Off Off-Broadway production of film adaptation will focus on glamor, finding yourself
“Legally Blonde” has proved to have an enduring appeal, proving surprisingly funny and enjoyable to members of both genders.
Unlike most movie comedies, this popularity has inspired a musical, which is being performed by the USC theatrical group Off Off-Broadway today.
The play, officially titled “Legally Blonde: The Musical” and directed by Tim Thompson, will be playing at the Benson Theatre.
The play focuses on Elle Woods, a typical sorority girl with a 4.0 GPA, a handsome boyfriend and a “type-A personality”, Thompson said. Elle finds herself in a situation when rather than popping the question, her boyfriend, Warner Huntington III, breaks up with her to attend Harvard Law School.
The play follows Elle as she chases her now ex-boyfriend to Harvard, with her trusty Chihuahua, Bruiser, at her side … in her purse.
Instead, Elle’s journey will lead her to find that “she is worth something because of who she is, not because of who she is with,” Thompson said.
Rachael Mitchum, a fourth-year exercise science student who plays Woods, offered some insight into what theatergoers should expect.
“The play is fun, happy and exciting, but it has a deeper message to it, too,” Mitchum said. “Expect it to be loud and fun. Expect pink.”
Landon Masters, a third-year advertising student who will play Huntington and who is also the head of Off Off-Broadway’s public relations board, described the show another way: “Expect a glitter roller coaster.”
“Expect to have fun, laugh and cry with the cast members,” said Thompson, the director.
Masters said that the most interesting thing about the play is the way that the Benson Theatre seems to transform because of the performance.
“It’s like a whole new world,” he said. “You would never expect it.”
He also said that he is “amazed by the talented people and star power” in the cast.
Among the cast members are two dogs, who will be making their acting debut.
Thompson and Mitchum agreed that the audience should also expect to hear a positive message of self-worth in the play.
“Elle teaches us to just truly be yourself,” Mitchum said. “You’ll be awesome.”
“Legally Blonde: The Musical” will premiere tonight at 7 p.m. It will also show at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets are $8 before the show and $12 at the door.