From John Waters, the Sultan of Sleaze, the man who brought you the subversive cult classics of repulsive, revolting cinema, Pink Flamingos and Female Trouble, comes Hairspray, a comedy about the intersection of local television and racial segregation that’s fun for the whole family.

Set in early 1960s Baltimore, John Waters’ mainstream breakout success follows the efforts of pleasantly plump teen, Tracy Turnblad (Ricki Lake) and her best buddy Penny Pingleton to land a spot on Baltimore’s favorite teen dance show, The Corny Collins Show. Along the way they land boyfriends and endorsement deals, enjoy the perks of local celebrity status, and face off against jealous rich girls, all while having run-ins with beatniks and the injustices of racism in America.  

Ricki Lake as Tracy Turnlad in Hairspray (1988)

Hairspray may not be as edgy as the films that precede it in Waters’ filmography, but it’s just as packed with absurd, colorful characters, played with the typically garish flourishes of flamboyance that the Duke of Dirt is known for. With stand-out performances by Waters regular Divine, star Ricki Lake, and comedy legend Jerry Stiller, not to mention a supporting cast with personalities ranging from kooky and kind to dense and depraved, this is a film positively brimming with charm.  

But, however crudely coarse it may seem, the Foreman of Filth makes sure to serve up a healthy helping of heart, (and a lot of alliteration too) to make it all go down smoothly. With great music and a script with low-brow laughs and subtle, (and not so subtle) social commentary, Hairspray is sure to please. 

Flamingo Vintage - Located in wonderful Southwest Detroit

Plus! For this presentation the Senate is teaming with local vintage clothing store Flamingo Vintage who will be at the theater before the show, selling all the retro clothing you need to dance the Mashed Potato, the Twist, or even the Watusi in style! 

Doors - 7:00 PM

Organ Overture - 7:30 PM

Film - 8:00 PM

Tickets - $6 | Rated PG