HAIRSPRAY Makes Debut on Seacoast July 23

The Tony-Award winning musical "Hairspray" is coming to Portsmouth. A production of the highly successful Broadway play opens for a six-week run at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre (the Rep) on July 23.

The local theatre organization cast a wide net to assemble an experienced staff for the production, conducting auditions in New York and the seacoast area.

"It really is a great show and I'm very excited we could bring it to the Rep," said Artistic Director, Craig Faulkner. "We're very fortunate to have an extremely gifted director and highly talented cast for this production."

Director/Choreographer Brian Swasey will be directing the musical, returning to the Rep after directing last summer's successful production of the Best Musical Spotlight-award winner "Rent."

"Hairspray is a show that appeals to both kids and adults," said Swasey. "The cast is incredible and audiences will be blown away with the talent from New York, New England and around the country."

Set in 1962, the musical is about a big girl from Baltimore with big hair, a big heart and a passion to dance. The story follows this plus-sized dance and fashion trendsetter as she wins a dream spot on a local TV dance program and is transformed overnight from outsider to teen celebrity.

With songs including 1960's-style dance, music and downtown rhythm and blues, "Hairspray" is a commentary of society in the ‘60's.

Sponsored by Ameriprise Financial and Liberty Mutual, "Hairspray" opens on July 23 and will play until Aug. 28, 2011

Show times are Thursdays at 7:30 pm, Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 2 pm & 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm. Ticket prices start at $20 and discounts are available to seniors, students and groups of 10 or more.

To purchase tickets, become a season subscriber or for more information, contact www.seacoastrep.org, the Box Office at 603-433-4472 or in person at 125 Bow Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801.

Founded in 1987, the Seacoast Repertory Theatre is a non-profit arts and educational organization, which has been entertaining, enlightening and engaging audiences as New Hampshire's only year-round professional theatre for decades. Winner of countless regional and local awards, the Rep offers a complete schedule of award-winning musicals, plays and youth productions as well as educational opportunities for all.

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