Theatre Under the Stars: LEGALLY BLONDE

I first saw Legally Blonde on Broadway in New York City with the original cast. Then I saw them on the  television broadcast on MTV. So when I attended the opening night of Theatre Under the Stars' production of Legally Blonde, imagine my delight when the show just happened to be totally stellar! Like, OMIGOD, OMIGOD YOU GUYS!! 

all photos by Emily Cooper

Abby Woodhouse should be renamed Abby POWERHOUSE because she does a monumental job as Elle Woods! She's got the comic timing, the vulnerability, and the pipes! Absolutely tremendous! 

Madeleine Suddaby also shines as the fan-favourite Paulette. The entire cast were fantastic, right down to the four-legged ones!! 

If you've never seen Legally Blonde before, you are in for a treat. The music and songs are witty and catchy AF. The storylines will have you laughing and guessing and maybe even tearing up at some points. It's just so excellent, that this review is one big rave. 

What you want is to go see it for yourself! LEGALLY BLONDE is on now at Theatre Under the Stars until August 16. 

Theatre Under the Stars: Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

 Now, if you know me, you know that I am not that keen on going to shows where I have to watch children sing and act. So when my friend really really wanted to go see Charlie and the Chocolate Factory the musical at Theatre Under the Stars this summer, I indulged her. And boy am I glad I did!

All photos by Emily Cooper.

It was a confection of fun last night at Malkin Bowl as the cast took the stage to bring us into the world of Charlie Bucket and Willy Wonka. With a simple monochrome set, I was at first disillusioned with what the night had in store for us, but by the end of it, I was definitely transported into another dimension, especially with that final scene. 

Well done to the Theatre Under the Stars actors and crew and everyone involved on this achievement that is sure to entertain people of all ages this summer. We brought blankets to keep us warm as the sun set behind the stage, and to keep in theme with the show, we had chocolates to snack on as well! 

The musical itself is smart enough to incorporate the iconic numbers of Pure Imagination and some Oompa Loompa songs. 

There's a ballet sequence that features Veruca Salt and a quartet of squirrels that was the most amazing fever dream I've ever had. 

Peter Ricardo's Willy Wonka is a friendlier and less manic take on the character, which appealed to me as he ebbs and flows with humour, sarcasm, and a paternal warmth. Jennie

Finally, Jennie Grenelle was a scene stealer with her delicious role of Mrs. Teavee, and had me in absolute stitches. 

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is on now on alternating evenings at Theatre Under the Stars at Malkin Bowl in Stanley Park, until August 16!