There's a lot of pink in this show," shared Alicia Trescavage, director of the Pequea Valley Intermediate School (PVIS) production of "Legally Blonde Jr." Trescavage chose the musical because she believed her 31 cast members had the talent to do it well, but she also said it is a fun show with a good message.

"Legally Blonde Jr." will be presented in the Pequea Valley High School (PVHS) auditorium, 4033 E. Newport Road, Kinzers, on Thursday, March 21, at 7 p.m.; Friday, March 22, at 7 p.m.; and Saturday, March 23, at 2 and 7 p.m. Tickets may be purchased at http://www.pequeavalley.org or at the door prior to performances.

The show is based on the movie "Legally Blonde" and features a dozen musical numbers. It follows the transformation of fashionista Elle Woods, played by Sadie Fisher. Elle is distressed to learn her boyfriend, Warner, played by Aiden Hofmann, is breaking up with her because he feels she is not "serious" enough. When Warner leaves for Harvard, Elle sets a goal of winning him back. She also finds her way to the Ivy League school, where she fashions herself into a law student. While struggling to find her place, Elle becomes friends with Emmett, played by Ethan Hackett, and Paulette, played by Kennedy Haley, who help her to see her true potential. "( 'Legally Blonde Jr.') has a really positive message about moving beyond stereotypes and finding your talents and value," said Trescavage, who noted that cast members were familiar with the original motion picture, which was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Motion Picture: Musical or Comedy, as well as Best Actress. "Legally Blonde The Musical" opened at Broadway's Palace Theatre in April 2007. The junior version is shorter and considered appropriate for people of all ages.

Trescavage said that she and the cast members have spoken often of the lessons of female empowerment embodied in the show. "(Elle) is written as a stereotypical blonde with a degree in fashion merchandising," explained Trescavage. "In the beginning, she's (only at Harvard) to be with her boyfriend. Not for the academics. Then she realizes she has a talent and a heart for law."

According to Trescavage, the big showstopper is "So Much Better," which is presented right before intermission. "Serious," which is sung when Warner breaks up with Elle; "Legally Blonde," a duet between Elle and Emmett; and "Ireland" are other standout numbers.

Students taking part in the show are enjoying the group numbers, according to Trescavage, who noted that students with juicier roles are biting into their parts. "I think the leads and supporting characters are having fun getting into their characters and working together and feeding off each other," she said. As in the past, Trescavage noted there are struggles inherent in rehearsing at PVIS and then staging the show on the PVHS stage. "Some of the choreography is challenging for the kids," she added, noting that many members of the large cast are preparing for their stage debuts.

This is Trescavage's 16th production with PVIS, and she noted that she continues to be impressed by the students who take part. "It never ceases to amaze me how great these kids are," said Trescavage. "For being as young as they are, their talent and dedication floors me every single year."