Rugby Theatre Celebrates 25 Years of Youth Project with Legally Blonde - The Musical

Rugby Theatre Youth Project 2024. Legally Blonde - Principals. Photo Martin Pulley.

Legally Blonde: The Musical at Rugby Theatre from 31 July - 4 August.

Preview by Rosie Fuller.

Omigod You Guys! Rugby Theatre celebrates 25 years of Youth Project!

Pink is power! The fabulous pink bombshell Elle Woods is making her way to Rugby Theatre for Legally Blonde: The Musical, from 31 July - 4 August.

Performed by Rugby Theatre’s Youth Project, Legally Blonde: The Musical follows the journey of fashion-savvy Elle, whose life is turned upside down when she is dumped by her boyfriend Warner. In an effort to win him back, Elle follows Warner to Havard Law School where she discovers her true potential, makes lifelong friends and proves that being true to yourself never goes out of style.

Adult Tech supervisors, Phil Kettle centre. Photo Martin Pulley.

“This is a story of empowerment, self-discovery and the triumph of the human spirit, with show-stopping dance and musical numbers,” says the Youth Project’s founder Phil Kettle.

Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Rugby Theatre Youth Project is open to budding actors, singers and dancers aged between 10 and 21, who stage a high-quality show after just 10 days of rehearsals, guided by a West End team. For those who don’t want to be on stage, there’s also the opportunity to be involved behind the scenes.

Legally Blonde-Rugby Theatre Youth Project July24. Behind the scenes Techies. Photo Martin Pulley.

Since the first Youth Project in 1997, the initiative has offered life-changing experiences for over 2,000 children and young adults from Rugby and the surrounding area.

“When I was 40, I didn't think I would still be leading the Youth Project at 68 years old!” says Phil. “It's seeing the development in young people, year on year, that keeps me going. Memorable moments include building a near copy of the original London stage set for Oliver, and having an orchestra of 13 musicians (plus the musical director) for West Side Story. And the most unusual prop has been an inflatable egg for Honk!”

The lead role of Elle is played by Connie Graham and Leah Hobson, and Warner is shared by Dexter Robinson and Jack Jones. Four-legged friends will make a rare appearance on Rugby Theatre’s stage too, with Bertie the shitzu taking on the role of Elle’s dog Bruiser, and Barley the cockerpoo making his stage debut as Rufus.

Legally Blonde-Rugby Theatre Youth Project July24, the whole group. Photo Martin Pulley.

“Tickets are selling fast, so don’t miss your chance to see this spectacular show,” finishes Phil. “As Elle says, it’s going to be ‘better than four hours in a hot tub!’”

Legally Blonde: The Musical runs from 31 July - 4 August, with matinee performances at the weekend, and BSL interpreted performances on Thursday 1 August and Sunday 4 August. Family discounts are available.

See www.rugbytheatre.co.uk or call the Rugby Theatre box office on 01788 541234 for tickets.