Who Wrote Hairspray the Musical: The People Behind the Production
Welcome to our guide on the creation of the American musical, Hairspray. In this guide, we will cover the journey of the talented individuals who made this vibrant musical a reality. Let’s Get Started!
Key Takeaways
- Talented Team: Hairspray was created by a team of renowned artists including Marc Shaiman (composer and lyricist), Scott Wittman (lyricist), and writers Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan.
- Award-Winning Musical: The musical has been celebrated with multiple awards, such as the Tony Award for Best Original Score, and has enjoyed successful tours and international productions.
- Inspiring Story: Based on John Waters’ 1988 film, Hairspray is a story of dreams and social change, set in 1962 Baltimore, and continues to inspire audiences with its message of diversity and acceptance.
The Creators of Hairspray
Hairspray is a musical with music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, and the book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan. These talented individuals are known for their significant contributions to the world of theatre.
Marc Shaiman
Marc Shaiman is an American composer and lyricist, born on October 22, 1959, in Newark, New Jersey. He is best known for his collaborations with Scott Wittman, actor Billy Crystal, and director Rob Reiner. Shaiman started his career as a theatre/cabaret musical director and has since received numerous accolades including two Grammy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and a Tony Award. He has also received seven Academy Awards nominations. His film credits include a wide range of popular movies and TV shows.
Scott Wittman
Scott Wittman is an American director, lyricist, composer, and writer. Raised in Nanuet, New York, Wittman graduated from Nanuet Senior High School in 1972 and attended Emerson College in Boston for two years before leaving to pursue a career in musical theatre in New York City. He met songwriter and composer Marc Shaiman while directing a show for a Greenwich Village club, and the two became collaborators and professional partners. Wittman has directed concerts for such artists as Bette Midler, Christine Ebersole, Raquel Welch, Dame Edna Everage, and Lypsinka, among others. In 2002, Shaiman and Wittman wrote the music and lyrics for the musical Hairspray, which won the Drama Desk Award for Outstanding Lyrics, the Tony Award for Best Original Score, and a Grammy Award.
Mark O’Donnell
Mark O’Donnell was an American writer and humourist, best known for his work on the musicals Annie, The Producers, Hairspray, Young Frankenstein, and Cry-Baby. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, he received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Harvard College in 1976. He was a member of The Harvard Lampoon, where he held the position of Ibis. In addition to writing for the parody, he and his twin brother Steve portrayed the Dromio twins, Siamese twins adept at football. He was the writer and librettist for three Hasty Pudding musicals for the Hasty Pudding Theatricals group.
Thomas Meehan
Thomas Meehan was an American playwright, best known for writing the books for the musicals Annie, The Producers, Hairspray, Young Frankenstein, and Cry-Baby. He co-wrote the books for Elf: The Musical and Limelight: The Story of Charlie Chaplin. He received the Tony Award for Best Book of a Musical three times in 1977 for Annie, in 2001 for The Producers (shared with Mel Brooks), and in 2003 for Hairspray (shared with Mark O’Donnell). Meehan was born in Ossining, New York, but grew up in Suffern, New York. He graduated from Hamilton College.
The Inspiration Behind Hairspray
The musical is based on John Waters’ 1988 film of the same name. Set in 1962 Baltimore, Maryland, the story follows the dream of a teenager, Tracy Turnblad, to dance on a local TV dance program. This vibrant story inspired the creators to bring it to life on stage, resulting in a musical that has captivated audiences worldwide.
The Impact of Hairspray
Since its debut in Seattle in 2002, Hairspray has won numerous awards, including eight Tony Awards. It has had national tours, a West End production, and numerous foreign productions. The musical’s success is a testament to the hard work and creativity of its creators.
Final Thoughts
Hairspray is not just a musical. It’s a celebration of diversity and a call for change. The creators of Hairspray have done more than entertain people all over the world. They’ve started important talks about equality and acceptance. Their work shows us how art can help make our world a better place.
FAQs
Who are the creators of Hairspray the musical?
The musical Hairspray was created by Marc Shaiman, Scott Wittman, Mark O’Donnell, and Thomas Meehan.
What is the plot of Hairspray?
Hairspray is set in 1962 Baltimore, Maryland, and follows the dream of a teenager, Tracy Turnblad, to dance on a local TV dance program.
What is the inspiration behind Hairspray?
The musical is based on John Waters’ 1988 film of the same name.
What impact has Hairspray had?
Since its debut in Seattle in 2002, Hairspray has won numerous awards, including eight Tony Awards. It has had national tours, a West End production, and numerous foreign productions.
What is the message of Hairspray?
Hairspray is a celebration of diversity and a call for social change. It sparks important conversations about equality and acceptance.
Who are the main characters in Hairspray?
The main characters in Hairspray include Tracy Turnblad, her mother Edna, her father Wilbur, and the show’s current star, Amber Von Tussle.
What are some well-known songs from Hairspray?
Some of the most popular songs from Hairspray include “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat”.
When and where can I see Hairspray?
Hairspray has had numerous productions worldwide. It’s best to check local listings for current and upcoming shows.
What awards has Hairspray won?
Hairspray has won numerous awards, including eight Tony Awards.
