“Legally Blonde” “Elle”-evates the Stage
By Cate-Rees Hessel
I pride myself on being Legally Blonde’s biggest hardcore fan. I even have an Elle Woods-related license plate on my car, and was Vice President of my Delta Nu Sorority chapter. It’s my thing – I’ve read all the books that started the phenomenon, and after seeing the original iconic film, I was completely hooked. I have been asked on occasion why I love Legally Blonde so much. The answer is simple: it empowers women in all walks of life, and it’s about sisterhood. The message is clear, “to thine own self be true”, then honesty will triumph. Every woman should live her life with purpose just like Elle after Warner breaks up with her.
I have had the pleasure of seeing many a production of this upbeat musical and “OMG, you guys”, Music Theater Works is by far one the finest I have reviewed. It absolutely explodes with pink perfection. The set and costumes are extremely well done, and the choreography is expertly executed. I especially loved the unique touches in this particular production: Bruiser’s entrance in an adorable pink car, Rufus giving a delightful paw wave, clinking sounds emanating from the supply closet, and the judge who has a rather special seat during the shower scene all give fresh and whimsical elements to this stellar musical. Thanksgiving and Christmas references are nicely handled, perfect for the holidays.
The vocals are fabulous, and the orchestra top notch, but what I loved the most is the stupendous cast. Each and every member brings excellence to the stage. It’s a daunting task to play a character that has previously been brought to life by a living legend, but Chicago favorite Kayla Shipman is up to the task. Ms. Shipman brings perfection to any role she plays – I have watched her play a number of parts with accuracy and finesse, including the character of Audrey in this amazing company’s recent production of “Little Shop of Horrors”. Kayla is the best onstage Elle I have seen. She makes the character her own – believable, beautiful, and loveable – with the inner strength that is synonymous with Woods, Elle.
In the role of Callahan is Cory White – he gives a flawless performance, making the antagonist human and realistic. I especially liked a handshake moment between him and Emmet after Elle gives Mr. Forrest a style makeover. Mr. White creates a character that you love to hate, but still has rare moments of decency. Paulette is played by the enormously talented Khaki Pixley – her comic timing is impeccable. David Moreland brings Emmet to life with ease and accuracy; he is completely credible and has a beautiful singing voice. Daniel Rausch’s Warner take on the arrogant pretty boy is understated and very convincing. He underplays the character beautifully, making the audience dislike Warner just a little less. Vivian is adeptly portrayed by Crystal Claros – her no nonsense style is refreshing and perfectly plausible; Ms. Claros’ vocals are as strong and clear.
Brooke Wyndham is played by the energetic Amanda Handegan; pretty and athletic, she captures the role with enthusiastic grace. Playing Kyle (the infamous man in brown) is Isiah Engram, who breaks the fourth wall with complete ease – he is hilarious and a pleasure to watch. As Elle’s parents, Riley Dominick and Will Leonard give their brief roles depth and humour, as does Michael Davis Arnold, who plays the belching Dewey. Margot, Pilar, and Serena give very notable turns as portrayed by Sabrina Bowen, Selena Robinson, and Morgan Schoenecker, respectively. The feisty feminist Enid is brought to life magnificently by the lovely Ava Stovall.
No review of this musical would be complete without a positive mention of two absolutely adorable canines that steal the show: Kandi as Bruiser and Nosi as Rufus. This ensemble, right down to the Greek chorus and the inmates at the women’s correctional institution make this sublime theatrical work a must-see. The upbeat courtroom scene with the pool boy Nikos (Alex Villaseñor) and his best friend Carlos (Víctor López) is delightful as they dance their way into your hearts.
You will not regret making room in your holiday season to catch this shining star of a show. Music Theater Works bring the best of classic musicals to Chicagoland. This is only my second production with this incredible theater company, and I certainly look forward in anticipation to their future endeavors. “Bend and Snap” your way to the North Shore Center for the Performing Arts before they run out of happy endorphins December 29th. Please visit their website for tickets or more information at www.musictheaterworks.com on this and future Music Theater Works productions…
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