Hairspray is an American musical with music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman and a book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan, based on John Waters’ 1988 film of the same name. The songs include 1960s-style dance music and “downtown” rhythm and blues.
In 2003 it won eight Tony Awards, including best musical and best original musical score. It ran for 2,642 performances and closed on Jan. 4, 2009. Hairspray has also had national tours, a West End production, and numerous foreign productions and was adapted as a 2007 musical film. The London production was nominated for a record-setting 11 Laurence Olivier awards, winning four, including best new musical.
On stage, Hairspray finds lovable plus-size teen Tracy Turnblad with a big dream – to dance on the popular “Corny Collins Show.” When her wish comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden celebrity, and realizes that there are dreams even bigger than her own. She uses her newfound star power to dethrone the reigning teen queen, win the affections of teen heartthrob Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network – all without denting her ‘do!
Returning to the Beef & Boards stage to star as Tracy Turnblad is Adee David, who played Jan in Grease earlier this season.
Also returning to Beef & Boards are Nate Willey (Prince Eric/The Little Mermaid; Kenickie/Grease) as Link Larkin; Daniel Klingler (Tony Whitcomb/Shear Madness; Jacob Marley/A Christmas Carol) as Edna Turnblad;, Sarah Daniels (Ariel/The Little Mermaid, Sandy/Grease) as Amber Von Tussle; Tarra Conner Jones (Mamma Pearl/Buddy: The Buddy Holly Story) as Motormouth Maybelle; and Eddie Curry as Wilbur Turnblad.
Curry also directs the production, which is choreographed by Ron Morgan with musical direction by Kristy Templet.
Hairspray is rated PG.
Beef & Boards is at 9301 N. Michigan Road.
Tickets include the Beef & Boards dinner buffet and select beverages. For showtimes, Tuesday-Saturday evenings plus weekday and Sunday matinees and tickets, call 317-872-9664. Info: beefandboards.com.