Limerick pupils’ blonde ambition with their portrayal of hit musical

THE PUPILS of John the Baptist Community School in Hospital will display their blonde ambition over two fun and music-filled nights.

Made famous by the 2001 movie starring Reese Witherspoon, Legally Blonde has been a hit musical since 2007, playing to packed audiences around the globe. It is coming to a stage near you at 7.30pm on Friday and Saturday, February 24 and 25 in the Hospital secondary school.

This wonderful show follows the intrepid adventures of Elle Woods as she journeys from wanting nothing more than being Mrs Warner Huntington III to developing her legal skills by taking Harvard and the courtroom by storm.

Geraldine McNulty, one of the show's producers and leader of the orchestra, said having staged a musical for 22 consecutive years, it was heart-breaking to have the Covid-enforced break.

“We are thrilled to be back this year with such a vibrant and exciting show as Legally Blonde the musical. We have a very gifted, dedicated and hard-working cast of more than seventy TY students, who have been working industriously, rehearsing for the show since September.

“Their commitment has been second to none as they have honed their singing, dancing and acting skills. They are excited to get on stage in front of an audience and entertain their family and friends,” said Ms McNulty.

“We are very proud of each of them, and we would not be surprised to hear of Oscar or Golden Globe nominations from this group in the future!” she added.

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Principal Rachel Hayes commended the unwavering dedication and enthusiasm of the production team and cast.

“Every year we are simply bowled over by the talent and skills that are displayed by our amazing transition years and even more so by the enthusiasm and passion shown by the show's producers and supporting team,” said Ms Hayes.

“The producers - Geraldine McNulty, Naomi Nevin and Richelle Hurley - give so selflessly of their time and talents to offer students one of the most beneficial and positive experiences of their lives. We are particularly excited to see the return of such a vital part of our TY programme post Covid and it is sure to be an exciting colourful and memorable experience for those involved and those that get to attend,” continued Ms Hayes.

It is a huge production - 70 cast members, an outstanding orchestra composed of current and past pupils and supported by a large and enthusiastic production team.

Hours have been spent honing the amazing natural talents, practicing the many beautifully choreographed dances, creating bespoke costumes and designing and building a truly impressive stage.

Woodwork teachers Michael John English, Ger Frawley, Adrian Cooke, Trevor Duggan, care takers John Cleary and Gerry Ryan and their team of students, spent countless hours building the stage.

Art teachers Caoimh Ryan and Suzanne Mortell, along with their class of TY students, painstakingly designed and painted the set. Costumes are a key part of this musical, created meticulously by Niamh O'Toole and her team. Adrian Cooke and his backstage crew are tasked with keeping the show on the road and on time.

“This is truly a whole school community event with an endless list of school personnel involved with all aspects of the preparation, production and promotion of the show. We wish all involved a very successful production,” said Ms Hayes. 

Tickets available from school reception and local shops.