“Legally Blonde: The Musical” Guilty Pleasure Worth Seeing

The Lyceum theater has been transformed into a Barbie Dream House for the production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical.” Initially, I was expecting to be mildly disappointed since the characters and lines of “Legally Blonde” are so iconic. However, I was extremely pleased with the performance of the Vanguard Theater Department, directed by Vanda Eggington.

Sophomore Winter Bassett tackled the role of Elle Woods and came out on top. The young blonde was spot on and was able to bring herself into the role, instead of just mimicking the typical Elle Woods we all know.

“[I loved] working with a super talented cast who has been working [extremely] hard and have really good attitudes,” Bassett said.

Senior Troy Iwata played the role of Elle’s love interest, Emmet. Iwata brings color and levity to every part he takes on, and this one was no different.

Sophomore Drew Bradford played the part of Elle’s ex-boyfriend, Warner. Bradford brought maturity beyond his years for this role. Senior Elizabeth Suzanne portrayed the part of Elle’s nemesis and Warner’s new girlfriend, Vivienne.

“The most challenging bit for me in playing Vivienne was nailing down such a serious, driven and cunning character, which I’m not,” Suzanne said.

Suzanne was able to maintain her cold demeanor throughout the act as well as nail big notes in the final number, “Legally Blonde.”

Other mentionable acts included the “Greek chorus,” a pun on Elle’s sorority and Greek life. The chorus included Bretlyn Schmitt, Anneliese Droetti, Katie Evans, Ashley Elizabeth, and Janelle Harriman. The group chimed in with song and added greatly to the comedy of the performance. Junior Vincent Catalina played the role of Kyle, the UPS guy, and donned a pair of short shorts that most likely have been worn since the 1970s. His hilarious strut and antics had viewers in an uproar of laughter. Junior Jordan Laemmlen took on the role of devious Professor Callahan and succeeded.

Standout performance goes to senior Hailey Tweeter as the role of Paulette, a divorced manicurist. Tweeter added a Bostonian accent to fulfill the part and brought pizzazz with her outfits and mannerisms.

Amazing work done by everyone, cast and crew! “Legally Blonde” will be showing every weekend in April at The Lyceum.