Notes from the Director's desk...
OMIGODYOUGUYS!
I first fell in love with Legally Blonde when it first came out in movie theaters back in 2001. Not only did it have a great "never judge a book by its cover" message, but the personal journey of Elle Woods discovering her potential was inspiring. We're often told that we can be anything we want to be, but we aren't often aware of much hard work it takes to become whatever that is. Elle Woods not only works hard to achieve her dreams and goals, but does it with a smile and a great pair of shoes!
Let's talk about friendship. The term "friend" has lost a lot of meaning nowadays, since with a single click you can become anyone's "friend." But Elle knows that true friendship is a treasure, and keeps her friends throughout the changes in her life. Her Delta Nu sisters are as invested in her law career as she is, and her kindness helps her find true friends at Harvard in Paulette, Emmett, and even her one-time nemesis Vivienne. Elle learns that if you want others to believe in you, you first must believe in yourself.
Let's talk about fashion. My mother - our incredible costumer - will tell you that we are living in a "style-less" time: while the 60s, 70s and 80s all had their flavor and trends, we seem to be a hodgepodge of spandex and pajama pants. (Maybe our cell phones define this generation's style?) Despite this, Elle knows the value of dressing well, and though we should never judge a book by its cover, Elle shares her mother's wisdom: "Tattered books are more often left on the shelf." Sure, it's a chore to tuck in your shirt and brush your hair, but it makes a difference in how people perceive you! At first, Elle's Malibu looks make people judge her for being superficial, but once she tones down her pink style, her Harvard peers and professors start to listen and ultimately respect her. However, she remains true to herself, and ultimately uses her "cosmo-girl" knowledge as a superpower to change future. (Of course, she couldn't do any of this without her stellar 4.0, so stay in school, kids!) You are more than what you wear, but what you wear can speak volumes about who you are.
Finally, let's talk about love. This show is full of grand romantic gestures, from getting into Harvard just to be near one's love, to never giving up despite embarrassment, social isolation, and the need change one's habits. Elle is a hopeless romantic, a believer in soul mates, and a dog person (which means - in my opinion - that she identifies with those who love fully and unconditionally!) She understands the power of love, and is ultimately open to learning the hardest lesson - when to let go. Her expectation and experience of love evolves throughout the show, and by the end she learns that love can appear when you least expect it - but only when you're truly ready to receive it.
Though often written off as a "dumb blonde," Elle defies the social expection that she's is only capable of being arm candy. On the surface, Elle's story is a fluffy love story, but beyond that, it is the hero's journey of a smart, driven, and kind young woman gaining self-confidence and finding her place in the world. Right now, all our young women (and young men) need to be reminded that they are important, valued, and respected - a lesson that this "fluffy musical" has to share with us all. I hope that you learn and enjoy as much as I have tonight as you sit back, relax, and enjoy the show!
Noelle Arms
Director
