Celebrating Richard Kind's Muny Debut as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray
This June, audiences at The Muny in St. Louis were treated to a delightful rendition of Hairspray, featuring Richard Kind in his highly anticipated role as Edna Turnblad. Known for his memorable performances on television and film, including roles in Spin City and Inside Out, Kind is stepping into a character that has a rich history in musical theater.
Why Edna Turnblad is a Career High for Kind
With a career spanning decades, Richard Kind is no stranger to challenging roles, but playing Edna represents a new pinnacle for him. Edna, a beloved character, is known for her warmth and humor as the mother of Tracy Turnblad, navigating the social changes of 1960s Baltimore. Kind expressed enthusiasm for this opportunity, stating, "This is everything I want. Doing a great role in a great musical like Hairspray… it’s fantastic. It’s a dream come true."
Production Overview and Acclaim
Hairspray at The Muny, running from June 15-21, showcases a talented cast and creative team. Directed by Seth Sklar-Heyn, with choreography by Jesse Robb and music directed by Evan Roider, the production captures the spirit of the original 1988 John Waters film, combined with an uplifting score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. The excitement surrounding this production has been palpable, especially with Kind's debut as Edna, a character previously portrayed by legends including Divine and John Travolta.
Behind the Scenes: Rehearsal and Performance Insights
The preparation for a major role like Edna Turnblad involves a focused rehearsal period. Kind, who recently played Max Bialystock in a West End revival of The Producers, expressed some trepidation about performing in front of The Muny’s substantial 11,000-seat audience. "I’m not used to performing for a crowd this big. This is going to be thrilling. It’s a whole different experience,” he reflected, highlighting the unique challenges that come with such a monumental venue.
Looking Ahead: The Legacy of Hairspray
Hairspray has always been more than a feel-good musical; it holds a mirror to societal issues such as racial integration and body positivity. As Kind prepares to bring his unique interpretation to the character, he emphasizes the theme of family love that underpins Edna’s journey, taking inspiration from others who have played the role before him. “I get to go into the sandbox with like-minded people… and you laugh a lot of the time while you’re doing it,” he shared, demonstrating a collaborative spirit that enriches The Muny experience.
Join the Celebration of Musical Theatre
As Kind embraces this opportunity on stage, audiences are reminded of the magic of live performance and the transformative power of theater. Whether you are a longtime fan of Hairspray or enjoying it for the first time, the show offers a captivating experience that celebrates the diversity of human experience. If you haven’t yet, make plans to see this iconic production at The Muny and witness Richard Kind bring Edna to life!
Write A Comment