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I am a brunette, but I loved Legally Blonde.

Evidence: The story opens at the Delta Nu sorority where Elle Woods, a fashion merchandising, pink-loving blonde is awaiting a proposal from her boyfriend Warner Huntington III. When he instead tells her she isn't serious enough for him, she applies at Harvard Law in order to win her man back. With the help of manicurist Paulette and recently graduated Emmett, Elle discovers that she can be more than just a pretty face.

Legally Blonde was originally a movie starring Reese Witherspoon. I was skeptical whether a stage musical could measure up to the success and charm of the movie. My cynicism was misplaced. The musical, while using the same plot points, made a very smart move by not attempting to replicate the motion picture. Instead, the show focused more on Elle's personal development, and her growing relationship with Emmett, who received a major rewrite and  (forgive me, Luke Wilson) much more character development than he ever received in the movie. D.B. Bonds made the role his.

Becky Gulsvig, who was understudy to the original Elle on Broadway, filled those pink shoes to perfection. Although the script often required over-the-top reactions, Gulsvig managed to make a post-breakup cry comical and heart wrenching simultaneously. The highest praise I can give is that I never once compared her to Reese Witherspoon.

Ken Land was law professor Callahan, and exuded a very lawyerly vibe. No wonder, when his credits include "Law and Order" and "Boston Legal". Jeff McLean was perfectly groomed, and perfectly bland Warner Huntington III, Elle's object. Vivienne, Warner's new girlfriend, was given a humane touch by Megan Lewis of Forbidden Broadway fame. Although Lewis' approach made Vivienne more realistic, it also made her storyline disappear altogether because there was simply no conflict to hold our attention.

Natalie Joy Johnson is Paulette, Elle's friend and confident at the local hair salon. Johnson seemed quite timid to start out, but quickly adjusted to the large space. I didn't quite understand her "Ireland" song, which had little purpose in the story, but she performed it admirably. Coleen Sexton's Brooke Wyndham was fairly route, except for the "Whipped into Shape" number where she belted out a number while doing a high-energy jump rope routine. Very impressive!

I must give a nod to three show stealers. First, the two dogs in the show completely upstaged everyone. It is a general rule that live animals are more interesting to an audience than even the most prolific actor. The director must have been aware of this phenomenon and give the dogs a few good tricks and kept them offstage otherwise. Finally, Kyle the UPS man (Ven Daniel) stopped the show with his hilarious entrance and exit.

Music and lyrics were by Laurence O'Keefe and Nell Benjamin. Jerry Mitchell directed the show, and has received Tony and Drama Desk nominations for his work on Legally Blonde.  David Rockwell's scenic design was functional enough. The lighted proscenium arch was not so easy on the eyes, but the Harvard scenes were lovely, and the prison set was innovative and interesting to look at. Ken Posner and Paul Miller designed the lighting, which was a perfect blend of naturalism and flair. Gregg Barnes' costumes were very similar to those in the film, but not any less appropriate for it.

The orchestra consisted of two keyboards and a drummer, which, at times, made the music sound like synthesized 80s soft rock. However, most of the time I didn't even notice, and in truth had no idea how small the pit was until I read the program.

A note of advice to theatre patrons: I know you want to get to your car before anyone else, but the odds of that happening are very slim. Please show respect to the performers by staying during the curtain call.

My overall impression was very positive. I thought the show was very entertaining, very high energy, and it had a lot of heart. I'm not a girly-girl and I'm not blonde, but I wouldn't mind seeing it again. Case closed.

REVIEW:
Legally Blonde
Starlight Theatre
Reviewed June 30, 2009
4600 Starlight Rd, Kansas City, MO 64132
For more information on Starlight's 2009 Broadway season call (816) 363-STAR or online at www.kcstarlight.com