I had a lot of fun seeing the first preview of this show, and I think it has potential, but it could use some work.
In terms of the score, there were four songs I really enjoyed (Omigod You Guys, What You Want, Chip on My Shoulder, and So Much Better). There were two songs that I absolutely could not stand. The rest were solid numbers that were pleasant to listen to. The lyrics are snappy and the book is pretty tight, especially in the first act. The second act doesn't have the same intensity of the first act because there is less conflict (it focuses on the trial), but it is definitely funny.
I didn't think the choreography was bad, though I've heard criticism of it. It wasn't the best I've seen in my life, but the dancing added a lot of energy to the show.
If there's one area in which I DON'T see much room for improvement, it is in the cast. I think Laura Bell Bundy is very, very good. She makes Elle likable and believable without ever being too stupid, blonde, or obnoxious. Her voice is extremely strong, but that shouldn't surprise anybody. She has pretty good stage presence as it is, but I think with time, she'll grow into the role even more. Christian Borle is a very sweet Emmett with (of course) excellent comic timing. I also liked Richard Blake's Warner - he has a great voice and he nails the character. Michael Rupert is a good Callahan, but his character's songs could stand some improvement. The supporting roles were great too. Leslie Kritzer, Annaleigh Ashford, and Dequina Moore were hysterical as the Greek chorus.
My main issue with the show is that it is a 2.5 hour musical that attempts to follow very closely the 1.5 hour movie. At least a third of the material that makes up that extra hour fails to move the plot along and doesn't develop the characters. I really don't think Paulette should have as big a role as she does in the musical - I am aware that many people are fans of Orfeh, but I wasn't impressed, and her character doesn't add very much. I don't know how much they can do about that, but even with the obvious weaknesses, Legally Blonde is a good musical that will do well. I'm very excited about Opening Night!
Updated On: 4/5/07 at 01:51 PM
