Ever since “Hairspray” entered the Neil Simon Theater over a month ago audiences have been raving about the book turned movie turned hit Broadway show, and rightfully so.
The story takes place in downtown Baltimore during the 1960s. A time when segregation was tradition, hip swiveling was a sin, and music was more than just a steady beat.
Marissa Jaret Winokur takes center stage as Tracy Turnblad, a short, slightly over weight, self motivated teen, who’s dream has always been to dance on the “Corny Collins Show,” the “Hairspray” equivalent of American Bandstand.
Although her moves are hot and her smile wide she doesn’t fit the perfect cookie cutter mold that is needed to be on the show but that doesn’t slow her down.
With a little encouragement from her best friend Penny (Kerry Butler) Tracy ends up not only trying out and getting on the show. But also altering a few lives and changing some traditions along the way.
Tracy mainly alters the life of her mother Edna played by the talented Harvey Fierstein. Fierstein is hilarious through out the show playing perfectly the raspiest heaviest most manish self-conscience woman I have ever seen.
From beginning to end the music is up beat, funny and very catchy. The original lyrics written by Scott Wittman and composer Marc Shaiman move the story along while allowing the audience to laugh and groove to a sound that is true to the 60s.
The singing and dancing also can not be beat. The cast is littered with talented actors that never miss a note or cross a step.
It’s a shame that more characters weren’t given solos, but hey that’s business, there’s never enough time for everyone.
The simple sets and crazy costumes create a cartoonish 60s scene filled with lights, sequins, and 12 inch bouffant hair dos’.
Using set pieces that drop from above and backgrounds that can be used in numerous scenes, the limited space on stage is maximize. The simple the set is very effective and the costumes complete with outrageous wigs bring vivid personality to each character.
I know that the segregated plot line may sound old hat and the theme of self-assertion boring but “Hairspray” ultimately pulls it off. Director Jack O’Brien is able to find the perfect balance of music, dialogue, humor, and plot development to create this seasons number one comedy on Broadway.
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