Courtesy of Alexandra Johnson
The Department of Drama & Dance opened their production of “Legally Blonde” on Friday, Oct. 25. The musical adaptation of the beloved 2001 film of the same name had a successful Broadway run back in 2007. Nearly 13 years after the show’s debut, it’s Hofstra’s turn to take on the massive production.
“Legally Blonde” follows Elle Woods, a University of California Los Angeles sorority girl who risks it all for love as she follows her ex-boyfriend, Warner, to Harvard Law School in hopes of winning him back. With help from new friends, Elle recognizes her own potential and smashes the expectations of others.
Camryn Graves shines as bubbly protagonist Elle Woods. With powerful vocals and fantastic dance abilities, Graves carried the show with grace and kept the audience on the edge of their seats.
Michael Lepore portrayed mild-mannered Emmett Forrest. Lepore showcased his impressive vocal range during “Chip on My Shoulder,” a song where Emmett and Elle’s relationship begins to blossom. Lepore and Graves worked incredibly well together, and it was clear that they enjoy performing alongside each other.
Sam Kaufman and Nicolette O’Keefe were other standout performers. Kaufman portrayed the intimidating Professor Callahan, commanding the stage with a cold presence, urging his students to meet his high standards. O’Keefe played the hilarious Paulette. She had great comedic timing and thoroughly captured the essence of a middle-aged Boston woman.
The talented cast gave strong performances as they sang, danced and acted their way through the show, especially during the songs “So Much Better,” “Gay or European” and “Legally Blonde Remix.”
The first act’s finale, “So Much Better,” was truly Graves’ time to shine. During this song, Elle has just discovered that she’s been accepted into a coveted internship. This is a pivotal moment in the show as she begins to realize her capabilities, and Graves’ outstanding voice and acting abilities made the song – quite literally – so much better.
“Gay or European” and “Legally Blonde Remix” were fantastic moments for the entire cast. These songs showcased the cast’s chemistry and elicited great reactions from the audience. “Gay or European” gave the cast a chance to have fun with one and other as they tried to decipher the sexuality of Nikos, played by David Rivas. “Legally Blonde Remix” was a huge number at the end of the second act, as Elle realizes that she needs to stand her ground. The song showcased the entire cast and featured powerhouse vocalist Nicole Cullen as Vivienne.
Directed by Jennifer Hart, “Legally Blonde” is not to be missed. The show runs in the John Cranford Adams Playhouse until Sunday, Nov. 3. Stop by to see a phenomenal show put on by an incredible cast, crew and creative team.
