Hairspray at Riverside Theatre

The musical Hairspray premiered in Seattle in 2002 and moved to Broadway later that year, becoming a critical and commercial hit. It won eight Tony Awards in 2003, including Best Musical, out of 13 nominations, and ran for 2,642 performances before closing in 2009. The show spawned numerous national tours, an acclaimed West End production that earned four Laurence Olivier Awards, and a 2007 film adaptation, cementing its place as one of the most beloved modern musicals.

Set in 1962 Baltimore, the story follows Tracy Turnblad, an upbeat, plus-sized teenager who dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show. Despite her mother Edna's doubts, Tracy auditions and earns a coveted spot, challenging beauty standards and racial segregation on television. Her infectious spirit wins over audiences and friends like Seaweed and Motormouth Maybelle, while sparking conflict with producer Velma Von Tussle and her daughter Amber, who resist change and inclusivity.

In the second act, Tracy leads a protest for integration, is briefly jailed, and later helps stage a triumphant takeover of the Miss Teenage Hairspray pageant. With the help of her friends and family, she unites the divided city, integrating the show and realizing her dreams of love and acceptance. The musical ends in celebration, affirming messages of equality, confidence, and the unstoppable rhythm of change.