Hulme Grammar School celebrates 30 years of musical theatre with landmark production of ‘Legally Blonde’

Hulme Grammar School is proud to announce its 30th Anniversary School Production, Legally Blonde: The Musical, running this March 2026.

This milestone performance marks three decades of theatrical excellence at the Chamber Road school, celebrating a tradition that began in 1996 when the then-separate boys' and girls' schools first collaborated to perform Oliver! 

This year’s production is a flagship initiative under the Brenda Mills Institute of Innovation and Technology (BMIIT).  

Named after a former Maths teacher, the Institute is dedicated to equipping students with the "STEAM" literacy (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) required to thrive in a modern landscape. 

While STEAM often focuses on technical fields, BMIIT highlights how the Arts are the essential bridge between education and industry.  

By transforming the school's main hall into a professional-grade performing arts venue, students engage in "experiential learning"—handling technical stage management, sound engineering, and creative problem-solving.  

This production demonstrates that the discipline, collaboration, and innovation found in musical theatre are the same skills required for success in AI, engineering, and data science. 

The production arrives at a time when Hulme Grammar School continues to cement its reputation as a powerhouse for creative talent.  

The school has a long-standing record of producing household names across the arts, stage, and screen.  

Current students follow in the footsteps of illustrious alumni including BAFTA-winning actress Sarah Lancashire, Shobna Gulati (who also serves as a BMIIT Fellow), and rising star Frazer Hadfield, as well as renowned broadcasters Andy Kershaw and the late John Stapleton. 

The production is a "full circle" moment for the Hulme community. The show is led by Steph Eckhardt, Head of Drama and a former pupil, alongside a professional team including Katie Illingworth of Infinity Dance.  

Also, an alumna, Katie provided the high-energy choreography for the show, exemplifying the school's strong ties with industry professionals and the success of its former students. 

Adding to the excitement, the cast received a personal good luck message from Amber Davies (the current Elle Woods in the West End production).  

The students were also mentored by Jen Caldwell, a former "Queen" from the global hit Six the Musical, who supported the cast in refining their vocal performances to a professional standard. 

The high production values of the show are supported by local industry partners who share the school's vision for integrated learning. This year’s sponsors include: 

· Stage Sponsor: Medipro Clinics, a local medical aesthetics clinic led by alumna and Clinical Director Emmalee Fitton. 

· Music Sponsor: Wrigley Claydon Solicitors, a historic Oldham firm established in 1795. 

· Supporting Sponsors: The production is also proudly supported by The Mattress Factory and Skinbay.co.uk. 

"Through BMIIT, we aren't just teaching students to perform; we are teaching them to innovate," said Mrs Eckhardt.  

"By linking our production with industry experts and alumni, we provide our pupils with the tools to turn creative ideas into real-world impact,” she added.