Based on the beloved film, 'Legally Blonde', the smash-hit production follows the journey of the fabulously pink Elle Woods, tackling stereotypes, defying expectations, and being true to herself.

When Elle, who appears to have it all, has her life turned upside down by boyfriend Warner (who dumps her in search of a more suitable partner for him at Harvard Law), she ingeniously charms her way into the prestigious school. While there, she struggles with peers, professors, and of course. . . Her ex.

But a close circle of friends helps Elle to realise her own potential.

The original Broadway production of 'Legally Blonde: The Musical' scored seven Tony Award nominations, while the West End show took home three Olivier Awards in 2011.

Now, 'Omigod You Guys'. . . The show is hitting Melbourne, playing at The National Theatre. The story, filled to the brim with themes of confidence, courage, and discovering who you are, has resonated heavily with the queer community over the years for many reasons – not least of which being its bad-ass female lead and her powerful story.

Here, cast member Liliana Braumberger, who takes on the role of Paulette Bonafonté in this production, lists five reasons why the story of 'Legally Blonde' is iconic to the queer community.

One

"You are a Delta-Nu!".
Sisterhood is at the heart of 'Legally Blonde'. Elle's commitment to her sisters is unbreakable; nothing will get in its way, not a man, nor a secret a or a guaranteed high-flying law career. Anyone can join the sisterhood by living the values of acceptance, love and support. . . For whoever you are, and whoever you love. Sometimes practising those values means you have to have hard conversations, and Elle does with integrity and grace. You don't need a secret hand signal or matching outfits to do it, but you'll look super cute if you've got 'em.

Two

"Muffy!?".
This musical is camp as fork! Witty comebacks, slaps befitting a telenovela, dress reveals, men in silk translucent socks, gays AND europeans. . . It takes the joy of the movie and adds a wallop of singing, dancing and silliness to make for a fabulous time. For a queer performer, the opportunity to camp it up can't be beat; there's no choice too big, no offer too bold. . . (Or maybe there is, we got pretty close in the rehearsal room).

'Legally Blonde: The Musical' cast member Liliana Braumberger

Three

"Stick it to the phallocentric-war-machine!".
Capitalism and toxic patriarchy screw us ALL over. Whether it's Emmett with his big brain and kind heart, growing up poor and judged for his scruffy looks. . . Or (spoilers) Elle's assault at the hands of a Professor with the power to make or break. Elle and Emmett are judged by rigid heteronormative standards that the owner of a billion-dollar law firm imposes ruthlessly and cruelly. We queer folks know how powerful institutions like to deprive, control and make conform. 'Legally Blonde' tells the story of a woman who resists the forces that want to tear down her individuality and self-expression, and enthusiastically supports others in their fight to do the same.

Four

"Being yourself never goes out of style".
Queer folks know the peace and freedom of being 100 per cent true to yourself, and the joy of others accepting and embracing that into their worlds. Outspoken lesbian Enid is strong and passionate. Carlos can't stay in the closet for his boyfriend for long. Yes, the musical was written for a 2000s audience with the relevant stereotypes, but Elle accepts and champions them all. They might not look like her or live like her, but she tries to lift them up besides her in the best ways she knows how. I could have done with her by my side when coming out to my mum. Snaps!

Five

"You're my new muse".
According to actress Jessica Cauffiel (Margot in the original 'Legally Blonde' film) one version of the script had an ending cheekily suggesting law rivals Elle and Vivian end up together, drinking margaritas and holding hands (iconic). After all, both of them reject the white picket fence lifestyle offered by arrogant rich Warner Huntington the Third and his aspiration of 'three kids, just like the Kennedys'. Emmett is cute and everything but what's not to love about a classy, scathingly intelligent lawyer girlfriend who'd bang the gavel in the courtroom and you in the bedroom with equal ferocity? If there's anything the world needs more of right now, it's lawyer wives fighting for justice, eliminating corruption and looking goddamn fabulous while doing it.

'Legally Blonde: The Musical' plays National Theatre (St Kilda) 12-27 July.