Review: Hairspray, Whangarei Theatre Company

What a big mamma of a show to pull off. There's big mamma Edna Turnblad superbly played by Tane Davis, and big mamma Motormouth Maybelle played soulfully by Ringi Smith.

These mammas can belt it out and strut their stuff. Their voices are large and powerful, their comedic timing perfect and the diction clear.

Monica Booth, playing the lead role of Tracey Turnblad, was consistently bright, bubbly and full of bounce yet determined and feisty - a role she has successfully pulled off.

Hairspray is a huge show with an active cast of 42, plus a dozen people in the orchestra and all the background, backstage, and production team of about 20 people.

The final outcome shows the commitment of the whole team, their different roles dovetailing into a colourful and fun musical.

So many people stand out, some exceptional, but the highlights include Debbie Graham and Ellie Goldsmith as the villainous mother and daughter; Paul Dickens as the TV personality, Corny Collins; Naomi White as Tracey's friend, Penny Pingleton, is energetically a gawky and awkward teenager; Campbell Norman gives a confident performance as Link, the teenage idol and love-foil to Amber and Tracey.

The great dancing choreographed by Grant Smith and Rachel Diamond is well performed.

The show offers a few unexpected surprises, like the strong, rich voice of Asti Smith despite her small role. Taimana Ngakuru-Smith and Jonathan Santos do well in their roles as the cheeky Inez and Mr Pinky with his keen eye on commercial success. Bill Finn, as Tracey's father, is delightful, and Jay Brown as Seaweed, perfectly captures the moody, resentful, yet socially-conscious teenager.

The set is colourful, creative and effective, the 60s music excellent, and the whole show comes together to truly entertain.

Hairspray
Whangarei Theatre Company
Riverbank Centre
June 19-July 4