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Ursuline’s Drama Club wows with high-energy production of “Legally Blonde, Jr.”

Ursuline’s Drama Club wows with high-energy production of “Legally Blonde, Jr.”

by Shannon Dufresne
 

Ursuline’s Drama Club lit up the stage with its vibrant and energetic production of “Legally Blonde, Jr.,” performed from March 27 through March 29. The musical, based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the popular film, brought to life the beloved story of Elle Woods, played by Carly T ‘25, in a dazzling and dynamic way.

Cast performs lively opening number from Spring 2025 musical, "Legally Blonde, Jr."


Supporting roles included Katie M ‘25, who shined in her TUS Drama debut as Paulette, Elle’s dog-loving hairdresser and friend, and Madalynn T ‘25, delightful in the role of Vivienne, Elle’s romantic rival. Freshman Lauren T ‘28 wowed in her first TUS drama production, bringing the role of defendant Brooke Wynham to life with a playfully choreographed “Whipped Into Shape.” Together, the cast and crew, which included students from grades 6 through 12, delivered a polished and engaging performance. 

Pictured above L-R: Katie M '25, Madalynn T '25, and Lauren T '28.


From lively dance numbers to comedic moments and heartfelt ballads, the show captured the essence of Elle’s inspiring journey from fashion-forward sorority president to top Harvard Law student. The production also included performances by Iona Prep and Fordham Prep students, with Iona Prep senior Quinn O stepping into the male lead role, adding chemistry to the ensemble. 

It was really something to see! We had to set up folding chairs on Friday night to accommodate the audience. People were lined up out the door!”
- Mr. Cristian Deosa P’30, director of facilities

Under the direction of faculty moderator and performing arts teacher Mr. Sylvain Falipou-Karkari, the production was lauded for its seamless staging, impressive choreography, and strong vocal performances. “It’s a high-energy, uplifting story about self-discovery, resilience, and the breaking of stereotypes, which is both entertaining and empowering,” said Falipou-Karkari. He praises Ursuline seniors, Student Director and Choreographer Carly - along with Maddie A, Cameron C, Isabella F, Katie M, Annika P, Madeleine S, Olivia S, and Madalynn T - for their talent and commitment to the project and credits Visual Arts teacher Ms. Pat DiIorio for her vision with set design.

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The staging, costumes, and lighting created an immersive experience, with the cast’s enthusiasm shining throughout. Iconic songs had the audience clapping along, and the heartfelt finale reinforced themes of determination and self-confidence. With professional-level execution and dedicated young performers, “Legally Blonde, Jr.” was a resounding success, as noted by Mr. Cristian Deosa P’30, director of facilities, who added, “It was really something to see! We had to set up folding chairs on Friday night to accommodate the audience. People were lined up out the door!”

 

“What, like it’s hard?” The Making of Legally Blonde Jr.

by Natalia K ‘29 and Olivia S ‘26

Olivia S ‘26 and Natalia K ‘29, reporters with Unison, Ursuline’s student newspaper, captured the behind-the-scenes action of "Legally Blonde Jr." in the March 2025 edition and graciously share their article, reprinted here:

From page to screen to stage, ‘Legally Blonde’ has captivated audiences with its empowering message and infectious energy. Now, the Ursuline School Drama Club is bringing ‘Legally Blonde Jr.’ to life, showcasing the talent, dedication, and passion of its cast and crew. Behind the scenes, students have poured their hearts into rehearsals, choreography, and set design, working tirelessly to recreate Elle Woods’ iconic journey. As opening night approaches, excitement is building for what promises to be a dazzling and unforgettable production.

Legally Blonde originated as a novel by Amanda Brown, published in 2001. The story quickly captured reader's hearts and was adapted into a film, released the same year, which premiered on July 13, 2001. Upon its debut, the movie was very successful at the box office, grossing around twenty million dollars on its opening weekend alone.

In addition to its success as a book and film, ‘Legally Blonde’ was transformed into a Broadway musical that premiered in 2007, further solidifying its beloved status. The vibrant and empowering themes resonate with audiences of all ages, ensuring that Legally Blonde remains a beloved classic for millions of Americans. “Everyone can find something to love in Legally Blonde Jr,” said Mr. Sylvain Falipou-Karkari, a performing arts and religion teacher and the director of the musical, “Even today, women face many difficulties in accessing higher education, so I think that this musical is very empowering, and that it resonates with the Ursuline School’s message of empowerment.”


Heartbroken after being dumped by her boyfriend Warner, who left her for someone "more serious", Elle Woods is determined to win him back. With the support of her Delta Nu sisters, she gets into Harvard Law to get back together with Warner, only to discover that he is engaged! Determined to prove herself, Elle dives into her studies. She secures an internship at a law firm, where she defends fellow Delta Nu alumnae, Brooke Windham, on trial for the murder of her husband. “The plot of the musical definitely would appeal to young adults and teenagers,” said Brady M, who plays Warner in Legally Blonde Jr, “but anyone who has seen the movie or the musical before would love this adaptation.”


Adapting the classic and impactful story of Elle Woods to the Ursuline stage is certainly no mean feat, but the TUS Drama Club is up to the task. “Learning the choreography is one of the most challenging parts,” said Emily T ‘26, a member of the cast of “Legally Blonde Jr.,” in an interview. “It’s such an upbeat show, and the choreo is pretty peppy to match it. I feel so sassy on stage!” True to her words, the making of Legally Blonde Jr requires an unimaginable amount of energy and effort. This musical in particular features a large cast, and incredibly intricate numbers that combine lyrical, musical, and physical expression to tell a complete narrative. It takes great dedication day after day, hour after hour, in between lunch periods, or late into the afternoon, to bring together the show into a masterpiece of passion and grit. “My favorite part by far of building a show is tech week, the week leading up to the opening night of the show, when we see the full result of the long weeks of rehearsal,” said Mr. Falipou in an interview. “Everything, from costumes and sets to lights and sound, come together all at once.”

And indeed, the true testament to the strength of the Drama Club and the success of its shows is found in the bonds between each member. Though every production comes with setbacks and difficulties, what ultimately shines through when the curtain lifts is the work of each and every member. When asked about his favorite part of directing musicals like Legally Blonde Jr, Mr Falipou said that,“The most gratifying part is seeing the smiles on people’s faces, all of the support and pride that comes from the club. I think that people should see the diversity of talent that this school has to offer.” Through graduations of old members and admissions of new, the spirit of the club has remained the same; the energy it inspires is infectious, and every new generation of the club has something to offer to make each production better than the last. “If any student has a passion for theater and is interested in joining the Drama Club,” said Leah J ‘26, a crew member of Legally Blonde Jr, in an interview, “I say, ‘Go for it!’ It’s a great opportunity to expose yourself to new possibilities and people!”









 

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