Connor’s Roads Are Twisted, But All Lead to Laughs

Connor Rhoades (seated third from left) as the pretentious Aaron Schultz

Legally Blonde, the Musical is a high-octane, non-stop, laugh-a-minute, action-packed bundle of emotions and energy with a risqué sense of humor.  Come to think of it, so is Connor Rhoades, who constantly keeps his cast mates in stitches with his off-color one-man comedy routine. This may explain why he is so well suited to this show.  Already in his twenty-second play at age 20, Connor was born to perform and has embraced his ensemble role in Blonde with gusto.

Connor plays a variety of parts that show off his comedic range, including a UCLA frat boy, a snobby Harvard Law Student named Aaron Schultz, and Carlos, the ostentatious friend of Nikos who makes a “big announcement” in Gay or European. As Connor says, “Carlos is possibly the wackiest character I have ever played! Getting to go crazy and sing the end of Gay or European is definitely my favorite part of the show!”   Connor has tapped into the “sassy physicality of Carlos” which he finds the most challenging part of his role: “He is such a flamboyant character, and it’s vital for him to be over the top.”

Connor can personally relate to a common theme of Legally Blonde, which is “following your dreams, no matter what people tell you. Ever since I was a young child I wanted to work in animation. People have told me that there are few career options in animation, but today I am working toward my degree in character animation” at the College for Creative Studies.

Legally Blonde is Connor’s second show at the Barn, having debuted last year as Nicky in Avenue Q, when he was often joined at the hip with Blonde director Jason Wilhoite as they operated puppets together.   Connor says “ever since Avenue Q, I have loved working at the Barn. The idea of rehearsing a show in the space in which you perform is wonderful.”   He has done several shows with many of his cast members, including Jason, Alison, Keshia, Alisha, Rachel, Kyle, and Nick, which he finds “incredibly rewarding!”

Some of Connor’s other favorite roles include: Into the Woods (Jack), Grease (Roger), Wizard of Oz (Cowardly Lion), Hairspray (Edna), The Complete Works of William Shakespeare [ABRIDGED] (multiple roles), and The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee (William Barfee).

The Farmington Players' production of Legally Blonde, the Musical is sponsored by TruVista Wealth Advisors.  The show opens April 26 and runs through May 18. Tickets can be purchased online at www.farmingtonplayers.org or by calling the box office at 248-553-2955.

Kristi Schwartz Plays Her Opposite as Elle’s Dumb Blonde Mom

Kristi Schwartz puts on the ditz as Elle's Mom, but they couldn't be more different.

Similar to Elle Woods, Kristi Schwartz is no dumb blonde!  Kristi grew up a “blonde cheerleader in the advanced math class” who sought her own glass slipper before learning to stand on her own two feet.  As Kristi says, “Many people assumed that because I was blonde, and a cheerleader, I didn't have much going on upstairs.  However, I was in the advanced math class program in my high school and did well academically.  I actually relate to the theme of "Following a Man", too.  Growing up, I always wanted a "Prince Charming" to sweep me off my feet and rescue me.  Looking for that glass slipper was a goal from when I was a little girl.  However, this led me to a marriage when I was too young to know the difference.  Seven years ago, I had a divorce, which really shaped who I am today.”

Also like Elle, who learned that self-reliance could be “So Much Better,” Kristi now knows that “a man will never complete me. I complete myself!  I have always been a pretty independent woman; however, this taught me that I do not NEED a man.  I knew in my heart that I wanted one for companionship, but I did not need one to survive.  I have since been remarried to Keith (the most wonderful soul around).  Together now for over five years, we are a partnership of individuals who compliment each other and bring out the best in both of us.  I needed that alone time as a single mother to realize that I could be complete on my own.”

As a member of the Blonde ensemble, Kristi has several roles, most notably Elle's Mom; she also plays a dancer/band member in "What You Want", a customer/bookish client in the salon and during "Bend and Snap".  While she is “most comfortable” playing Elle’s Mom because she is a mother of three children – Colin (14), Allie (11), and Drew (3) – Kristi finds it challenging to play a character who is so “very different from me.  She is a rich, possibly drunk, mom who is very superficial.  Elle's Mom would probably still follow a man around. She hasn't probably learned that lesson that Elle has about self- discovery. This is so hard because I am a very independent woman who has had to take care of myself in a lot of ways.  Also, my children always come first in everything that I do, so it is difficult to imagine that superficial part. I've always had to work extremely hard for everything that I have.”

Despite these challenges, Kristi wanted to be in Legally Blonde (her first onstage role in over three years) “because I really wanted to be back onstage at the Barn.  The Barn Family is extremely important to me. Part of being in a show is about the crew and cast you are working with at the time. These people are fabulous!”

The Farmington Players' production of Legally Blonde, the Musical is sponsored by TruVista Wealth Advisors.  The show opens April 26 and runs through May 18. Tickets can be purchased online at www.farmingtonplayers.org or by calling the box office at 248-553-2955.

Bailey Boudreau Plays “Prom King” Warner with Warmth and Heart in Legally Blonde

Bailey Boudreau adds depth to the superficial Warner Huntington III

When you first meet Bailey Boudreau, you will probably believe whatever he tells you.  He has this innocent, charming, boy-next-door demeanor.  When he said he was the same age as his character (19 year-old first-year law student Warner Huntington III), I accepted that as fact.  I was surprised to learn later that Bailey is really 33.  Once during rehearsal, he delivered a line so convincingly that a cast mate responded, “Really!?”  Without missing a beat, Bailey deadpanned, “No, that’s my line.  It’s called ‘acting’, people.”

 

Bailey has been acting most of his life, and much of his life revolves around the theater.  He has experience with directing, teaching, choreography, costume and set design, and stage management.  And he has performed onstage in more than two dozen shows both in community theaters and professionally in Michigan, Chicago, Boston, Florida, and even on tour with the North Carolina Theatre Company, playing Peter in The Diary of Anne Frank.

So what inspired Bailey to make his Barn debut as Warner?  It turns out that Legally Blonde is one of his all-time favorite musicals, which is ironic considering his initial skepticism:  “When I heard the film was being turned into a musical, I was totally against it. I accidentally stumbled upon it during the MTV airing and I was blown away. And hooked. I've loved it ever since and it has become one of my favorite shows. It has heart, humor and brains. Gotta love that.”

Bailey is perfectly cast as Warner, who is often caught in the middle between Elle and Vivian, the rivals for his affections.   Bailey describes Warner as “the quintessential prom king. He is the guy we all went to school with and most likely hated. He is a fun role to play, because he is a rare combo in theatrical plotlines; an antagonist who also happens to be an ingenue.”  Bailey’s biggest challenge in playing Warner is “to look beneath his selfishness and his superficiality to find the heart. Even the worst of high school bullies has a vulnerability they are trying to protect. When those are revealed, the character becomes so much more complex. It's easy to play him as the bad guy, the jerk, the stuck-up rich boy. It's not so easy to find out why he does what he does and make him a sympathetic character.”

In addition to bringing out the complexities in his own character, Bailey hopes that audiences will see that Legally Blonde has a deeper meaning: “I think the main theme we can all relate to is being judged with a preconceived notion based on only our physical appearance. This is something that will always be an issue in our society, no matter how advanced we may become. Another great theme that I can identify with is the idea of finding your own self-worth, and learning not to be dependent on another person for your happiness. Self-love is imperative to loving another, in my opinion, and it is very hard to learn that kind of love.”

The Farmington Players' production of Legally Blonde, the Musical is sponsored by TruVista Wealth Advisors.  The show opens April 26 and runs through May 18. Tickets can be purchased online at www.farmingtonplayers.org or by calling the box office at 248-553-2955.

Meet Donna Wolbers, the Secretly Sweet Mean Girl in Legally Blonde

Donna Wolbers bring out her fierce side as the mean girl in Blonde

One of the great things about acting is that you get to step outside of yourself and become a character that may be totally unlike you or even your complete opposite.  When Donna Wolbers auditioned for Legally Blonde, the Musical, she tapped into her natural perkiness: “I figured I could pass as a sorority girl. I tried to be especially bubbly and cutesy during the audition, shooting for a sorority sister part.”  But to her own surprise, she was cast as “all the non-lead mean girls; namely Courtney, Whitney and my most notable character, Chutney.  I was surprised to discover my roles as I am enjoying bringing out my inner mean girl.  She doesn't come out often but the audience will get the pleasure of seeing her. Hopefully no one gets hurt!”

