Tracy Turnblad's Moves Aren't Bad!
Award-winning musical Hairspray returns to Erie Playhouse
PREMIERING FRIDAY, JUL. 24
Welcome to the '60s: the days of sock hops and big hairdos. It's 1962 and after a spot opens up on her favorite local teenage dance show, The Corny Collins Show, Tracy Turnblad is determined to make it her own, even as new challenges try to stop her. Dance your way to your seats for the Erie Playhouse's production of the Tony Award-winning musical, Hairspray.
Last seen at the Playhouse in 2010, Hairspray is a celebration of body positivity, racial integration, and the power of youthful rebellion. Based on the 1988 (non-musical) film with the same title, Hairspray has had a steady run through Broadway, the West End, and more. In 2007, its popularity spiked again with a film adaptation of the musical, starring John Travolta and Michelle Pfeiffer.
Director Ryan Ingram noted that his favorite aspect of working on the show has been the overall excitement surrounding it: "The energy around it has been unmatched. People know the show and love it."
With a nod to its source material, the audience can expect to see a bright and cheery color palette throughout the show. "The costumes are also bright, fun, and have a retro flair. The characters are transitioning from the dull world of the 1950s to the brighter, more colorful (and hopeful) time period of the 1960s," says Ingram.
And speaking of characters, the cast is full of many new faces making their Mainstage debuts: Matthew Sommers (Corny Collins), Meghan Bucheral (Penny Pingleton), Rhonda Berlin (Prudy Pingleton), Tamiyah Goodwin (Little Inez), Maeve Wakefield (Brenda), Jack McBride (Joey), and Messiah Mooney (Duane).
According to Ingram, through the collaborative effort of choreographer Jenna Baker and music coordinator Devon Yates, the cast is excited to bring every move and moment to life.
Given the buzz surrounding the show, additional dates may be provided as needed.
Fridays and Saturdays through Aug. 9 at 7:30 p.m. // Thursday, Aug. 6 at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays, Aug. 2 and Aug. 9 at 2 p.m. // Erie Playhouse, 13 W. 10th St. // $20-30 // For tickets and info: erieplayhouse.org
