Civil rights meets '60s pop in 'Hairspray' production in Des Plaines

Posted May 19, 2016 2:00 pm

Submitted by Jennifer Schneider

Taleen Mansour, Sasha Goldberg, Hannah Hughes and Savannah Fiedler are among more than 75 cast members in the Spotlight Youth Theater production of "Hairspray" at Prairie Lakes Community Center in Des Plaines. Courtesy of Sonce Landa

Using humor, music and dance to tackle serious issues of racism, bullying and body-shaming, Spotlight Youth Theater presents "Hairspray," the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical May 27-June 3 at Prairie Lakes Community Center, 515 E. Thacker St., Des Plaines.

"This show cracks me up! There are so many jokes, one right after another," says assistant director Miriam Napponelli. "'Hairspray' deals with tough, intense issues through humor."

Set in 1962 Baltimore, the show follows lovable, plus-sized teen Tracy Turnblad, who has only one desire - to dance on the popular "Corny Collins Show." When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star. She must use her newfound power to dethrone the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network, all without "denting her 'do!"

"Hairspray is a rare production that shines a spotlight on huge issues that students and adults alike are still facing today," says director Taylor Kras. "We have weekly cases of bullying in schools, civil rights are again at the forefront of political debates, and the news is plastered with cases of racism from government and entertainment to our schools and our own backyards. People are called names, hurt, disrespected, unwelcomed, and unloved. As performers, we get to say that the fight is worth it, and one day it will be won."

In keeping with Spotlights family friendly policies, minor edits have been made to make it accessible to younger audiences. More than 75 youths are in the cast. For tickets, call (847) 516-2298 or visit www.spotlight.org. Tickets are $9-$12 presale, $2 more at the door. Group prices are available.

Rynazhae Henderson plays Little Inez in the Spotlight Youth Theater production of "Hairspray" at Prairie Lakes Community Center in Des Plaines. Courtesy of Sonce Landa

Sarah Erickson as Amber, Joe Moerschel as Corny Collins and Savannah Fiedler as Tracy in the Spotlight Youth Theater production of "Hairspray" at Prairie Lakes Community Center in Des Plaines. Courtesy of Sonce Landa

There are among the "Nicest Kids" in the Spotlight Youth Theater production of "Hairspray" at Prairie Lakes Community Center in Des Plaines. photos Courtesy of Sonce Landa

Article Comments

Article Categories
Submitted Content

Article Comments

Guidelines: Keep it civil and on topic; no profanity, vulgarity, slurs or personal attacks. People who harass others or joke about tragedies will be blocked. If a comment violates these standards or our terms of service, click the "flag" link in the lower-right corner of the comment box. To find our more, read our FAQ.