Get ready for something really big with Hairspray, Broadway’s musical-comedy phenomenon that inspired a major motion picture and won eight Tony awards, including Best Musical.
The production is set for the St. Jacobs Country Playhouse for a four-week run, from May 11 through June 4.
Featuring such songs as Good Morning, Baltimore, Mama, I’m a Big Girl Now and You Can’t Stop the Beat, the production aims to have audiences dancing in their seats from start to finish.
Take a step back in time to 1962 … the ’50s are out and change is in the air. Baltimore’s Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, has only one passion – to dance. When she wins a coveted spot on a popular television dance program, she is transformed overnight from being a social outcast to an irrepressible teen celebrity.
But can the loveable plus-size trendsetter vanquish the program’s reigning princess, win the heart of heartthrob Link Larkin, and integrate a television show, all without denting her ‘do’?
“We are extremely excited to bring this dazzling musical to our audiences in St. Jacobs,” said artistic director of Drayton Entertainment Alex Mustakas.
“Its global success is testament to the level of entertainment that you can expect from this show. Hairspray has something for everyone – its over-the-top characters, outrageous costumes and infectious music are simply irresistible.”
Stephanie Pitsiladis will take on the lead role of heroine Tracy Turnblad. Pitsiladis, who was the first Canadian ever to perform the role, also recently played the Baltimore songstress for the Charlottetown Festival’s production last fall.
“Stephanie is a wonderful performer with just the right qualities for this iconic part,” said Mustakas. “She has a great big voice and the personality to match.”
Other members of the cast include Ian Deakin as Tracy’s full-figured mother, Edna Turnblad, and Larry Mannell as her quirky father. Laura Mae Nason is Amber Von Tussle, the self-absorbed princess of The Corny Collins Show and David Cotton, whom audiences will recognize from Drayton Entertainment’s production of High School Musical, is teenage heartthrob Link Larkin. Perennial audience favourite Keith Savage is also part of Hairspray’s stellar ensemble.
Hairspray is directed by Mustakas and he is joined music director Elizabeth Baird and choreographer Gino Berti.
Tickets are selling fast with some performances already sold out. Theatregoers are encouraged to call the box office as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Tickets can be purchased in person at St. Jacobs Country Playhouse, online at www.draytonentertainment.com or by calling (519) 747-7788 or toll free at 1-855-drayton (372-9866).
