BWW Reviews: LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL at Town Hall Arts Center

Sometimes I forget how many things can rhyme with "OMIGOD YOU GUYS." If you need some ideas, look no further than the opening number of Town Hall's current production of Legally Blonde The Musical.

Based on the film of the same name, which was also based on a book, Legally Blonde The Musical follows UCLA Delta Nu sorority sister Elle Woods as she follows her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law School in an attempt to rekindle their romance. There she discovers a love for law, challenging the stereotype of a blonde girl who carries a tiny dog in her purse.

With a book by Heather Hach, it stays pretty true to the movie, aside from a few bits that just work better in musical theatre. The music by Laurence O'Keefe and Neil Benjamin is a delight, and there's barely a song that doesn't stick in your head for days after.

Director Nick Sugar compiled a spunky cast of young talent, many seen before on Town Hall's stage. Overall, he kept the production entertaining and engaging. While his choreography fit the style of the show and had plenty of vivacious moments, it seemed a bit repetitive during longer group numbers. Also, a noticeable number of cast members weren't fully committing to the sharp movements that would have brought it to the level required.

Rachelle Wood as Elle Woods was so good you could probably tell me they named the character after her, and I'd believe it. Her bubbly personality mixed with flawless vocals made this dynamo a full package. If you see this show for anything, see it for her.

Carter Edward Smith kept Emmett Forrest relatable, bringing his own goofball personality to the character's natural charm. After seeing Smith in a variety of supporting roles, it was a treat to watch him breakout as a leading man.

Town Hall newcomer Dayle Extrell plays Elle's cosmetologist cohort. Her timing was spot-on, her vocals were outstanding, and I'm excited to see what she does next. Ryan Buehler portrayed her UPS-guy boyfriend Kyle enthusiastically. (He also played featured roles like Grandmaster Chad and her ex Dewey.)

Other standouts include Zach Stailey as Elle's sharp professor Callahan, Tim Oakes as her ex-boyfriend Warner, Rebekah Ortiz as his new girlfriend Vivienne, and Taylor Nichole Young as feminist classmate Enid. The ensemble was filled with a enjoyable collection of vibrant performers.

The show did not feature a live band, which is something I should start remembering about Town Hall. Luckily, Legally Blonde is the kind of show that doesn't require one. Sure the background sounds a little brighter, but it brings the show some effervescence. The only issue was it affected the show's pacing a bit, which translated some sloppiness into other areas.

The set seemed simplistic at first, but there were a lot of surprised thrown in by designer Tina Anderson. Costumes by Nicole Harrison fit right into what I'd expect from an early-2000s college flick.

Overall, Legally Blonde The Musical is a perfect fit for Town Hall's intimate setting. It features the kind of wittiness you don't get from most musicals. This feel-good musical will leave you with catchy tunes and a determination to get out and conquer your own goals.

Legally Blonde The Musical plays Littleton's Town Hall Arts Center through June 19. Tickets are available online at TownHallArtsCenter.org or by calling (303)794-2787.Ten value seats at $10 each will be made available on a first-come-first-served basis one-hour prior to each published curtain time.

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