‘Legally Blonde: The Musical’ took Sheffield Theatres’ stage by storm. An absolute tour de force, it is a hilarious, dazzling night of entertainment for all.
Amber Davies stars as Elle Wood, the chihuahua wielding, pink-wearing, fashion-obsessive sorority queen who embarks on an adventure in pursuit of status and legitimacy (or what her ex-boyfriend Warner refers to as ‘seriousness’). Davies is remarkably adept in the role, possessing great comedic sensibility and offering a very precise and focussed portrayal of the unlikely, unlucky-in-love law student. She is excellently matched by George Crawford’s Emmett who provided an equally as pointed and complete performance. Adam Cooper’s Callahan is formidably authoritative and delightfully antagonistic. Jocasta Almgill’s Brooke is refreshing and very impressive (particularly during Act Two’s opening number which is a great feat of performance and endurance) and Annabelle Terry offers acutely balanced work in her portrayal of Vivienne, with some playful light and dark tones.
The ensemble cast and other supporting members are excellent, with a shout out to show dogs Sprout and Milo whose presence is incredibly welcome. One of the stars of the show is undoubtedly Karen Mavendukure as the hilarious, earnest and vocally indomitable Paulette. She gives us a fantastically comedic portrayal of the sweetheart hairdresser who supports Elle Woods’ ambitions to excel in law school and resolve her romantic conflict with Warner. It is to the full casts’ credit their vocal prowess lands on attentive ears. Married to the highly skilled musical direction of Cerys McKenna and the band, the show sounds gorgeous and full of shine.
Visually, this production is an absolute feast for the eyes. Not only are there shimmering, glamorous costumes designed by Tom Rogers, but the set design is perhaps the most effective, impressive, dynamic and stylish you’re likely to see in UK theatres this season. Colin Richmond’s set is brought to light effervescently with Ben Cracknell’s powerful lighting design. Playing in this colourful theatrical arena, Nikolai Foster’s direction is spectacularly detailed. Leah Hill’s choreography is relentless and consistently appropriate, and there are no moments of uncertainty throughout this fast-paced, lucid show. It is to the credit of this creative team that this show is delivered to such a high standard. Whilst Heather Hach, Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin’s book and music are strong, many productions rely on the brilliance of recognisable and existing material to push live shows over the line – not this one. Everyone gives like their lives depend on it, and it’s felt by their audiences.
This production is a superb feat in delivering highly ambitious, highly committed and highly compelling live entertainment, and warrants full houses. Be a part of that house – Legally Blonde: The Musical is playing at the Lyceum Theare until Saturday 7th March. Tickets can be found here: https://www.sheffieldtheatres.co.uk/events/legally-blonde-2026 and dates and ticket information for the rest of its UK tour can be found here: https://legallyblondeshow.com/tour-information/
Reviewer: Louis Thompson
Reviewed: 3rd March 2026
North West End UK Rating: