Big hair, man in drag and colorful costumes — “Hairspray” is a fun, colorful musical taking place in Baltimore in the 1960s, focusing on a woman with a dream.
Meet Tracy Turnblad, a big woman with big hair and a big dream to star on television’s most popular dance show — The Corny Collins Show.
Jill Sullivan, the actress portraying Tracy, has really embraced the meaning of her character.
“More than anything, Tracy wants people to be treated as equal,” Sullivan said. “She realizes that all people make a difference in the world and wants everyone to have a chance to be whoever they are and who they want to be.”
Sullivan wasn’t the only convincing actor. I was intrigued by the performances of Bill Theisen and Cary Wiger, who play the mother and father of Tracy, respectfully. Together, they successfully made the characters and their chemistry eerily believable. Their duet, “You’re Timeless to Me” really helped their characters shine.
The sold-out audience consisted of young children to elderly adults. Whether they were there with family, friends or school group, everyone seemed to enjoy the play. There was a constant stream of laughter, head bopping and clapping coming from each person there. The actors had to stop and wait on the laughter to subside many times.
Jennifer Welch, attendee, said she enjoyed the play and was happy with the actors’ performances.
“I have seen the play probably about four or five times, and the Derby Dinner version definitely stacked up with the others I have seen, one being the touring Broadway Series version at Kentucky Center,” Welch said.
Derby Dinner’s production of “Hairspray” gave a comical approach to serious issues that were taking place in the 1960s in the United States.
As a regular to Derby Dinner, I can say that between the great scenery, costumes and actors, I am convinced it’s the best production I have seen. It’s a hair-raising experience.
By STEPHANIE TAGGART
Staff Writer
singram@umail.iu.edu