Hairspray
at Thomas S. Wootton High School

Reviewed on March 29, 2014

Yena Seo
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Submitted for publication to Washington Post - Montgomery

Welcome to the 1960s, a time of sky-high hairdos, colorful clothing and jivin' music. But beyond all the glitz and glamour of the era, segregation and discrimination is ever present in the city of Baltimore, until one big girl with even bigger ideas challenges the norm. In an infectious production of Hairspray, Thomas S. Wootton High School had the audience tapping their toes and moving to the beat all evening.

Based on the 1988 non-musical film of the same name, Hairspray was written by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman and was originally created as a social commentary on racism and integration. The Broadway production of Hairspray opened in 2002 as a musical, winning eight Tony Awards, including one for Best Musical, and has spawned many subsequent revivals, including a 2007 film adaptation featuring a star-studded cast. This timeless musical chronicles unlikely protagonist Tracy Turnblad and her dreams of dancing on a hit television show, despite the fact that she doesn't fit the mold, and her mission to defy stereotypes and prejudice.

Corrieanne Stein tackled the demanding role of Tracy with an effervescent style and infectious spirit, easily setting the upbeat mood of the musical in the opening number, "Good Morning Baltimore." Stein's positive attitude, powerful vocals and fabulous dance abilities were delightful, and her chemistry with leading man Wyatt Oring was charming. Oring as teen heartthrob Link Larkin was swoon-worthy yet sweet, and his interactions with Stein produced a genuine feeling. Oring portrayed the Elvis-like crooner with gusto and enthusiasm, and his impressive vocal and dancing abilities in numbers such as "It Takes Two" charmed audience members.

Several supporting cast members proved to be highlights of the production. Julia Fanzeres' portrayal of Tracy's awkward and adorable best friend Penny Pingleton was absolutely delightful, her hilarious antics and striking vocals greatly adding to the development of her bubbly character and the production. Fanzeres' chemistry with Myles Frost as Seaweed was thoroughly enjoyable throughout the show. Though perhaps not as youthful, the relationship between Jeffrey Morse and Alex Millstone as Edna and Wilbur Turnblad was equally endearing and garnered laughter from the audience in "You're Timeless to Me." Jackie Kempa and Meghan Wright were saucy and sassy as the mother-daughter duo of villains, Amber and Velma Von Tussle, and both showcased extraordinary vocal and dancing talent and comic ability in their solos. As the rhyming record shop owner Motormouth Maybelle, Aaliyah Dixon brought down the house with her soulful rendition of the anthem-like "I Know Where I've Been."

Several technical elements dazzled in the production, bringing the kaleidoscopic feel of the 60s to the stage. An adaptable set shone under Robbie Adkins' lighting design, which was skillful and impressive given the lighting properties of the theater. Period-era costumes were flashy and vibrant, while huge hairstyles and wigs teased with copious amounts of gel and hairspray gave homage to the title of the show. Most impressive, however, was the orchestra, who never failed to miss a beat or note and rarely overpowered the actors. While there were microphone and sound issues, the entire cast remained committed to their characters and the production.

While producing an iconic show can be a challenge, the talented cast and crew succeeded in delivering an incredibly entertaining performance, heralded by brilliant vocals and convincing characters. After all, you can't stop the beat, so audience members might as well get swept up in the enthusiasm, hilarity and bouncy melodies in Thomas S. Wootton High School's production of Hairspray.

Jamie Joeyen-Waldorf
Langley High School
Submitted for publication to Washington Post - Montgomery

Wootton "Marvin's Room" skillfully draws audience into impeccably staged comedy/tragedy
Alexander Carroll-Cabanes, a student at Woodrow Wilson High School, reviews Hayfield Secondary School's ‘Marvin's Room' as part of the Cappies Critics and Awards Program

In the turbulent era of the 1960s, one unlikely heroine rises to the top, armed with copious amounts of aerosol cans, big hair, and even bigger dreams. Tracy Turnblad is ready to change the world, one hairdo at a time, in Thomas S. Wootton High School's effervescent production of Hairspray.

