The Beverly Arts Center has been buzzing with pink and plenty of personality as dozens of young performers prepare to bring “Legally Blonde” to life on stage this weekend.
The Beverly Arts Center’s Youth Theatre Company production features 28 actors ages 12 to 18, blending big musical numbers, comedy and heartfelt lessons into a show director Kara Ryan hopes audiences of all ages will enjoy.
“It is jam packed with great messages for teens,” said Ryan, assistant artistic director of the Beverly Arts Center. “You are more than just your outer appearance, and you don’t need to change who you are to accomplish your dreams.”
Ryan said the musical has been close to her heart since early in her theater career.
“When I first started teaching, I had the opportunity to assistant direct a pre-teen production of ‘Legally Blonde,’ and then I later got the chance to perform the show myself,” she said.
Now, she is helping a new generation of performers put their own spin on the high-energy production centered around Elle Woods and her journey from fashion-loving sorority girl to Harvard Law student.
Ryan said one of the most rewarding parts of directing young actors is watching them make the characters their own.
“My favorite part of directing is letting the kids have influence over their characters, and shaping the show collaboratively with the awesome teaching artists, designers and technicians we work with,” she said.
That teamwork has helped create a close-knit community within the theater company, something Ryan said has become one of her proudest accomplishments during her time at the arts center.
“It is a gift to be able to watch students grow over the years, and to welcome new performers with each production,” she said.
The cast members are just as enthusiastic about the show as their director.
“What I like most about the production are the outfits. Can I say that? The outfits,” joked NaSyah Slaughter. “Oh, and the people. You guys. [The teachers].”
Chase Griggs said he enjoys discovering the story behind the musical while preparing for the stage production.
“What I love about being in the production is learning what the musical is about so we can learn what the movie is about so we can do the play,” he said.
Amora Randle said one musical number stands out above the rest.
“My favorite part of the production is probably ‘So Much Better’ because you can see the whole ensemble work together and sing together and it’s really fun to do and I think it’ll be fun for the audience to watch,” she said.
Even the production’s four-legged cast member had something to say.
“Woof woof,” said Bruiser Woods, Elle Woods’ Chihuahua, identified by the production team as Gemini Vegetarian.
Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 14, and Friday, May 15, along with 3 p.m. matinees Saturday, May 16, and Sunday, May 17.
Tickets are available online through the Beverly Arts Center ticket page or can be purchased at the door.
