Professional actor to appear in GTA's 'Legally Blonde'

A regional actor with more than 20 years of experience is set to share the stage with student actors in Gainesville Theatre Alliance's (GTA) production of "Legally Blonde: The Musical" in November.

Brian Robinson, who has a master's degree in fine arts from the University of North Carolina, will portray law professor Callahan in the musical. The musical is based on the 2001 movie "Legally Blonde."

GTA is a nationally acclaimed collaboration between the University of North Georgia (UNG), Brenau University, theater professionals and the northeast Georgia community.

"It's always exciting to have a new guest artist in the mix," said Jim Hammond, UNG's theater department chair and GTA's artistic and managing director. "And it gives our students the opportunity to connect with professionals who have built a successful career in the theater."

Robinson has worked at Flat Rock Playhouse, which is designated as the State Theatre of North Carolina. It is a professional regional theater with a nine-month season of Broadway musicals, comedies, dramas, and theater for young audiences.

Enlisting professionals to collaborate with students is a key element in all GTA productions. Having an actor such as Robinson impacts the musical on two fronts. First, he helps create a multi-generational cast.

"People like to see themselves in the story," Hammond said. "Our audience is diverse, so we strive to achieve that in our productions."

Secondly, Robinson will offer students his expertise and a professional connection.

"The students will learn from his professionalism and work ethic," Hammond said. "More importantly, as he gets to know the students, he can help our graduating seniors transition into job opportunities."

Theater enthusiasts can see Robinson and GTA students during their two-week run in November. Performances will be at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5-9 and Nov. 12-16; and 2:30 p.m. Nov. 10 and 16, in the Hosch Theatre in the John S. Burd Center at Brenau University, 429 Academy St. NE, in Gainesville, Georgia.

A free stage tour with a peek behind the scenes will be at 6 p.m. Oct. 22. A preview show will be at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 4. Preview tickets go on sale Oct. 21. The free opening night reception with the cast will be in the lobby following the performance and catered by Luna's. A question-and-answer session with the cast and crew will follow the Nov. 12 performance.

Tickets are $28-$30 for adults; $26-$28 for seniors; and $18-$20 for students. They can be purchased via GTA's website or by calling the Box Office at 678-717-3624.

Season ticket packages are on sale with discounts available, said Keri McClain, GTA's marketing manager. For example, if tickets for two shows are purchased, a 10% discount is given. For three to four shows, the discount is 15%.

UNG faculty, staff and students also receive discounts on top of their 50% off regular-price discount if they purchase a campus package in advance. Faculty, staff, and students are eligible for free tickets to mainstage shows, beginning two weeks before the show's opening and valid for certain performances.

For more information or tickets, call 678-717-3624 or visit the GTA website or Box Office in the Continuing Education and Performing Arts building on UNG's Gainesville Campus from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday or 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday.