Monica Mazel is an accomplished senior film/production major at Penn State University. This semester, she is directing the Penn State Thespians’ production of Legally Blonde: The Musical, which will be performed at Schwab Auditorium October 22nd-24th, 2015.
Name: Monica Mazel
Year: Senior
Major: Film/Production
HC: What is the best part about being director for Legally Blonde?
MM: I love Legally Blonde: The Musical, and it is a dream come true to bring my vision to life on the stage!
HC: What is your dream job?
MM: I hope to be a successful television producer/director someday. I love the entertainment industry, I love to create and I love working in fast-paced environments.
HC: What has been the biggest challenge you have faced during the rehearsal process?
MM: The most prominent challenge that I’ve faced with this rehearsal process is how “big” this show is. It’s a very difficult musical to put on in an eight-week period. It’s physically and mentally demanding for the cast and rehearsal staff. From start to finish, the show is filled with high-energy, fast-paced scenes and full-company musical numbers.
HC: What is your favorite quote from the show and why?
MM: “Being true to yourself never goes out of style.” This show is about finding self-acceptance and staying true to yourself. I think this is a beautiful quote highlighting one of the most beautiful themes from the show.
HC: What’s something you want the cast to know?
MM: To my cast: I have wanted to direct this show for over a year now. Before casting and before I received the position of director, I had this perfect picture in my head of what my cast would be (talented, energetic, dedicated, etc.). I am so grateful that you all showed up to auditions because the 29 of you truly make up my dream cast. I love each and every one of you.
HC: What do you want the audience to know about Legally Blonde: The Musical?
MM: This is a show where there is more than meets the eye. The musical is actually a lot like its protagonist Elle Woods – both are often judged at first for being nothing but pink, fluffy and silly. But once we start getting to know them more, we discover they both have a deep, emotional core. This show is about staying true to yourself, never giving up or underestimating your abilities, moving beyond external appearances and breaking stereotypes.
HC: Why should people come see Legally Blonde?
MM: The audience is sure to be engaged during every minute of the show. It’s witty, it’s upbeat and it’s a whirlwind of fun and laughs.
Check out Legally Blonde: The Musical this Thursday-Saturday in the Schwab Auditorium! Event details can be found on their Facebook event.