Hairspray
at West Boca High Drama Department

Reviewed on March 14, 2019

Charlotte Bacharach
Cardinal Gibbons High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

You gotta think big to be big! This is no debate at West Boca Raton Community High School, where the scintillating Sixties are vivified by the nicest kids in town through their invigorating production of "Hairspray."

"Hairspray" made its Broadway premiere in 2002 — with lyrics by Scott Wittman, music by Marc Shaiman, and book by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan — based upon a 1998 film of the same title. Winning eight Tony Awards including Best Musical, "Hairspray" has expanded its influence across national tours, movie/live adaptations, and overseas recreations. Following the ambitions of heavy-set teen Tracy Turnblad, audiences are immersed in her journey to television fame via the popular dance program, The Corny Collins Show. With this comes Tracy's impassioned social activism in hopes of integrating her beloved television show.

Leading lady Tracy Turnblad was portrayed by Samara Shavrik, encapsulating the difficult role with insurmountable zeal. Remaining in character throughout every scene, Shavrik complemented this with impressive vocals — belting to the high-Hairspray-heavens! — in songs such as "Good Morning Baltimore." Correspondingly, her skillful dance moves were infused with lovable, idiosyncratic effervescence, reflecting her quixotic nature. Wielding motherly acuity and 54-triple E's, Alec Schwartz as Edna Turnblad crafted a genuine and well-developed relationship with Tracy as they bounced off each other's snark with hilarious banter. Schwartz's chemistry with husband Wilbur similarly exuberated endless comedy despite Tracy's difficulties in addition to their own, apparent in laugh-out-loud pieces like "Timeless to Me."

Spurring Tracy's mission of integration was fellow detention-frequenter Seaweed J. Stubbs (Laumaur Lindsay). Enlivening his character with animated expression and precise comedic timing, Lindsay embodied debonair swagger with dynamic presence. Motivated intention was present both in vocal performance and fluent physicality, all of which were entirely "afro-tastic!" to Tracy. Seaweed's mother Motormouth Maybelle was played by Maya Petrie, who inspired a wave of civil rights protest in her evocative solo, "I Know Where I've Been."

The entirety of the cast of "Hairspray" embraced the challenge of ensemble numbers with ebullient confidence. Company-wide belters tackled difficult music with ease and captivated audiences in clean, cohesive dances. At times actors struggled with simultaneously maintaining vocal and physical stamina, though persisted through mishaps with constant energy and aplomb. A standout among the ensemble was Daniel Ortiz as council kid Brad, who executed each dance movement with laser-like precision whilst sustaining vibrant facial expressions throughout.

As West Boca's auditorium was transported to the American Sixties, bursting with vivid pigments and vivacious ambiance, assiduous technical team were at work. Sets were transformed within mere seconds, with each lighting mount and backdrop more stunning than the prior, journeying audiences all the way from WYZT studio to the Turnblad residence with ease. Costuming by Jesalyn Trinkovsky complemented individual actors as well as the show as a whole, fitting to time period styles and coloring.

No matter if you're big, blonde, beautiful, or anything in between, West Boca's praiseworthy rendition of "Hairspray" shows that nobody can stop your beat!

Emma Sugarman
JP Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Twist and shout into a world of high ‘dos and dancing shoes with West Boca High School's electrifying production of "Hairspray." Watch a spunky teen capture the hearts of even Baltimore's most bigoted, one can of Ultra Clutch Hairspray at a time.

With music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman and a book by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan, "Hairspray" tells the story of a plump teen, tormented for her appearance, as she scales her way to stardom when she advocates for equality in her discriminatory society. Based on the 1988 film of the same name, "Hairspray" shares the journey of the overnight sensation, Tracy Turnblad, as she soars to the top of the dance hierarchy while promoting a world of acceptance.

Portraying the ambitious dance enthusiast, Tracy Turnblad, Samara Shavrick captured the vivacity of the era with her unfaltering energy and personality as big as her ‘do. Shavrick incorporated her own flair to the iconic character creating a captivating performance. She showcased great devotion to her character along with powerful vocals and impeccable comedic timing. Embodying Tracy's eccentric parents, Alec Schwartz (Edna Turnblad) and Noah Fineman (Wilbur Turnblad) exhibited hilarious chemistry with the addition of risque antics and consistently animated facials. Schwartz's natural and maternal characterization accompanied by Fineman's cheerful and uplifting nature created an engaging and dynamic relationship.

