The musical, which will be presented Feb. 27 to March 2 at Decker Auditorium, features the story of Woods, a sorority girl who aims to win back her ex-boyfriend, Warner Hunington III, by getting a law degree from Harvard University while also finding herself and overcoming female stereotypes.

“The soul of a musical resides in its music, and “Legally Blonde” has spirit,” said Teresa Jackson, director of theater at Iowa Central Community College. “The musical numbers are terrific fun and boast a range from moving ballads to toe-tapping tunes, and the dance styles range from hip hop to Riverdance. The story line is familiar to many, and underneath all the pink fluff is embedded a number of important life lessons from believing in yourself, working hard, embracing change, and standing up for what is right.”

The Iowa Central cast of “Legally Blonde” includes local favorites Elle Clark, Jacob Carman, Evan Pratt, Emma Davis, and more.

“Our musical cast is among the strongest we’ve had here, and we’ve been blessed with a plethora of replenishing talent every one of my 29 years here,” said Jackson. “This group is special, and their chemistry is exciting to watch. They are a hard-working, cohesive group, and rehearsals with them are energizing and uplifting. It’s truly an amazing blend of young people from all majors and parts of the world. Diversity remains the greatest strength of our Performing Arts Department.”

“Legally Blonde” is a show near and dear to Jackson’s heart as she also directed the show in 2014 when her daughter Tara (Jackson) Armour played the role of Elle Woods.

“Tara was part of that incredible cast, so all the scenes and songs take me down memory lane as I recall the beloved students from over a decade ago,” said Jackson.

The leading role of Woods is played by Elle Clark, the daughter of former students of Jackson’s who was not only named after the title role in “Legally Blonde,” but also came to the 2013 show dressed like Woods.

“I’ve known and loved Elle Clark when she was still in the womb,” said Jackson. “I am so excited that she is leading the cast as Elle Woods.”

Choosing the 2025 spring musical was bittersweet for Jackson, who recently announced her retirement from Iowa Central Community College. “Legally Blonde” will be her final show as the director of theater.

“This musical will hold yet another treasured spot in my heart as it is my final musical here at Iowa Central,” said Jackson. “While I was not preparing to leave this soon, the incredible retirement incentive offered at the college this year was too great an opportunity to let pass. I will, however, always remain a devoted supporter of Iowa Central as it has been home to me for decades. To say that I’m excited about this musical is an understatement. I am savoring and storing up treasures in my heart for this final bow, and this cast is going out on an Olympic gold medal.”

The Feb. 27 to March 2 show is the first musical back in the newly renovated Decker Auditorium, which now includes upgraded seating and sound for audience members as well as added space and features behind the scenes for cast members.

“I guarantee that audiences will be thrilled by what they will see on stage — from extraordinary singers and convincing actors to dynamic dance routines and rapid scene changes,” said Jackson. “Returning home to our beloved Decker Auditorium after its significant facelift has also expanded the spectacle we can create with set design and dressing, magical lights and projections, enhanced sound design, and even expanded spaces for quick costume changes. We continue to be so thankful for the support this community has invested in creating this stunning Center for Performing Arts for our students.”

Tickets for the Feb. 27 to March 2 musical are available for purchase online for the first time with tickets available at IowaCentral.edu/Tickets or by scanning the QR Code for the musical. The box office will also be located at the south entrance of the Center for Performing Arts – Decker Auditorium lobby with in-person hours from 9 a.m. to noon. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students.