Photo By Theatre By The Sea
By Kimberly Rau
Theatre by the Sea’s third summer show is the classic feel-good “Hairspray,” and (no surprise here) it’s another hit from the company that understands there’s nothing like a classic musical, and produces them like no one else.
Tracy Turnblad is a Baltimore teenager with a heart of gold who wants nothing more than to dance with the “nicest kids in town” on a televised afterschool dance program. But it’s the 1960s, and Tracy’s mother is a little concerned her plus-sized daughter is setting herself up for failure. Undaunted, Tracy proves to her parents – and everyone else – that staying true to yourself is the best recipe for success, even when your looks and progressive views get you ridicule (and an arrest record).
Director/choreographer Christopher Campbell’s cast is a talented bunch, from the ensemble up. Tracy is played by Niki Metcalf, a true triple threat with a great voice, excellent dance skills and strong acting choices. By the end of “Good Morning Baltimore,” Metcalf had the audience in the palm of her hand, and the night was just beginning. Madeline Glave is Tracy’s best friend Penny, a sheltered, awkward girl whose mother is the source of most of her anxieties. Glave handles Penny’s character well, creating plenty of space for the laughs the role allows. Tracy is in love with the up-and-coming Link Larkin (well played by Dominic Young) and Penny finds herself head over heels for the smooth-dancing, charismatic Seaweed (Sam Yousuf), who sees Penny’s quirks as assets, not detractors.
Tracy’s mother, Edna, is traditionally played by a man. I’m told it’s a nod to the drag queen who originated the role, though the joke feels a little stale in this day and age. Nevertheless, Marc Christopher does an excellent job with the part, taking it beyond a “man in a dress” trope and offering a three-dimensional, compassionate interpretation of Edna, without sacrificing any of the comedy. Kevin McGlynn plays Tracy’s father, Wilbur, who loves his wife and daughter unconditionally. We last saw him as McGlynn in TBTS’ “Waitress,” and it’s great to see him again. Christopher and McGlynn are a dynamic pair, stealing the show in Act 2’s “You’re Timeless to Me,” one of the funniest character duets in musical theater.
Then there’s Motormouth Maybelle (Alana Cauthen), a DJ who wishes for a more accepting role for her children, including her son Seaweed. Maybelle gets some of the best musical moments in the show, and Cauthen has a wonderful voice for them. Her song “I Know Where I’ve Been” brought the house down.
“Hairspray” is a show about dance, and Campbell’s choreography is advanced, showcasing every cast member’s considerable talents. There’s not a bad number in the bunch, and there are quite a few numbers. It keeps the show moving at just the right pace, with no chance of falling into a lull.
The entire cast – villains and heroes alike – comes together for the rousing and emotionally moving “You Can’t Stop the Beat” at the end, reminding the audience that though oppressors may try, the future belongs to those willing to embrace change. “Hairspray” may be set in the 60s, but that’s a message we could all stand to hear a few more times.
The retro, fun sets are by Cassie McKnight, who gives Tracy a world just as vibrant as she is to tell her story. This includes a fantastic gigantic hairspray set piece for the final scene. The costumes create a colorful, vintage vibe that doesn’t go over the top (save that for the wigs, which, of course, must be larger than life, and Liz Printz excels with her designs here).
TBTS’ “Hairspray” is a fun, quality show that imparts a strong message without getting preachy, and is packed with talent. Catch this summer blockbuster before it closes.
“Hairspray” runs through Aug. 16, 2025, at Theatre By The Sea, 364 Cards Pond Road, Wakefield. Tickets may be obtained at the box office, online at theatrebythesea.com or by calling 401.782.8587.