Hairspray opened on Broadway in 2002 with music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman, and a book by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan. Based on the John Waters film of the same name, the Broadway production reached great heights, and not just with hair, running for over 2,500 performances and winning eight Tony Awards. The musical follows Tracy Turnblad, a plump teenager in 1960s Baltimore who dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show, a local television program. After landing a role on the show and achieving stardom overnight, Tracy opens her eyes to the injustices of segregation and attempts to fight for racial integration of the program, despite fiery opposition from network executives and putting her family and relationship with teenage heartthrob, Link Larkin, in jeopardy.

Student choreography by Anna Bartels-Newton and Robby Pine in "Miss Baltimore Crabs" and "It's Hairspray" accentuated the campy nature of the show with crisp movements. Overall, dancing in big ensembles, such as the Council Members and Detention Students, was well-executed with near perfect synchronization, aided by the upbeat sounds of the Wootton Pit Orchestra.

Starring as the leading heroine, Corrieanne Stein as Tracy brought an energetic charisma to the determined adolescent with excellent projection and near impeccable vocals, her resonating alto belt especially notable. Wyatt Oring starred opposite Stein as the hunky Link Larkin, adding a goofier, fun-loving flavor to the stereotypical Zac Efron-like persona. Oring's rock dance moves seemed reminiscent of Elvis Presley, adding a comedic effect to his believable connection with Stein.

The villainous duo of self-centered Amber Von Tussle (Jackie Kempa) and her devious stage mother, Velma (Meghan Wright), successfully captured the condescending aura of their characters, stopping at nothing to achieve their goals of fame. Tracy's quirky best friend, Penny Pingleton (Julia Fanzeres) also gave an enjoyable performance with a consistent high-pitched voice and smiley one-liners. Aaliyah Dixon as the strong-willed, big-voiced Motormouth Maybelle depicted one of the most powerful moments of the show, "I Know Where I've Been," in which she passionately belted cries against racial injustice with soulful sounds ringing throughout the theatre.

In a musical with many wireless microphones, the sound crew handled challenges admirably, despite some audible cracks and late cues. The stage crew moved multiple, large set pieces quietly, while lighting design by Robbie Adkins, though a bit dark at times, served to match the mood of various scenes with different colored washes. Additionally, wigs used in the production appropriately fit the era and were impressive in quantity.

Despite some blank faces at times, the cast and crew combined upbeat tunes with an important message of social acceptance. Hairspray remains timeless in its story of resilience and anti-prejudice, if only we wouldn't "get lazy when things get crazy" and stop to listen to the music of a more unified world.

Taylor Fountain
Robinson Secondary School
Submitted for publication to ShowBizRadio.net

What do tap dancing, racism, and whoopee cushions have in common? These seeming unrelated things all came together on Thomas S. Wootton High School's stage in a lively rendition of Scott Wittman's Tony Award winning musical, Hairspray.

Premiering on Broadway on August 15th 2002, this high-energy musical went on to be produced on the West End, Las Vegas, and Australia, as well as garnering one national tour around the United States and two in the United Kingdom. With music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, and written by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan, Hairspray went on to win eight Tony Award, four Laurence Olivier Awards, and nine Drama Desk Awards. However, Hairspray is perhaps most recognized by its 2007 movie starring Nikki Blonsky, John Travolta, and Zac Efron.

Hairspray follows Tracy Turnblad (Corrieanne Stein), an ambitious young ingénue who dreams to dance on the Corny Collins Show, but is conflicted when the villainous producer, Velma Von Tussle (Meghan Wright) disagrees with Tracy's liberal political views. Von Tussle has high aspirations for her daughter Amber (Jackie Kempa), and has no qualms about stepping on (or sleeping with) anyone to climb the ladder of success. The young and charismatic Link Larkin (Wyatt Oring) dances on the Corny Collins Show, and aspires to land a recording contract, but has to choose between his girlfriend Amber, his romantic interest Tracy, and his dreams. Meanwhile, mother, DJ, and record store owner Motormouth Maybelle (Aaliyah Dixon) fight to integrate the Corny Collins Show, despite a wide majority of people telling her she could never succeed.

