Legally Blonde, The Musical
at Mission Viejo High School

Reviewed on May 8, 2015

Yamini Nambimadom
University High School
Submitted for publication to Orange County Register

Mission Viejo's "Legally Blonde, The Musical" keeps it positive

Pink light bathes the stage as the Delta Nus excitedly obsess over a glittery greeting card. Something big is about to happen. "Omigod" you guys- is Elle Woods about to get engaged?

Anchored by committed actors and technical detail, Mission Viejo High School's rendering of "Legally Blonde: The Musical" is exuberant and nuanced.

Mary Desmond demonstrates versatility as Elle Woods. Bubbly and whimsical, Desmond bounces about, wide-eyed and dreamy. However, when faced with defeat, ("Legally Blonde") Desmond's speech decelerates and her head droops. Through ups and downs, Elle never loses hope. Desmond's rich, full-bodied vocals in "What You Want" and "So Much Better" assert the tenacity and resilience with which Elle tackles every obstacle.

Opposite Desmond, Nic Parsons is endearing as Emmett Forrest. Unlike the explosive Desmond, Parsons is introverted and subtle. Casually smiling and chuckling, he communicates Emmett's affection for Elle before voicing it. The two excel in "Legally Blonde"- as she descends into defeat and regret, hope and passion escape through his unclouded voice.

The picture of repugnance, Jason Marrs crafts a detestable, detailed Professor Callahan. With an eyebrow raised and a stern, declarative voice, Marrs portrays both a strict professor and vile offender.

Megan Cunningham exhibits great stamina as Brook Wyndham, jump roping and beaming, all while proudly belting "Whipped Into Shape".

Also notable is Coleton Falke's amusing physicality as Carlos. As rainbow lights flit across the cyclorama, Falke declares his love for Nikos, flailing his arms and shifting his hips. Kyle (Thomas Challain) also evokes laughter through physical comedy. As he struts into the Hair Affair salon, swinging his shoulders and wagging his behind, he offers a tantalizing presence that hairdresser Paulette (Paige Parker) cannot refuse.

The ensemble is rife with energy. Particularly in "What You Want", drum majors and cheerleaders jump, kick, and beat their way into the admissions office at Harvard, creating a charming chaos integral to the show's essence.

The Orchestra's catchy drum beats and guitar riffs underscore musical numbers, complementing the cast's energy. Curated by Sophie Dominguez, the costumes distinguish various groups. The Delta Nu sun-loving California girls don bright colors and beachwear; the serious, professional Harvard students wear olives, grays, and maroons. Elle, in particular, is dressed in head-to-toe pink. She attracts attention whether surrounded by cheerleaders, the chorus, or Harvard students.

Pleasing, peppy, and perfectly pink, Mission Viejo delivers a lawfully charming "Legally Blonde, The Musical".

Erin Bola
Fountain Valley High School
Submitted for publication to Orange County Register

Mission Viejo's "Legally Blonde, The Musical" is Seriously Sweet

With her hot pink dress and perfectly styled blonde hair, Elle Woods doesn't exactly resemble the typical Harvard Law student. But who says a girl can't solve a high-profile murder case and still look fabulous at the same time?

With invigorating energy, enchanting musical numbers and a multitude of unique characters, Mission Viejo's sugary sweet production of "Legally Blonde, the Musical" tells the ultimate tale of female empowerment and finding success despite life's constant obstacles.

Mary Desmond stars as the stylish sorority girl Elle Woods, who leaves her native Malibu and follows her ex-boyfriend to Harvard in an attempt to prove her intelligence and win back his love. Whether she is cheerfully dancing alongside her fellow Delta Nu's or defending her client's innocence in the courtroom, Desmond dazzles with an infectious energy and a bubbly smile that stays radiant throughout the entire show. Although her tireless animation shines in songs such as "What You Want" and "Bend and Snap", Desmond also reveals her sensitive side in the strikingly emotional ballad "Legally Blonde", as she doubts if her law school adventure was even worth the trouble.

Elle's introverted and studious friend Emmett Forrest is portrayed by Nic Parsons, whose more subtle demeanor offers a nice balance for Elle's forceful presence. In their duets "Take It Like a Man" and "Legally Blonde", Parsons sings with stunning vocal ability as his growing love for Elle becomes apparent in his wistful voice and longing glances.

As the despicable Professor Callahan, Jason Marrs aptly embodies the intimidating teacher with his sly smirk and condescending chuckle. His smug, arrogant mannerisms make it strikingly clear that his ruthlessness knows no bounds, whether it be in the classroom or in the courtroom.

The technical aspects of the show come out in full force as a strong complement for the captivating performers. Costume design by Sophie Dominguez clearly distinguishes the fashionable Elle from her far more serious Harvard classmates in their dark, conservative outfits with Elle's vibrantly pink wardrobe.

With their elaborate set design, Michael Wexler and Colton Teegarden show tremendous attention to detail with meticulously painted backdrops. Their numerous set pieces allow for quick scene changes under the stage management of Eric Depalma.

Mission Viejo's inspirational production of "Legally Blonde, the Musical" reminds audiences that fashion and academic success don't always have to be mutually exclusive.

Danielle Darling
Aliso Niguel High School
Submitted for publication to OC Cappies Facebook

Mission Viejo Looks Great in Pink!

The halls of the Delta Nu sorority house are buzzing with excitement, loud whispers are being passed from one diamond pierced ear to another, this news is even bigger than their hair bumps. Are Elle and Warner getting engaged? Please, that is so 2001. Mission Viejo High School is performing Legally Blonde: The Musical! This vivacious production follows sorority president Elle Woods as she trades in her magazines for textbooks on the journey to follow the love of her life all the way to Harvard Law School. On the way, she finds a scruffy yet charming law associate, a workout superstar and perhaps herself.

Arriving in a flash of pink, Mary Desmond shines as the queen bee herself, Elle Woods. Desmond's bright and exuberant energy bubbles out every moment she's onstage. Her presence commands attention, whether it's her strut, her hugs paired with face stroking or her powerhouse vocals. She transforms onstage as her contagious hope is passed from landing the perfect guy, to fitting in with her colleagues, to winning a trial. And during her performance of song number "Legally Blonde," the perky, optimistic sorority girl is stripped down to pure heartbreak. Accompanying Elle through the obstacle course of Harvard Law is Nic Parsons as Emmett Forrest. Parsons' subtle emotions and introverted character provided the perfect grounding to Desmond's airy demeanor. The two help each other grow as their budding romance blossoms.

With a fiery voice to match her attitude, Paige Parker plays the leprechaun-loving Paulette. Showcasing her variety of talent in "Bend and Snap", Parker's comedic timing and delivery pairs perfectly with her yearning for love, whether from a human or canine. From the dazzling Delta Nu's, to the huffy Harvard Law students, every member of the ensemble proved to have a unique personality of their own. Holly Roel as Enid Hoops was consistently there with sharp one-liners and Coleton Falke stole the show strutting and swaying as Carlos.

The cast and crew of Legally Blonde definitely deserve some snaps. The entire production is nonstop fun with energy packed in every corner. Accompanied by the amazing Mission Viejo High School Orchestra, "Legally Blonde, The Musical" will keep you interested more than the "bend and snap"!