Walpole Resident To Appear in 'Hairspray'

Riverside Theatre Works will present the Tony Award-winning musical Hairspray beginning May 10 and running through May 19.

Based on the film by John Waters, with music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Whitman, Hairspray brings to life the city of Baltimore in 1962 and one girl’s effort to integrate a local TV dance show. With some of the most infectious music ever written for the stage and hilarious but lovable characters throughout, Hairspray is sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Walpole resident Tracey O’Farrell is featured in the role of Velma Von Tussle in the production.

Adding to the tremendous appeal of the show, Hairspray is directed by Boston theater notable, Leigh Barrett, in her directing debut at Riverside. Asked about her concept for Hairspray, which mixes satire with the serious subject of racism in America, Ms. Barrett said, “While I have not shied away from exploring the impact of racism on our culture at this point in time, 1962, I am also not being heavy handed. I believe that people not only want to ‘escape’ when they go to theatre, especially musical theatre, but they also should learn a little something as well.  There's a lot of great singing and dancing in this show. It's a really great, color-splashed, upbeat show that will definitely leave you dancing in the aisles.”

In addition to Ms. Barrett, the creative team for Hairspray includes Choreographer Kami Smith and Musical Director Marilyn Whipple. Performances will run May 10 through 19.  Riverside Theatre Works is located at 45 Fairmount Ave., Hyde Park. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.rtwboston.org or call 1-866-811-4111.