8 northern today or Larissa Buchholz, the best part of being involved in Northern State University’s production of “Legally Blonde - The Musical” was the challenge of playing the lead role. Buchholz, a native of Tripp, said she worked very hard to show the audience the true colors of Elle Woods. “She’s not just a blonde sorority sister, she has so much more to offer,” she said. “She’s a strong woman who believes in herself and doesn’t give up. Playing this part brought out the best in me.” NSU Theater presented “Legally Blonde - The Musical” in October. The show – and Buchholz– received rave reviews. Though it is based on the hit MGM movie starring Reese Witherspoon, Buchholz said she had actually never seen the movie until after the NSU performances were over. “I knew there were high expectations, so I hope I did the part justice!” said Buchholz, a senior vocal music education major with a theater minor. And she had fun doing it. “I have loved all the shows I’ve been involved with, but this one has definitely been the most fun!” she said. “It’s very fast paced and took a lot of energy! I also loved all the dances!” She certainly went above and beyond for the part, even dying her dark hair blonde. “I have never ever wanted to be blonde, but it actually doesn’t look as terrible as I thought,” she said. (But she said she’ll dye it dark again eventually!) She had some great co-stars, including her little sister, Kaitlin Buchholz, who made her NSU Theater debut as one of Elle’s Delta Nu sorority sisters. “It was great for her to be in the show too,” Buchholz said. “She played one of my best friends, so that was fun!” Other costars included some four-legged ones – two dogs had roles. “I love dogs, so I was very excited,” she said. “The dogs were very well behaved, and everyone loved working with them.” A long-haired Chihuahua named Fonzie played Elle’s dog, Bruiser. Buchholz said Fonzie was adorable – they even bonded during the Gypsy Day Parade, cuddling with a blanket in the cold. Buchholz, a resident assistant in Briscoe Hall, is also involved in marching band, Concert Choir, Chamber Choir, Masquers, College Republicans and the National Association for Music Education. She is set to graduate in May 2014 and said she plans to attend graduate school for vocal performance. Until then, she hopes to be involved with future shows at NSU. “I have fallen in love with performing and being onstage,” she said. “There’s such a sense of accomplishment after knowing you have given your all to this role and making it the best show it can be. It’s definitely become a passion of mine.” Photographs courtesy of Joshua John Franchiseur, NSU Assistant Professor of Theater A passion for performing ‘Legally Blonde’ star says she loves being on stage
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