Hairspray

This bright, brassy whirlwind of a show is something of a breath of fresh air amongst modern musicals. A tuneful, funny, popular show which has something to say and which isn't afraid of tackling meaty issues: this is a musical with a message. With the swinging 60s as the backdrop, the story follows teenager-on-a-mission Tracy Turnblad in her quest for integration and equality.
The whole ensemble on stage had obviously worked so very hard to create something special that it almost seems invidious to single out individual performers; nevertheless, it would be an even bigger crime not to give credit where it is due, so here goes! Leading the cast as Tracy Turnblad was Sarah Partridge who sailed majestically through the show carrying all before her. Here was a leading lady with a super voice, lots of confidence and who really looked at home on the stage: incredibly impressive throughout the show, leading, guiding and pushing the show forward at a great pace.
Parents Wilbur and Edna were played by Christopher Brooke and Jack Edwards respectively; Christopher really won over the audience's heart with his lovable performance and Jack really threw himself into the cross-dressing role of Edna Turnblad with enthusiasm. Their duet 'You're Timeless to Me' was one of the highlights of the show for me. The terrible Von Tussles - representing all that is pompous and self-righteous in Baltimore were brilliantly played by Jacqueline Willis (Velma) and Olivia Collins (Amber) making a terrifying mother-daughter combination. Again, great vocal work and thoughtful characterisation here, along with some killer outfits which were pinpoint accurate too.
Local heart-throb Link Larson was essayed with boyish charm by James Bradbury, revelling in his dance moves with Aaron Brett making an impressive Corny Collins, host of Baltimore's leading teen music show. Kayleigh Pendry as Penny Pingleton was a great addition to the ensemble - as was her frumpy mum Prudy played by Nikki Taylor - and without exception, all of the rest of the smaller roles were carried off with great style.
Andrew Woodford and his able band were on top form, the sound made was excellent! The balancing of the sound did require much more attention though as it was difficult for us to catch all of the dialogue, particularly during underscoring of which there was plenty and quite a number of solo vocal sections were drowned!
Director and Choreographer, Scott St Martyn, assisted by Sarah Pilbeam, Jacqueline Willis and Olivia Collins produced a highly commendable production for the society. The energy and spark was prominent, the entire cast were having a blast - it was difficult to avoid being swept up in the excitement of the performance.
Well done and thank you to everyone involved.
 

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