A night with Hairspray

Hopefully it will work this time.

As the musical began and the main character woke up and sang the opening song “Good Morning Baltimore,” I instantly fell in love with the musical Hairspray. Taken place in Baltimore, Hairspray addresses injustices in America during 1960’s: racism and discrimination against overweight. Tracy, the main character played by Marissa Perry, is obsessed with the afternoon dance show called “The Corny Collins Show.” When Tracy finds out that one of the show stars is leaving the show, she decides to audition for that open spot. Even with her amazing dance skills, Tracy faced a challenge because of her physical appearance- overweight. Once she became a member of the show, Tracy also wanted integration which angered some of the show members. In the end, however, the show gets integrated and a boy ends up liking Tracy.

Two characteristics that facilitated the smooth flow of the plot were staging and music. The props on the stage, although it was minimal, captured daily scene of Baltimore: usual townhouses and stone fronts. Personally, I was fascinated by how well structured the stage was. The lights were dynamic, the sound system was perfect, and the stage crew was precise. There seemed to be no room for a mistake! The music was entertaining and energetic. With many upbeat songs throughout the musical, I was sad to only watch the actors and actresses dance; I wanted to dance with them along the music also. Out of many songs, I enjoyed “Welcome to the 60’s” and “Mama I’m a Big Girl Now” the most. “Welcome to the 60’s” is a song in which Tracy is trying to get Edna, her mother, to step out of her insecurity and enjoy the 60’s. The lyric and the rhythmic beat are catchy. My favorite song is “Mama I’m a Big Girl Now.”  This song reminded me of how girls are always in constant struggle with their parents to gain more freedom and independence no matter when the time frame is. In this song the girls tell their mothers “Stop telling me what to do” and “Don’t treat me like a child of two.” They want to be treated like adults. Through songs, the plot unfolded with ease and I had no trouble relating myself to the story.

Along with singing, dancing was also phenomenal. Everyone on the stage dance so well. It was nearly impossible to take my eyes off from the stage even for one second. The most entertainment came from watching George Wendt play the female character Edna. He wore dresses and hills which, even some females have hard time wearing. The dances from the Hairspray were vibrant and fun. I give credit to the main character, Tracy. Her movements were strong yet still feminine and they were witty but not overly comical. Also, the rivalry between Tracy and Amber was interesting to watch because of their difference in physical appearance. Tracy is plump and Amber is not.

When the musical was over, I found myself still in love. All of the characters were unique and delightful to watch. The combination of great staging, acting, dancing, and singing is surely the reason why Hairspray is loved. I wish this Broadway muscial experience can be shared with many other people. Also, it would be nice if I can see this lovely piece of art again!