Six Questions with HAIRSPRAY star Matthew Ragas

The current touring cast of Broadway's recently-closed hit musical "Hairspray" never has to worry about being without love. The show has been welcomed with open arms and standing ovations in Canada, China, Japan and, of course, all over the United States.

This weekend, the show will introduce Cleveland to the nicest kids in town when it arrives at the Palace Theatre for five performances-from February 6-8.

For those who missed the classic '88 John Waters movie, missed the show on the Great White Way, a previous tour or the hugely successful film adaptation of the musical, "Hairspray" tells the story of Tracy Turnblad's attempts to find her place within an ever-changing society during the '60s while also dealing with her hopeless infatuation with teenage idol Link Larkin. The show deals with segregation, bigotry, love and life-all surrounding by big aerosol cans and lots and lots of dancing.

Matthew Ragas, late of "The Wedding Singer", portrays Link. He recently stopped by BroadwayWorld to answer six questions about the show, makeovers and Facebook friends.

For a show set in the swingin' sixties that opened in 2002 and is based on a movie that is twenty years old, "Hairspray" continues to feel just as relevant as ever. Why do you think that is? 

Well, this show deals with the underdog. And that story is always relevent. Everyone loves to see a show where the underdog wins. Not to mention that, as much as we like to say how far we've come with racism in this country, sadly its still everywhere.

What most touches you about Link's journey in the show?

I love that Link learns to accept all types of people into his life. He learns to look past Tracy's weight and falls in love with her for her heart.

What do you think happens to Link after the final curtain closes?

Well he goes off to become a Matinee Idol. Tracy and him live happily ever after-right?

If you weren't an actor, what would you be?

A photographer, I think. I love catching moments on film. I love catching special moments in people's lives and to see their reactions when they see what I've caught on film. Making them happy makes me happy.

If you could play any other character in "Hairspray," who would it be?

Edna of course! It's the makeover role! Everyone loves a makeover!  

What's your weirdest fan encounter?

I guess I don't really have one.

I do find it rather interesting that people take the time to find me on Facebook every night. I unfortunately don't allow them to see my profile-some things have to be kept private-but soon enough I do think I will set up a public profile. I love that people find me. I find it very flattering and I still have the attitude of  "really-me-why?"

Tickets for "Hairspray" are still available at www.playhousesquare.com 

To post a comment, you must register and login.