KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) The Keene Lions Club’s upcoming summer production of “Legally Blonde: The Musical” got a lively preview this past Saturday on WKBK Radio’s “My Keene Now & Next,” where co-producer Gregg Kleiner and cast members Haley Aho and Casey Volikas joined hosts Abbie Trombly and Nicole Colson to talk about the pink-powered show opening next Thursday, July 10.

Aho stars as Elle Woods, the relentlessly optimistic fashionista who follows her ex to Harvard Law School, only to discover her own inner strength. This marks Aho’s debut with the Keene Lions Club. Volikas, a returning performer who has previously appeared in “Rent” and “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” plays the wisecracking salon owner Paulette.

Kleiner, who co-produces the show alongside a team of Lions Club volunteers, said the summer musical tradition is about more than just entertainment.

“This isn’t just about putting on a musical—it’s about carrying on a legacy,” he said. “It brings people together in a joyful way, supports incredible causes, and reminds us all of what’s possible when a community works—and sings—together.”

Now in its third year, the Keene Lions Club summer show has quickly become a staple of the local arts scene. The cast includes a mix of newcomers and veterans, along with a few furry stars: real dogs play Bruiser and Rufus, the canine companions of Elle and Paulette.

“It’s my first Lions show,” Aho said during the broadcast, “and I got to work with Ruby, who plays Bruiser. She was the cutest thing—just chilling next to me. It was amazing.”

Volikas said the physical demands of the show, especially numbers like “Bend and Snap,” have tested the cast’s stamina. “The things we do on stage physically while maintaining the vocals is astounding,” she said with a laugh.

Both actresses said audiences can expect a high-energy production that stays true to the spirit of the beloved film while bringing its own flair.

“Even if you don’t like the movie, you will still like the musical,” Volikas said. “It’s just fun. Promise. Just come and see.”

Legally Blonde runs July 10, 11, and 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Redfern Arts Center at Keene State College. Tickets are $33 for adults and $28 for seniors and students. Proceeds support Lions Club charitable programs. Tickets are available at www.keenelions.com/annual-show.

Listen to the full interview: