The Australian production of Hairspray has introduced new technology never before seen on an Australian stage.
Instead of using sets, the Aussie Hairspray is performed completely in front of giant LED screens giving the cast the ability to merge their performance with the animation and give the audience a theatre experience never-before seen.
The amazing visual watching the new Hairspray is how the cast perform with the technology and use it to take this production to a whole new level of entertainment for the Australian stage.
Visually, the Australian production of Hairspray is now the most advanced of any of the productions around the world. The producers were given license to reinvent this show for Australia.
The tasks were given to the best. David Atkins was recruited as director, Jason Coleman as choreographer, Eamon Darcy is in charge of designs and Max Lambert was brought on as musical supervisor.
In casting, the producers kept the stars low-key, choosing to go for newer talent than established names. Only American Tevin Campbell (Seaweed), who starred in the Broadway production of the show, is an international name. So You Think You Can Dance winner Jack Chambers plays Link Larkin, Jaz Flowers, recently of Fame fame is Tracy Turnblad and the amazing Trevor Ashley plays the role of his life as her mother Edna.
The story is a statement on society, set in the 60s and dealing with the morals and discrimination that exists to this day, but the seriousness is balanced with the colourful visual and upbeat music.
Hairspray is for every age group. It is impossible not to like it.
The Australian production is now on at the Princes Theatre in Melbourne until at least November 2010.
Undercover at the Hairspray rehearsals:
Undercover interview with Jack Chambers:
