Hairspray: Lachy Joyce as Edna.
By Cherie Donnellan
DONNING a wig and heels holds little trepidation for Geelong’s Lachy Joyce.
But the high school drama teacher conceded playing the role of Edna in a local production of hit musical Hairspray would be a “challenge”.
“It’d be easy to play her as a drag role but I think there’s so much more to Edna.
“She’s a wife and mother…and there are a lot of nuances to her personality.”
Joyce will be among local faces in the Geelong Lyric Theatre Society show next month.
“We’ve tried to put our own spin on this classic musical and I think Geelong audiences will love it.”
Joyce said his character had messages of acceptance, self-confidence and self-awareness.
“I think her journey as an individual portrays some great morals.”
Joyce said the Geelong production of Hairspray with a local cast was “great to promote the town and talent”.
“We’ve got so many established Geelong actors in the show but we also have some fantastic new talent.”
Joyce said theatre newcomer Charlotte Kavenagh would play Edna’s daughter, Tracy. “She’s fantastic in the role,” he enthused.
The cast had enjoyed performing songs “so well-known” to them.
“It’s been great to bring these songs to life and put them on stage,” Joyce said.
“There’s such an energy and buzz about the show. It’s catchy and captivating.”
Joyce said his drama students had already bought tickets.
“I’m so glad I can show my students that I can do it.
“They put faith in me as an educator to know what I’m doing, so I want to keep up my skills as a performer.
“If I can impart my passion to them and they’re keen to learn drama then I’m doing my job right.”
Joyce said he had been putting in plenty of effort to nail Edna’s character.
“During our rehearsals I’ve often been the first one there and the last one to leave.
“In dress rehearsals I’ve had to put on the stockings, heels, dresses and fat suit.
“Playing Edna requires lots of costumes and stage craft.”
But Joyce wanted to stay away from “hammy” impressions.
“You can’t just play Edna’s character for the cheap laughs.
“I’ve tried so hard not to just be the man in the frock.”
Hairspray will be at Geelong Performing Arts Centre from May 4 to 12.
