SHS pit orchestra rehearses for the spring musical Legally Blonde
The Schaumburg High School theater department will transform its stage into Harvard Law School to present an live performance of Legally Blonde for the annual musical later this month.
Based on the 2001 film, Legally Blonde follows Elle Woods, played by Mya McCurdy, as she enrolls at Harvard Law School and her journey to succed while she challenges stereotypes based on physical appearance.
The production is directed by Mr. Inendino, Mr. Muro and Mr. Cunningham, with Hannah Bonfiglio, Gianni Davis and Nyla Muhammad as student producers. Along with the directors, the musical consists of 36 on stage performers with five behind the scenes supporting crews who are in charge of lighting, set construction and other technical production elements.
The cast and crew are eager to share the story with SHS since it provides laughs.
“Legally Blonde is known as a funny and pop happy musical and it’s just really enjoyable, the songs are catchy and fun,” Bonfiglio said.
Auditions were held the week of February 2nd, when students were asked to sing a prepared song and dance for directors. Select students were invited to callbacks where they further performed for the directors who then met to discuss casting based on vocal range, dance ability and onstage chemistry.
“It’s really exciting, last year I had a role but not as big as this one and I’m especially excited because I feel a personal connection in the sense that she’s overlooked for her outgoing personality,” McCurdy commented.
Behind the scenes, the tech department is building sets based on designs provided by the directors. One of the more complex sets is a stage framed with LED lighting. Mr. Sullivan, head of the tech department, said the biggest challenge has been figuring out how to operate the LED lights without relying on internet or Bluetooth connections.
Performance dates are scheduled for April 16, 17 and 18. Ticket sale information has just been posted to the SHS website; see the webpage to purchase them today.
The Schaumburg High School theater department hopes that students and community members will attend to support this year’s production.