Alhambra’s Hot-Hot-Hot Hairspray

The dynamite choreography of Soontaree Jaison-Simms captured the 1960s style to a T. The music has a bit of Motown, mixed with pop and rock, with clever and funny lyrics.

Scenic Artist David Dionne used a number of set pieces that came off and on, and included a modest living room setting for the Turnblads, an interesting depiction of an incarceration center, and a giant can of hairspray. Director Booth used the center stage for much of the action, including the many energetic dance numbers.

The costumes by the Costume Crew (Camala Pitts and Dorinda Quiles) were like a visit to the past, with flared skirts, solids, plaids, and keds for the younger characters, and some surprising touches of color for the men; Corny Collins wears a peacock suit; Mr. Pinky shows up in bright pink. Edna Turnblad begins in a simple and dowdy shift, but is later transformed, along with daughter Tracy; we’ll leave the specifics for you to experience. If you love wigs, you will love the wig designs by Patti Pitts. Big hair is everywhere, piled into beehives, poufed, teased, and stiffened. With hairspray, of course.

The Alhambra production has everything you want in a musical; great tunes, witty dialogue; and an inspiring story. You are gonna love it.

A note on the food. Since the rebirth of the Alhambra, all the menus at each show have been innovative and interesting under the watchful eye of Executive Chef, Matthew Medure. The Dual Critics agree that the food offering for Hairspray is the best so far, from salad to dessert. We are not going to tell you more, but you can check the Alhambra website for details.

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