Rehearsals are in full swing for performing arts students at Richard Taunton Sixth Form College in Southampton as they put the finishing touches to their summer production, Legally Blonde.
The cast of 27 first and second year students, who are studying musical theatre triple, acting and dance, will be performing the show on May 14 to 16 in The Hub Theatre at City College.
The hit musical, which is based on the film of the same name, tells of bubbly sorority girl Elle Woods, who is dumped by her boyfriend but defies expectations by charming her way into Harvard Law and achieving legal success on her own terms.
Performing arts teacher Chloe Green said the show is a perfect platform for the students to show off their skills. “Our students are a true testament to the work we do here at the college within our performing arts department,” she said. “This show provides an opportunity for students to work within a professional theatre environment and with a trained stage crew, not only developing their practical skills, but their professional ones.
“It’s a show that is filled with so much love, laughter and heart and we are so proud of our students for all they have achieved this year, and we can’t wait to share this show with our audiences and showcase our students’ talent.”
Among the students taking part is first year musical theatre triple student Carley Wood, who is playing the lead role. “Being able to play Elle is a memory I will always treasure. Her energy is always at a constant high with her upbeat and oblivious personality,” she said.
“However, her journey from being just a simple, underestimated blonde to a girl with purpose is what I admire the most. I’m most excited to be able to convey that journey of discovery to the audience.”
Charlie Morse, a first year acting student playing the role of Elle’s dismissive ex-boyfriend Warner, said he is enjoying playing the part and developing different movements and voice for him. “This role has allowed me to build on my skills and acting knowledge and I have found that it’s been important in finding my voice as an actor,” he said.
First year acting student Atlas Wright is playing love interest Emmett Forest in the show. “I’m honoured to have the opportunity to work on such a beautiful musical,” he said. “This is an experience I won’t ever forget and I cannot wait to get on stage with my friends.”
Eimear Moriarty, who is in her second year studying musical theatre and is a member of the show’s ensemble, said rehearsals have been enjoyable. “I’ve enjoyed seeing the show come together and watching how each individual has brought something different to the show, especially character-wise. I’m excited for the audiences to see the final outcome,” she said.
The staging and design has been developed in collaboration with City College and the show will be directed by curriculum manager Rob Collier.
He said: “As a college we are very proud of our tradition of producing large scale musicals. This year we have worked in a closer collaboration with City College as they have built the set while continuing to support us with the backstage running of the show.
“This has allowed us to continue providing outstanding opportunities for young people within Southampton. We are incredibly proud of the hard work of the students and are delighted to present such a much-loved musical.”
There are still tickets for the show, which is being performed at 7.30pm each night, available at https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/whats-on/southampton/the-hub-theatre/legally-blonde/e-vqrzpa.
