Bright, colourful, energetic and uplifting was the Hove Park’s production of Hairspray. Full of upbeat, catchy songs, jaw-dropping dance moves and a wardrobe of vibrant costumes, make it a real stage spectacular which made you want to get up and out of your seat and dance along.
Jim Roberts, Headteacher said: “The students have put on absolutely fantastic show. An amazing performance which delivered the serious message of integration and understanding whilst remaining upbeat and full of joy. Well done to all involved - cast, crew and technicians. I felt like I'd had a night in the West End!”
The show is set in Baltimore in 1962 where, against the odds, overweight teenager Tracy Turnblad lands a role dancing on her favourite TV programme, The Corny Collins Show. She uses her new-found fame to fight for integration of black and white dancers on the show, putting her own future at risk for what she believes in.
Helen Davies, Chair of Governors said: "Wow! What a fabulous evening. So many talented young people, who had obviously put in many hours of rehearsals. And such dedication from the staff who were behind it all. It was so uplifting."
The production, directed by Drama Teacher, Ms Chloe Holt, was tightly polished, with brilliantly-slick choreographed numbers. There are also plenty of outstanding individual performances too.
Daisy Seaborne is a natural Tracy Turnblad. There’s a sparkling quality to her performance. Cate Bailey is wondrously villainous as Velma Von Tussle, producer of The Corny Collins Show, who will go to any lengths possible to see her daughter Amber (the vivacious Ruby Cooper) succeed.
Mya Dorman’s vocals are powerful and her performance is strong and sassy as Motormouth Maybelle who is the owner of the downtown record store and host of Negro Day. Alfie Jukes brings just the right mix of confidence, hesitancy and stereotypical jock to the part of Link.
Francesca Gibbs is outstanding in the comic yet touching role of Penny Lou Pingleton. Safwan Elaattaoui's energy and sharp wit brings the hip and hop together playing Seaweed J. Stubbs.
There are some brilliantly comic moments courtesy of Alex Scott who plays Wilbur Turnblad, Tracy’s father, and Alfie Martin as her mother Edna (the part is traditionally played by a man in drag).
The chorus vocals provide the pizazz and drive that really bring out the feel of the 60’s.
Mai Bolingbroke
Year 10