Directed by local EHS Drama Teacher Hannah Faith Davis, “HAIRSPRAY” immerses audiences in the lively and colorful 1960s, where big hair and big dreams take center stage. The story follows Tracy Turnblad (Samantha McCaleb), a spirited teenager who dreams of dancing on the popular Corny Collins Show, and her best friend Penny (Alyssa Purifoy). Together, they challenge societal norms and advocate for acceptance amid the societal challenges of the era.

The cast features a diverse array of characters, including Corny Collins (Joey Karr), Link Larkin (Matthew Power), Amber Von Tussle (April Burk), Tammy (Madeline Couture), Kim (Emilia Gathright), Megan (Maggie Phillips), Brenda (Summer Shipp), Sketch (Georgia Blackmon), Shelley (Lillian Primm), IQ (Zoey Pyle), and Lou Ann (Avery Hall). Show producer Velma Von Tussle (Christine Whan), along with her daughter Amber, has big plans for the show but struggles with her own biases. The production also features the dynamic duo of Edna (Hayden Nooner) and Wilbur Turnblad (Spencer Driggs), whose relationship is tested as Tracy strives to make her mark.

A central theme of the musical is the fight for racial integration and acceptance. Tracy befriends Seaweed (Zephaniah Valentine) and his friends Gilbert (Dustin Adams), Cindy Watkins (Meyah Hampton), Lorraine (Jaden Owens), Stooie (Khaylin Sanders), and Duane (Ellis Lyles), who participate in an integration celebration on the show. Their efforts to integrate the Corny Collins Show highlight the importance of diversity and inclusion. Supporting characters include Motormouth Maybelle (Veronica Jenkins), her daughter Little Inez (Lauren Smith), and the Dynamites—Judine (Rion Kialoni Jones), Kamilah (Kiera Dixon), and Shayna (Demyah Charles)—who contribute soulful performances to the production.

Additional cast members include Harriman F. Spritzer (Brian Bates), who sponsors the show with his hairspray; Mr. Pinky (Michael McLeese), a fashion designer eager to dress Tracy and Edna; Prudy Pingleton (Sara Dockery), Penny’s protective mother; and Austin Crank as the principal who often detains Tracy for her big hair. Jazmyn Vanassche portrays the Prison Matron, while Tonaisha Johnson plays Beatnik Chick. The ensemble, comprised of Ianna Hernandez, Melissa Cervantez, and Bebee Meza, brings energy and vibrancy to every scene, making this toe-tapping, society-changing musical a memorable experience.This production celebrates individuality, societal change, and the importance of standing up for what’s right. With lively musical numbers and heartfelt storytelling, it promises to entertain and inspire audiences of all ages.

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