America’s favorite blonde, Elle Woods, is ready to prove who’s in charge (again) as Legally Blonde The Musical comes to the Raymond F. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts in West Palm Beach for 8 performances May 16 – 21. The ultimate Broadway tribute to girl power, Legally Blonde will take you from the UCLA sorority house to the Harvard halls of justice with the coming-of-age story of Broadway’s brightest heroine.
Based on the iconic movie, Legally Blonde follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes, sexism, snobbery, and scandal in pursuit of her dreams, and proves that you can be both legally blonde AND the smartest person in the room.
Elle Woods appears to have it all, but her life is suddenly turned upside down when her boyfriend dumps her so he can start getting more “serious” about his life and attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle uses her brain and ingenuity to get admitted to Harvard too. School begins with endless struggles, but with the help of her new friends, Elle quickly realizes her potential and her strengths as she sets out to prove herself to change the narrative. This contemporary, topical story moves at a breakneck pace driven by memorable songs and explosive dances. Legally Blonde warms the heart by proving that self-discovery never goes out of style!
It was a pleasure to sit down with James Oblak who plays Warner for this exclusive Hotspots interview:
At what age did you begin performing?
I’m originally from Cleveland and I started performing there as a kid. I started by doing puppet shows and playing piano for my parents.
What was your first paid gig?
I think it was in college where I worked reginal theatre and theme park shows. I don’t remember which was first, but I did get paid for both of those.
When did you know performing would be your career?
I still kind of ask myself that question sometimes…LOL! I think I really knew out of college when I booked my first tour. When I was traveling and pursuing my passion, I knew it was for me.
Other than this one, what has been your favorite role so far?
Definitely when I played Princeton a single-rod Puppet in Avenue Q. I did that right out of college.
What’s your fantasy role (a role you haven’t played but would die to)?
Sally Bowles in Cabaret…just kidding. If they ever bring back the show “Movin Out” I would love to be the lead in that as I play the piano. Two other roles I would love to play are Fiero in “Wicked” and Shakespeare in “Something Rotten.”
Is there extra pressure being in this show considering it’s such an iconic movie and everyone knows the story?
Yeah, it is an iconic movie and has such a big fan base and huge expectations. However, the audiences have been super receptive even though we have modernized the show.
Is it hard being on the road all the time?
I enjoy it, but it is hard, and there are times that it is challenging. However, you get used to it and learn how to enjoy the upsides, especially the cities I would normally never get to visit.
How well do you and your castmates get along?
We get along very well. I enjoy many of the actors as we have been touring since October. We are finishing our tour in West Palm.
Describe yourself in three words?
Passionate, fun, and loving.
What do you do for fun?
The art is my passion and what drives my life, but in my down time I like going out with my friends and looking at nature.
What should our readers expect from this touring company of “Legally Blonde”?
The show is amazing, and I do mean that! Audience come to the show expecting a fun energetic night, and they get that, but they also get the heart off the show. They also learn about becoming empowered and true to yourself. These are messages that we need to be reminded of all the time. So, you will get all the glam and also get inspired to be your authentic self! Oh yeah, don’t forget to wear pink to the show.
For more information on James, go to instagram.com/james.oblak
Tickets for Legally Blonde are on sale now starting at $31 and can be purchased online at the official Kravis Center website, kravis.org, by phone at 561.832.7469 or by visiting the Kravis Center Box Office at 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach during regular Box Office Hours 12 p.m. – 5 p.m.
