The Tipton Arts Council will open its production of “Hairspray: The Broadway Musical” at The Ruffin this week, launching a five-show run across two weekends.
“Hairspray” follows Tracy Turnblad, a Baltimore teenager who lands a spot as a dancer on a local television show and uses her new platform to push for the program’s integration in the early 1960s. The musical, based on John Waters’ 1988 film of the same name, has been a staple of community and school theater programs since its 2002 Broadway debut.
The cast and crew are comprised of a lot of local talent and patrons are encouraged to support those who’ve worked for months to bring the show to its opening weekend.
“When you buy a ticket, you’re not just coming to see a musical,” the organization said. “You’re cheering on a teenager stepping into the spotlight for the first time, celebrating months of hard work, and helping ensure opportunities like this continue for the next generation.”
Ally Wallace stars as Tracy Turnblad, with Molly Vanstory as her understudy. Bryan Huffman plays Edna Turnblad, and Ted Maclin plays Wilbur Turnblad.
Nora Scott plays Penny Pingleton, and Missy Barrell plays her mother, Prudy Pingleton. Wesley McCraw plays Corny Collins, and Samuel Nichols plays Link Larkin. Courtney Sartain plays Velma Von Tussle, and Violet Haynes plays her daughter, Amber Von Tussle.
Cohen Cooper plays Seaweed J. Stubbs, and Amira Sadé plays Little Inez. Laryah Coleman plays Motormouth Maybelle. Brig Morrow takes on multiple roles, including Mr. Pinky, Harriman F. Spritzer and the school principal. Kristen Staheli plays the gym teacher, and Leah Max plays the matron.
The Corny Collins Council includes Allie Scott as Tammy, Cameron Tibbetts as Brad, Sophia Hawkins as Brenda, Anderson Sartain as Fender, Hunter Carver as Sketch, Hadley Harden as Shelley, Alex Byrd as IQ and Julia Bogard as Lou Ann.
The Dynamites are played by Chartele Calvin, Laryah Coleman and Mekiah Hayslett. Featured roles include Mekiah Hayslett as Cindy Watkins, Lyric Calvin as Lorraine, Caleb Jones as Duane, Cyran Edwards as Stooie, LaDarrius Rudd as Gilbert and Trey Narcisse as Thad.
The ensemble includes Dana Bogard, Raine Brown, Ryan Richardson, Hannah Burlett, Breanna Moore, Elizabeth Crisel, Bella Quinn, Vianica Warren and Molly Vanstory.
Courtney Calvin, Sr. directs the production and serves as music director. LeighAnn Harmon Gomer is the co-director/assistant director and the set and lighting designer.
Ashley Sadé and Kylan Owens choreographed the production. Kat Stephens serves as stage manager and costume designer, and Cassie White is prop master. Hadley Harden and Mekiah Hayslett are the show’s dance captains.
“These kids have given this production everything they’ve got,” the TAC said. “We hope you’ll come give them the applause they deserve.”
Performances are set for July 24, 25 and 31, and Aug. 1 and 2. Tickets are available through the Tipton Arts Council at tiptonartscouncil.org.