Stein, who had previously performed in the Broadway production of Billy Elliot, used her astounding voice and sharp comedic timing to bring Tracy Turnblad to life. Tracy's sidekick, Penny, was brilliantly played by Julia Franzeres, who brought an adorkable and bubbly energy to the stage. Kempa's lively portrayal of Amber lived the stereotype of an entitled rich girl, with every giggle to sassy inflection in her voice. Dixon rocked the house with her heart-breakingly powerful rendition of "I Know Where I've Been," a power ballad about the struggles of racism. Oring danced and sang with a classic Elvis-like swagger, smoothly moving his hips through television shows, pageants, and even a jail stint.

The lighting design brought together hues of pink, blue, and yellow, and utilized spinning gobos and spotlights to light the lengthy stage. The soundboard made odd, non-human noises with some ringing and buzzing, but the actors' beautiful voices still came through. The production also handled the several locations with numerous moving set pieces that rolled on and off stage, bring 1960s Baltimore to life.

From waking up in Baltimore to dancing on television in the Ms. Ultra-Clutch Hairspray Beauty Pageant, Thomas S. Wootton High School's production of Hairspray had high energy that both reminded us of where we've been, where we're going, and most of all the we can't stop the beat.

Chris Doan
Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
Submitted for publication to Patch.com - ARL/MC/Mont/DC

Bursting with rollicking tunes, extraordinary hair, and copious amounts of hairspray, Thomas S. Wootton High School's musical extravaganza Hairspray featured forbidden love, supercilious producers, and incredible vocalists.

Originally a movie by John Waters, Hairspray was adapted into a musical by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. Set in segregation-era Baltimore, Hairspray revolves around the misadventures of Tracy Turnblatt, an ordinary, though slightly hefty, girl. Her dream of appearing on the Corny Collins Show comes true as she interacts with the eclectic group of councilmembers. Lively and exuberant, Tracy's exploits attract the attention of Link Larkin, the ire of venomous producer Velma Von Tussle, and the support of the local radio station host Motormouth Maybelle as she attempts to integrate the Corny Collins Show.

With the vivacity of the cast and their vocal determination, they were able to overcome the sound issues throughout the show. Combined with the efficient use of lighting technology, the cast was able to focus on the enthusiasm and musical chops that allowed the show to shine.

As Tracy, Corrieanne Stein was a puffball of vibrant energy. Her stage presence was almost as large as her hair—an impressive feat. Impressive characterization showed as she courted Link Larkin (Wyatt Oring) in "I Can Hear the Bells," as she expressed her evident infatuation with Oring. In his own right, Oring was an impressive performer, portraying Link Larkin as an Elvis-style rock star. Although Larkin may have been reluctant to join Tracy in her fight against segregation, Oring had no such reservation in heading the show, being an actor who dominated the stage. With impressive dance numbers with Seaweed (Myles Frost), Oring showed his commitment to Hairspray. In addition, the chemistry between Oring and Stein was evident in "Without Love."

As Tracy's plucky sidekick, Penny Pingleton (Julia Fanzeres) showed her naïve side as she ventured to novel and exhilarating territory outside of her house. Although controlled by her strict mother, Fanzeres showed a constant state of wonder and excitement as she took the stage, eventually falling in love with Seaweed and becoming a beauty in her own right.

Of course, what is a musical without robust supporting leads—in Wootton's production, a singularly impressive anchor was Motormouth Maybelle (Aaliyah Dixon), whose powerful voice and stage presence invigorated the cast. Her commanding voice in "I Know Where I've Been" culminated in a note that had the audience on their feet. In addition, the supercilious vixen Velma Von Tussle (Meghan Wright) and domineering Matron (Lily Mayne) had impressive physicality in their songs "Miss Baltimore Crabs" and "The Big Doll House," respectively.

Although Hairspray deals with volatile topics such as racism and segregation, Thomas S. Wootton's approach took the stage by storm. With ardor and humor palpable in every moment of their performance, the spirit of the cast was perhaps even larger than the hairstyles of the 1960s.

