School’s production dazzles audiences

Talented students at Hanham Woods Academy had their audiences thinking pink with their vibrant production of the Broadway musical Legally Blonde JR.

Packed full of infectious energy, this fun and upbeat musical follows the adventures of a sorority girl named Elle Woods (played by Bella Worgan of Year 10 and Tallulah Thomas from Year 8) – a Gemini with a double Capricorn moon – who tries to win her ex-boyfriend back by earning a Harvard law degree.

Delta Nu sorority president Elle seems to have it all: good looks, a relationship with the ‘campus catch’, and great taste in clothes. However, her life is turned upside-down when her boyfriend Warner dumps her in an attempt to start getting ‘serious’ about his future and attend Harvard Law.

Determined to win him back, it takes Elle a lot of hard work and plenty of charm to earn her own place at Harvard so she can prove to Warner that she’s serious enough for him. Once at school, she is challenged by her peers, professors, and her ex, but with the help of some new friends, Elle sets out to realise her potential and prove herself to the world.

Students began rehearsing in September last year in readiness for a total of five shows, which included three matinees and two evening performances, each of which played out to 160-strong capacity audiences.
This production featured a creative cast of three staff and 59 students, plus front and backstage students.
Proceeds from ticket sales were ploughed back into the Performing Arts department to help produce further shows.

In a gesture of community engagement, pupils from Hanham Abbots Primary School and Christchurch Primary were invited to watch the show and the feedback was amazing from both primaries.

Steve O’Callaghan, Hanham Woods principal, said: “Each year the productions get better and better, and this year was no exception. My congratulations go to everyone involved!”

This production was directed by Caitlin Simmonds, assisted by Poppy Goold and Ella Reed. The musical director was Aniele Filain, assisted by vocal coach Evie Selby, while the show was choreographed by Lydia Dyson and Lily Hawthorne. Nicola Hurrell filled the role of production manager.