Burroughs High School’s drama, choir and instrumental music departments join together to produce Legally Blonde, a Broadway and international-touring musical inspired by the popular movie and novel of the same name.
Drama head Guy Myers works with choir director Brendan Jennings and instrumental music teacher Taylor Arakelian and a host of production talent to produce one major musical theater show every year at JBHS. Legally Blonde tells the story of UCLA sorority president Elle Woods, portrayed by senior Robin Mazer, as she uses her smarts and positive attitude to follow her ex-boyfriend Warner Hungtington III, played by senior Sawyer Patterson, to Harvard Law School in an attempt to win him back. Elle undergoes a journey of self-discovery and validation along the way, as she crosses paths with Warner and his new girlfriend, Vivienne Kensington (junior Madison Mayer), tough law professor Callahan (junior Miles Gonzalez) and teaching assistant Emmett Forest, played by sophomore Sully Zack. “I love the character Elle Woods. She is such a kind, compassionate and optimistic individual and it is a true pleasure to play such a likable role,” commented Mazer. “It is often easy to misinterpret Elle as dumb, but actually she’s very smart and bright. She may have shallow tastes but she has strong convictions.” “The musical as a whole is so upbeat and fun,” she continued. “I’ve never done a contemporary musical before, and it’s really great to be able to use my pop voice in a musical theater piece.” Mazer, age 17, has been in every Myers theater production at JBHS for a total of 12 shows. She began acting in seventh grade but became more serious about theater in high school. “This year I had the good fortune of being cast as Emmett Forest, and what a rewarding role that is to play,” commented Zack. “Emmett comes from humble beginnings and has worked hard to get to where he is today. I love what a charismatic character Emmett is; right from the get go he wants to see Elle Woods succeed.” “I’d have to say my favorite character trait of Emmett’s is his sense of ‘reserved enthusiasm’– He remains true to himself and his emotions all while maintaining his professionalism,” he added. The 15-year-old also said, “Acting in musicals has taught me a strong sense of self, the ability to think quickly on my feet and to not be afraid to put myself out there. I have my drama teachers and my parents to thank for that!” Both Mazer and Zack say the Act 2 song “Legally Blonde” is their favorite song from the show. “It’s the emotional climax of the show and a sad love ballad between Emmett and Elle,” said Mazer. “Elle, played by the amazing, talented Robin Mazer, is considering leaving Harvard for good, and in those last moments Emmett professes his love for her!” Zack also said. “But you’ll have to see the show to find out what happens next!” Another favorite song and scene of Mazer’s is “What You Want,” in Act 1, about Elle’s admission to Harvard. It includes several costumes, characters, set changes and dance breaks. Junior Faydean Kielty portrays Paulette, the beauty shop worker who becomes Elle’s sounding board. Elle’s law study group takes on the case of accused murdered Brooke Wyndham, played by senior Natalie Charouhas, which results in some surprising twists in the story’s development. “My favorite part of the entire experience by far, is watching the whole show come together!” Zack enthused. “Under the guidance of our amazing director, Mr. Guy Myers, our musical director, Mr. Jennings, our choreographer, Jennifer Stanley and our lead pianist/rehearsal guru Dan Scoville, this show has come alive–I just want to say thank you!” “And of course, I want to thank our amazing tech crew, led by John King, our costume crew–Joanie Coyote, all the dedicated parents and volunteers, Erika Wolf–our student producer, and last but certainly not least, the amazing cast!” he added. “Musicals are so much fun because they allow you to expand reality,” said Mazer. “To be able to break into song in the middle of a conversation is such a fantasy and on stage that concept comes to life.” Legally Blonde runs Friday, February 6, at 7:00 p.m., Saturday, February 7, at 7:00 p.m. and Sunday, February 8, at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available in advance of the show here.
