Musical Spotlight: Hairspray

In the vibrant world of Hairspray, a TV dance show sets the stage for a story of change. This colorful musical raises an important question: who deserves to be seen and celebrated? It mixes fun and energy with meaningful messages about dignity and justice.

The story is set in Baltimore, where we meet Tracy Turnblad, a girl with big dreams and big hair. She loves to dance and wants to join the local teen TV show. Tracy believes everyone should have a chance to shine. When she auditions and wins a spot, she doesn't hold back. Supported by her best friend Penny, her charming crush Link, and the powerful Motormouth Maybelle, Tracy fights to integrate the show and promote acceptance in her community. However, not everyone is on board. Velma, the show's producer, and her daughter Amber try to keep the spotlight to themselves. The climax builds up to a grand live finale where determination and talent prevail, ending in a lively party.

Hairspray's creative team fills this journey with music and rhythm. The music is by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman, and the story is crafted by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan. This musical is based on John Waters' 1988 film, depicting joy and resistance in 1960s Baltimore (Concord Theatricals). When Hairspray debuted on Broadway at the Neil Simon Theatre, it shone under the direction of Jack O’Brien and choreography of Jerry Mitchell. It won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical and Best Score, with standout performances from Marissa Jaret Winokur and Harvey Fierstein (Tony Awards).

The music plays a crucial role in the show's impact. “Good Morning Baltimore” captures Tracy's hopeful spirit. “The Nicest Kids in Town” critiques the false glamour that masks unfairness. “Welcome to the ’60s” empowers Edna, Tracy’s mother, to embrace her true self. “Run and Tell That” features Seaweed and his friends as they take command with style. “Big, Blonde and Beautiful” encourages body positivity, and “You Can’t Stop the Beat” leaves audiences with a sense of joy and excitement (Concord Theatricals).

Beyond its colorful facade, Hairspray addresses real historical issues. In the early 1960s, Baltimore’s dance program, The Buddy Deane Show, enforced segregation. Hairspray flips this narrative, showing how change can happen through unity and determination. The musical made strides beyond the theater with a successful 2007 movie adaptation and a live TV broadcast in 2016, both of which highlighted themes of inclusion and joy (Britannica).

The messages of body positivity and racial integration resonate even more today. Tracy’s journey encourages people not to conform to narrow beauty standards. Edna's change from timidity to confidence sends a powerful message. Schools and community theaters now embrace diverse casting, celebrating different body types. Motormouth Maybelle becomes a pivotal character, and her song, “I Know Where I’ve Been,” inspires reflection and courage (Concord Theatricals); (Britannica).

For directors and educators, setting the context matters. A program note or a short talk before the show can explain the 1962 backdrop and the language used in the production. Highlight the role of Black leadership in Motormouth Maybelle's numbers. Teach the dance styles of the time, like the Madison, while also encouraging unique movements. It’s important to honor Edna’s character played by a man in drag, celebrating love and acceptance rather than making fun.

Hairspray's impact comes from its heart and creativity. The Broadway production became a beloved choice for schools and regional theaters, spreading joy and important messages. Its international performances allowed new audiences to connect through humor and hope (Tony Awards); (Britannica).

The anthem “You Can’t Stop the Beat” is now a song of positivity and movement, played in schools and celebrations across the nation. Ultimately, Hairspray shows that a musical can deliver social commentary while being enjoyable, making it a cherished piece for theaters and classrooms alike. It remains a reflection of society that promotes rhythm, laughter, and optimism.

Hairspray turns a dance floor into a doorway, and invites everyone through.