Brianna Quackenbush portrayed Tracy's awkward sidekick, Penny Pingleton. She maintained her quirky physicality and distinct tone throughout the production. Complimenting Quackenbush's unique character, Laumaur Lindsay (Seaweed J. Stubbs) commanded the stage with his clear vocals and smooth dancing. Quackenbush and Lindsay executed fascinating chemistry from their first encounter, which continued to blossom throughout their performance.

The strong ensemble presented infectious energy and executed the choreography nearly flawlessly. Although there were a few faulty harmonies, the majority were crisp and blended to perfection. The brilliant cast showcased immaculate commitment to their individual characters and unwavering consistency to their unique tones.

The technical aspects of the production created an immersive and vibrant setting, perfectly fitting for the era. The choreography, although occasionally repetitive, stayed true to the iconic moves of the 60s style. The costumes, as well as the hair and make-up fit the time period magnificently. The vivid depictions produced by the colorful set and striking lighting complemented the liveliness of the production.

"With the lastest, greatest Baltimore sound" West Boca High School presents their vivacious production of "Hairspray." Serving as a light in the darkness, the beating heart of this production will have you dancing out of your seat.

Olivia Te Kolste
Cardinal Gibbons High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Featuring flashing lights, shameless shimmying, and hairstyles that touched the sky, West Boca High School's laudable production of Hairspray posed a challenge to the status quo amidst a whirlwind of bright colors, notoriously catchy music, and ample amounts of hair product.

Based on John Waters' 1988 film of the same name, Hairspray took to the stage in 2002 with its book by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan and music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. It quickly ascended to popularity and became the recipient of 8 Tony awards in 2003, including that of Best Musical, in addition to the eleven nominations for Laurence Olivier Awards earned by the London production. In the heart of Baltimore in the 1960s, stout teen Tracy Turnblad dreams of getting the opportunity to dance on The Corny Collins Show—and when her dreams begin becoming a reality, her passion for equality manifests in a campaign for integration as she uses her newfound fame as a catalyst for change.

Portraying the effervescent and optimistic Tracy Turnblad herself was Samara Shavrick, whose powerful vocals and infectious energy lit up the stage as she shimmied her way through the sixties. Her enthusiasm was practically palpable as it manifested alongside her flawless execution of choreography and phenomenal voice, which were showcased in songs such as "Good Morning Baltimore" and "I Can Hear the Bells." Acting alongside her was Alec Schwartz as Edna Turnblad; a standout performer from start to finish, Schwartz immaculately showcased Edna's dual shy and bold personalities in addition to demonstrating immensely impressive singing.

Also memorable were Brianna Quackenbush and Laumaur Lindsay as Seaweed J. Stubbs, respectively; Quackenbush's flawless portrayal of a klutzy but earnest schoolgirl complemented Laumaur's charisma and wit, allowing a beautifully-crafted chemistry to flourish onstage. Overall, though the cast exhibited difficulty with blending in addition to a lack of motivation, their high energy levels and good chemistry ensured the show was highly entertaining.

The technical aspect of the show complemented the performer's efforts nicely. Eye-popping sets and flashing lights framed the entire show, and though there was some difficulty in transferring set pieces, the entire cast and crew overcame the obstacles admirably. Donning a plethora of brightly-colored costumes, the research behind both the location and the time period was evident in the 60's-style outfits worn by the actors. The efforts of the prop team were also commendable; with bright, eye-catching masterpieces such as the scoreboard and hairspray cans, their vigorous efforts were abundantly apparent onstage. In addition, each lighting cue was executed flawlessly, demonstrating the tireless vigilance of the stage management team.

Overall, the cast and crew's efforts came together in a dazzling conglomeration of sound and scenery. With perfectly-timed humor, dazzling dancing, and an abundance of zeal, West Boca High School's production prove that with a little perseverance, dreams can become reality.

Nicole Sugarman
JP Taravella High School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

With a beaming grin, thick skin, and a fight to win, Tracy Turnblad, a plump teenage-dreamer with a passion for dance, lands a spot on a local TV dance program: The Corny Collins Show. Her endless optimism, progressive outlook, and the assistance of the electrifying cast of West Boca High School's "Hairspray," allow her to illuminate the importance of equality and integration. And she does it all without denting her "do"!

Featuring a book by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan, "Hairspray" takes place in 1962 Baltimore, Maryland. The lively music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman punctuate the fun-loving nature of the show and capture the musical's lovable zest. "Hairspray" earned eight Tony Awards in 2003, including one for Best Musical.

