10-05-2025 9:23pm

LEGALLY BLONDE FROM MOVIE TO STAGE AT LA COMEDIA

Beth Callahan Editor

SPRINGBORO, OH -- Always a popular movie, the musical staging of LEGALLY BLONDE is the first professional production of this play in Warren County. Remembered as a triumph for Reese Witherspoon in the film, the production of the musical, now playing at La Comedia through October 26, doesn’t disappoint.

The production is loaded with fun songs by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin in many short scenes with lots of dance numbers. There is constant action, and the play moves very quickly.

Mallory Georgia Marie plays the leading character Elle Woods with energy and has a great “broadway” voice. (She even resembles Reese Witherspoon enough to be her twin sister.) She definitely is the star of the show appearing in every scene singing and dancing with professional verve. Mallory is also a songwriter with original music on all streaming platforms. See her song "Hold my Hand" on Youtube by clicking link below.

The leading man in this show isn’t her “boy friend" Elliott Handkins, who in a supporting role is effective, but instead Noah Schnabel as Emmett Forrest eventually is. Noah has excellent stage presence and a fine voice for a romantic lead.

A true stand out in the cast is Tori Kocher, who plays Paulette the beautician friend of Elle. Tori has a powerful voice and dominates the stage in all her scenes. Her personality is huge!

Supporting cast mention needs to be made also about Craig Sherman as Callahan, the Law Professor. His ability to be the center of his scenes is from many stage roles over the years as well as the YOU TUBE voice of BOB THE TRAIN.

Broolyn Stewart, who plays Vivian, has dramatic flair and a good singing voice.

Three Sorority buds of Elles and later “guardian angels” appear throughout the show. They were played with great enthusiasm by Allison Gabert, Elyse Willkinson and Lily Walton. They have more lines and songs than most of the regular supporting players, and all three are so great as comic relief.

Smaller, but interesting roles, were performed by Colin Crantoun, Brianna Mc Vaugh, Valentine Rangel and Austin Rose... all quality professionals. And, I can't forget to mention the amazing work performed by the Ensemble women and men.

Two special animal actors featured were Bruiser and Ham who made guest cameos and can be adopted from Pets of Ohio Rescue Team. Check them and other rescue dogs out at:
www.petsofohiorescueteam.org

This play is certainly referred to for adults, who are looking for a fun evening of theatre, music and a great buffet dinner or Sunday brunch.

The show runs until October 26 with tickets starting at $70 with lesser group rates available. Parking is free. La Comedia is located at 765 Central Ave. Springboro, Ohio 45066

FOR INFORMATION: visit lacomedia.com or call 1-800-677-9505. LaComedia's next show is Scrooge, the Musical starting Nov., 1 through Dec, 28.