Encore Theatre presents ‘Hairspray’

The Encore Theatre presents “Hairspray” July 14, 15 and 16 at the Carmel Catholic High School auditorium in Mundelein.

Based on the film written by John Waters, “Hairspray” delighted audiences by sweeping them away to 1960s Baltimore, where the ’50s are out and change is in the air. Lovable, plus-size heroine Tracy Turnblad has a passion for dancing, and wins a spot on the local TV dance program, “The Corny Collins Show.”

Overnight she finds herself transformed from outsider to teen celebrity. Can a larger-than-life adolescent manage to vanquish the program’s reigning princess, integrate the television show and find true love, singing and dancing all the while, of course.

An opening night reception with champagne and hors d’oeuvres by Inovasi will be from 6 to 6:45 p.m. at the Carmel High School cafeteria. The event is open to those 21 and older for an additional $10 per person. Carmel is just south of where Hawley Street and Route 176 converge.

Performances are at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday and 1 and 7 p.m. Saturday. Admission is $12, $10 for students and seniors. Call (847) 708-8880, visit www.encoretheatre.net or email encoretheatrelibertyville@gmail.com.

The production is choreographed by Annie Snow an directed by Bob Silton.