Our wonderful Seminole Theatre began the first of several performances of “Hairspray”, last night. The final performance will be Sat, Aug 12th.  They do not usually have more than about two showings of any performance. (http://seminoletheatre.org)  This is also the first time a production has been done with Community Theater. I have been told the local talent assembled is terrific and the initial reviews were very positive. It so happens that I am not big on musicals and yes, I have been to see such shows as “Phantom of the Opera”. Enjoying the soundtrack of a musical is different and I think that’s probably the deal with me. I’m happy to listen to the music and who isn’t moved by a song like, “The Impossible Dream” or chuckle at “Get Me To The Church On Time”? For me, I suppose it’s as much if I want to hear a concert, I go to a concert or a musical revue for that matter. If I want a play, I watch a play. Having someone burst into song in the midst of a scene doesn’t do a lot for me. In fact, of all the performing arts, opera is the single one I have never warmed to. It could be the same issue of not wanting music in place of dialogue. That could of course be related to me being a writer rather than a musician.

I will be going to Hairspray next week in the mode of supporting the Seminole and I imagine I’ll be fine with it. I vaguely recall having seen the movie, but that was quite some time ago.