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A NOTE FROM THE DIRECTOR:

The journey of "Legally Blonde" has been far from an easy one. From changes in show selection to shifts in casting, this process has been one of perseverance and endurance. I have been lucky enough to tackle this project with what is, without a doubt, one of the most talented company of youth performers it has ever been my pleasure to work with. They have each showed up to rehearsals ready to work with some of the most professional attitudes I have seen in such a young cast. I can honestly say that without these diligent, talented performers, I would not have been able to face this challenge. I was overwhelmed by the passion our students had for this story. The script, the score, the choreography- there was a relentless energy within each of them for the work we were doing.

And make no mistake, Legally Blonde Jr is a challenge. Given the content of the original musical, I wasn't sure how the show would translate to a youth theatre environment. Luckily, however, the themes of self-confidence and remaining true to yourself carried the heart of the story through seamlessly. The challenges of the piece don't end there, though. What was a highly dance-oriented show on Broadway has maintained a good deal of that mentality as an addition to the Broadway Jr collection. Given the show's contemporary setting and style, much of the movement was drawn from a base of jazz and hip-hop with some influence seeping in from the world of cheerleading. The students have risen to the challenges of this highly demanding choreography with remarkable grace.

At this point, I must thank everyone who has been involved in this production. The hard work from our cast, crew, and volunteers is the reason we've been able to do the work we do on this show. As this company continues to grow, our volunteers are some of the most vital people in the organization, and the hours they put in should be applauded. I've always held the belief that theatre, on any level, be it amateur or professional, is a community effort. Our volunteers are the heart of our community and I know for a fact that we wouldn't be able to do what we do without them.

What you are about to see is the culmination of all that hard work and dedication to telling this story. It's been a long road, and one that was not without its bumps, but traveling this rockier path has been worth it. The challenges we've faced with this show have pushed us all as artists, myself included. I don't believe I could possibly be more proud of what we've accomplished with this show. With its unabashedly relevant themes, this story is deserving of actors who pour their souls into telling it, and that's exactly what we have.

I hope you enjoy experiencing Legally Blonde Jr as much as I've enjoyed directing it.

Sincerely,

Sean Newman

Artistic Director, Ghostlight Performing Arts Company