BIG HAIR: A Rad and Wild Love Affair by Maegan Mandarino at BFF Fringe Nov 16th
3 min read
In direct partnership with the Gene Wilder Foundation
Maegan Mandarino will perform BIG HAIR: A Rad and Wild Love Affair in direct partnership with the Gene Wilder Foundation as the Closing show of the Santa Monica Playhouse BFF Binge Fringe Festival of FREE Theatre, Sunday, November 16th at 6 PM. RSVP for FREE Tickets Here.
Two Legendary Comics, Two Bigger Alter Egos! Get ready for a whirlwind of laughter, music, and heartfelt storytelling as this one-hour theatrical spectacle invites audiences to step into the touching, and surreal world of two comedy legends—Gilda Radner and Gene Wilder—explored through their larger-than-life personas and the dynamic love story that tied them together.
A blend of absurdist theater and vaudeville-inspired musical numbers, BIG HAIR captivates audiences with its witty humor, emotional depth, and a dash of nostalgia. Interwoven with rare film and interview clips, the production offers a glimpse into the untamed comedy and tender romance that defined the lives of these two icons. It’s a show that promises laughs, tears, and a lingering sense of “what could have been.”
In addition to being an accomplished playwright, Maegan Alexandria’s career has seen successes in stage acting, creative writing, and music production. Winner of the LIT Award for Comedic Writing in 2018, she toured across the country with a few comedy troupes dominating the stages of Chicago, New York, and even her hometown of Los Angeles. Author of the young adult series, The Canvas Carvers, she is also a member of the innovative and exciting rock band, Cheaper Sentiment.
“This isn’t just a tribute—it’s a love letter,” says one reviewer. BIG HAIR celebrates the joy, complexity, and humanity of these titans of comedy, bringing their unforgettable legacy to life in a way that feels as fresh as it is timeless.
Pal Mel Productions proudly supports Big Hair, continuing Gene Wilder’s legacy by championing artist-driven works and celebrating his spirit through storytelling, social media, and philanthropic events. Follow them on Instagram @genewilder_official or at their website GeneWilderOfficial.com
“A powerful testament to Mandarino’s talent, her vision and her sensitivity as a writer and performer.” BroadWorld.com
A BFF Binge Fringe Festival of Free Theatre Event Santa Monica Playhouse, Main Stage
The 9th annual Santa Monica Fringe Festival – a month-long event featuring a host of productions and workshops – celebrating the idea that theatre arts experiences are vital, transformative, and must be available for all. All bets are off, limits on boundaries and form are wide open, and all events are free to the public. Made possible in part by generous grants from The We Are Santa Monica Fund, The Los Angeles Board of Supervisors through the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture, the City of Santa Monica and the Santa Monica Arts Commission, and Playhouse PALS.
BFF 2025 will be the official Grand Re-Opening of the Main Stage, the iconic theatre space that was decimated in a water damage disaster over a year ago. The Playhouse is dedicated to making free shows available for all, but can use your support for the rebuild. Your tax-deductible contributions in any amount can be made at https://www.santamonicaplayhouse.com/donate.html or at 1-310-394-9779 ext. 1 or theatre@SantaMonicaPlayhouse.com.
Post show Closing Night Wine & Refreshments Reception with the cast. This show will NOT be live-streamed.
Santa Monica Playhouse is located at 1211 4th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
