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Rating:  4 out of Fordyce

We knew going in that this was going to be a good show. The cream of Lansing’s acting crop signed on to perform the hit musical Hairspray! Writing this review is more a tribute than an assessment because as it stands now you won’t get a ticket. It is sold out, but there may be hope, so read on.

You probably know the story of Tracy Turnblad, the chubby girl from Baltimore who in 1962 changes society’s views on dance during the era of the Civil Rights Movement. This ensemble cast is just plain great. The opening night audience was clapping, toe tapping, and singing along with these high energy performers.

They were all good, but some stood out. Tigi Habtemariam blew us away as Motormouth Maybelle, and I was very impressed with Prince Jerrell Spann as her on-stage son, Seaweed. Ari Helgesen was a delight as Tracy, and Ben English once again showed his amazing talent as Link. Keith Gracia Wing was excellent as Tracy’s dad. He is quite a bit younger than the part he played and at first I did not recognize him. He was also the chubby-loving husband of the man who stole the show. Tony Sump was Edna Turnblad, and he was just amazing in this role that had been a gender bender since it was originated by the late great Glenn Milstead on film many years ago. Milstead’s character “Divine” set the standard that actors like Harvey Fierstein and John Travolta used as a model, and now Tony is in that elite crowd of men who bring this wonderful woman to life.

Add in great direction by Chad DeKatch, cool choreography by Karyn Perry, fantastic lighting, and the great on stage bad under the direction of John Dale Smith and you have a show that gets a perfect 4 out of Fordyce and then some. One thing though: there were a few microphone problems, but they should have those fixed for the rest of the run.

As I said earlier, this show is sold out. RWT guru Mike Siracuse says there is a waiting list if there are cancellations, but you must be at the theatre to get in if there are no-shows. This musical cannot be extended, but there is a rumor of an added performance. Mike promised me he would let me know if that happens and I will send out a message to the MIentertainment Insiders. If you are not an Insider, sign up now at www.MIentertainment.biz. Subscribing is easy, and we keep your email confidential. We also pick winners from the list, so you could get show tickets of other great prizes when you join.