“Legally Blonde” reviewed by Edie Reese

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED****  Arlington Heights’ Metropolis Performing Arts Centre opens its season with the delightful confection of Legally Blonde running through November 21,
2021. This musical version of the hit movie of a few years back follows the story of super-sorority girl Elle Woods (Alaina Wis) as she enters Harvard Law School to win back her snobby ex-boyfriend, Warner Huntington III (Jimmy Romano). Although Elle may be dressed in pink, we discover that the most important color is her heart of gold, which triumphs over all and leads to a happy ending, (This IS musical comedy, after all!)

Despite Elle being the center of attention, this is truly an ensemble show. The songs, by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin are lively and quick-paced. Many of the 21 member cast take on multiple roles, and the dancing is superb. (Kudos to choreographer Jennifer Cupani.) Standout individual performances include Nathan W. Brown (Ensemble, Jasmine Lacy Young (Pilar), Michelle Tibble (Paulette Buonofuonte) and Christopher Johnson as a particularly slimy Professor Callahan. (Reminded me of my Contracts professor—Yikes!)

Alaina Wis as Elle Woods is steel wrapped in cotton candy. Near-perfect comedic timing, a wide vocal range and a great dance performance make Elle sweet but not cloying. Ms. Wis (and every other cast member) is upstaged only by Bella Kerouac, a cute Schipperke who plays Bruiser Woods.

Music Director/Band Leader Kenneth McMullen sets the pace for the musical numbers. It is refreshing to hear a live band at a musical theater performance again. Scenic Designer Valeriya Nedviga has hidden all sorts of “Easter Eggs” within the Delta Nu/Greek Chorus set. Look for the “Ode to Girl Power” before the show starts.

Tickets are $40 each and may be purchased online at MetropolisArts.com , via phone at 847-577-2121 or via email at customerservice@metropolisarts.com.

All patrons will be required to wear a mask and show proof of vaccination, or a negative COVID-19 test prior to theater entry. A photo ID will also be required.

Metropolis is located in Arlington Heights, IL at the intersection of Campbell and Vail Avenue (111 West Campbell Street). Street parking is available, and there is also parking in the public garage behind the theater.

For a complete outing, there are a variety of dining options on Campbell and Vail Streets close to the theater. For more information regarding Metropolis and a complete performance schedule, visit MetropolisArts.com or call the Box Office at 847-577-2121

To see what others are saying, visit www.theatreinchicago.com, go to Review Round-Up and click at “Legally Blonde”.