SCT's “Hairspray”, Brings Audience Members to their Feet!
Review by By Bobbie Wallinger
Congratulations to Stockton Civic Theatre whose opening night
production of “Hairspray” received a standing ovation as lead
actress, Katy Uyeno, came on stage to take her bow. Wow!
This dynamo with the million dollar smile exploded with her opening
number, “Good Morning Baltimore” and never let us down during the
fast paced, high energy production. She is both polished and perfect
for the role of Tracy Turnblad.
The musical set in the 1962, has all the components of the era, racial tension, and teenage angst without being maudlin or preachy…just the facts. Like today, the teens in this show written by John Waters, as a film in 1988 and transformed to the Broadway hit with Book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan and music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Whitman, suffer all the same maladies as teenagers today… Too tall, too short, too fat, too skinny, too black, and too white. For in 1962, just as today, their existed, “mean girls”, undeserving idols, and parents in conflict with their kids.
But this marvelous script with finger-snapping songs and minimal
dialogue give this first-rate cast an opportunity to shine. And
shine, they did. With a cast of twenty-eight it is impossible to
mention everyone by name, but trust this reviewer; each and every
actor in this show earned that standing ovation.
Holly Halay, (Penny), the gum-chewing, arm-swinging klutz is
hilarious. Like Uyeno, this triple threat miss is a hoot from the
get go and reminded many in the audience of the late, great, Gilda
Radnor. And when she sheds her dorky attire and is unveiled as a
vamp… there was an audible sound of approval from the audience.
Jim Coleman, as “Edna”, yes the role is meant to be played by a man,
is a delight in eye-lashes and feathers. His portrayal is poignant
rather than “campy” and makes the role of the mother believable.
Leanita S. Taylor, as “Motormouth Maybelle”, is perfect as she gives
each line in rhyme and belts out “I Know Where I’ve Been”.
John Hopkins, (Wilbur Turnblad) gives his finest performance as Coleman’s husband and their duet is both funny and sweet.
In a city recognized for our diversity it is a joy to actually see a multi-colored portrait on the SCT stage. “The Dynamites” trio comprised of Layla Yu, Sarah Lingo, and Tasha Alexander, bring it home with “Welcome to the 60’s” with perfect sound and choreography.
The choreography by Katherine Esau, Jennifer Hastings and Director,
James Reed makes great use of the stage and with such an energetic
cast was able to introduce all of the popular moves of the period.
The set design by Brian Johnson, Costume design by Elsa Fulton and
Lighting design by Terry Smith are all first rate and give just the
right “look” to showcase the incredibly fine cast.
Many audience members complained about the “sound” problems again, but unfortunately this seems to be a constant struggle with the equipment at SCT.
Director James Reed did a superior job in his casting, in selecting his production team and in putting together a first class production. He has introduced many new faces to the SCT stage and it is exciting to see his ability to combine veterans and “newbies” seamlessly. Don’t miss this terrific holiday gift.
