With just a week of rehearsals left for the Made at Curve production of Legally Blonde the Musical, we caught up with Annabelle Terry who is stepping into the shoes of Vivienne Kensington ahead of a major UK and Ireland tour. Best known for an acting‑led approach to roles, Annabelle is keen to peel back the layers of a character often remembered for sharp edges, revealing a journey that feels surprisingly current.
“I was one of those kids who just always performed,” Annabelle says. “I always wanted to do it. I went to acting classes as soon as I was able to, and I remember thinking that getting to do something you love as a job was the absolute dream.”
That certainty carried Annabelle through drama school in Liverpool, choosing an acting course while keeping music firmly in reach. “Acting has always been my first love,” Annabelle explains. “I trained in acting but kept my singing up alongside it, and I’m really glad I did that because it’s become the foundation for everything I do now, no matter what the genre is.”
After graduating, Annabelle spent several years working largely in plays before feeling pulled back towards musical theatre. “I loved doing plays, but a couple of years ago I realised how much I missed singing,” Annabelle says. “I thought I was finally at a point where I could properly give musicals a go, and once I made that decision, things started to fall into place.”
Auditioning for Legally Blonde felt like a real step up. “It’s probably the most commercial thing I’ve done,” Annabelle admits. “I was definitely nervous, but also really excited. I’ve worked at Curve before, so I knew the standard, and just getting to be seen for Vivienne felt like such a privilege.”
The tour will also take Annabelle back to Liverpool Empire, a theatre closely tied to training days. “That will be a real pinch‑me moment,” Annabelle says. “I remember sitting in the Empire watching touring shows when I was training and thinking how huge and epic that space felt. Going back there with this show is very special.”
For Annabelle, the staying power of Legally Blonde lies in its core message. “It’s about determination, self‑belief and backing yourself,” Annabelle says. “If you’ve ever felt like an underdog or struggled with imposter syndrome, this show really speaks to that. It reminds you that if you put the work in and believe in yourself, you’re capable of more than you think.”
Being part of a Made at Curve production has helped reframe that message. “It’s absolutely the Legally Blonde people know and love,” Annabelle explains, “but it’s also being looked at through a 2026 lens. Nikolai really encourages us to ask questions and make fresh choices, which feels important when you’re telling a story that’s so familiar.”
That approach has been especially valuable in shaping Vivienne. “What I love about playing Vivienne is how much the character shifts,” Annabelle says. “At the start she’s very set against Elle, and I think that comes from insecurity and not being fully authentic. There’s a turning point where Vivienne realises inspiration is possible instead of threat.”
Vivienne’s growth is central to the role. “She’s flawed and she gets things wrong,” Annabelle reflects. “But Vivienne is someone who learns. There’s a moment where the question becomes who Vivienne wants to be, rather than who would impress the people around her, and that feels very powerful to watch.”
Musically, Annabelle remains full of admiration for the score. “The songs and the script fit together perfectly,” Annabelle says. “You don’t often get that. Seeing ‘Bend and Snap’ in rehearsals just fills the room with joy. That changes all the time, but at the moment it’s hard to beat.”
The rehearsal room itself has been a highlight of the process. “Everyone is so beautifully cast,” Annabelle says. “It’s the kind of room where you walk in and feel lifted by the level of talent. Being surrounded by that makes you want to bring your best every day.”
Looking ahead to the lengthy UK and Ireland tour, Annabelle is clear about the excitement. “It’s a huge privilege to play these theatres,” Annabelle says. “They’re some of the most iconic venues in the country. Touring is tough, but standing in those spaces makes the work completely worth it.”
And for anyone still hesitating over booking a ticket? Annabelle laughs. “Honestly, don’t hesitate. It’s selling fast, everyone cares deeply about making it something special, and there’s a very cute dog. That alone should be reason enough.”
Tour Listings and ticket information can be found here
