The Triangle

Issue date: 11/21/08 Section: Arts & Entertainment

Media Credit: Brett Thomas

Philadelphia's historic Walnut Street Theatre celebrates its astounding 200th season this winter by performing the big-haired, toe-tapping, loud, vibrant, popular show, "Hairspray." The musical, which started its run on Broadway in 2002, is based on the 1988 John Waters film, and has captivated audiences since.

"Hairspray" revolves around Tracy Turnblad, a larger-than-life teenage Baltimore girl, who, despite her outgoing personality, is judged only for her weight. When Tracy and her friend Penny see that their favorite dance variety show, "The Corny Collins Show," is hosting auditions, the girls skip school, much to the dismay of Tracy's mother, Edna - an outgoing, hysterical, opinionated woman.

The show continues, as Tracy and Penny finally make it to "The Corny Collins Show," and we are introduced to the slew of picture-perfect, clean-cut, beautiful teenage dancers. The show's producer, Velma Von Tussle, is the quintessential overactive 'stage mom' who is vying for the spotlight just as much as her daughter, Amber. Tracy is soon captivated by Link, the noted heartthrob of the show, and no sooner begins singing the hysterical "I Can Hear The Bells." As the show progresses, the entire cast begins to face different forms of prejudice and oppression.

While an extremely upbeat musical about hair and dancing, "Hairspray" also hits on some more serious subjects. Body image and racial prejudices of the time - Baltimore, 1962 - are seen throughout the production.

"Hairspray", in which about half of the cast makes its Walnut Street Theatre debut, is clearly influenced by their energy. Each member of the cast brings something special to the performance. The cast is spectacular - many of who are reprising their roles from various national tours of "Hairspray."

Amy Toporek, who plays Tracy, engages the crowd and can sing her big hair off. Toporek's experience playing Tracy on the national tour is evident, as if she was born to play the role. Tracy's mother, Edna - played by John Travolta in the 2007 film - is a wondrously warm, lively, and exciting woman who has dreams of her own. Played by Michael Walker, Edna is far less creepy than in the 2007 re-make, and can't help but keep the crowd laughing.

Another highlight from the cast includes Denise Whelan, a Philadelphia native who brings a new life to Velma Von Tussle.

"I did know that I didn't want Velma to be a bitch-because she's not. She truly believes what she says," Whelan said about portraying her character.

Each member of the cast has their own shining moment, something not often achieved in a large-scale production.

In addition to the outlandish, oversized wigs made by the show's own wig designer, the set is a larger than life visual playground. With big, graphic shapes and over-the-top set elements, the backdrops and stage complement the equally attention-grabbing music and dancing. The costumes are enjoyably tacky, with plaid prints and shocking fabric colors, making the wardrobe seems to fit right in with the 1960's style.

Overall, the show is not something to miss. "Hairspray" is enjoyable at any age, and its themes can even be relevant today, especially after this past Presidential election. "Hairspray" is playing now through Jan. 4, 2009 at the Walnut Street Theatre. Tickets run from $10-$70 and may be purchased in advance at www.walnutstreettheatre.org.

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