Legally Blonde
at Cooper City High School

Reviewed on March 4, 2016

Melissa Kean
Piper High School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

Ohmigod, you guys! Pink becomes the new black in Cooper City High School's production of "Legally Blonde", teaching audiences that a book is so much more than its cover.

Legally Blonde opened on Broadway in 2007, receiving seven Tony nominations and ten Drama Desk nominations. This modern musical was based on the 2001 film and novel by Amanda Brown, eventually becoming a major hit for musical theatre lovers everywhere. With music and lyrics by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin and book by Heather Hach, Legally Blonde centers around the ambitious blonde president of UCLA's Delta Nu sorority, Elle Woods. When Elle's supposed love of her life, Warner, breaks up with her and makes her feel like she is not good enough for him, Elle sets on a journey following him to Harvard Law School, to prove to him that she can accomplish anything. Elle gets into Harvard with the help of her sorority sisters. Upon her arrival at Harvard, she meets a man named Emmett. Emmett, along with her hair dresser Paulette, helps her strive for the greatness they know she can achieve.

Playing the high spirited, leading feminist lady was Rylee Kilman, who brought life to Elle Woods with her likeable personality and remarkable vocal talents. Francesca Maurer, also known as the spunky, boisterous hair-dresser named Paulette, genuinely shined throughout the entire show. Maurer's impressive vocal range and breath support as well as her dedication towards her character was truly something to be noted. Emmett, played by Sergio Owen, had a presence on stage that made audience members want to listen to what he had to say. His amiable personality allowed him to connect with the audience, and his chemistry with Elle remained consistent.

Sean Edelman portrayed the egotistical Warner, and charmed the audience with his believable characterization, ultimately making you love to hate the conceited character. Similarly, Vivienne, Warner's bad tempered-girlfriend was played by Doni Rotunno. Rotunno had great character development, displaying that it's never too late to become a better person. Caleb Polsky brought Professor Callahan to life with his stern personality and serious facial expressions, enthralling the audience with his mature voice.

The ensemble cast showed off their talents with high-energy throughout each musical number, and each member of the cast danced as if no one was watching. Although some characters lacked presentation and believability, the show overall was not one to miss.

The use of real dogs for both Elle and Paulette's characters was a surprising challenge for a high school production, but Cooper City executed this factor nicely and put a smile on the audience's faces. The lighting was pleasing, their use of colors added to the moods and tones of each musical number. The appealing costumes helped describe each character's personality and was overall nicely designed. Although some set changes were performed slowly and could have been smoother, this did not take too much away from the magic that Cooper City brought to the stage.

Cooper City's rendition of the well-known "Legally Blonde" was refreshing, the students managed to keep audience members feeling "so much better" with copious laughter, applause, and maybe even some tears along the way.

Tristan Hutchison
Cardinal Gibbons High School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

An imaginary Greek chorus, a scandalous murder trial, and a whole lot of pink! Sounds like the ingredients of a classic in the making, right? Well, you're close! It's Cooper City High School production of Legally Blonde.

Legally Blonde originally opened on Broadway in April of 2007, with Music and Lyrics by Neil Benjamin and Laurence O'Keefe and Book by Heather Hach. After 595 performances, the musical closed in October of 2008. However, it continues to tour around the world and be revived to this day. Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the 2001 film of the same name, the story follows Elle Woods, a sorority President at UCLA. After her boyfriend, Warner, breaks up with her for not being "serious" enough to fit into his life plans, she follows him to Harvard Law School to win him back. Elle soon realizes however, that she doesn't need Warner and she's much more then just a "dumb" blonde.

This production showed off a variety of talent from its young cast. Some stand out performances include, Francesca Maurer's portrayal of Elle's best friend Paulette. Maurer was a delight to watch on stage, especially during her songs "Ireland" and "Bend and Snap." Maurer was always in the moment and was ready to make the audience laugh at any time. Another wonderful performance in this show was that of Alec deJesus, who played a variety of characters including Aaron Schultz. deJesus really brought charisma and excitement to his roles. Especially, during his dance numbers, which were not only hysterical but also flawless. The final performance that really stood out was the Judge played by Jennifer Lopez. Lopez shined whenever she was on the stage. Whether she was delivering a line or showing off one of her sarcastic facial features, she really made the best out of the part she was given.

Technically, the show had a few challenges. There were several times when a character could not be heard or there was microphone feedback. At points in the show, the ensemble lacked emotion or seemed lost on stage. For the most part, everyone did a fantastic job.