Zoe Le Menestrel
McLean High School
Submitted for publication to Maryland Theatre Guide

Superficiality and ignorance abound in Baltimore, Maryland circa 1960, but lion-hearted Tracy Turblad, whose sense of social justice surpasses the height of her heavily lacquered hair, is prepared to turn the tide. Diving straight through the taunts about her large physique, she uses her prowess and courage to break the cycle of racially-charged hatred that had been spinning on American soil since Coulumbus landed. Thomas S. Wootton High School delivered their charming take on the hit musical Hairspray through an aerosol cloud of incredible vocal talent, captivating characters and an overall delightful evening.

Originally a 1988 John Waters film, Hairspray was brought to the stage in 2002 where it went on to receive eight Tony Awards and culminate in more than 2,500 performances. With music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman and book by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan, Hairspray centers around Tracy's dreams of appearing on the popular TV dance program, The Corny Collins Show. She wins the role despite the protests of the venomous Amber Von Tussle and in doing so wins the affections of teen heart throb, Link Larkin. Using her new-found celebrity status, she starts a campaign to integrate the show which illustrates the musical's most important message: acceptance.

Filling the auditorium with her unabashed vocals, Corrieanne Stein (Tracy) led the show with aplomb. From her optimistic "Good Morning Baltimore" to her lovesick "I Can Hear the Bells," Stein portrayed the unstoppable ambitions of a girl who knows what she wants admirably. Grooving his way into Tracy's life, Wyatt Oring in the role of Link Larkin embodied Elvis Presley with his suave physicality, crooning ballads and fantastic dance moves. Together Oring and Stein created credible chemistry which made for many moving moments.

As Tracy's loyal best friend, Penny Pingleton, Julia Fanzeres was utterly dedicated to her character's adorable dorkiness with hilarious results. Her perfect comic timing combined with her superb, tuneful voice made her a crowd favorite. Together with Seaweed (Myles Frost), their hormonally charged interactions proved that true love has no boundaries. As the antagonist of the production, Amber Von Tussle (Jackie Kempa) was enchantingly evil. Through her snide remarks and impressive dance moves she was an entertaining facet of the evening. As Tracy's loving parents, Edna Turblad (Jeffery Morse) and Wilbur Turblad made for lots of hilarity due to Morse's ability to aptly morph into the opposite sex. Their enjoyable duet, "You're Timeless to Me," provided insight into a happily married couple's life. Finally, in a performance that defies the capacity of the English language; vocal powerhouse Aaliyah Dixon in the role of Motormouth Maybelle was breathtaking. Her voice soared to phenomenal heights in the tearjerker, "I Know Where I've Been" drawing the audience to roaring applause.

Wootton's vibrant lights and moving orchestra lifted the production even higher. The candy-colored gobos and dancing follow spots utilized evoked the poppy, animated feel of the ‘60s entertainment industry. The dulcet tones of the Wootton High School Pit Orchestra made up for performers who occasionally dragged in pace with their explosive energy and enthusiasm.

Hairspray is a show for the masses but Thomas S. Wootton High School succeeded in touching the audience on a personal level with their inspiring performance.

Zoe Hawryluk
Westfield High School
Submitted for publication to Montgomery Gazette

Its 1962, a time when hemlines are shorter, racial tensions are high, and teenagers have more freedom of expression through music, style, and television. However, when one pleasantly plump and spunky teenage girl gets to join her favorite TV show, it is revealed that she wants television to be racially integrated. A sore subject for many, controversy ensues in Thomas S. Wootton High School's production of Hairspray.

One of America's most popular modern musicals, Hairspray follows teen Tracy Turnblad as she overcomes her weight stereotype to be on The Corny Collins Show, and teams up with her family and friends against belligerent producers to have the show integrated and "make every day Negro Day." Opening in 2002, Hairspray won eight Tony Awards and ran for over 2,500 performances before it closed in 2009. The show has had many national tours, as well as a West End production, and was made into a movie in 2007.

Corrianne Stein played fun-loving and determined Tracy Turnblad with such a playful and passionate ease that it was no surprise that she had performed on Broadway. Her professional quality voice was on point throughout her performance, and her get-up-and-go attitude was infectious for everyone who watched. Working extremely well alongside Stein was Wyatt Oring, who played heartthrob and love interest Link Larkin with a charming Elvis-esque twist that was such an electrifying change to the way the character is normally played.

