high school theater | Dabour Photography

The Professional Shift: TV Prep

Walking into the theater on Wednesday evening feels different. The WFMZ-TV crew is all set up, their cameras positioned, and the production team is in “watching and learning” mode. They are mapping out every camera angle and every lighting cue, following a nearly identical tech rehearsal of the entire three-hour show. Watching the synergy between the theatrical performers and the television professionals is a masterclass in production.

The Visual Explosion: Full Costumes

This is the moment everyone has been waiting for. Wednesday is the first time all the actors, soloists, and ensembles are in full costume performing together on the State Theatre stage.

The transition from rehearsal hoodies and sneakers to vibrant, theatrical costumes is an explosion of color and character. It changes the way the students carry themselves—they aren’t just rehearsing anymore; they are the characters.

Why It’s My Favorite Day

As a photographer, Wednesday is my “gold mine” day. Because it is a dress rehearsal and not a live broadcast with a seated audience, I have the flexibility to capture the best possible action shots without the constraints of a live crowd or the strict sightlines of the actual ceremony. I get to document the sweat, the smiles, the intricate details of the costumes, and the peak energy of the routines. This is where I capture the “hero shots” that end up being favorites for years to come.

Dress rehearsal photo of the 2025 Freddy Awards. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

The countdown to the red carpet is almost over! If you’re a cast member or a parent, make sure you have the link ready to go. You can view all the magic from this week and our entire history of the Freddy Awards right here:

Keep checking back—as soon as the magic from today is processed, it will be landing in the 2026 gallery!

New Jersey and Lehigh valley PA Theater Photography

Southern Lehigh High School presents 'Legally Blonde' March 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography — Show photo from Southern Lehigh High School Theater presents ‘Legally Blonde’ March 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Spotlight on Legally Blonde: Capturing the Magic at Southern Lehigh High School

When the curtain rises on Legally Blonde at Southern Lehigh High School this weekend, the audience will witness weeks if not months of hard work and passion come alive on stage. As a photographer, I had the privilege of documenting not only the performance but also the incredible effort that went into creating this vibrant production. Today, I’m sharing some of my favorite shots and shining a spotlight on the talented cast and crew who brought Elle Woods’ story to life.

A Picture-Perfect Cast:
One of my favorite aspects of photographing this production was capturing the energy of the cast. From rehearsals to final performances, their dedication and talent shine through every frame. Whether it’s Elle’s confidence, Paulette’s charm, or Emmett’s quiet strength, each performer brought their character to life with remarkable precision. Just look at these smiles—pure joy and passion!

Behind-the-Scenes Brilliance:
Every theatrical production is a collaboration, and this one was no exception. The crew worked tirelessly to design stunning sets, coordinate seamless lighting, and create costumes that transported the audience into Elle’s world. My behind-the-scenes photos capture these unsung heroes in action—adjusting props, checking microphones, and perfecting each detail.

Moments That Tell a Story:
With vibrant choreography and emotional performances, Legally Blonde provided so many memorable photographic moments. From the courtroom drama to the high-energy musical numbers, each scene offered something unique to capture. Here’s a shot of Elle leading the cast in “So Much Better”—a true showstopper!

A Celebration of Community:
What struck me most throughout this project was the sense of community. This production was more than just a show—it was a shared experience that brought together students, teachers, and families. It’s an honor to have been a part of documenting such an inspiring journey.

Show photo from Southern Lehigh High School Theater presents ‘Legally Blonde’ March 2025. Photo by DAVE DABOUR Photography

Final Thoughts:
Photographing Legally Blonde at Southern Lehigh has been a fantastic experience. The show is a testament to what can be achieved through creativity, teamwork, and passion. To the cast and crew of Southern Lehigh High School—break a leg this weekend, and thank you for letting me tell your story through my lens!

Get your tickets today online.

Would you like show photographs and or video of your theater production? Reach out to me for more information and to schedule!