This obsession was the inspiration for Tracy and Penny’s obsession with The Corny Collin’s Show, which was the basis of the show’s social problems (Hairspray.)Īfter watching this surprisingly pleasant movie sick in bed, Margo Lion was inspired to turn it into a Broadway musical, and thus became the original producer of the 2002 musical. The obsession that inspired Hairspray was The Buddy Dean Show, the show that he would run home after school to watch. Waters claims to have written in a completely different voice unintentionally–his goal was to continue writing about his obsessions. John Waters, before writing the film Hairspray, was known to write very controversial and surprising movies with very disturbing subject matter and graphics that were not popular among many people (Hairspray.) Because of this, it was very surprising to see a complete change in plot and overall genre from this crazy writer. What made this show so popular is its spot on references to 1960’s Baltimore, including the wacky beehive hair, the beloved after school special with all of the popular rock n’ roll jams, and the social dramas in society. After seven successful years of being on Broadway, the show closed, only to be revived as another film in 2007. Adapted from a 1988 film written by John Waters, who had previously created movies with disturbing images, it was a surprise to everyone the success of this loud and flashy show. Opening August 15, 2002, Hairspray has become one of the most adored musicals on Broadway.

1988 hairspray movie soundtrack