Burnsville Summer Theater; ISD 191 Community Education

Reviewed by Emily Grimes

Has the premiere for Barbie got you hyped for campy fun, feminine power, or just looking at really pretty clothes? Do yourself a favor by donning some pink apparel and doubling the fun by making this production part of your double feature. Come support your local community theater with your attendance this weekend or next’s of Burnsville Summer Theater’s Legally Blonde: The Musical, directed by Erika Sasseville.

This cast and crew seriously deliver an entertaining show, rife with zippy comedic lines, joyfully exuberant dance numbers, and grounded, heartfelt moments. Legally Blonde: The Musical revamps the beloved cult classic film with new humor and catchy tunes. It tells the story of bubbly blonde Elle Woods, who learns “what she wants” as she attempts transforming herself from Malibu princess to Harvard law student. Elle Woods inspires us as she fights for love, her friends and community, and ultimately her own self-worth and acceptance.

This production sports a large ensemble cast, and I was truly blown away by the talent displayed by each and every cast member. The comedic flair and timing was spot-on. There were many hilarious, stand out performances in this kooky cast of characters, like the hairdresser Paulette and her crush on UPS man Kyle, the pool boy Nikos and his (friend?) Carlos, and butt-busting exercise enthusiast Brook Wyndham. The girls of Delta Nu and the ensemble groups also majorly impressed with their over-the-top synced dance moves to marching band numbers, jump rope routines, Irish jigs, and the iconic “bend and snap”. Choreographer Zack Anderson made some truly delightful and whimsical routines.

But the most impressive aspect of this production were the vocal performances. I was shocked by the vocal talent possessed within my local community. Michael Goettl as Warner Huntington III, Dan Stephans II as Professor Callahan, and Jennifer Jacober as Paulette all more than delivered on their solo numbers. Leading man Riley Webster as Emmett Forrester had such sincerity to his character and vocal performance, that it gave so much depth to the heartfelt moments of the show. And of course our leading lady, Elle Woods, played by Kacie Riddle, shocked and amazed with her phenomenal voice. Her part is a challenging and exhausting singing role, and she carried her stellar vocal performance to the very end. Riddle gave great depth to her character, exuding both the relentless positivity and lows and vulnerabilities of Elle Woods.

This production also features a live pit orchestra, which did well to match the vocalists and create a lively performance. A job well done to Music Director Caleb Hubbard and all the orchestral performers. Kudos again to Director Erika Sasseville, and all the hardworking cast and crew, for a non-stop fun show, that reminds us all to keep chasing our dreams!

The performances are held at Mraz Center for Performing Arts in Burnsville. Performance dates are July 27-29, Aug 3-5 at 7pm and matinee performances July 29 and Aug 5 at 2 pm. Tickets can be purchased online at mrazcenter.ludus.com or at the door.