Success breeds success and in this case, the recent Brookswood Secondary production of Legally Blonde, the Musical, has set the bar high.

But that isn't phasing the approximately 50 cast and 20 crew at D.W. Poppy Secondary who bring their interpretation of the high-energy production to the stage for shows March 5-9.

"We thought we were going to be the first high school in Langley to do the show, but it has actually turned out to be a positive learning experience for our students," said D.W. Poppy teacher Amber Inglis. "Most of our cast and crew went to see Brookswood's show, which was so well done, and they were really inspired. It gave them the opportunity to see another interpretation of the show, which can be very liberating as an actor."

Legally Blonde tells the tale of Elle, a pretty girl whose boyfriend dumps her as he heads off to law school because she's not smart enough.

She manages to get into the same law school to try and win him back and finds out about her own strength, his lack of character and her ability to grasp the law.

"I saw the show when it came to Vancouver a couple of years ago and I thought it was fantastic," Inglis said. "There is an infectious energy to the show, with a lot of witty humour, great music, and positive messages about celebrating sisterhood and being true to yourself.

It also touches on many themes that are very relevant to our teenaged cast, such as dealing with heartbreak, peer pressure, learning to love yourself and realize your own potential, and being strong enough to follow your dreams without sacrificing your personal integrity or hurting others in the process."

Like the popular movie the show is based on, Legally Blonde features an array of quirky characters.

"Even though Elle's character is on stage 90 per cent of the show, she does not carry the weight of the production on her own. This show is made up of talented and dedicated individuals who all have something to offer and shine in their own special way," she added.

On the surface, Legally Blonde is a light-hearted romp but even before the curtain rises, the students have been impacted by the message of the show.

"The seniors have really stepped up this year to help coach and mentor some of the younger and inexperienced actors," Inglish noted. "They truly understand this message of sisterhood/brotherhood and have worked really hard to make sure everyone feels included and valued in this process."

Showtimes are 7 p.m. March 5-9 with a 2 p.m. matinee on Saturday, March 9. Evening performances cost $12 for adults, and $10 for students and seniors with the matinee pricing at $8 and $7, respectively.

The school is at 23752 52nd Ave.

hcolpitts@langleyadvance.com