Cappies Review: 'Legally Blonde The Musical' At John R. Lewis High School

By Kiana Collins of Meridian High School

A blonde girl dressed entirely in bright pink stands center stage, captivating the audience with her infectious energy and unwavering confidence. She opens her mouth and begins to sing: "Oh my god, oh my god you guys!"

Welcome to Elle's world.

In John R. Lewis High School's production of "Legally Blonde: The Musical," a theater on a rainy evening is transformed into a courtroom, and high schoolers into lawyers and sorority girls. Brought to life is the cutthroat competitive atmosphere of Harvard Law School, the warm comfort of a hair salon, and the vibrant sisterhood of UCLA's Delta Nus.

With music and lyrics by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin, and a book by Heather Hach, "Legally Blonde" is a musical based on a 2001 cult classic movie of the same name. Since premiering on Broadway in 2007, it has received seven Tony Award nominations. With themes of female empowerment and self-exploration, the musical is a brilliant and fun insight into the mind of a girl determined to break stereotypes as she gets into Harvard, determined to fight for love and a law career; "What, like it's hard?"

Bringing the original musical's vision to reality was the wonderful cast. The iconic spirit and bubbliness of Elle Woods were perfectly embodied by Delia Hunt, whose beautiful voice shone in songs such as "Serious" and "Legally Blonde." She was able to bring the audience along in her journey of self-realization as she heartwarmingly realized her worth and intelligence. Samuel Wheeler, who played Paulette, was another major highlight. From their comedic timing to their outstanding singing, Wheeler was everything Paulette personifies, sassy, vivacious, and just a touch insecure. Then there was Zuyemi Cortez-Cardenas as Brooke Wyndham, the fitness icon slash former Delta Nu slash defendant in a murder trial. Cortez-Cardenas' fierce attitude, hilarious acting, and impressive dancing in her show-stopping musical number, "Whipped Into Shape," made her a wonderful addition to the show.

A highlight of the show was the choreography done by Gia Cerchione and Lilly Gonsalves. In numbers such as "Bend and Snap" and "What You Want," their talent shone through elaborate dance moves and cohesive performances. Each of the characters had their own unique dancing style, from the peppy sorority girls to the stuffy law students. Costumes, done by Leah Mcleary, were very important to the show and created a convincing atmosphere. From cheer outfits to mono-color suits, Mcleary's vision and execution were impeccable.

The story of a woman wanting to be undefined by societal stereotypes and constraints is told with immense heart and talent by John R. Lewis High School, and it is a show that will certainly stay with the audience for a while. The rendition of the legendary musical ends appropriately with the full cast singing "Find My Way/Finale," a celebration of the powerful message of self-acceptance and individuality.

"Legally Blonde The Musical" is being performed at 7 p.m. on April 21, 22, 28 and 29 and 2 p.m. on April 30.