By Molly Alderson
There’s a special kind of joy that comes from watching a musical done with pure love for the material, and the Warsaw Federal Incline Theatre’s production of Hairspray delivers just that. From the first brassy notes of “Good Morning Baltimore” to the final confetti of harmonies, this show is a colorful, high-energy ride that makes it impossible not to smile.
Themes
Set in 1960s Baltimore, Hairspray has always been more than a dance-centric musical. It is a story about racial integration, body positivity, and finding your place in a world that doesn’t look like you. This production, directed and co-choreographed by Dee Anne Bryll, leans into both the fun and flair of the era but also the show’s deeper message. Ryan Heinrich delivers as musical director.
The ensemble brings infectious energy, with tight choreography (Julius Jones and Ms. Bryll share credit) and vocals that lift the room. The younger cast members radiate enthusiasm, but if I’m honest, it is the moms of Hairspray who truly steal the spotlight.
Endearing Edna
Sean Miller-Jones as Edna Turnblad is fantastic. Edna’s arc, from timid housewife to fabulous, fearless mother, is both hilarious and deeply touching. Miller-Jones balances comedy with tenderness, especially opposite Douglas Berlon’s sweet, bumbling Wilbur. Their duet, “You’re Timeless to Me,” will have the whole audience grinning (and even I was tearing up) while Edna’s triumphant strut in “Welcome to the 60s” is pure magic.
Jenny Herndon’s Velma Von Tussle is a villainous delight. Herndon gives her character bite and swagger as she manages her diva daughter’s career (Amber, played by Caroline Rakestraw). Velma is the kind of villain you love to hate, making every scene juicier just by walking on stage.
And then there is Mandy Gaines as Motormouth Maybelle. Her voice is so rich and powerful it gave me goosebumps. By the time she sang “I Know Where I’ve Been,” the audience was locked in. She anchors the show’s heart with raw soul and conviction.
Of course, Tracy Turnblad (Carly J. Shepherd) carries the show with bright optimism and sincerity, never once letting the audience forget why Tracy’s spirit has made her such a beloved character for decades. Seaweed (Roman Harris-Richardson) and Penny (Savannah Slaby) shine, especially in “Run and Tell That” and “Without Love,” where their chemistry and vocal range soars. Link’s iconic hip thrust and pretty-boy attitude is lovable and fun. Tommy Sanders, as Link, showcases an impressive vocal range.
Designers
The production itself doesn’t try to reinvent Hairspray, and I think that is part of its magic. The staging and costumes (June Hill, Jesselee Whitson, Jenny Partridge) honor the 60s without being kitschy, allowing the performances to take center stage. The set (Brett Bowling) is simple but smart, giving plenty of room for those big ensemble numbers to burst off the stage.
TL;DR
This Hairspray is everything you want it to be. It is funny, full of life, and full of heart. It is the kind of musical theatre that makes you want to dance out of the theater and hum the songs all the way home.
Ticket to Hairspray
Traditional? Yes. Fun? Absolutely. Unforgettable? Especially whenever the moms are on stage. Check out the Landmark’s production of Hairspray now through September 14th at Warsaw Federal Incline Theatre.
Get tickets online HERE or call the CLP Box Office at (513) 241-6550.
