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A shot from a rehearsal of the Ohio Valley Summer Theater’s production of “Hairspray,” which opens July 20. (Submitted)

OVST’s ‘Hairspray’ to Open Thursday, July 20

Posted on: Wednesday, July 19, 2017

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Full of optimism and fun, the Ohio Valley Summer Theater utilizes every inch of the stage in the Forum Theater as it brings Hairspray to life through the use of vivid colors paired with the impressive sounds of the orchestra.

With book by Mark ODonnell and Thomas Meehan, music by Marc Shaiman, and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, Hairspray welcomes audience members to the ’60s, piled high with bouffant hair, laughter, and romance. Hairspray is set in Baltimore, where the lovable plus-size teen, Tracy Turnblad, 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.

The winner of eight Tony awards, including Best Musical, Hairspray is a feel good, family friendly musical guaranteed to have everyone dancing the night away.

OVST Executive and Artistic Director, Dr. Christi Camper Moore, is pleased that Hairspray also brings challenging conversations to the stage.

“The Ohio Valley Summer Theater is honored to present a show that asks all of us to consider important social issues including racism, sexism and body image, bullying, and stereotypes,” Camper Moore said. “We are thrilled that this show has a large, diverse cast that tells the timeless story of the value of inclusion, compassion, and community.”

Another shot from a rehearsal of OVST's production of "Hairspray." (Submitted) — Another shot from a rehearsal of OVST’s production of “Hairspray.” (Submitted)

Director Kindra Steenerson praised all involved when talking about this community theater production.

“Working with the talented cast, crew, and production team of Hairspray has been an inspirational reminder of the community building aspect of theatre,” said Steenerson. “The sacrifice of time and energy made by everyone involved to tell this particular story attests to the desire we all have to be included- to create a world, onstage and off, that invites us to share space, experience, and love.”

With an extraordinary cast, ever-present orchestra, and marvelous choreography, this show truly is a must-see! Hairspray is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International.

OVST’s production of Hairspray opens Thursday, July 20, in the Forum Theater of Ohio University’s RTV building, and will run through August 6. Performances will be Thursday through Saturday at 7:30p.m. and Sunday matinees at 2 p.m. Tickets available at the Forum Theater Box Office in the RTV Building Wednesday and Thursday, 11:00-1:00 p.m. or by calling 740-535-OVST (6878). Online tickets can be purchased at http://hairsprayovst.bpt.me/ or ovst.org. Ticket prices adults $15, seniors and children $12, groups of 10 or more $10.