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Titusville Playhouse<\/a> is betting on teased hair and toe-tapping beats with “Hairspray,” the buoyant musical with sky-high bouffants and a heroine who refuses to accept the status quo. The show opens Friday, Jan. 16, for a run through Feb. 15.<\/p>\n “Hairspray” began as John Waters\u2019 1988 film, a sly valentine to teenage rebellion, then leapt to the stage in 2002. The Broadway production quickly became a hit, winning eight Tony Awards in 2003, including one for best musical.<\/p>\n Set in 1960s Baltimore, “Hairspray” follows plus-sized teenager Tracy Turnblad, who lands a spot on a local TV dance show, and then uses her newfound platform to push for social change.<\/p>\n “‘Hairspray’ follows the vibrant story of Tracy, a spirited plus-size teen with dreams of dancing on the ‘Corny Collins Show,'” said director Niko Stamos.<\/p>\n “As Tracy embraces her new-found fame, she not only hopes to capture the heart of America, but also the dreamy Link Larkin, all while taking a stand for integration on television.”<\/p>\n The story\u2019s candy-colored aesthetic frames themes that resonate today. With this production, Stamos says he hopes to deliver a blend of joy and justice.<\/p>\n “What truly excites me about ‘Hairspray’ is its powerful themes of body positivity, inclusion and social change, all presented in a lively and engaging way, never losing sight of the element of fun,” he said.<\/p>\n For families, the content is squarely PG. The jokes are broad, the romance is chaste and the politics are accessible.<\/p>\n “While the show is family-friendly, it resonates particularly with older kids and adults, featuring some suggestive content and mild thematic elements reflective of the 1960s,” Stamos said.<\/p>\n While “Hairspray” delivers toe-tapping fun, it does not obscure the stakes of social change and inclusion. Tracy\u2019s body positivity lands without apology. The character of her mother, Edna, is traditionally played by a man in drag. In Titusville Playhouse’s production, executive artistic director Steven Heron steps into Edna’s shoes.<\/p>\n “You won\u2019t want to miss his uproarious portrayal of Edna Turnblad,” Stamos said. “It\u2019s bound to be a highlight of the season.”<\/p>\n Stamos hopes audiences will carry the spirit of inclusion home after the show.<\/p>\n “At the heart of it all, I want people to leave smiling and feeling inspired.\u00a0We are all just people trying to make it through life, and we should be kind to others in order to achieve a brighter future for all.”<\/p>\n “My sincere hope is that it inspires audiences to envision a tomorrow where everyone can celebrate and dance together,” he said.<\/p>\n With the show’s blend of humor, romance and catchy tunes, Stamos says the show promises an unforgettable theater experience.<\/p>\n “I genuinely hope audiences join us for a fantastic evening of theater,” he said.<\/p>\n Where:<\/strong> Titusville Playhouse, 301 Julia Street, Titusville<\/p>\n When:<\/strong> Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. through Feb. 15<\/p>\n Tickets:<\/strong> Start at $40<\/p>\n Call:<\/strong> 321-268-1125<\/p>\n Website:<\/strong> titusvilleplayhouse.com<\/a><\/p>\n Christina LaFortune is the Entertainment and TGIF Editor at FLORIDA TODAY. Follow her on Facebook at\u00a0facebook.com\/christinalafortune<\/a>\u00a0or send her an email at\u00a0clafortune@floridatoday.com<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n‘Hairspray’<\/h2>\n