Four Score… and Two Weeks of Itchy Glory: Growing Into Mayor Shinn and the Magic of The Music Man

 

Facial hair and I have a complicated relationship. My skin is not a fan of razors—or beards, or shaving cream, or anything that might resemble a rough texture. So naturally, when I landed the role of Mayor Shinn in The Music Man, set in the prim-and-proper year of 1912, I made the bold, itchy commitment to grow some era-appropriate facial hair. 

My original vision? Grand mutton chops paired with a robust mustache—a look that screams “dignified small-town blowhard with delusions of grandeur.” But the beard looks good. I may have waited too long for truly sumptious muttons.

Now I’m faced with a grooming dilemma: do I embrace the full beard, which has grown into a respectable mayoral look, or do I go back to the original chops-and-'stache combo for historical accuracy and comic flair? I’m open to opinions (and beard-styling tips), though time is ticking—the stage awaits. 

Whatever configuration ends up on my face, it will be on full theatrical display when Community on Stage presents The Music Man this weekend and next in Cambridge. 

This show is a full-on family affair for the Spicers. I’m bumbling my way through River City politics as Mayor Shinn, Everett brings heart and charm as Winthrop (he’s in every show except Thursday’s understudy performance), Danika brings joy and sparkle in the kids’ ensemble, and Emily joins the scene-stealing Pick-a-Little Ladies—who are every bit as fabulous and funny as their name implies. 

It’s been months of rehearsals, line runs, dance numbers, costume fittings, vocal warm-ups, and yes—strategic beard scratching. The whole cast and crew have poured their hearts into this show, and the result is something truly special: a magical, hilarious, toe-tapping production that’s perfect for the whole family. 

🎟️ Come see the magic yourself: Get your tickets here. And if you see me after the show, feel free to weigh in on the beard.