Senior Musical: Hairspray

Written by Angelique Barkas, Year 12

Set in the 1962 Baltimore, this much-loved Broadway hit tells the story of dance-loving teen Tracy, who becomes an overnight sensation after winning a spot on television’s ‘The Corny Collins Show’. However, not everyone is happy with Tracy’s newfound stardom, especially as she campaigns for racial integration.

The family-friendly, high-energy production involves passionate cast and crew members from Years 9 - 12, with students from Xavier College also taking part. We also welcome back Olivia Kurczycki from the Class of 2016, who is the stage manager and is mentoring the crew.

Rachel White, Year 12, is eager to be playing the part of Penny Pingleton, Tracy’s best friend.

“Penny is a really funny character, although she’s not the most intelligent! I find the relationship with her mother hilarious and I love her part in the song “Mama, I’m a Big Girl Now”. It’s a great part to play because she is very different to me. At least I would hope to think so!”

Her castmates and her have “really bonded” and are excited to bring this “super energetic, loud and fun” production to life. Whilst sprinkled with great moments of wisdom and hope, the show also addresses meaningful topics such as racial integration, self-esteem and acceptance.

“It has emotional highs and lows, making it a very entertaining rollercoaster!”

Whilst there are some big dance numbers, such as the upbeat ‘You Can’t Stop the Beat’, there are still beautiful and heartfelt songs such as ‘Without Love’.

With much-loved songs featured, including ‘Good Morning Baltimore, ‘Without Love’ and ‘You Can’t Stop the Beat’, the students themselves describe this as a show “filled with humour, action, and huge chorus numbers!”

 

PERFORMANCES: