David Brinkley, left, as Edna Turnblad and Jay Albright as Wilbur Turnblad, in "Hairspray" at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres. Star Tribune photo by Marlin Levison.
In a great theater changeover, actor David Brinkley, (pictured at left) currently starring as Edna Turnblad in the hit production of "Hairspray" (review here) at Chanhassen Dinner Theatres, will leave that show soon to join the cast of "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" at the Guthrie.
In the Tennessee Williams classic, directed by Lisa Peterson and due to open Jan. 14, Brinkley will play dying patriarch Big Daddy. Brick, the character made famous by Paul Newman in the 1958 movie version, will be played by Twin Cities actor Peter Christian Hansen, who is currently being seen in "After Miss Julie" at the Hill House. Review here.
Peter Christian Hansen Star Tribune photo by Renee Jones Schneider
The role of Edna at Chanhassen will be filled by Keith Rice. That show recently was extended through late May.
The role of Maggie at the Guthrie? Not yet announced, though the Guthrie's Quinton Skinner hints that the famous role will be filled, after an extensive search, by an out-of-town talent. Stay tuned.
