We can not begin to describe how amazing it has been to work with this company. The energy we feel on a daily basis as we built a show in a semi-post-Covid environment has been electrifying. We have heard other theater directors describe it as “everything old is new again”. Wilton High’s company is smiling, singing, laughing, and most importantly being incredibly creative and collaborative together again! The stage has been very high energy which reflects the show. Ben Brantley from the NYTimes describes Legally Blonde The Musical as “this high-energy, empty-calories and expensive-looking hymn to the glories of girlishness, based on the 2001 film of the same title, approximates the experience of eating a jumbo box of Gummi Bears in one sitting”.
Although we agree with Brantley’s overview of the show, a very fast paced high energy show, We think he neglected to focus any attention on the deeper messages the show brings to the its’ audiences. This company has spent a great deal of time and conversation grappling with the flaws of a show written in 2007, let alone shows written in the Rogers and Hammerstein era. The show does employ the use of archetypes/stereotypes but the authors make an effort to advance positive, thoughtful and inclusive messaging. With the exception of the antiheroes, all the characters are challenged to recognize that they should be proud of who they are.
If you believe that art is created to make us think, then look beyond the beautiful scenery, sugar packed dialogue, beautifully choreographed and sung nature of this show, and recognize the ultimate message is to embrace one's self and each other regardless of our differences.
We would like to thank the incredibly supportive theater parents, Wilton School District, and Wilton High for their continued support of the theater program. Specifically of note is the unwavering support for the arts by Dr. K. Smith and Dr. R. O’Donnell. Finally, thanks to the significant others of our production team. Without their patience and support this team would not exist. Thanks Craig, Jess, Karen, and Marit!
Enjoy the show!
Kevin & Kathryn