The large ensemble conquered the difficult task of being extremely cohesive as a whole, but also of being individuals who could stand out in a crowd. Some standouts were that of Julia Fanzeres' quirky and "adorkable" portrayal of best friend Penny Pingleton, and the incredible presence and dance ability of Jackie Kempa as antagonist Amber Von Tussle.

Large group numbers like the iconic opening "Good Morning Baltimore" set the stakes high for the rest of the show, but the cast maintained high levels of energy throughout the performance. The soulful and impeccable vocals of Aaliyah Dixon's Motormouth Maybelle were tremendously apparent in the heart-wrenching ballad of "I Know Where I've Been," a song about overcoming prejudice and keeping your head held high.

The vibrant costumes and exaggerated hair and makeup were complimented by Robbie Adkins' thoughtful lighting plots. Despite some sound problems, the actors prevailed through strong and audible vocals and bold character choices that grabbed the audience's attention.

Hairspray is a cheery and upbeat version of the realistic horrors of the fight against racial inequality, complete with a happy ending. However, as cultural and social discrimination still exists in humanity, the students at Thomas S. Wootton High School proved that the musical Hairspray is incredibly timeless and relevant still today.

Zac Nachbar-Seckel
Woodrow Wilson High School
Submitted for publication to Common Sense

Lights rise on the Thomas S. Wootton stage, and the audience is immediately bedazzled with flashing dance, loud costumes, and the irresistible swagger of the 1960s – all symbolized by the era's obsession of big do's and hairspray. Known as a "downtown" rhythm and blues style musical, Hairspray won eight Tony Awards after its 2002 Broadway debut, and features a score by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman. The story is set in 1962 Baltimore, where a chubby teenager, Tracy Turnblad, tries to integrate The Corny Collins Show – a TV dance program based on Baltimore's real-life Buddy Deane Show. With the help of her boyfriend Link Larkin, and her friends Seaweed and Penny Pingleton, she campaigns against villains Amber and Velma Von Tussle to fight the racial injustices of American society.

Having performed in the original Broadway cast of Billy Elliot, Corrieanne Stein is no stranger to the stage, and she demonstrated no less talent in her flawless rendition of Tracy Turnblad. With crystal-clear vocals, Stein left the audience in awe as every angelic note she sang complemented the dips and swells of the musical score. Also dominating the stage was Wyatt Oring, who played Tracy's love interest, Link Larkin. His Elvis-like charisma – from his sashaying walk to his classic hair sweep to his flashy camera smile – produced an egotistic but charming character. Particularly spectacular numbers included "Without Love," where Stein's and Oring's voices blended congenially and in which characters Seaweed and Penny Pingleton also shined. Seaweed, played by Myles Frost, was the cool cat with his casual charm and slick dance moves, while Penny, played by Julia Franzeres, counteracted Frost's nonchalant attitude as the rebellious geeky-lover.

Also key to the performance were Tracy's parents, afraid but enthusiastic about their child's revolutionary spirit. Edna Turnblad, played by Jeffrey Morse, took risks, not only as a cross-dresser, but also through his gaudy free-spirit and suggestive movements. Her husband, Wilbur Turnblad (played by Alex Millstone), also drew attention as Tracy's calm and loving father. Together, Morse and Millstone shined in "You're Timeless to Me," in which clever one-liners left the audience chuckling. One outstanding presentation was given by Aaliyah Dixon in the song, "I Know Where I've Been," in which her character, Motormouth Maybelle, preached about racial inequality amidst a swirling meld of harmonies. Finally, Amber and Velma Von Tussle, played by Jackie Kempa and Meghan Wright, were stupendous as the racist and haughty stars of The Corny Collins Show.

Technically, the show was overall pleasing. The lighting was bold and the sound remained at a comfortable volume.H owever, the orchestra was simply breathtaking: not one false note could be heard during the entire show. Brightly-colored buildings made for some trendy sets, and the stage crew completed quiet and effective set changes. Flamboyant sets, imaginative actors, and impeccable musicians said "Welcome to the 60s" with pizazz!