An adaptation of Legally Blonde has taken over an Ipswich stage, thanks to the collective efforts of young actors and supportive partnership.
After months of rehearsals, senior students from St Joseph’s College and Sixth Formers were ready to show the world the story that was first made famous by the MGM blockbuster.
The excellence of the choreography and sheer enjoyment of the cast carried the packed houses along for four evenings at DanceEast, from December 5 to December 8.
The college’s established partnership with Arts International was one of the keys to the success of the play.
Legally Blonde combines a romance and a morality tale. The setting could not be more American, but thanks to TV and the movies, the themes are readily accessible to a British audience.
The story chimed with St Joseph’s Latin motto, ‘Fides, Labore et Tenacity’, which are faith, hard work, and tenacity.
A vacuous young woman was learning to have faith in herself to be something more than a sorority princess and discovering that hard work opened doors to a world with more meaning.
Tenacity then wins the day, with our heroine becoming a fine legal mind, holding on to friendships in the face of moral quandaries, and winning Mr Right.
The lead role of Elle Woods was shared by two of the college’s most seasoned performers, Grace (L6) and Bella (Y11).
They were supported by a large cast, including 11 principles.
The college encourages all students to ‘have a go’ at the annual musical, and some of the players were making their first foray onto the boards.
Outstanding among the performers was Eleanor (Upper Sixth), playing wise and kind Paulette. She and her muscular swain, Kyle (Ronnie, Upper Sixth), were both endearing and hilarious in their roles.
Vicki Harvey, head of creative and performing arts, said that the high standard of this performance was the result of “collective effort and unwavering support”.
Mrs Harvey added: “I want to express my gratitude to our audiences, dedicated volunteers, and generous sponsors.
“We are particularly grateful to our creative partner, Arts International, especially Lucy May Barker. Lucy has worked tirelessly with our students to refine their skills.”
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