Micky Dolenz, Paul Vogt to head cast in Baltimore Symphony's concert version of 'Hairspray'
Back in February, when the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra announced its 2012-2013 season, one event stood out as a guaranteed box office hit -- a concert version of "Hairspray" to mark the 25th anniversary of the John Waters film that inspired that Broadway musical. The project, with Waters providing the narration, is bound to generate even more interest now that the BSO has added casting details.
"Hairspray: In Concert" will feature a blast from the past as Wilbur Turnblad -- Micky Dolenz of "The Monkees," the made-for-TV band that became a 1960s sensation. (He'll be reuniting with the remaining members for a tour this November; Davy Jones died last February.)
The drag role of Wilbur's wife Edna will be played by actor and comedian Paul Vogt, who has performed it on Broadway. His many television credits include appearances on "MADtv," "The Rerun Show," "Grey’s Anatomy," and "Glee."
The Turnblad's zaftig, racially colorblind daughter, Tracy, whose desire to dance on a TV show sets "Hairspray" in motion, will be played by Marissa Perry. It's a role she has done on Broadway; she's currently in the New York production of "Sister Act."
Tony Award winner (for "The Drowsy Chaperone") Beth Leavel will play Velma Von Tussle, the evil TV producer who stands in Tracy's way.
Others in the cast: ...
Although billed as a concert version, this "Hairspray" will hardly be immobile. There will be staging and choreography by Jennifer Ladner, costuming by Clare Henkel.
BSO principal pops conductor Jack Everly will lead the first performances with the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra, Jan. 11-13 (he's also principal pops conductor of that ensemble).
The BSO performances will begin Jan. 24 at the Music Center at Strathmore, then move to Meyerhoff Symphony Hall for four performances, Jan. 25-27, including a just-added matinee on Jan. 26.
"All of the stars are aligned," Everly said in statement released Thursday. "We have the original filmmaker John Waters; a superior cast of actors, singers and Broadway stars, many of whom have performed in previous 'Hairspray' productions; the epitome of 1960s pop culture with musician Micky Dolenz; and two major orchestras collaborating in this significant full symphonic production."
SUN FILE PHOTO
Categories: BSO, Clef Notes, Drama Queens