As you may recall from the movie, Chutney is the key witness in the Brooke Wyndham murder trial.  Her hair literally stands out (think “totally tragic perm”) as a major part of her character.  Chutney is sarcastic, snarky and impatient with Elle Woods during her cross-examination.  Donna says, “I've experienced specific challenges with each character,” but with Chutney, “I've really had to step out of the box for that role!”

Donna has had to stretch herself and step outside her own comfort zone in Legally Blonde.   She jokes, “Me getting into a musical is actually comparable to Elle getting into Harvard!  I hope I fare as well as she does!”  But on a more serious note, Donna compares Elle’s journey to her own self-discovery: “Elle tried something completely new (admittedly for the wrong reasons) and found out that she is so much more than she realized.  A few years back I left my teaching degree behind to experience life in the medical field.  While it was completely foreign to me (I used to get sick when my brother got shots), I love the field and am constantly encouraged to work towards my dream of becoming a Physician Assistant.  I never knew how much I love to learn about how we work and can't wait see what else I learn about myself.”

Donna is a big fan of local theater, and of this cast and crew she says, “I've seen many shows featuring many of these people and I almost feel like I'm working with local celebrities!  Also, everyone is so talented, I'm definitely learning a lot from working with them!”  She is married to Jason, her high school sweetheart, and is excited to become an aunt (her brother and sister-in-law are expecting a baby soon).  

The Farmington Players' production of Legally Blonde, the Musical is sponsored by TruVista Wealth Advisors.  The show opens April 26 and runs through May 18. Tickets can be purchased online at www.farmingtonplayers.org or by calling the box office at 248-553-2955.

Rachel Biber Gets Whipped into Shape in Legally Blonde

Being a "fitness nut" helps Rachel Biber play cardio queen Brooke Wyndham

As a cast member in Legally Blonde, the Musical, I can attest to the fact that we have all been seduced, in different ways, by this show.  Whether it is the music, Elle’s contagious enthusiasm, or the empowerment theme, this show just draws you in and makes you want to sing along.  But for most people, cast, crew and audience members alike, the first Legally Blonde movie is the common bond.  Everyone knows and loves the movie, right? Well, maybe not at first blush.

Rachel Biber was not exactly a fan of the movie at first, but she had an interesting reason to go see it.  As she explains, “When the movie first came out, the only incentive I had to see it was that my sister's roommate at U of M was Jessica Cauffiel, the actor who played Margot. So, with hesitation, I went with my younger sister to the movie theater.”   Despite her initial reluctance, Rachel said that Jessica was “fabulous, and I was so happy to see a movie about overcoming stereotypes of ALL kinds, and loving each other exactly the way we are.  A fantastic explosion of pink independent girliness.  Fun AND a good message ... a true rarity.” 

In our production, Rachel plays Brooke Wyndham, who she describes as “the uber ambitious fitness queen, falsely accused and on trial for killing her husband.  I enjoy Brooke because she (like Elle) believes in herself and in the goodness of people. At the same time she will not be pushed around or taken advantage of.  She's a little scary, and I like that.”  Rachel’s biggest challenge to playing Brooke?  “Two words ... Jump Ropes!  Synchronized jump ropes at that, and singing while doing high impact cardio is quite a challenge as well.  Luckily I’m a fitness nut and I LOVE anything active and physical – running, dancing, yoga – if it involves sweating, I’m there.”  Rachel also loves the “upbeat and uplifting theme of the musical ... even though I never have been a sorority girl.”

Rachel has been involved with theater since she was 10. You may have seen her at the Barn in Barefoot in the Park (Corrie), Sweet Charity (Nikki), and Gypsy (Louise).  Other favorites include RENT (Joanne), A Streetcar Named Desire (Stella), Wonder of the World (Cass), and Sordid Lives (Bitsy Mae Harding).  When not onstage, Rachel works at home in Huntington Woods as a nanny and she and her husband Berry are proud parents of Caleb (age 8).

The Farmington Players' production of Legally Blonde, the Musical is sponsored by TruVista Wealth Advisors.  The show opens April 26 and runs through May 18. Tickets can be purchased online at www.farmingtonplayers.org or by calling the box office at 248-553-2955.

Joelle Schade Steps to a Girl Power Beat in Legally Blonde

Joelle getting her kicks at rehearsal

Whether she’s jumping rope or demonstrating how to do the “Bend and Snap,” Joelle Schade brings energy and enthusiasm to all her roles as a member of the ensemble in Legally Blonde, the Musical.  Joelle’s commitment to her craft is apparent at rehearsal, as she is always thinking ahead to the next move or practicing a dance step.  You can just see the wheels spinning and know that she won’t be satisfied until she nails it, but her relentless pursuit of perfection makes everyone around her better.

