By Jane Peterson
If you’re looking for a night of infectious energy, dazzling performances, and toe-tapping tunes, look no further than Workshop Theatre’s production of Hairspray! Under the direction of Julian DeLeon, with musical direction by Taylor Diveley, this production brings all the fun, heart, and powerful messages of the beloved musical to life.
With music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, Hairspray transports audiences to 1962 Baltimore, where Tracy Turnblad dreams of dancing on the local Corny Collins Show. Along the way, she fights for inclusion and racial equality—an ever-relevant message wrapped in a colorful, high-energy package.
From the moment the curtain rises, the cast delivers. Abby Brewer shines as Tracy, perfectly embodying the character’s charm, confidence, and powerhouse vocals. She captures Tracy’s optimism and determination, making her a protagonist you can’t help but root for. Charlie Grant brings classic heartthrob appeal as Link Larkin, effortlessly balancing Link’s internal struggle between fame and doing what’s right. Erin Niland is a scene-stealer as Amber Von Tussle, the spoiled and scheming rival who brings just the right mix of comedic villainy and show-stopping vocals.
As Tracy’s delightfully awkward best friend, Isabella DeCola (Penny Pingleton) delivers an endearing and hilarious performance. Opposite her, M. Lamont Gleason (Wilson/EJ Lofgren) is a standout, exuding cool confidence and bringing smooth dance moves that light up the stage.
The adult cast is equally phenomenal. Davis Herndon (Edna Turnblad) gives a warm, hilarious, and heartfelt performance, bringing both humor and humanity to Tracy’s devoted mother. Her chemistry with Chris Kruzner (Wilbur Turnblad) is a highlight, especially in their charming duet, You’re Timeless to Me. Jessica Roth (Velma Von Tussle) is delightfully devious as the controlling, bigoted producer of The Corny Collins Show, while Christy Shealy Mills (Prudy Pingleton) plays Penny’s overbearing mother with just the right amount of exaggerated sternness, but whose turnaround near the end is hysterical.
And then there’s Mia Oliver, a newcomer to the stage in Columbia, whose portrayal of Motormouth Maybelle is nothing short of extraordinary. Her soul-stirring rendition of I Know Where I’ve Been was an unforgettable, goosebump-inducing moment that left the audience in awe. Her presence on stage is magnetic, and her vocals are nothing short of breathtaking. Definitely some Gospel experience here!
The ensemble deserves immense praise for their energy, vocal strength, and commitment to their roles. Each performer brings a unique personality to the stage, ensuring that every scene feels vibrant and alive. Joy Alexander’s choreography is dynamic, especially with such a large cast.
Visually, the show is a treat. The set, though minimal, works seamlessly for this production, with smooth transitions that keep the pacing tight. The costumes are spot-on, capturing the vibrant spirit of the early ‘60s with bold colors and fun silhouettes.
Running through March 22 at Cottingham Theatre, Hairspray is a must-see for theatre lovers of all ages. Tickets are available at workshoptheatreofsc.com or by calling (803) 799-6551. Don’t miss your chance to experience this lively, heartfelt production!