Medford Panthers Players putting on production that will be held at Lenape High Shool
The Medford Panther Players, comprised of Medford’s Haines and Memorial Middle Schools’ students, are getting a head-start on their Harvard Law School applications this spring as they present the musical “Legally Blonde, Jr.” April 28 and 29, and May 5 and 6, at the Lenape High School theater. Based on the popular Broadway musical and the tremendously successful motion picture, the show brings to life the fabulously fun story of Delta Nu’s favorite sorority sister, Elle Woods, as she transforms from fashionable coed to “serious” attorney.
Elle Woods appears to have it all- money, fashion, popularity. However, her life is turned upside down when longtime boyfriend Warner dumps her so he can get on with life by attending Harvard Law School and securing a “serious” girlfriend (which presumably Elle is not). Determined to get him back, Elle charms her way into Harvard where she is accompanied by her adorable real-life dog “Bruiser,” she finds that stereotypes, snobbery, scandal and academic rigor await. With the help of some new, unlikely friends, Elle faces these challenges as she learns an important lesson, Always Believe in Yourself. Audiences will be seeing pink as they sing along to the upbeat original score and cheer on Elle as she goes from facing heartbreak to realizing her potential; all the while proving herself to the world.
Along with laughter and humor, the show carries a poignant theme of self-empowerment and open-mindedness, concepts which resonate with everyone. Elle realizes that despite what others may say about you or how they may tell you to change, being true to yourself never goes out of style.
Veteran director and social studies teacher Michael Del Rossi leads this talented cast of sixth, seventh and eighth-grade students as they bring this modern, relevant musical production to the stage.
“This is a great show that will appeal to a variety of audiences,” Del Rossi commented. “It carries a great message, especially for middle school and high school students, about always having faith in yourself. Audiences will be reminded of the importance of true friendships, and to always look beyond first impressions.”
Del Rossi attributes the success of the Panther Players to what he calls the “perfect storm of administrative support, strong parental backing and outstanding, talented kids.” He adds, “We also receive tremendous support from the community, which is important to the actors as they perform to enthusiastic audiences at every show.”
“Legally Blonde, Jr.” will be performed at the Lenape High School theater located at 235 Hartford Road in Medford. The show will have two matinee performances (April 29 and May 6 at 2 p.m.) and four evening performances (April 28 and 29 at 7 p.m.; May 5 and 6 at 7 p.m.). Advanced ticket purchases (with reserved seating) are available for purchase at the Medford Memorial School main office Monday through Friday 7:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. or online at www.medfordmemorial.org. A limited number of tickets will also be available at the box office on the night of the show.