As a company member, Joelle believes that “my role is to introduce depth to each scene in which I appear.  I particularly enjoy my ensemble role in Legally Blonde because of all of the amazing dance numbers. Any time I get to perform this many high energy dance routines, I'm there!”   Joelle commitment to dance is admirable given that she has had numerous foot and knee surgeries, but she admits that “the only real challenge for me has been Whipped into Shape – it's hard to re-learn how to jump rope as an adult!”  Her other roles in the show include Harvard Student, Hair Affair Cashier, and Court Stenographer.

  

Beyond the dancing, Joelle really enjoys being in Legally Blonde because, as she says, “I love the ‘girl power’ theme of the show.  I 100% support the message that women need to take control of their own destinies and not rely on a man to give them the life they desire. Don't get me wrong -- I love my husband Jeff but at the end of the day it's very empowering to know that I'm with him because I WANT to be and not because I HAVE to be.  It's a message I've tried to instill in my daughters even from their current young ages (Alexandra 8, and Nicolette 5).”

Despite being a sure-footed dancer, Joelle kind of stumbled into acting after completing her MBA from Wayne State in 2010.  As an incentive to get through the rigorous academic program, she promised herself that upon graduation, she'd do something “just because I love it.”  As she tells it, “I had no idea that community theater would be that outlet for me, but a well-timed wrong turn on 12 Mile had me staring at the marquee announcing Gypsy auditions at the Barn.  I have been hooked ever since!”   Joelle performs about one show a year and has also played Velma Von Tussle in Hairspray with the Park Players in Detroit and an ensemble role in The Producers at the Dearborn Players Guild. 

The Farmington Players' production of Legally Blonde, the Musical is sponsored by TruVista Wealth Advisors.  The show opens April 26 and runs through May 18. Tickets can be purchased online at www.farmingtonplayers.org or by calling the box office at 248-553-2955.

Like Vivienne, Jamee Perryman Stands Up For Herself

Jamee Perryman plays the multifaceted Vivienne

Legally Blonde, the Musical, has the high-octane energy of a cheerleading competition, but while many characters fit sorority girl stereotypes, there’s more depth to some than meets the eye.  Other than Elle Woods, the character that changes the most during the play is Vivienne Kensington, who starts out as Elle’s rival for Warner’s attentions.

Jamee Perryman plays Vivienne, who she describes as “one of the strongest, most independent women I have ever had the privilege of playing.  She knows what she wants and goes for it, never giving thought to who she is stepping on in the process.  I really enjoy playing a strong woman, especially because she goes on a journey to discover her more sensitive side.”   While Jamee also loves Vivienne’s cynicism, she finds it a challenge to “keep a straight face during her sarcastic moments, which happen quite often.  I am sarcastic naturally, so that helps, but it will definitely be a struggle to stay in character, especially with this hilarious cast!”  (One of my favorite zingers is when Vivienne asks Elle, “Aren’t there girls going wild somewhere without you?”)

On a more personal note, Jamee can really relate to the play’s lessons about first impressions and female empowerment:  “My entire life I was judged on how I look.  I wasn't blonde, just big.  I got looked over for parts, jobs, even dates because of my size.  Elle's journey in this show should be a real empowering thing for many women.  I have since developed a healthier style, but the way I felt back then has stuck with me, and has made me a much better person.  I also think that the idea of getting backbone applies to my life.  Paulette spends the whole show gaining confidence and finally stands up to the person that has been walking all over her.  I was a lot like that when I was younger.  If you ask my friends and family now, I am the exact opposite.”

Jamee has wanted to do Legally Blonde for years, and although it has some “intense, emotional moments, as a whole, the show is pure fun.  If you don't leave dancing out of the theatre, we are doing something wrong.”  Jamee works as a middle school choir teacher in St. Clair Shores and lives in Clawson with her husband Scott.  Some of her favorite roles include Narrator in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Rusty in Footloose, and Golde in Fiddler on the Roof. 

The Farmington Players' production of Legally Blonde, the Musical is sponsored by TruVista Wealth Advisors.  The show opens April 26 and runs through May 18. Tickets can be purchased online at www.farmingtonplayers.org or by calling the box office at 248-553-2955.