Hanover Theatre’s Youth Program Takes Stage for “Legally Blonde”

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Monday, July 30, 2012

Joe Parello, GoLocalWorcester Contributor

After a three-week program that trained them in the finer points of acting and dancing, the student members of the Hanover Theatre's Summer Youth Program staged three performances of the popular Broadway musical "Legally Blonde."

Now in its fourth year, the theatre's popular Summer Youth Program offers training to middle and high school students that are looking to refine their abilities on stage. The program culminates with the performance of a fully produced show, in this case "Legally Blonde," and teaches students what it is like to be a professional performer.

"Not only do they learn how to sing, how to act and how to dance, over the three weeks, they have to learn their lines, the music and choreography," Meghan Patrick, the Summer Program's Theatrical Director said. "It's a lot to ask of them, and we hope that it forces them to sort of stretch and really pay attention and really focus. So that when they go back to their school, or they go on to the next show, they have a new level of professionalism."

For Rachel McGown, who plays the lead as Elle Woods, the program has given her a chance to work on all aspects of performing. McGown is currently a part of the theater group at Clinton High School, but believes that the last three weeks have greatly increased her knowledge and experience in the performing world.

"It's been like nothing I've ever done in theater before," McGown said. "It's exciting to get so much one-on-one help, and I think it's made me a lot better in the long run."

Of course, one of the main draws of the program is the chance to perform at one of the world's best theaters. Jake Sandakly, who plays the male lead of Emmett, says the chance to perform at the Hanover was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

"It is so cool knowing that Broadway stars have performed on the same stage," Sandakly said. "2,300 people fit in the audience, so it's crazy thinking about how many people are watching you at once. It's nerve-wracking, but exciting. It's really amazing."

The Summer Youth Program performed two shows Saturday and a final one on Sunday. The Hanover Theatre is considering expanding the program to two different three-week camps due to its popularity. For more information, click here.

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