All in all, Cooper City's production of Legally Blonde was an exciting experience. It really showed you not to judge a book by its cover, because even sometimes the most absurd book may surprise you.

Mikayla Queeley
Dillard Center for the Arts
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

Legally Blonde Review

Legally Blonde is a musical that had music and lyrics written by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin and also a book by Heather Hach. The story is based on the novel Legally Blonde written by Amanda Brown and the 2001 film that is titled the same. Legally Blonde tells the story of "don't judge a book by its cover." The lead Elle Woods, is a California born, UCLA attending, perennially perky girl, who goes on a love born mission to attend Harvard University to follow after her ex-boyfriend, Warner, who breaks up with her due to her lack of ambition and his "plans". As we follow Elle through her journey of Harvard we learn that there is way more than what meets the eye and love can come when you least expect it. She ends up solving a case on her own, proves she's a worthy opponent, and finds love with the teacher's assistant, Emmett. This show is a perfect example of perseverance, feminine strength and self belief.

Leading the show was Rylee Kilman playing the ditsy, optimistic, friendly, and determined Elle Woods. Kilman's consistent energy and vibrant smile gave the uptown character lots of life. From the top of the show to the end of the show, The Delta Nu girls, were always in it to win it; showcasing their wonderful characterizations, constant show of love for their Delta Nu President Elle, and sassy yet tasteful attitudes, which was definitely shown in "Bend and Snap".

Francesca Maurer played the role of Paulette with perfection; never once loosing character or the crowds attention. Francesca's superb singing was more than just a treat to listen to throughout the evening. Although sometimes it was hard to hear actors without a microphone, the lines that were heard kept the audience rolling; especially in the enthralling song ,"There! Right There!"

There were many costume and prop changes within this show which is hard to pull off and this cast pulled it off almost effortlessly. There were a few moments where you could see the changed costume or prop being switched out or dropped onto the floor, which was distracting at times. One actor had many character changes and executed each character so well that you would forget he had two other roles. This actor's name was Alec deJesus who played Aaron Schultz, Carlos, and the Hair Colorist. DeJesus undeniably stood out in each and every role he embodied, making a lasting impression with such little stage time; constantly bringing spunk and pizzazz to each scene and never upstaging the leads or what was happening in the story.

Although there were times where there was light where it wasn't needed, the lighting choices for the most part within the show were well executed; like in Paulette's song, "Ireland" where the stage was lit with an envious green, giving the scene a homey and Scottish feel.

Cooper City High's production of Legally Blonde definitely had me, "bending and snapping" all the way home!

Nya Hedman
South Plantation High School
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

Is blonde the new brainy? Just ask the cast of Cooper City's Legally Blonde. With upbeat musical numbers and exuberant characters Legally Blonde takes you on a journey as one girl goes from spunky sorority sister to adorable academic.

Legally Blonde the musical was based on the book and movie of the same name. The music and lyrics were written by Laurence O'Keef and Nell Benjamin. The show opened on Broadway in April 2007. The story tracks Elle Woods as she follows her ex-boyfriend Warner to Harvard Law School. Her time at Harvard brings new friends (and enemies) and guides her to find her true self.

The production was extremely fun conveying a euphoric attitude the entire audience could feel. The show featured many whimsical scenes, characters, and musical numbers that left the audience wanting more. The show did have moments where the energy dipped but the cast was able to pick it back up and come back stronger. The show featured real dogs as the pets of Paulette and Elle which was very unique for a high school production and added an extremely comedic aspect to the production.

The lead Elle Woods played by Rylee Kilman had a phenomenal voice that could belt, riff, and hit any note thrown her way. She almost never left the stage yet maintained her character the entire time. She not only could sing and act the part, but she could bend and snap like it was nobody's business. Kilman brought the perfect energy to the extremely chirpy character yet was able to avoid overacting, bringing a natural ease to her performance.

The supporting cast featured a plethora of talent from hysterical hair dressers to Delta Nu sisters. Francesca Maurer as Paulette sang with a crystal voice that was absolutely stunning and had perfect comedic timing. Also, Aaron Schultz/Carlos/Hair Colorist played by Alec deJesus proved that you do not have to have a big role to shine. He had a terrific energy and was completely outrageous yet absolutely hilarious consistently through the show. The technical aspects of the show were nicely executed but did have some flaws. The sound was sometimes distracting due to microphone issues, and at times the lighting cues were off. However the make up was highly effective and allowed the cast to be seen under the stage lights


Ultimately, the show was very light-hearted and enjoyable to watch. This production truly taught not to judge a book by its cover and that everyone can accomplish whatever they set their mind to do, proving that blondes really do have more fun.