Playing the high-spirited and "free as the wind" Tracy Turnblad, Samara Shavrick embodied Tracy's vibrancy through her expressive facials, bold physicality, and glowing confidence. Tracy's eccentric parents, Edna and Wilbur Turnblad, were portrayed by Alec Schwartz and Noah Fineman, respectively. Schwartz and Fineman captured these larger-than-life characters through their impressive comedic timing and befitting physicality. Their chemistry served to produce hilarious, yet endearing, moments, especially in their duet "Timeless to Me."

Playing the charismatic Seaweed J. Stubbs, Lamaur Lindsay executed smooth dance moves and vocals with a sense of ease and coolness. Velma Von Tussle, the snobbish Corny Collins Show producer and former "Miss Baltimore Crabs," was portrayed by Jessica Balton. Balton excellently exhibited ongoing frustration and cockiness as she conquered the stage with chilling vocals and a demanding presence. Playing R&B record producer and mother to Seaweed and Little Inez, Motormouth Maybelle, Maya Petrie displayed deliciously soulful vocals and an inspiring maternal nature, marching the children into a whole new era.

Although the vocals occasionally sounded unblended, the ensemble displayed clean and exuberant dance numbers.The production was elevated by abounding energy from the ensemble. While some of the characters lost authenticity due to a lack of motivation behind their actions and line delivery, the cast displayed expressive facials and remained in the moment without cessation, boosting the production's entertainment factor.

The orchestra energized the production with its quality sound and power. Nearly seamless set changes maintained the pace of the show and the flashy set captured the productions' sparkle. The costumes, makeup, and hair fit the 60s era and accentuated each character's specific personality.

With radiance and energy as high as their hair-dos, the cast of West Boca High School's delightful production of "Hairspray" put on a show brimming with bubbling vivacity. "Hairspray" serves as an excellent reminder to toss away those old fashioned fears and embrace your rich uniqueness.

Dylan Jost
North Broward Preparatory School
Submitted for publication to Florida Theater On Stage

Memorable times are often characterized by the juxtaposition of challenging political movements and dynamic social developments – the 1960s exemplify this phenomenon. In their production of "Hairspray", the cast and crew of West Boca High School skillfully captured the turbulence and excitement of this rapidly modernizing era through a combination of peppy choreography, vibrant sets, and soulful acting.

Based on the 1988 John Waters film, "Hairspray" was brought to the stage in 2002 and 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 a book by Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan, "Hairspray" centers around Tracy Turnblad's dream 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 a teen heartthrob, 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, Samara Shavrick (Tracy) led the show with aplomb and grace. From her optimistic "Good Morning Baltimore" to her lovesick "I Can Hear the Bells", Shavrick portrayed the unstoppable ambitions of a headstrong girl admirably. Grooving his way into Tracy's life, in the role of Link Larkin, Zachary Bouras embodied Elvis Presley with his suave physicality and crooning ballads. Together Shavrick and Bouras created electric chemistry, which made for many moving moments.

A performance that must be mentioned was Alec Schwartz as Edna Turnblad, Tracy's loving and loyal mother. Schwartz's depiction of Edna was boisterous and full of hilarious energy, as his commitment to the challenging role was quite evident. Schwartz gave the show its heart and delivered a nuanced performance through his use of physicality, vocal inflections, and well-timed humor. Vocally, two immensely impressive performances were those of Laumaur Lindsay as Seaweed and Maya Petrie as Motormouth Maybelle. Lindsay consistently delivered a strong vocal performance, with his prowess as a vocalist being quite evident in songs such as "Without Love". Petrie's vocals were nothing short of spectacular. Her show-stopping number, "I Know Where I've Been", served as a poignant reminder to retain hope, even in times of struggle. She conveyed the heartfelt sensitivity of the song through her rich voice and smooth vibrato.

The technical aspects of the production were superb. The costumes were well selected and also fit the time period of the 1960s quite well, which added to the authenticity of the production. The props were also time period appropriate and creative in their execution. The orchestra, comprised of mainly students, was immensely magnificent. The orchestra never overpowered the voices of the actors, which is a difficult feat to accomplish.

With refreshing vigor, West Boca High School presented an entertaining rendition of "Hairspray" that served as both a nostalgic ode to the sixties and an inspiration to fight against inequalities in society, whether it be through dancing, protesting, or a combination of the two.