

The camera couldn't focus on the varied action, and the wide shot was a chaotic jumble. What was originally a choreographed fight on stage is a messy garble on screen - the fight simply doesn't translate to the small screen. As winning as Criss is, nothing is more annoying than coming back from commercial to have more promotional material instead of the show.

Perhaps to give cast and crew extra time for scene changes, NBC decided to intersperse commentary from host Darren Criss and live watch parties around the country. Bonus points for its message of self-love and body acceptance. With its catchy tune, sparkly costumes, character reveals, and the chance to showcase the entire ensemble, it sends the show to the heights of Tracy Turnblad's bouffant. Dove Cameron was perfectly cast as Chenoweth's daughter, and Derek Hough displayed an abundance of charm that was a highlight throughout the show.Ī Broadway musical's only worth the impact of its finale, and "You Can't Stop the Beat" vaults over that bar.
Hairspray live online free tv#
The meta experience of watching a live TV broadcast portrayed by a live TV broadcast was delightful. One of the night's greatest delights was Jerry Mitchell's choreography executed by a stellar ensemble, on slick display in this early number. Read more: Watch Jennifer Hudson's Scene-Stealing 'Hairspray Live!' Number "Big, Blonde and Beautiful" It's the most potent and moving song in the musical, and Hudson's immense talents gave it the heft and power it deserves. While erratic camerawork overwhelmed her performance on "Big, Blonde, and Beautiful," Hudson's powerhouse voice stole the show on this ballad. Jennifer Hudson won her Oscar with a single song ("And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going"), and she demonstrated again her ability to bring down the house with a single song here. As Little Inez, Shahadi Wright Joseph stole the show with her dazzling dance moves. Jerry Mitchell's high-energy choreography was on optimum display in this number that took to the streets of Baltimore with a West Side Story vibe. The cherry on top? Chenoweth herself was a former beauty pageant contestant, so her vamping comes with a knowing wink and tongue-in-cheek sense of humor. This slinky number highlighted all of Chenoweth's gifts - from her larger-than-life personality to her superb showmanship to her signature soprano (including a few high notes tossed in at the end for good measure).

Kristin Chenoweth's "Miss Baltimore Crabs"Ĭhenoweth is veritable Broadway royalty, and she showcased her status as a stage veteran in her take on "Miss Baltimore Crabs." Velma Von Tussle is the perfect role for Chenoweth, who's built a career playing (at least on the surface) vapid, scheming, out-of-touch women. This little nod was a cute Easter egg for fans. The sign refers to the actor Divine who starred in many of Waters' films, including Pink Flamingos (1972) and originated the role of Edna Turnblad in 1988's Hairspray. Producers included an ode to the "Pope of Trash" in the shop-front facades in the opening number with a "Divine's Pet Foods" sign featuring a neon pink flamingo. Hairspray wouldn't exist without John Waters.
