Hairspray Opens at Davis Musical Theatre: Big Hair Abounds!

Davis Musical Theatre Company

Hairspray, the uplifting Broadway comedy hit about civil rights in the 60’s comes to , June 22 – July 15. 

Nominated for 12 Tonys, winning 8, including best musical, Hairspray retells John Waters’ 1988 cult favorite film about a cheerful, overweight teen who, in 1962 wants to be a dancer on a local Baltimore TV show.  When she discovers an under tone of prejudice that exists on the show, she exposes the injustice of segregation. For the 10th anniversary of the show’s debut, DMTC’s production turns the popular show on its head with over the top wigs designed by director and choreographer, Jason Hammond.

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With musical direction by Steve Isaacson with music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman, and Scott Wittman, Hairspray is an exuberant look at a simpler era battling between its traditions and a fast changing world in which a younger generation is gaining a voice.

Hairspray Romps Onto Broadway

The inspiration for a musical stage version of the cult favorite movie began in 1988 after producer Margo Lion saw the original Rikki Lake-Divine movie on television.  Margo was convinced it would make a great Broadway musical and called to get the blessing of director, John Waters. After acquiring the rights Lion began to search for composers to make the show a reality.  Lion turned to Marc Shaiman, a former cabaret theatre musical director who was currently Bette Midler’s musical director sculpting hits like Wind Beneath My Wings and From a Distance.  Shaiman, excited by the project insisted that his partner, Scott Wittman, be included. Lion agreed.  The team wowed Lion with the first three songs they submitted – including what would become the show’s rousing opening number, "Good Morning Baltimore."

As production began, Marissa Winokur was cast immediately to play the lead role of Tracy Turnblad. However, without seeing other auditions, the writing duo became hesitant to commit to her and hired her on the condition that she could be replaced at any time.  When Winokur received the news she had cervical cancer, she did not tell the producers for fear of losing the lead.  Instead, she underwent and successfully completed chemotherapy in secret. 

When it came time to cast the role of Edna Turnblad (Tracy’s overbearing mother), Shaiman wanted to keep the intent of the character and cast the role male and dressed in drag.   Harvey Fierstein, auditioned assuming he would not get the role due to his gruff voice.  Fierstein was surprised when he received the call telling him he got the plum role. 

Hairspray opened on Broadway in August of 2002 to rave reviews.  It ran for over 2,500 performances and finally closed on January 4, 2009.  It picked up eight Tony awards, including Best Musical, Outstanding Lyrics, Outstanding Music and Best Director. Fierstein and Winokur picked up awards as well.

Ticket Information

Hairspray begins June 22 – July 15, 2012 with performances on Fridays and Saturdays at 8:15 p.m. and Sundays at 2:15 p.m., at the DMTC Performing Arts Center, 607 Pena Drive, Davis, CA 95618.  Tickets are $18 general, $16 students and seniors, and $14 per person for groups of 10 or more. Tickets are available online at www.dmtc.org or by calling (530) 756-3682.  For further information, contact info@dmtc.org.