Review: HAIRSPRAY is An Anthem to Optimism and Change
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - Jun 5, 2026
From the joyful opening number, “Good Morning, Baltimore,” to the to the rousing vibrancy of the finale, “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” Maine State Music Theatre’s revival of HAIRSPRAY, a co-production with Lancaster, Pennsylvania‘s Fulton Theatre, which opens the 2026 season, offers the audience pure optimism and joy. Despite - or perhaps because of - the more serious underlying themes that the musical tackles such as racism, segregation, body positivity, and inclusion - HAIRSPRAY remains the perfect theatrical evening where entertainment and inspiration combine.
This new production, directed and choreographed by Kenny Ingram with a superbly talented cast that features an extraordinary blend of Broadway, MSMT veteran, and young professional talent invites audiences to marvel at the company’s artistic range and to revel in an exquisitely delightful evening’s entertainment.
Interview: Eden Franco Talks HAIRSPRAY at Maine Street Music Theatre
by Carla Maria Verdino-Süllwold - May 19, 2026
When HAIRSPRAY begins its run at Maine State Music Theatre on June 3, the new revival, created as a co-production with Lancaster’s Fulton Theatre, will be an evening of professional firsts for its young star, Eden Franco, who plays the demanding role of the musical’s protagonist, Tracy Turnblad. For Franco, who was graduated from college only two years ago, this production marks her first professional contract, her first experience in regional theatre, her debut in Maine, and her role debut in the Marc Shaiman-Scott Wittman musical.
Video: Trailer for HAIRSPRAY at Maine State Music Theatre
by Joshua Wright - May 13, 2026
Maine State Music Theatre has released the trailer for HAIRSPRAY, the beloved Tony Award-winning musical running June 3 through 20, 2026 at Pickard Theatre at Bowdoin College, in a co-production with the Fulton Theatre.
Video: Watch a Sneak Peek of HAIRSPRAY at Fulton Theatre
by Michael Major - Apr 15, 2026
Watch a first look video of Hairspray at Fulton Theatre. Leading the cast as the irrepressible Tracy Turnblad is Eden Franco, joined by Robert Anthony Jones as her mother, Edna Turnblad, and Joel Newsome as her father, Wilbur Turnblad.
Review: HAIRSPRAY at Fulton Theatre
by Rich Mehrenberg - Apr 13, 2026
You can’t stop the beat at the Fulton Theatre! Their current production of Hairspray is bringing fun, energy, and lots of laughs to downtown Lancaster. Fulton’s colorful revival of this iconic musical appeals to generations from the 60s to 2026 with its talented performers, infectious spirit, and inspiring message.
Tisch New Theatre's CABARET sells out in 12 Days
by Chloe Rabinowitz - Apr 13, 2023
At The West End Theatre April 28-May 7th, Tisch New Theatre will present Cabaret: When the thrill of escapism dissolves, what remnants of hope and opportunity remain?
BWW Blog: NINE at NYU Steinhardt
by Student Blogger: Bea Mienik - Sep 19, 2022
In this musical adaptation of Fellini's 8 1/2, NINE features one man and the dozens of women in his life.