Delaney Keefe
Palm Beach Central
Submitted for publication to Floridatheateronstage.com

A perky blonde sorority girl soon finds out what its like to enter the world of "serious people" in search of love, but instead she finds so much more. This young woman grows to find a sense of self, and accomplishes what others believed she couldn't. Along the way she even gets a new man in the most unexpected place, law school. Cooper City High School put on a production of Legally Blonde the musical, and I had to chance to see it Friday, March 4th. This show was an instant hit when it moved to Broadway in April of 2007, and it is easy to see why everyone loved it. With upbeat,catchy music and lyrics by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin it is hard not to fall in love with the show itself.

Character is a good place to start with this particular production. This is one of this casts best aspects. Following through with their character choices from open to close is something many young actors struggle with and Cooper City HS did this quite impressively. This is especially true for Francesca Maurer who played the role of Paulette, personally my favorite character. Her voice proved to be a showstopper as well as becoming the cherry on top of a really rich performance.

Many of the ensemble members in this show really took hold of the opportunities that they were given, and for me that can really make or break a show. Even when they weren't the center of attention the members of the cast gave all they had to their scenes. One particular dancer, Katia Garib, I couldn't take my eyes off of every time she entered the stage. Every movement, step, and reaction she had was just so in line with where it should have been, and I was just drawn to her energy. Another actress that really wowed me with what she did was Jennifer Lopez, who played the judge. She was given this smaller role and she made it big, bold, and funny. The judge became one of the most memorable characters in the show through her lines and the comedic subtleties that she added into the character. I think both of these girls know what it means to work the role that you have.

My favorite technical aspect was the lighting design. They used their color wheel well in respect to what was happening on stage. For example, during the end of the song, "Ireland" the lights began to fade to a shade of green. I think they really captured how you should use lights to highlight the scene without distracting from it.

This show overall was nothing like any other show I have ever seen. You can see a lot of hard work and effort went into this production, and that they gave it their all.

Paige Slowinski
South Plantation High School
Submitted for publication to The Forum

"Omigod You Guys!" is all you could say coming out of Cooper City High School's production of Legally Blonde: The Musical. With the actors' high energy, impressive singing voices, and solid tech, this show was set to capture your attention just as much as the bend and snap!

Legally Blonde is an uplifting story about a young, stereotypical blonde named Elle Woods, who follows her ex-boyfriend Warner all the way to Harvard Law School in order to regain his love. To her dismay, she finds out that Warner has a new girlfriend, and her peers don't exactly take kindly to her "pink" appearance. Through her journey, she befriends Paulette, the heartbroken hairdresser and Emmett, a teacher's assistant. It isn't until she gets chosen for an internship for a murder trial that Elle truly understands that she's more than just a blonde, but to stay true to yourself in any situation.

Overall, this production was pretty strong in every aspect. It is definitely difficult to pull off such a well-known show, but Copper City embraced the show whole-heartedly, and they did a superb job of portraying everything in a brand new way. Special recognition must go out to the student choreographers, Katia Garib and Isabella Tocci, for taking on such an arduous task and successfully accomplishing it.

The leads in this show, without a doubt, had a great deal of talent. Rylee Kilman, who played our leading lady Elle, did an amazing job of staying true to the lovable and funny character, and effortlessly belted out every high note beautifully. In addition, Sergio Owen, playing the role of Emmett, convinced the audience of his love for Elle, and sang phenomenally in the number, "Chip On My Shoulder", as well as every other song in which he took part.

Francesca Maurer was unbelievably stunning in her role as Paulette, and her singing was enough to give everyone in the room chills. She also flawlessly carried on an Irish accent throughout the whole show, which resulted in many laughs from the audience. Another member of the cast that should be highly commended is Alec deJesus, who managed to play multiple characters and have a different engaging personality with every one of them.

The technical aspects of this show were nicely executed. The set and set dressings were very appropriate and fit in well to whatever the setting was at the time.

Cooper City High ended up with an incredible production, and everyone should be very proud of all their accomplishments made throughout the show. As Elle Woods would say, "Endorphins make you happy", and that's definitely the outcome of this show.

Erika Schell
Piper High School
Submitted for publication to The Lariat

Learn the extent of what you can achieve by watching Cooper City High School achieve it's production of Legally Blonde.
Their rendition of the popular comedy is enjoyable and sure to make you laugh and want to dance along with the cast.

