The GPS/McCallie production of Legally Blonde opens Friday.
With a canine character named “Bruiser,” the musical “Legally Blonde” seems a natural fit for the Frierson Theatre stage. Students from GPS and McCallie star in the musical April 17-19, with evening performances on Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and a Sunday matinee at 2:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased at the door 90 minutes before each performance.
The story, based on the book and film of the same name, features the character of Elle Woods, played by GPS junior Allyce Buniak, a girl who enrolls at Harvard Law School to win back the affections of her ex-boyfriend, played by McCallie senior Drew Shikoh.
The musical opened on Broadway in 2007 and received seven Tony nominations and 10 Drama Desk nominations. The London production won three Laurence Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical.
In other starring roles are Jacob Davis, Carter Harbin, Cameron Ford, Mary Charlotte Smalley, Kobi Cummings, Bennett Burns, Darby Breedlove, Angel Sims, Kaliya Ware, Maddie Logan, J.J. Moncus, Dannis Hood, Joshua Fox, Michael Brown, Will Potts, Sam Maner, Leah Baxter, Clare Hamm, Walt Buzzini, Beth Day, Mary Jane Clower, Leo Browne, JP Davis, Will Renfroe, Mary Katherine Owen and Mia Paden.
The many songs performed in the two acts are accompanied by an orchestra of students and adults led by conductor Sandy Morris. A backstage crew of 16 is led by GPS and McCallie students Katie McDougal and Philip Stephenson. Jennie Williams is the prop master.
The production is directed by Catherine Bolden and produced by Suzanne Smartt. Both she and Ms. Smartt have been recognized regionally for their acting, directing, and producing talents.