Hairspray Musical Sues Denver Venue Operator Over $150,000 in Water Damage

Lawsuit claims negligence by ASM Global led to sprinkler malfunction and show cancellations.

Feb. 25, 2026 at 5:33pm

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The touring Broadway musical 'Hairspray' is suing a Denver production group, ASM Global, after a broken sprinkler head allegedly caused nearly $150,000 in water damage to the show's property backstage at the Buell Theatre in March 2024. The lawsuit claims ASM's negligence led to the incident, which forced the cancellation of the show's debut performances and resulted in lost revenue.

Why it matters

This lawsuit highlights the risks and challenges faced by touring Broadway productions, which rely on venue operators to properly maintain equipment and facilities. The incident raises questions about liability, safety protocols, and the impact of unexpected technical issues on live performances.

The details

According to the lawsuit, an ASM employee 'collided with a piece of unsecured railing, causing it to contact the fire suppression sprinkler head, resulting in a premature discharge of water' on March 5, 2024, while 'Hairspray' equipment was backstage at the Buell Theatre. The water damage prompted the cancellation of the show's debut performances on March 5 and 6, resulting in lost revenue. The Hanover Insurance Company, representing the musical's producers, paid out $146,633 for the damaged property, with the producers paying a $36,750.96 deductible.

  • The incident occurred on March 5, 2024, while 'Hairspray' equipment was backstage at the Buell Theatre.
  • The show's debut performances on March 5 and 6, 2024, were canceled due to the water damage.

The players

Hairspray

A Tony-winning Broadway musical touring production based on the John Waters movie of the same name.

ASM Global

A production group hired to assist with lighting and sets for the 'Hairspray' performances at the Buell Theatre.

Hanover Insurance Company

The insurance company representing the 'Hairspray' producers, which paid out $146,633 for the damaged property.

Denver Center for the Performing Arts

The organization that produces the touring Broadway shows at the Buell Theatre.

Denver Arts & Venues

The city agency that owns the Denver Performing Arts Complex, where the Buell Theatre is located.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether ASM Global is liable for the water damage and lost revenue suffered by the 'Hairspray' production.

The takeaway

This lawsuit highlights the importance of venue operators and production companies working together to ensure the safety and smooth operation of live performances. It also underscores the financial risks and potential legal consequences when unexpected technical issues disrupt touring Broadway shows.