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We love a good stage production! The warm lights, the buzzing atmosphere, the promise of a fantastic story…

That’s exactly what was delivered by 83 students from Newcastle High Schools for Girls (NHSG) last weekend, after the talented cast performed the stage version of Legally Blonde to a local audience teeming with pupils, family members, and the wider community.

How incredible is that? Huge well done to all students who took to the stage to put on (what sounds like) an amazing show, and well done to the audience for showing their unwavering support!

This is only the start of what’s to come

The performances took place between Thursday 1 and Saturday 3 February at NHSG’s senior school, making full use of the professional stage facilities within the performing arts department.

Two casts were created which attracted audiences of an impressive 1300 across the four-show run. NHSG today, the West End tomorrow…?

Legally Blonde is an iconic comedy/romance film released in 2001, so it’s great to see that it’s still popular among our younger generation! It tells the story of sorority girl-turned-law student Elle Woods.

Jess Grayson, Year 11, (age 15) is one of the two NHSG pupils who shared the star role. Jess said: “I can honestly say this has been one of the best experiences of my life! As a blonde myself, Elle is such an inspiring character to play.

“She challenges the stereotypes and shows everyone how intelligent she is while still being true to herself. Even when you leave the stage, a little bit of Elle stays with you.”

Lead part for the second cast was 17-year-old Minnie. Now in Year 13 and preparing for her A levels, she has taken part in every show since she started at the school seven years ago. She said: “I am beginning my process of applying for drama school and taking that step into the world of theatre, and I couldn’t be more grateful to have had this experience and to be part of such a strong community and family.

“I will be so incredibly sad to be moving on from this but I believe Legally Blonde and all the fantastic shows that our school put on have not only guided my career aspirations but have also shaped me as a person, and for that I will forever be grateful.”

Anna Dobson, Head of Drama and Musical Director at NHSG, said: “Legally Blonde explores the power of determination, friendship and embracing your true self – and our cast took the audience on an unforgettable journey filled with laughter, catchy tunes and some seriously impressive dance moves.

“I want to express my gratitude to the 83 incredibly talented cast members who have embraced their inner Elle Woods. Their dedication, energy, and enthusiasm have truly brought this production to life. Together, they have shown the world that they, like Elle, can do anything they set their minds to.”

Massive well done to everybody involved. In the words of Elle Woods herself: “You must always have faith in people. And most importantly, you must always have faith in yourself.”

Newcastle High School for Girls is a Schools North East Partner School. If you’d like to find out more about our Partner Programme, click here.

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