Entertainment

Heart, Humor, Harmony and a Whole Lot of Hair

Published

4 months ago

April 19, 2026

Sebastian James, Photos by Larry Marano

Hairspray at Broward Center Review Highlights Bold Choreography, Standout Cast Performances and a Story That Still Resonates.

April 17th, 2026

Seeing Hairspray live presented by Slow Burn Theatre Company, is genuinely thrilling, and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts stage became a lively celebration of identity, resilience and rhythm. As soon as the curtain rose, the audience was transported to 1960s Baltimore, a place full of color, energy, and nonstop music. The cast’s distinguished performances made the production feel fresh and vibrant, earning cheers before the first song even ended. Jennifer Massey, playing Tracy Turnblad, immediately captured the crowd with her lively presence and heartfelt vocals. Eric Swanson’s portrayal of Edna Turnblad brought both humor and tenderness, while Todra Brunson, as Motormouth Maybelle, delivered stirring vocals and emotional power. Together, these actors, along with a talented supporting cast, elevated the familiar story and kept every moment on stage engaging.

Jennifer Massey & Eric Swanson & Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano

Tracy Turnblad stood at the core of the show, and her hopefulness and determination shone in every scene. Watching her journey from outsider to changemaker felt even more impactful in person, as each moment unfolded right before the audience’s eyes. Songs like “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat” were far more than performances. They felt alive, with lively dancing that matched the crowd’s excitement. The entire cast radiated energy, and at times, it seemed as though everyone in the theater was clapping along together.

What truly stood out was how the show honored its central themes, making Hairspray more than just a fun musical. The story of integration, at the heart of the plot, was handled with honesty, blending joyful and serious moments without feeling forced. Performers like Todra Brunson as Motormouth Maybelle delivered powerful, emotional performances that reminded audiences there is a deeper story of fairness and bravery beneath the fun and big hairstyles. Even the lighthearted scenes carried purpose, giving the laughter meaning.

Todora Brunson & Co. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano

When the show ended, the audience rose to its feet immediately, not just to applaud but to show genuine appreciation for the experience. It felt like more than a night at the theater. It became something shared, bringing everyone together through music, storytelling, and a message that still resonates. As people left the Broward Center, they continued talking, humming songs, and smiling. This version of Hairspray did more than revive a beloved show. It reminded everyone why its message continues to matter.

Gail Bennett. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Jennifer Massey & Co. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Jennifer Massey & Co. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Jennifer Massey & Eric Swanson & Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Jennifer Massey & Scott Silagy. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Jennifer Massey, Scott Silagy & Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Jennifer Massey, Scott Silagy & Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Jessica Balton & Eric Swanson & Matthew Korinko. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Matthew Korinko, Todra Brunsion, Eric Swanson & co. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Jennifer Massey. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Todora Brunson & Co. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Logan Green & Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Naomi Braff & Lillie Eliza Thomas & Mikayla Quaeeley. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Jennifer Massey & Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Gail Bennett & Maryann Traxler & Eric Swanson & Jennifer Massey & Colleen Pagano & Jessica Balton - Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Scott Silagy & Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Eric Swanson & Jennifer Massey. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Eric Swanson & Matthew Korinko. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano
Gail Bennett & Chris Stevens & Company. Photo Credit: Slow Burn Theatre Co. (SBTC) production of Hairspray. Photography by Larry Marano