, and their chemistry as a trio is dynamic. Rosanna Harris is not just sassy but electric onstage. Your eyes immediately gravitate towards her, and her performance is elevated further with snappy dance moves and husky vocals. I particularly enjoyed her solo in “Bend and Snap”. Hannah Lowther is full of energy and gusto as Margot. She brings a sweetness to the role and radiates joy onstage. Again, phenomenal vocals and a faultless performance.
Hannah Lowther alternates as Elle Woods on the Thursday Matinee performances, and as social media and audience feedback has proven she too is astonishing in this role. I think the support demonstrated between Davies and Lowther is deeply touching, and audiences are encouraged to appreciate the differences between the two ladies without the need to compare or pick apart other women. I sincerely hope to see Hannah’s Elle at some point across the tour.
A highlight for me is the theme of female empowerment that carries this story. Vivienne played by Annabelle Terry begins the story as cold and unnerving, but her transformation at the end where she encourages Elle to return to the trial is a touching moment. Keanna Bloomfield as Enid is hilarious throughout, and builds a lovely friendship with Vivienne and Elle, and the three stand together in “Legally Blonde Reprise” with strength and determination.
The chemistry between George Crawford as Emmett and Davies is palpable. I love the way their friendship blossomed and it felt organic as an audience member. From Crawford’s beautiful vocals in “Chip on your shoulder” to their moving moment in “Take it like a man”, audiences route for the unspoken love between the pair. On a side note, WOW. That suit transformation is astonishing! Fantastic costume design that compliments Crawford brilliantly. The role of Warner is performed with charm and suave by Jamie Chatterton. He brings inner turmoil as he has to choose the “serious” path that has been laid out before him. Chatterton has a natural charisma and his dynamic with Davies is a brilliant contrast to the relationship between Elle and Emmett.
Powerhouse performances are guaranteed from Jocasta Almgill as fitness finatic Brooke Wyndham and Karen Mavundukure as Elle’s hairdresser Paulette. Almgill is striking in her vibrant and adrenaline-fueled dance sequence “Whipped Into Shape”. Opening Act 2, you are immediately gripped as she skips her way into the action. Mavundukure’s Paulette is sheer comedy gold. She delivers a compelling performance in the number “Ireland” and brings the house down with her soul-stirring vocals. Goosebumps!
We are treated to hilarious moments between Paulette and Kyle who is played by Ty-Reece Stewart. Stewart proves the power in physicality. His slick entrance sets the tone for his character, alongside a jazzy motif that makes his performance incredibly memorable. “Bend and Snap” is a fun and upbeat number that is even more hilarious when Kyle returns for his stylus.
Every musical needs a villain, and the role of Callahan is performed brilliantly by Adam Cooper. I particularly liked his section of “Whipped Into Shape” where the lyrics were changed to “Don’t Speak Instagram”. Small changes throughout the production helped to bring the show into a modern era without dramatically effecting the story or the atmosphere. Cooper’s vocals were flawless and his vicious demeanour perfect for the character!
Versatility comes from the incredible company who multi role throughout the production. Daisy Twells demonstrates sheer versatility as Kate/Chutney and various other roles throughout. Not only does she wholeheartedly deliver with vocal prowess, but her hilarious characterisation in the role of Chutney highlights that she is a multifaceted actor! A stunning performance.
Aaron Shales delivers with physicality and sass throughout, again multi rolling as various characters and bringing humour and charisma. Bradley Delarosbel and Jaime Tait in “Gay or European” are hilarious. Wonderful performances from Louie Wood, James Lim, Raiaz Fisher, Lauren Hampton, and Dylan Gordon-Jones.
A special mention must go to performing pets Nellie and Sprout as Rufus and Bruiser Woods who steal the hearts of the audience. I was heartbroken to hear the news of Milo, who sadly passed away over the Bank Holiday weekend, and it was an honour to have seen such a beautiful well behaved boy in Nottingham.
Wigs, Hair and Makeup are simply outstanding. The costumes feel almost avant-gard at times, combining vintage 90’s with a fresh twist. It’s colourful, eccentric and timeless. It is clear that consideration has been given to their performers, not only flattering and visually stunning but comfortable for the cast members too. Leah Hill’s choreography is sharp and precise and brings a modern edge combined with pure nostalgia. The full production team have worked tirelessly to create a masterful production that entices audiences old and new.
The Legally Blonde UK and Ireland Tour is a MUST SEE. Selling out across the country, audiences are hooked and deservedly so. The cast, the visuals, the vocals; it is the full package. Bursting with serotonin and pink, this performance is guaranteed to lift your spirits. I am POSITIVE you will love this production because … What? Like it’s hard?
Production: Legally Blonde UK and Ireland Tour
Rating: ★★★★★
Date: Tuesday 9th July 2026
Reviewer: S.M.
