Turning away from the frightening tale of Sleepy Hollow, the Advanced Theatre and Stagecraft classes are shifting gears towards the glamorous and captivating story of Elle Woods in their newest production of Legally Blonde: The Musical, appearing this Mar. 14-16 at Arcadia High School’s Performing Arts Center (PAC).
Legally Blonde was initially a movie that follows Elle Woods, a sorority girl, who has been anticipating a wedding proposal from her boyfriend, Warner Huntington. One day, Warner plans a special dinner between the two of them that leads to her speculating his long-awaited proposal, only to find out that the dinner was arranged to tell her that he wanted to break up: he’s planning to attend Harvard Law University and hopes to settle down with someone more serious. But if Warner wants someone serious, then there’s no better way of showing this than by joining him at Harvard Law. And with enough determination and late nights spent studying, Elle manages to get accepted into the university.
Directed by Mr. Steven Volpe, Legally Blonde: The Musical takes a melodic spin on the original movie, bringing fan-favorite monologues and iconic scenes to life.
“Out of all of my six Arcadia Stage shows, I think Legally Blonde is going to be really amazing and stand out from the crowd,” stated senior Mako Amano, who was cast as Emmett Forrest. “The show is filled with amazing dancing, singing, and a vibrant energy that’ll be sure to infect you as you watch. Along with a fun environment, Legally Blonde has a relatable story and gives many people out there representation through its narrative.”
“Legally Blonde is unlike any other production I’ve been a part of,” said sophomore Wigs Lead Avery Joemtree. “Between the high-energy packed dance routines, extensive variety of costumes, and colorful sets, there’s a lot in store for this show.”
Auditions took place after Thanksgiving Break. At the beginning of second semester, students got to work, whether it be sewing costumes, building props, assembling sets, or rehearsing scenes.
Junior Yoyo Li, who was cast as the Court Stenographer, said, “It’s definitely been a hectic couple of months balancing both homework alongside countless hours of rehearsals, but I love every moment of it.”
During tech week, the entire Advanced Theatre and Stagecraft classes spend Monday through Friday from 3:30-10 p.m, along with 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on Saturdays, perfecting every detail of the production until opening night.
“Overall tech week has gone smoothly,” senior Costume Co-Lead Lucy Gao commented. “Especially as we get closer to the show nights everyone, regardless of their experience or role in the musical, has to put in the same amount of effort in order for the show to keep running. Fortunately, we’ve all been able to bond really well, having spent so many hours together, and I think because of that our effective communication skills get us where we are right now.”
As for attending the show, tickets are $15 for students and $20 for general admission. You can purchase them from an Intermediate or Advanced Theatre student, as well as from both Beginning and Advanced Stagecraft students. Additionally, online tickets are also available at arcadiastage.com. Legally Blonde: The Musical is almost completely sold out, so be sure to secure a seat in the audience.
Photos courtesy of Arcadia Stage Theatre Company
