EMA Review: Legally Blonde RATING: Delicious ★★★★★

OMIGOD, YOU GUYS, LEGALLY BLONDE IS A SUMMER SURPRISE!

By Erik Engman

Author, Clown and Improvisation Teacher, Theatre Critic EatMoreArtVegas.com

IG: ErikReviewsVegas

It’s the 50th year of Super Summer Theatre, and what better way to celebrate than to see their show Legally Blonde: The Musical (music and lyrics by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin. Book by Heather Hach. Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the 2001 film directed by Robert Luketic). I had never been up there, and I found the drive there incredibly beautiful, the volunteers kind and friendly, and the whole setup very well organized. The vibe was fun, with great music playing and many audience members dressed up in pink.

Now, I never read the book, and I saw the movie ages ago, but I didn’t remember much, except that I liked it. And I was very pleasantly surprised with what I saw. For those who don’t know the story: a rich, young woman from Malibu, Elle Woods (Kendall Hicks), upon graduating from University, is ready to be married to her boyfriend, Warner (Tristen Serpa). Unfortunately, Warner has other plans and wants someone “serious” to take him to the next level. Or as he puts it, he wants a Jackie, not a Marilyn. So to prove that she is serious and worthy of his love, she enrolls in Harvard Law School. But as her dreams and reality clash, she finds herself in over her head and must discover who she is and what she wants.

And the verdict? I thought it was wonderful. Director Steve Huntsman not only delivered an entertaining show, but I found it surprisingly powerful with its message of self-worth. This production was engaging and moved me throughout the night.

There isn’t a weak link in the cast. Kendal Hicks is on fire as Elle. She is such a spark of joy and light that you can’t help but like her. Gus Pappas, as her good-hearted colleague, Emmett Forrest, is charming and likable, and you root for him to end up with Elle. Tristen Serpa as Warner is suitably douchey as the ex-boyfriend, and a good match for Vivienne, played by Ellie Gobo, who combines bitchy and snooty together perfectly. Elle’s hairdresser friend, Paulette, is played by Sandra Huntsman with down-to-earth likability. Morgan Tilley gives much-needed realness and depth to the stereotypical lesbian, Enid, which was nice to see. Callahan was played with great pompous professorial smugness by Bruce Ewing. Chloe Jaramillo as Brooke Wyndham, the exercise guru, was strong and believable as a TV star. And the three “Greek Chorus” sorority girls, Serena (Brett Ashley), Margot (Piper Rose), and Pilar (Sunshine D), were a welcome delight every time they popped up on stage. Special shout-out to the dogs, Bella and Sable (handled by Chloe Muñoz), who stole the show every time they appeared.

On the production side, much praise for Keith Dotson, whose choreography was simply astounding. Steve Huntsman’s set design, a blend of video/half practical elements, was perfect, giving us just enough to be in the setting. His costume design was also great, especially for a show with a lot of fashion. The lighting design (by Elizabeth Boeckman) and sound design (by Katherine Gonzalez) were also perfect, and completed the picture, bringing us a magnificent show.

 Steve and Sandra Huntsman are fantastic producers and give the audience a great theatrical experience. Everyone there was lovely and great to talk to. And I’m sure this is why SST has lasted fifty years, and hopefully another fifty, at least. Looking forward to the next production!

RATING: Delicious ★★★★★

What: Legally Blonde: The Musical

When: August 15-16, 20-23

Where: Spring Mountain Ranch State Park, 6275 NV-159, Blue Diamond, Nevada

Tickets: $28 (plus $10 Spring Mountain Ranch Parking Fee), https://supersummertheatre.org/

Producer, Director, Scenic & Costume Designer:  Steven Huntsman; Producer, Production Manager, Costumer: Sandra Huntsman; Choreographer: Keith Dotson; Vocal Director: Meghan Wise; Audio Designer: Katherine Gonzalez; Lighting Designer: Elizabeth Kline; Social Media/ Dog Handler: Chloe Muñoz; Technical Director: Ilona Robertson; Stage Manager: Darby Porras; Assistant Stage Manager: Lola Huntsman