If you’ve been searching for a family-friendly show to take your tweens and teens to this summer, one that you can enjoy as well, the Engeman Theater’s latest production, “Legally Blonde, The Musical,” is the place to be.
Based on Amanda Brown’s clever romantic comedy novel and the 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon, this 2007 Broadway musical has music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin and book by Heather Hach. “Legally Blonde” seamlessly transitioned from novel to film and stage because it is chockful of timeless themes like being true to yourself, believing in yourself, and courageously pursuing your goals. The three-dimensional characters and clever plot are two other reasons this female empowerment tale has touched many hearts and become a beloved American classic.
The triple-threat actress, singer, and dancer Emma Flynn Bespolka brilliantly portrayed the protagonist, Elle Woods. Elle is a fashionista, and the fabulous costume designer Dustin Cross created many breathtaking outfits, all of which Bespolka wore well. The opening scene reveals Elle’s fashion sense and the pains she went through to pick just the right outfit for what she thinks will be a romantic dinner date with her born-with-a-silver-spoon-in-his-mouth boyfriend, Warner Huntington III. Nathan Haltiwanger gave an award-worthy performance as Warner, an arrogant, condescending guy who loves Elle but loves his ambition to become a U.S. Senator more. Warner doesn’t believe Elle has the right stuff to be a political wife, claiming he needs “Less of a Marilyn, more of a Jackie.” Their well-delivered duet, “Serious,” begins as a comic scene, then turns tragic when Warner callously dumps her, setting the heartbroken Elle on a mission to win him back.
Quinn Corcoran brought charisma and charm to the role of Emmett Forrest, the “Cinderfella” character in the story. Emmett, a teaching assistant at Harvard Law School, is a hardworking, self-made man who befriends and mentors Elle. To thank him, Elle treats him to a “Dress for Success” makeover. The audience cheered when they saw Emmett decked out in his brand-new power suit.
Chanel Edwards-Frédérick was outstanding as Paulette, the owner of the Hair Affair salon. Edwards-Frédérick has powerhouse vocals, and her pitch-perfect rendition of “Ireland” was one of the show’s highlights. However, the real scene stealer of the show was Jeffrey Keller, who made his grand entrance as the sexy UPS guy. When he strutted through the audience on his way to deliver a package to Paulette, the women in the audience audibly hooted and howled.
Nicole Fragala gave a memorable performance as Vivienne, the determined and driven woman Warner thinks can help him achieve his political aspirations. Fragola has an incredible voice, which she showcased during “Legally Blonde Remix.”
James D. Sasser gave a nuanced performance as a sexist and sadistic Harvard Law School professor. With his bone-chilling delivery of “Blood in the Water,” a frighteningly cold-hearted and ruthless song, Sasser secured Professor Callahan’s place in the Villain’s Hall of Fame right between Ursula and Scar.
Of course, Elle would be nothing without her loyal friends and sorority sisters, Serena (Juliana Lamia). Margot (Lara Hayhurst) and Pilar (Bridgette Carey.) These three key characters are Elle’s trusted confidantes and the Greek Chorus. During the flashy song and dance number “Positive,” these three multi-talented performers joined Elle in an electrifying performance.
Trey Compton’s precision-perfect direction was apparent throughout this nobody-missed-a-beat production. “Legally Blonde, The Musical” is one of the most dance-driven shows you will ever see on stage. Jay Gamboa’s upbeat, mega-energy choreography had the audience breaking out with spontaneous applause during and after many dance numbers. “Whipped into Shape,” a highly athletic routine, left the audience breathless. Julianne Roberts was perfectly cast as Brooke Wyndham, fitness guru and murder suspect. Watching Robert’s riveting jump rope acrobatics is worth the price of admission.
A big round of applause goes to Little Ricky and Cha Cha, two rescue dogs who, thanks to their beloved guardian and trainer, Bill Berloni, found a home on stage and with him. These two talented dogs shared the role of Bruiser Woods, Elle’s cherished Chihuahua.
Elle Woods proves beyond a shadow of a doubt that women can be smart, sexy, strong, and successful. This musical roller coaster of a show will sell out fast, so get your tickets today! “Legally Blonde, The Musical” runs through August 25, 2024. Tickets may be purchased by calling 631-261-2900, online at engemantheater.com, or by visiting the Engeman Theater Box Office at 250 Main Street, Northport.
The entire ensemble brought their A-game to the show, including Emily Bacino Althaus, Bridgette Carey, Matt Denoto, Lara Hayhurst, Haley Izurieta, Jeffrey Keller, Juliana Lamia, Christian Melhuish, Zummy Mohammed, Rebecca Murillo, Jessie J. Potter, Mikaela Rada, Yash Ramanujam, Noah Roderiques, Amelia Burkhardt, Joshua James Crawford, Katelyn Harold, and Terrence Bryce Sheldon.
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