Photo Coverage: Bruce Vilanch Exits 'Hairspray'

By: Sep. 04, 2005
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Bruce Vilanch, who starred as Edna Turnblad in "Hairspray" on October 5th, 2004 played his last performance in the tuner on September 4th. Vilanch took over the role from Michael McKean, after touring with the show around the country. BroadwayWorld was there as Bruce took his final bows amongst several of the show's creators including Jack O'Brien, Mark O'Donnell, Marc Shaiman, Scott Wittman and Margo Lion. Marc and Scott continued their "Krispy Kreme" tradition by supplying 2,000 donuts for cast and audience members in attendance. What a sweet exit!

Stepping into the role of Edna next is John Pinette with Stephen DeRosa joining the company as Wilbur. Both Pinette and DeRosa recently left the National tour.

Hairspray takes audiences to 1962 Baltimore, where 16-year old Tracy Turnbald, a big girl with a big heart and even bigger hair has only one passion, to dance. After winning a spot on the local TV dance program she becomes an irrepressible teen celebrity, but can a plus-size trendsetter vanquish the program's reigning princess, win the heart of the boy she loves and integrate a television show without denting her 'do? Only in Hairspray!

Based on the New Line Cinema film written and directed by John Waters, the original two-hour and forty-minute production will be modified to run ninety minutes, without an intermission at Luxor Las Vegas. In addition to its eight Tony Awards, which include Best Book, Best Score and Best Director, among others, the musical won a Grammy for Best Musical Show Album and five Outer Critics Circle Awards.

For more information on Hairspray, visit www.hairspraythemusical.com 


Darlene Love, Todd Susman, Bruce Vilanch, Shannon During,
Richard H. Blake and Tracy Miller at curtain call.


A company bow


Bruce, with roses, takes his bow



Bruce kicks it up for "You Can't Stop The Beat"


Todd Susman (Wilbur) also played his last performance.


On hand for the traditional "Krispy Kreme" send-off were Tony
Award-winners Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.


Scott explains that there are 2,000 donuts waiting outside
for all the theatergoers!


Marc and Scott give a sweet speech to the departing cast members


Bruce says some parting words. Next up for Vilanch?
Celebrity Fit Club on VH1!


Marc and Scott show their appreciation for Liz Larsen



Jack O'Brien (director), Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman (music and lyrics)
congratulate Bruce on a fantastic run

 
Margo Lion (Producer), Mark O'Donnell (Book) and Bruce


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