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Talking to Hairspray's Ashley Spencer

By Matt Windman | amNewYork Theater Critic

September 14, 2007

Max Crumm and Laura Osnes won the 'You're the One That I Want' reality show, leading to their current Broadway stint in 'Grease,' but the runner-up contestants are doing pretty well too.

Austin Miller is in 'Tully,' Chad Doreck is in 'Altar Boyz,' and Ashley Spencer is in 'Hairspray.' We spoke with Ashley about joining the long-running musical comedy, now enjoying a resurge in popularity thanks to the movie version.

Did you know the show at all prior to auditioning?
I saw it four times before I auditioned. Amber was on my list of the parts I had to play. Great show. Great energy. I'm glad to be a part of it.

What's your take on Amber von Tussell?
I'm trying different things. Every day is something different. I've taken bits and pieces from the other girls playing Amber. Amber is the mean girl, but I'm trying to add layers to her. Give her a little background. She comes up with all these mean things to call people. This is just the way life is.

How long did it take you to learn the role?
Only two weeks. I learned the show, top to bottom, in the first week. Second week was just reviewing. I've been a dancer since I was four, so I pick things up pretty easily.

Have you seen 'Grease' yet?
I did. I went opening night. Some of the same dance moves from TV were incorporated into the show. It was kind of what I expected. I have no hard feelings whatsoever. I'm in a competing Broadway show. Couldn't be happier.

Any other upcoming projects?
I'm not looking. I'm really happy with where I am right now. But of course there's upcoming things, and I would die to do 'Legally Blonde' in the future. I really look up to Laura Bell.

Neil Simon Theatre, 250 West 52nd St, 212-307-4100, $20-110. Tues 7pm, Wed 2 & 8pm, Thurs 7pm, Fri 8pm, Sat 2 & 8pm, Sun 3pm. Open Run.