Music Theater Works presents LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL.
“Omigod. Omigod you guys” this show is super fun!
In 2001, Reese Witherspoon made being blonde and wearing pink the fashionable alternative to stuffy law suits. Her iconic film became a comedy classic. Elle, a Malibu sorority girl, follows her ex-boyfriend to Harvard. In her pursuit to get him back, she becomes a lawyer. The creative team of Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin (music and lyrics) and Heather Hach (book) give the popular movie a theatrical makeover. They add upbeat songs, splashy dance numbers and depth to the story. Hach weaves in themes of identity acceptance and studious pursuits into the dated blonde bimbo humor.
Director Mandy Modic orchestrates a good time with a fairly large cast that includes two dogs. Modic paces it lively with scenery and the talented ensemble gliding in and out seamlessly. In the lead, Kayla Shipman is a delight as the fabulous and fashionable Elle. Her chemistry with both Emmett (played by the charming David Moreland) and Paulette (the vivacious Khaki Pixley) is endearing as she offers support in “Take it like a Man” and “Bend and Snap.”
This show is driven by girl power! Modic, in collaboration with Choreographer Mollyanne Nunn and Music Director Linda Madonia, keep the vibe female-centric and fierce. Shipman regularly receives guidance from a Greek chorus of her sorority sisters. And the impressive Amanda Handegan (Brooke) whips the ensemble into shape by singing and jump roping. Nunn’s synchronization and the cast’s athleticism is truly amazing. The dance numbers add plenty to the already amusing spectacle. Nunn even incorporates an Irish jig into the mix. And nod out to the charismatic Isaiah Engram (Kyle) for his sexy moves both in dance and delivery.
LEGALLY BLONDE is F-U-N and in vogue! From togas to exercise gear to Elle’s extensive wardrobe, Costume Designer Kristen Brinati dresses this up with flair. Her outfits would be the envy of any wannabe fashionistas on your gift list this year. Don’t wait, buy a ticket and get to the show before the run ends this weekend!
Running Time: Two hours and forty minutes includes an intermission and a twenty minute delayed start
At North Shore for the Performing Arts on Skokie, 9501 Skokie Blvd
Based on the 2001film by Karen McCullah Lutz and Kirsten Smith and novel by Amanda Brown
Music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin
Book by Heather Hach
Directed by Mandy Modic
Choreographed by Mollyanne Nunn
Music directed by Linda Madonie
Performances are:
Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm
Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm
Additional performance on December 26 at 2pm
Thru December 29
For more information or tickets
Production photos by Brett Beiner
For more Chicago theatre information and reviews, please visit Theatre in Chicago