BWW Q&A: Trevor Wayne Stars as Link Larkin in HAIRSPRAY at Maine State Music Theatre
The Tony Award-winning musical kicks off MSMT's 2026 Mainstage season, running June 3–20.
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Trevor Wayne Stars as Link Larkin in HAIRSPRAY at Maine State Music Theatre
The Tony Award-winning musical kicks off MSMT's 2026 Mainstage season, running June 3–20
Maine State Music Theatre launches its 2026 Mainstage season with HAIRSPRAY, running June 3 through June 20, 2026 at the Pickard Theater on the campus of Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine. Produced in partnership with the Fulton Theatre of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, the production is directed and choreographed by Kenny Ingram, with music direction by David Fiorello. Set in 1962 Baltimore, the Tony Award-winning musical follows Tracy Turnblad, a teenager with big dreams and even bigger hair who lands a spot on The Corny Collins Show and uses her newfound platform to challenge segregation. Featuring a score that includes "Good Morning Baltimore," "I Can Hear the Bells," and "You Can't Stop the Beat," the show is a celebration of self-love and social change.
BroadwayWorld spoke with Trevor Wayne, who stars as Link Larkin in his MSMT debut. Wayne was recently part of the Broadway company of The Outsiders, of which he is a proud original cast member.
You've recently been part of The Outsiders on Broadway, which also explores youth culture in the 1960s — but in a very different way. How do you see Hairspray and The Outsiders speaking to that era differently?
I think if you're someone who's seen both shows, they kind of speak for themselves. But obviously, The Outsiders shows a grittier, more real-world viewpoint from the youth of the 60s. I mean, it was literally written by SE Hinton because she was pissed at the world. I feel that The Outsiders made a point of showing that young people lacked control over most things. But a few things they did have control over could really mean the world to someone. Like whom you chose to love and support to the end. While Hairspray shows how much potential influence the youth truly has to make big changes. Both prove true to a certain degree even today.
What stands out to you about how Hairspray portrays young people and their role in social change?
I feel like Hairspray makes the plain truth that youth is an unwavering, unstoppable force for the future. Regardless of whether their choices or beliefs are good or bad, what they have to say to a degree almost matters the most. And in Hairspray's case, I would agree that their choices towards the end of the show are obviously correct, especially when it comes to the theme of racism and the ostracization of people who don't fit the mold. People are people, baby! Love others!
Hairspray is known for its energy and message — what do you think makes it resonate so strongly with audiences today?
Hairspray is definitely known for its energy and message. But there are plenty of other shows and pieces of art that give the same message with similar energy. Hairspray is not only known for that, but it's absolutely goated music and incredible/hilarious writing. All of which is told in a one-of-a-kind, extremely digestible form, package, and message.
Why do you think this show continues to feel so relevant?
Any story about an underdog or an outsider that's told well is always gonna hit home with people. We're people. Everyone in their life has felt like Tracy, or Lil Inez, or Seaweed, or even Link!
You've built a pretty passionate fan base — what does that support mean to you?
My fans are the coolest, dopest, most valid homies in the world. I'll never "need" any fans...I'd even do theater for free if that was the only option. But knowing there are people out there who like what I do enough to show up and show out is a blessing beyond belief for real… A little shocking even.
Do you feel that energy from fans when you're performing live?
My fans are not only cool and dope but also loud. So heck, yes, and I promise to continue hyping them up just like they be doin' with your boy.
What do you hope your fans take away from seeing you in Hairspray?
I pray they see a groundedness in my Link that I've been working really hard to manifest. I genuinely want them to feel that Link can absolutely be a real person that they might even know in real life. Though he can definitely be a goof when he's in love.
Why should audiences come see Hairspray this summer?
I feel like Hairspray is the perfect summer show. And this cast, crew, and creative team have been grinding nonstop to make it worth watching. Plus, I'm in it! Come on y'all, come vibe with me!!
What are you most excited for audiences to experience?
Excited for them to hear these cast members' voices. I promise y'all aren't ready. Cause I definitely wasn't, and that's after I listened to Alexander Grayson sing every day.
If you could describe this production in three words, what would they be?
Made with love.
Hairspray runs June 3–20, 2026, at the Pickard Theater, Bowdoin College, Brunswick, Maine. Tickets and subscriptions are on sale now at msmt.org or by calling 207-725-8769.
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