Much like her sweaters, the aspirations of Tracy Turnblad carries a lot weight. Her mission to achieve them is the central plot of ‘Hairspray.’ The hit musical now showing at La Comedia Dinner Theatre tips the scales with a heavy amount of entertainment.
Many are familiar with the film versions of ‘Hairspray,’ the latest released in 2007, but nothing compares to seeing the live action right before your very eyes. The vibrant costumes, soulful music, and of course the stylish hair sets the scene of the turbulent 1960’s.
Filling the…ummm…delightfully plump role of Tracy Turnblad is Nicole Nesbitt, a plus size in talent. She has footwork as dazzling as her voice. Despite not having a figure typically seen on television (pre ‘Biggest Loser) it’s Tracy’s dream to appear on a local dance program, “The Corny Collins Show.”
Teen girls all across Baltimore wish to join the show as one of ‘The Nicest Kids in Town,’ a dance group featuring the graceful beauty of Tammy (Diana Sheets) and other light footed maestro’s of step. The main competitor against Tracy is the spoiled Amber Von Tussle (Hannah Wilson), whose only flaw is her attitude. It becomes an utter joy to root against her.
Beyond her obvious physical obstacles, Tracy must also overcome her mother’s orders to not audition. In a show stealing performance, Brian Padgett puts the man in w-o-m-a-n as Edna Turnblad. His comedic timing and shapely legs fits a dress perfectly.
Once Tracy benefits from the rhythmic moves learned by Seaweed J. Stubbs (Chris Gwynn), she can’t be denied as part of ‘The Nicest Kids in Town.’ However, the fame gained does not go to or head, or thankfully her hips, but wants to use the strength to improve race relations. A strategic plan is hatched to integrate ‘The Corny Collins Show.’
While a number of theatrical productions has lily white casts, ‘Hairspray‘s,’ is colorful. The races blend together in perfect harmony and delivers an inspiring message. A vocal highlight is the rendition of ‘I Know Where I’ve Been,’ by Motormouth Maybelle (Robbin Major), whose voice accelerates to high points of greatness. The sound reverberates within your heart as well as in your ears.
The choreography excels in ‘I Can Hear the Bells,’ where Tracy dreams of a life with heart throb Link Larkin (Ray Zupp). The actions within the songs adds a most pleasant touch to the spirited music.
Special mention must also go to Penny Pingleton (Brooke Martino) a source of comic relief as Tracy’s best friend and deliver’s my favorite line of the show. Surely, fellow fans of ‘Airplane,’ will agree. Also, they have appeared together in several of the recent productions at La Comedia, and while not in lead roles they always shine bright on stage so I give a special bow to Diana Sheets and Hannah Wilson. They truly are two of ‘The Nicest (and talented) Kids in Town.’
On stage though June 26, don’t miss the chance to see ‘Hairspray,’ at La Comedia. Evening performances Wednesday-Sunday (arrival time 5:30-6:00 p.m.) and matinees Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday (arrival time 10:30-11:00 a.m.) Make reservations by phone at (937) 746-4554 or 1-800-677-9505.
