High-energy summer production set to dazzle community
Saturday, June 29, 2024, 10:00 AM
The Woodlands, TX - Harvard’s beloved blonde takes the stage by pink storm in ImagineNation Theatre’s 9th Annual Summer Musical, "Legally Blonde the Musical." Directed by Ray Pereira, this upbeat story of self-discovery will be performed at The Woodlands College Park High School Theatre from June 28 through June 30, 2024. The show is rated PG-13.
The musical, based on the 2001 movie and novel of the same name, follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandals in pursuit of her dreams. Gracie Cutler, a college student, plays the leading lady, Elle Woods, a California sorority president turned Harvard Law School student.
Showtimes are as follows:
Friday, June 28: 2 PM and 7 PM
Saturday, June 29: 2 PM and 7 PM
Sunday, June 30: 2 PM
Tickets, ranging from $18 to $25, are available for purchase online or at the door. The audience is encouraged to make a day out of the event and explore local dining options for lunch or dinner before or after the shows.
Review:
The energy in the air was electric for the Friday matinee debut on June 28th. As guests filled rows and rows of seats, the audience buzzed with anticipation. When the lights went down and the music started, the opening scene of the sorority building immediately set the tone for the production. Spotlights illuminated the sorority house as the cast performed a choreographed number, seamlessly coordinating their singing with the opening and closing of windows. The Student Center had the unique opportunity to observe this scene during a behind-the-scenes scaffolding call rehearsal.
While it may have seemed simple to the audience, this scene required extensive and intricate efforts from nearly the entire crew. The meticulous synchronization of lighting, choreography, and set design highlighted the dedication and hard work of the production team, bringing this captivating scene to life.
From the beginning, the story of Elle Woods, a picture-perfect Valley Girl blonde who gets into Harvard Law to win back her ex-boyfriend, captivated the audience. Gracie Cutler, who played Elle, flawlessly captured her confident and bubbly personality. Watching Cutler play such an over-the-top character so effortlessly highlighted just how well-cast the show was.
Ashley Pribble, who played Paulette, a hairdresser who becomes Elle’s first friend in Boston, was terrific in her subplot involving a loser ex and her dog, Rufus. She also nailed one of the best songs in the show, “Ireland.” Kai Desel, as Kyle, was funny and memorable in his brief time on stage. Jack O'Toole, as Elle's Dad and Harvard Admission, also delivered a noteworthy performance transitioning through multiple characters for the production.
Numerous cast members performed their roles perfectly. Highlights included Solomon Williams as Professor Callahan, Veer Chulki as Emmet Forrest, and Addie Jae Desel as Vivienne Kensington. The characters felt incredibly real, managing to be both dramatic and hilarious.
The musical concluded with a long and rapturous applause from the audience. The energy in the room was undeniable as excited chatter filled the air. Parents, family members, and theater-goers alike exclaimed how impressed they were by the show. As bouquets of flowers were given to the actors and people began to filter out, it was clear that “Legally Blonde the Musical” was a resounding success.
Some of the best performances of the show included:
"Omigod You Guys" by Gracie Cutler as Elle Woods, Avery Desel as Serena, Grayson Cater as Margot, Abi Opeyemi as Pilar, and the Delta Nu Sisters.
"Whipped Into Shape" by Solomon Williams as Callahan, Bradley Simmons as Warner Huntington III, Dylan Burke as Brooke Wyndham, and Brooke's Workout Friends.
"Legally Blonde" by Gracie Cutler as Elle Woods and Veer Chulki as Emmett Forrest.
Audience members praised the play, with one saying, “Excellent play. The cast was superb. Very entertaining.” Another attendee mentioned, “My wife and I attended the opening show. It was a fantastic show; funny, fast-moving, and visually appealing. Addie Jae Desel, playing Vivienne, was especially impressive. The audience loved it, punctuating several scenes with spontaneous applause.”
ImagineNation Theatre’s mission is to provide young adults with a platform to explore and showcase their theatrical talents. Director Ray Pereira has been leading the organization for nine years, building a community focused on creativity, performance, and personal growth. "We offer a niche community theater experience, specializing in productions for young adults ages 13 to 22. Our summer productions are particularly important, as they fill the gap when schools are out, and the kids have a passion for performing," said Pereira.
Rehearsals were held at Wildwood UMC United Methodist Church in Magnolia, where the young actors committed to a rigorous schedule, balancing hard work, discipline, and fun. The production team, including music director Mandy Henson and choreographer Lyndsay Craven, worked tirelessly to ensure that each performance was polished and professional.
For more information about ImagineNation Theatre and to purchase tickets, visit ImagineNation Theatre. They also have a presence on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
"Legally Blonde the Musical" is more than just a play; it’s an event for the community. Come in from the heat and enjoy this exciting summer production, showcasing the hard work and talent of our community's young actors.
