Elle Woods already conquered Harvard Law, and she still slayed Katipunan as well with her enthusiasm and determination!

This take by Ateneo Blue Repertory, the university’s premier musical theatre organization, proves once again that underestimating Elle Woods is just her biggest strength. Adapted from the 2001 classic led by Reese Witherspoon, Elle’s tumultuous journey transforms into a lively, musical spectacle.

Legally Blonde follows Elle Woods (alternately played by LJ Bala and Danielle Nicola Tan), the beloved president of sorority Delta Nu, who gets broken up with by her boyfriend Warner Huntington III (Theo Gaspar) in pursuit of his goals. Determined to win him back, Elle charms her way into Harvard Law, where she realizes her true potential.

Staged in the Doreen Black Box Theater at Ateneo de Manila University’s Areté, one is inclined to believe blueRep’s spin on the iconic comedy would be simple and minimalist. However, once one enters the theater, it’s hard to not be impressed by production designer Ohm David’s set design. The theater’s proscenium stage extends into a two-step circular stage, which then extends to the side. This thrust layout, where the audience is spread out on three sides, allowed for increased immersion, such as in a scene where the ensemble handed out bags of chips (courtesy of Blue Repertory’s sponsor!) to those in the front rows.

Omigod You Guys! The Cast Delivered!

LJ Bala, who played Elle in this performance, had big shoes to fill. She had to give justice to Reese Witherspoon’s breakthrough role, and Elle Woods is also a role considered to be incredibly demanding in terms of physicality and vocals. The character never leaves the stage, unless it is to change outfits, and yet Bala did not falter during the show’s 2h 30m length. She rose to the challenge with such vivacious energy; her performance hints at an illustrious career. 

Theo Gaspar is charismatic as Warner, effortlessly showing why Elle is drawn to him. The character of Paulette Bonafonte (alternately played by Gel Basa and Raflesia Bravo; played by Gel Basa in this performance) adds humanity and heart into the story. Basa brings an infectious, self-aware energy that gets the audience to care deeply for her character. When her character got a certain something back, the audience broke into applause. Vivienne Kensington (alternately played by Sara Sicam and Bea Nunag; played by Sara Sicam in this performance), embodies the societal pressure to conform and compete, which Sicam skillfully portrays.

blueRep Delivers on What You Want

The massive ensemble was satisfying to watch in motion. Everyone was utilized well, thanks to choreographer Jim Ferrer. The choreography maximized all four sides of the Doreen to its fullest potential. No bad seat at the house! The energetic numbers, especially those sung and danced by the sorority girls and frat boys, really shone in the intimacy Doreen affords. 

Also read: Ateneo Blue Repertory’s Legally Blonde Gets Whipped Into Shape!

Ferrer also borrows from the original choreography of certain musical numbers, especially from the deceptively simple Whipped into Shape. The said number saw Brooke Wyndham (alternately played by Senanda and Misha Fabian; played by Senanda in this performance) sing and do the jumping rope together with the ensemble. This is a physically taxing scene to do, yet Senanda and the ensemble somehow makes it look easy to pull off.

Meann Espinosa’s direction also infuses the distinctly American material with a welcome taste of Filipino flavor. A remarkable moment that stood out was when one of Elle’s friends shouted at Warner in full Tagalog, eliciting surprise and laughter from the audience. These moments, while initially jarring, added so much delight to a material that is already a pleasant joy to watch. As seen during this performance, her take on the musical plays well to a Filipino audience. 

Legally Blonde serves as a cathartic payoff for anyone who has ever been underestimated, and also as a delightful time at the theatre. This show is recommended for audiences aged 9 and up. The show is currently sold out.

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