The Hill School is thrilled to announce its upcoming production of Legally Blonde: The Musical, a high-energy, student-powered theatrical event that combines infectious music, dynamic choreography, and a message that resonates far beyond the stage. All performances and free and open to the public, and will take place on Friday, February 13 at 7:15 p.m.; Saturday, February 14 at 2 p.m. and 7:15 p.m.; and Sunday, February 15 at 2 p.m. at The Hill School Center For The Arts. Reserve your tickets now at thehill.org/legallyblonde.
With music and lyrics by Laurence O’Keefe and Nell Benjamin, and a book written by Heather Hach, the show premiered on Broadway in 2007 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Beneath its bright pink aesthetic and comedic sparkle, the musical confronts stereotypes surrounding intelligence, ambition, and identity—asking audiences to reconsider who we take seriously and why. Hill's rendition of Legally Blonde: The Musical is directed and choreographed by Director of the Ellis Theatre Guild Kat Ross Kline and is presented by special arrangement with Musical Theatre International.
Reflecting on the heart of the show, Ross Kline notes that the phrase, “So much better than before,” first introduced as a playful lyric, ultimately becomes a declaration of self-worth and growth. Rather than promoting perfection or approval, Legally Blonde celebrates progress, resilience, and the courage to reject limiting labels. Throughout the rehearsal process, students explored what it means to be underestimated and how kindness, collaboration, and perseverance can become powerful strengths.
“As you watch this performance,” Ross Kline shares, “my hope is that you leave inspired to look again—at others and at yourself. Growth rarely looks like becoming someone new; more often, it looks like becoming more fully yourself.”
This Hill School production is anchored by a talented student cast, led by Payton Barth ’26 as Elle Woods, whose journey from an underestimated sorority president to a confident Harvard law student drives the story. Joining her are Jahiem Pratt ’26 as Emmett Forrest, Claire Bressi ’26 as Paulette, Jacob Xu ’26 as Warner Huntington III, and Charlotte Ebsworth ’28 as Vivienne Kensington.
The cast also features Abby Walsh ’26 as Brooke Wyndham, Macy Rehak ’26 as Pilar, Grace Lipton ’26 as Margot, Brianna Fang ’28 as Serena, Deric Choi ’26 as Professor Callahan, and Emma Collingwood ’27 as Enid, alongside a large ensemble of students spanning multiple class years who bring the world of Legally Blonde vibrantly to life.
Behind the scenes, the production showcases extensive student leadership and collaboration. Brady Herzog ’27 serves as Student Master Electrician and Light Board Operator, while Otto Maentz ’27 takes on the role of Student Assistant Audio Engineer and Sound Board Operator. The technical and design team is led by Technical Director Peter Gorneault, Lighting Designer Micah Roemmich, Master Carpenter Jaycee Chernesky, Vocal Director Kevin DeLisa, Production Stage Manager Kristen VonWachenfeldt, and Production Designer and Marketing Manager Bobby Goodrich. Together, faculty and students have worked side by side to create a professional-caliber theatrical experience that reflects The Hill School’s commitment to experiential learning and artistic excellence.
The production also features appearances by faculty, children, and even canine cast members, including Elle’s parents, portrayed by Head of School Kathleen Devaney and her husband, Instructor of Science Mark de Kanter; Harvard admission officers are played by Instructor of History and Social Sciences Dylan Jennings, Instructor of English Alec Swartz '13, Instructor of Mathematics Jake Vore, and Dean of Students Coleman Weibley. A dedicated student crew—including Anaika Bandi ’27, Crystal Zhao ’26, and Samuel Kumih ’28—supports the production across all technical areas.
Legally Blonde: The Musical promises an evening of laughter, heart, and unforgettable music—while reminding audiences that challenging expectations can lead to something truly transformative.
For tickets and additional details, visit thehill.org/legallyblonde.