Riverwalk’s ‘Legally Blonde’: Many cheers and (almost) no whining

Finding a parking spot for Riverwalk Theatre’s production of “Legally Blonde” can be a nightmare. Because so many people find the musical thoroughly enjoyable, it has been selling out. Anyone who doesn’t arrive especially early will have trouble snagging any nearby parking.

That’s it, I’m done whining. There is nothing else noteworthy in the play or its presentation for me to grumble about. In fact, there is much to love about the 2007 musical, adapted from the 2001 film, which itself was based on a novel by Amanda Brown. And every facet of Riverwalk’s version is to be admired.

The colorful mainstage set, with its expansive, decorative floor and faux-brick proscenium with full curtains, immediately suggests Riverwalk’s rendition of the show might be exceptional. The professional, eight-piece orchestra, led by Angie Schwab, booms magnificently from somewhere above, making that idea even more plausible. When colorfully costumed actors explode onto the stage, singing potently and dancing energetically, it’s confirmed that Riverwalk has a hit.

The energy rarely lets up in the two-and-a-half-hour (with intermission) show. Brian Farnham’s creative direction and spirited choreography keep the audience captivated. Animated characters appear on the runways above the audience, in the side turrets and among the seated patrons. Short scene changes feature clever distractions and always include stirring, orchestral interludes. There’s never a tedious lull.

“Legally Blonde” is the story of Elle Woods’ journey from a blonde sorority girl who gets into Harvard Law School to please an undeserving boyfriend to an empowered woman respected for her brilliance, despite her Malibu appearance. The plot is predictable, but the fast-moving ride is enjoyable anyway.

What’s surprising is that much of the mostly young cast and production team are Riverwalk mainstage newcomers. Although Tess Klygis is a first timer, she wins the crowd’s hearts as Woods and confidently carries most of the scenes and songs. All 22 of the often-operatic voices, lively dancers and convincing actors — no matter their age or experience — are suited for a major city stage.  The 10 ensemble chameleons are always more than background pawns. Farnham, a Riverwalk veteran, deserves another nod for his casting and coaching.

Kameron Going, who plays Professor Callahan, demonstrates why he keeps getting asked back. Going gives a likable performance as a loathsome character. Another standout is Lindsey Parr Hemming as loveable hairdresser Paulette Buonufonte. Live puppies Cookie and Gertie, as Bruiser and Rufus, had the audience cooing whenever they appeared. Ron Meyer’s humorous portrayal of Kyle the delivery guy had the packed crowd howling.

Howls and screams of delight from the audience are frequent during “Legally Blonde” — especially after songs. Numbers like “So Much Better,” “Positive,” “Bend and Snap” and the catchy “Legally Blonde” warrant the roars that follow each rendition. And when the “Find My Way” finale is over, the deafening standing ovation is well deserved.