Review: HAIRSPRAY, Kimmel Cultural Campus Philadelphia - US National Tour

Photo credit: Jeremy Daniel

Hairspray is one of Broadway’s Tony Award-winning musical comedies that has inspired not only a blockbuster film and a live television event but also multiple tours and productions across the world. The book is written by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan, with music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman. Hairspray is based off of the 1988 comedy film by John Waters, also named Hairspray.  

The story takes place in Baltimore during the 1960’s, where civil unrest over racial disparities were raging strong. After winning a contest to become a dancer on The Corny Collins Show, the charismatic yet naïve Tracy Turnblad (portrayed by Niki Metcalf) becomes passionate about anti segregation and inclusivity. She sings and dances her way through multiple obstacles towards desegregating the show so her “colored” friends will be featured every day and not just on Negro Day. Through this well intentioned yet simplistic story, we learn that it is always better to choose what is right over what is easy. 

The entire ensemble is great but some of the members are sensational. Michael Correy- Hassel (the understudy for Seaweed J. Stubbs) brings a sweet quirkiness that is endearing and his funky R&B and jazz style is pure joy to watch. However, the best part of the show is Andrew Levitt (aka Nina West) and Christopher Swan who play Edna and Wilbur Turnblad. Their perfect blend of comedy and dance in the Vaudeville style ‘You’re Timeless to Me’ is easily the most entertaining song of the night.

The energy of Hairspray is even bigger than the handcrafted bee-hived wigs the cast wear. The cast shake and shimmy across the stage in vibrant pops of color that cause the theater to pulsate with an infectious joy. Despite a few technical difficulties, the actors continually engage the audience and delight with their irresistible charm. Don’t believe us? Go see it for yourself and you will be guaranteed to be singing and dancing along to this campy and feel-good musical comedy. 

Uplifting and entertaining.

**** Four stars

Reviewed by: Jamie Flowers

Hairspray plays at the Miller Theater, Kimmel Cultural Campus, Philadelphia until May 22, with tickets available here.