La Comedia Dinner Theatre in Springboro, Ohio continues their 50th season up of titles which have not been seen there previously with Legally Blonde The Musical. This fun and fast-paced show possesses heart, energy, and a bouncy and melodic score, and La Comedia's solid production is another welcome addition to the company's stable of musicals.

Based on the 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon and the preceding novel by Amanda Brown, Legally Blonde tells the tale of spoiled, rich sorority girl Elle Woods who follows her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law School to win back his affections. Meanwhile, she discovers a lot about herself and slowly becomes a worthy lawyer-in-training despite her "dumb blonde" outer demeanor and look.

The book for the musical by Heather Hatch includes the requisite balance of youth-targeted humor (some of which admittedly doesn't always land with older audiences), emotional pull, romantic entanglements, and modern-day conflict. Though some of the depictions of various groups (sorority sisters, homosexuals, lawyers) aren't politically correct at times, the show never takes itself too seriously and includes enough self-mockery and deconstruction of stereotypes to be acceptable. Audiences should be aware of the presence of several off-color topics and PG-13 language.

The score by Laurence O'Keefe (Bat Boy) and Nell Benjamin (Mean Girls) demonstrates tuneful and often witty songs filled with enjoyable, pop-influenced melodies and smart wordplay. Song highlights include the exuberant "What You Want," the bouncy "Positive," "Take It Like A Man" (where Elle expresses her appreciation to friend Emmett for his support), and the lovely and plaintive title number, which includes a chill-producing harmony portion.

Director and choreographer Chris Beiser provides a well-paced staging and has pulled many thoughtful, nuanced moments from his actors. The dances are fun and well-suited to the material, though sometimes feel a bit too crowded for the La Comedia stage. There were a few shaky moments in the blocking and choreography on opening night, but that's sure to tighten up as the run continues.

As Elle, Mallory Georgia Marie provides perfect timing, spot-on characterization, excellent singing, and a strong stage presence. Noah Schnabel is very likeable as Emmett and displays noteworthy vocals. Tori Kocher gets lots of laugh and sings impressively as Elle's hairdresser friend Paulette, and Brianna McVaugh shows off multiple high-level skills concurrently as Brooke. Providing worthwhile contributions in support are Elliot Handkins (Warner), Craig Sherman (Callahan), Brooklyn Stewart (Vivienne), and Grace Whetstone (Enid). Some of the ensemble members aren't ideal fits for their characters, but the cast generally does well in executing the fast-paced transitions and choreography.

Gabe Davidson's scenic design appropriately conveys the many locales of the show, with a number of nice touches, including barbed wire during the prison scene. The lighting by Edward Huber features several flashy effects and is professionally rendered. The costumes by Emercita Erb and Mattison Williams match the characters and setting handsomely, though the expected high-society sorority sister outfits are too everyday generic.

Legally Blonde The Musical is a bit more complex than most of La Comedia's offerings, with subtle humor and unique storylines, bound to entertain most theatregoers. Talented leads, praiseworthy design, and well-written material make for a worthwhile few hours of dinner and theatre.

Legally Blonde: The Musical runs through October 26, 2025, at La Comedia Dinner Theatre, 765 W. Central Ave, Springboro OH. For tickets and information, please call 937-746-4554 or visit lacomedia.com.