After her long-time boyfriend leaves her for Harvard Law School and "more serious things," Elle Woods decides to follow him to Harvard. She is determined to get him back and prove that she has a brain under her blonde hair. However, instead of finding true love, Elle finds a passion for legal defense and works hard to get an internship on a real court case. After achieving this with help from a few new friends, Elle successfully defends her client and learns that loving yourself is more important than finding someone to love you. This modern day story is not only inspiring but empowering, and everyone can relate to Legally Blonde's message.

Cooper City's production of Legally Blonde was driven by it's upbeat cast and undeniable high energy. The creative inclusion of the Cooper City High drumline excited the audience. The cast kept the show's pace up and set changes were relatively short. Colored lights helped to brighten the mood of the scene, sometimes comically. Musical numbers like "Omigod You Guys" and "Bend and Snap" are very fast tempo and included energetic and fun choreography.

Rylee Kilman takes center stage as Elle Woods and does not disappoint. Throughout the show she proves her talent with strong vocals and a realistic portrayal of her character. The show's male lead, Emmett, has great chemistry with Kilman and together they fuel the show's emotional side.

Supporting cast members in Legally Blonde do a great job of being the comic relief in the sad parts of Elle's story, which greatly enriches the production. Francesca Maurer delivers a brilliant performance as Paulette, whose strong vocals in the songs "Ireland" and "Bend and Snap" are nothing less than stellar. Other supporting cast members, even those in small roles, make the audience laugh any time they are present. Notable characters are Kyle, played by Jacob Rones, and Aaron Schultz, played by Alec deJesus. The ensemble is a very important element of this show, and in this production they did a great job of furthering the story through song and dance.

Technical aspects of the show are good quality for a high school production, and some creativity is evident. The show is played out on platforms on many different levels, each spot on the stage representing a different location. The costumes used were very modern and simple, and Elle had several mid-scene costume changes that went smoothly. The lights mainly featured colored washes to fit the mood of the scene. Overall, the technical elements were supportive for the performance.

If you're looking to watch a fun show that will make you laugh and maybe even change your point of view on what you're capable of, go see Cooper City High School's production of Legally Blonde, a musical comedy.

Maiya Xirinachs
Piper High School
Submitted for publication to The Lariat

Omigod, you guys! Cooper City High School's production of "Legally Blonde: the Musical" was note worthy of being reviewed by Elle Magazine!

On a more serious note, Legally Blonde: The Musical is based on the novel, entitled Legally Blonde, by Amanda Brown and the 2001 movie adaptation of the same name. The lyrics are by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin with the book by Heather Hach. The story follows Elle Woods, a sorority girl who wants to win back her ex-boyfriend by showing him how seriously mature she can be, so she enrolls at Harvard Law School. The show is very empowering for women, and sends the message of self-love and independence. The show bent and snapped its way to Broadway in 2007 and has had multiple shows and tours in several different countries ever since.

Overall, the show was quite entertaining. The use of real dogs for Bruiser Woods and Rufus was not only creative, but also adorable. The "Bend and Snap" number was also very fun and energetic; it was definitely one of the highlights of the show.

Rylee Kilman did a lovely job with most of Elle's characterization and vocals. Sergio Owen developed Emmett nicely throughout the show. Sean Edelman and Doni Rotunno were very enjoyable to watch as Warner and Vivienne, respectively, as well.

The Delta Nus were very energetic, and that was always a pleasure to watch. Francesca Maurer (Paulette) had a consistent accent throughout the entire show, which really helped characterize Paulette. Her vocals were amazing; anytime she was singing onstage she never failed to capture the audience. Jacob Rones (Kyle) and Alec deJesus (Aaron Schultz/Carlos/Hair Colorist) were also very entertaining anytime they were onstage; they were quite comedic with their characters and very enjoyable. Margaret McVay did a lovely job with Brooke's characterization.

There were some parts of the technical aspects of the show that could have been tweaked. The music tracks were too loud at some points,as were the mics, which caused the actors using those mics to sound muffled. Despite this, the lights were wonderful. They set the mood and tone quite nicely. Isabella Tocci (Margot), Allegra Montesano (Serena), and Kyleigh Jenlicka (Pilar), Elle's three best friends, had very distinct personalities and they were reflected in every outfit they wore, which I felt was really creative.

Cooper City High School's production of Legally Blonde was very enjoyable and entertaining.