by Annette Farrell
If any movie was destined for Broadway, it’s Legally Blonde. The 2001 movie, starring Reese Witherspoon is over the top with big personalities and a fairy-tale plot, translating perfectly to a performance medium that breaks into song at the drop of a hat.
With just a few noticeable tweaks from the original plot, expect the musical to be just as good, if not better, than the movie. Reese Witherspoon’s original character, Elle Woods, lives a fantasy life as the president of her sorority, Delta Nu, with perfect hair and perfect grades.
An onstage version of Elle requires impeccable comedic timing and a set of diva–sized pipes to belt out pop ballads. Sassy and smart, Elle is the ultimate sorority princess whose handsome college boyfriend, Warner Huntington, dumps her to find someone more serious.
Shocked, but not deterred by this turn of events, Elle gets into law school to prove she can be serious. Her new school does not appreciate her ditsy persona, but Elle navigates difficult social scenarios like a chameleon: adapting while staying true to herself. After all, she has her chihuahua Bruiser by her side and her loyal Delta Nu sorority sisters just a phone call away.
Breaking stereotypes and finding empowerment, themes of feminism in this story cannot be denied, and Elle’s charmed life is shaped by luck and determination.
Legally Blonde hits the stage in Spokane at the INB Performing Arts Center from February 10 -13. Student rush tickets are available for $25 (regularly $60.50), two hours before the show.