Can anyone tell me the meaning of “Miss Baltimore Crabs” (song) from Hairspray the Musical?
Maryland and the Chesapeake Bay (where Baltimore is located) are famous for crabs, and these are the eating kind–wonderful, delicious, none better anywhere in the world (okay, my opinion, I’m from the area!). Just like you could win a title for “Miss Corn” in Iowa, the assumption of the song is that if you’re in a beauty contest in Baltimore, which is famous for its steamed crabs, there could be a Miss Crabs title, and thus you could be crowned Miss Baltimore Crabs! Of course, Michelle Pfeiffer’s character brags about winning this title back in the day–a big deal to her. The funny part is the other interpretation of crabs, an infestation you wouldn’t want to get but might if you were (hmm how to make this PG…) a party girl–the song is suggesting that as well. At least this is my interpretation. (It’s also funny and maybe a bit sad that winning the Miss Baltimore Crabs was the BIGGEST and probably the most defining moment in her life!
