Hairspray

Hairspray
Town Hall Arts Center
Littleton, CO 
May 19 - June 18, 2017

In 2003, Hairspray was the darling of Broadway, winning eight Tonys that year, including Best Musical. This popular show has been produced numerous times locally in recent years, the current production at the Town Hall Arts Center seemed to have captured some of that magic.

The focus of the show seemed to be on the humorous parts of the script. The audience laughed so often that it was like a comedy show. However, that didn't result in a loss of the serious message about racial inequality at all. Instead, it intensified it.

The cast of the show was strong. It was led by their Edna, who was a very convincing in the matronly role. And even though Edna and Wilbur were played by two men, the chemistry between them dominated the show. Tracy was a convincing dreamer with the right charisma to hold up the story. And Link was charming in his self-absorbed character arc.

The music of the show was the highlight. "Good Morning Baltimore" hooked the audience from the beginning  But the crescendo came during "I Know Where I've Been" by Motormouth Maybelle. This anthem was stunning in it's power.

While the set is not elaborate, it holds up well to the action. The costumes shone throughout. The show was fun with a powerful message.

I have seen many musicals in the Denver area this season. Hairspray is easily one of the best.