Actor inspired by play’s character

By Shari Goldstein Stern

On the heels (and toes) of last month’s flashy Garland Summer Musicals’ (GSM) production of “42nd St.,” the final show of the theatre’s season is “Legally Blonde,” which opened last weekend and will run through Sunday, July 31. This current and final show of GSM’s summer line-up is produced by Patty Granville.

Dallas native and Highland Park High School (HPHS) alumna Claire DeJean was meant for the lead role of Elle, the perky, ever-so-adorable blonde and pink-loving student who sets her sights on the hallowed halls of ivy-draped Stanford Law School. She studies diligently on the stage of  the Granville Arts Center.

According to the multi-talented leading lady: “I had always loved the ‘Legally Blonde’ movie and looked up to the character of Elle. I watched MTV’s ‘Search for Elle Woods’ show with my mom. I think that influenced my interest in Elle and how much more of her soul you can see in the live musical.”

DeJean came into the challenging role with high expectations in music and dance. She did not expect the deep connection that she would feel to Elle’s story and depth of character. “I have really enjoyed exploring parts of Elle that get overlooked by her pink and positivity, and bringing her authentic and complex female emotions to the table,” she said. She thinks she and Elle have similar personalities, although she is “clearly not blonde.”

DeJean played Sophie in GSM’s “Mamma Mia!” and she loved that role. Another  favorite was working on “HAIR!” at the University of Michigan (UM) this past year. “That was very special, but Elle is one of the favorite roles I have ever played.”

The native Dallasite is a senior at UM, working toward a BFA in musical theatre. While attending HPHS DeJean dabbled in a few school musicals and choir. At UM, she also performed in “Lord of the Flies.” She was the composer on a short film, and says she would love to act in film.

DeJean describes “Legally Blonde” this way: “It is full of fun and love and heart and energy! You will be smiling, laughing, crying, but mostly smiling.”

With regard to the “Legally Blonde” company, DeJean said: “Lots of full circle moments here with the cast and creative team. My first ever show was with Megan Kelly Bates, our lovely choreographer. I have grown up doing shows in DFW with many members of the cast since I was 13.” 

She added, “It is crazy to be here now right before I start this new chapter of my life, looking back on what got me here today. I am so grateful to Patty for giving me the opportunity to explore this character and for bringing this amazing show to GSM.” DeJean continued, “I am fortunate to be doing what I love every day, surrounded by people that I love.”

DeJean (pictured) sees her future as a college graduate with plans to move to New York City and being a working artist. Based on her reviews for “Legally Blonde,” she is headed in the right direction. “I started working on ‘The Voice’ when I was 17 and a junior at HPHS. I sang ‘Hurt Somebody’ by Noah Kahan and Julia Michaels for my blind audition and a  few others in the show,” DeJean said. “Being on the show really inspired my creativity and artistic confidence. I made so many amazing friends through the process and learned so much about myself and the industry,” she added.  

The original, upbeat film, “Legally Blonde” first hit theaters in 2001, which preceded a sequel released in 2003. DeJean’s character, Elle, is based on Amanda Brown, an actual student at Stanford Law where the idea for her first novel was born. Brown compiled all her funny stories and letters from her time studying law at the prestigious university. Although she never graduated, she did walk away with her first novel, “Legally Blonde.”

Performances are at the Granville Arts Center in Garland through July 31, including Sunday matinee. Tickets are available at the box office, 972-205-2790 and at garlandartsboxoffice.com.