Big Hair: A Rad and Wild Love Affair a BFF Free MUSICAL Event

It’s CLOSING DAY of BFF 2025, the 10th Annual BFF Binge Fringe Festival of FREE Theatre, October 14 - November 16, the only FREE Fringe Festival in the nation, offering 36 in-person plays, workshops and family-oriented events, tonight presenting:

“A powerful testament to Mandarino’s talent, her vision and her sensitivity as a writer and performer.” BroadWorld.com.

Get ready for a whirlwind of laughter, music, and heartfelt storytelling, written and performed by the Maegan Mandarino. 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."

“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 Written & Performed by Maegan Mandarino.

Post show Closing Night Wine & Refreshments Reception with the cast

Special thanks to generous grants from the We Are Santa Monica Fund, the Los Angeles County 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. The BFF celebrates the range and depth of the human condition and the idea that theatre arts experiences are vital, transformative, and must be available for all.

FREE as part of the BFF Binge Fringe Festival of Free Theatre. This show will NOT be lived-streamed.