'Legally Blonde: The Musical' has revisited the novel turned comedy flick, and added a pinch of musical magic.
For those unaware, the story follows Elle Woods, a sorority sister who enlists herself in Harvard School of Law to win back the heart of her preppy ex-boyfriend, Warner. Through sheer determination, and support from her new friends and pet chihuahua, Bruiser, Elle goes on a journey of self-discovery. She knuckles down in an effort to break through stereotype, while remaining suave and stylish.
The show has captivated audiences around the world, and will come to Iona Performing arts centre with Stacie Hobbs playing the lead role.
Stacie, how did you get into performing in musicals?
I've always wanted to be in a musical. I've always loved singing and acting so it was a natural progression! I finally got the chance when I was 24 when a local theatre group advertised auditions for 'Singing In The Rain', which was my first show. I definitely caught the bug!
Were you a big fan of the book/ film before you got involved?I am a big fan! It's one of my all-time favourite movies. Reese Witherspoon is such a brilliant actor and person, she has always been very articulate and never played down her intelligence, I love that. It is such a clever movie with a great feminine role model who doesn't compromise who she is for what she wants. It has a great, timeless message.
What is it like to play Elle? Any similarities between the two of you?
Elle is an incredible role, it's a dream to play her! The role itself is a challenge, Elle sings in almost every song and is on stage 95 per cent of the time, and the other 5 per cent is costume changes! Elle herself is quite similar to me in a lot of ways. We are both fashion fans, both love the colour pink, and we also share a bond through being underestimated due to age/ personality/ gender/ appearance. But Elle is definitely a morning person, which is very unlike me.
Why do you think the character has connected with so many people?
I think that everyone has had an experience of being judged unfairly based on physical attributes, and I think that experience helps us to identify with Elle. She is so determined to get what she has set her mind on, even when everything is against her. Plus, I think Aussies love supporting the underdog, and Elle certainly is a fish out of water in Harvard (in the best possible way, of course).
Elle, what did you think of Harvard when you first got there?
I thought Harvard was a beautiful campus, but a bit stuffy. Hardly anyone wears colour! I mean, people have their own sense of fashion, but it's very different to Malibu. Maybe it's the weather that makes everyone feel serious.
Were you allowed to keep Bruiser on campus? Or have I just got you in trouble?
Oh, Bruiser is my family, I couldn't have done this without him! Pets are totally allowed on campus, he stays in my dorm room during class, and is great for cuddles when I'm feeling stressed with study! He also loves to chase the squirrels on campus. I'm not sure if they like it as much as he does!
You're studying to be a lawyer, singing, and keeping your hair in good condition. How do you manage to juggle all of that?
You need a fabulous vocal teacher, hairdresser, study buddy and a LOT of Red Bull! I'm so lucky to have wonderful people in my life. Everyone needs a lawyer and a hairdresser for BFFs! And I'm lucky to have been blessed with very resilient follicles.
Any fashion advice for upcoming lawyers?You need to dress the part if you want to get ahead. But that doesn't mean you need to be boring! Don't be afraid to create your own signature look with your own signature colour (mine is pink!). If you are confident in what you're wearing and feel great, it will be apparent in your performance. And a pair of killer heels for the girls doesn't hurt either.
Comfortable pants or stylish mini-skirt in the court room?
A mini-skirt may be a little too scandalous for court, even for me! And I'd save the comfy pants for the pre-court workout. So I would go for a nice A-line skirt or a dress with lots of swish.
How do you fit all your law books into your handbag? Are you secretly Mary Poppins?
Oh I LOVE Mary Poppins! I would love to get my hands on her bag! Wouldn't it be great to have all your makeup and clothing on hand for fashion emergencies? Carrying law books around is GREAT for my cardio routine, although I try not to carry too many at once! I learnt that one the hard way. High heels and text books are not always the best combination.
Getting dumped by Warner. Best thing that could've happened?
It certainly did not feel like it at the time! But I've certainly learnt a lot about myself and what I can achieve when I set my mind to it. Warner would be lucky to have me back.
'Legally Blonde: The Musical' plays Iona Performing Arts Centre 5-19 March.
