As I scan around the room, I wonder how many brothers, boyfriends, friends and husbands have been dragged away from the current World Cup coverage. By the end of the night, I am more than certain the majority are glad they didn’t stay in to witness another disappointing display by the England squad, who drew nil-nil with Algeria.
Contrary to this, the performance executed at Wolverhampton’s Grand Theatre was far from sub-standard. The year is 1962 and with the helping hand of “Ultra Clutch”, Tracey Turnblad is literally bigger and bolder than ever before. The word on everyone’s lips is Hairspray, and rightly so.
Despite being available for 17 nights prior, the penultimate performance brings in a full house. An audience of assorted generations prove that this stage show is appealing at any age. The innovative production tells the tale of oppression and segregation in the formidable decade that once was; highlighting the background behind the “swinging sixties” quite literally. The light-hearted approach creates an enlightening and inspiring atmosphere for the younger crowd and nostalgic awe and for the more mature, reminiscing members, all of whom are in high spirits from curtain up, entertained by a cast containing Brian Conley, Les Dennis and the flawless Laurie Scarth who plays leading lady Tracy Turnblad. From start to finish the triple-threat actress demonstrates a heart warming performance of the strong-minded, sweet natured character that perfectly portrays that size really doesn’t matter – a strong message to deliver to young girls in 2010.
Other impressive performances were exhibited by characters Penny-Lou Pingleton, Amber Von Tussle, Fender, Inez and Ms Maybelle Motormouth, whose script consists of such words of wisdom as: ‘You can’t let weight restrict you’re fate’ and ‘Can’t get lazy when things get crazy’. Despite the density of choreography and overwhelming outfits in the form of sky scraping hair pieces, these stars lit up the stage.
As the name would suggest, Corny Collins was this to a T. Conley on the other hand was cringingly cranky, and Dennis easily forgettable. It was not until the two came together for the duet “Timeless to me” that the audience really connected with the characters in a fit of laughter both on and off stage.
By the end of the first Act, one felt satisfied, similar to after eating a hearty home cooked meal. Nonetheless there is always room for dessert, and “You can’t stop the beat” put the icing on the cake. A standing ovation was well deserved for the musical which will be coming to Nottingham Theatre Royal in March 2011.
Stephanie Nwenwu
