Hairspray musical tackles issues with glitter and song

Performers from Rotorua Girls' and Rotorua Boys' High Schools in the musical <i>Hairspray</i>. Photo/Supplied

Students in the Rotorua adaptation of Broadway hit Hairspray say its messages ring as true today as in the 1960s when it is set - and encourage locals to see the show when it opens tonight. The production is a joint effort between Rotorua Boys' High School and Rotorua Girls' High School.

Among the glitter, suits and beehivesHairspray follows bubbly Tracy Turnblad, played by Christian Te Whare, 15.

Set in Baltimore, Maryland, the teenager's dream is to dance on The Corny Collins Show, a local TV dance programme. On her journey she comes across issues of racial segregation.

Rhayvon Mihaere, 16, playing Corny Collins, said the message was all about equality.

Teina Cassidy, 16, who plays Tracey's arch rival Amber Von Tussle, agreed and said the show addressed dark issues.

Josh Kirikino, 15, who plays Link Larkin, said people should go along as it was an "awesome" musical.

"It's got a good message, and we've worked really hard on it."

The students said the process from auditions through to the dress rehearsal had been "tough and challenging" but they couldn't wait for the opening show. The two-act show runs for two hours, and director Bridget Donovan said it was "hugely colourful with infectious music."

"It's joyous and really fun, I really hope everyone is up dancing. It has a strong message, it's a reminder we never want segregation again."

Alongside choreographer Janaye Biddle-Kite and musical director Laura Falconer, the trio are all full-time teachers at Rotorua Girls' High.

"We have 41 kids on stage and 40 behind the scenes... we're really proud of the kids and very excited for [tonight]." Ms Donovan said the students had chosen Hairspray.

"They've been asking for it for five or so years, they all know it and love it. I don't think they realised the physical and emotional energy they would need to put into the show -there are 20 musical numbers - but the commitment they've shown, and balancing it around academics and sports has been fantastic."

Anipatene Williams, 14, said it was her first time involved in a musical.

"It's been awesome...the best part is coming together as a whanau."

WHAT: Hairspray
WHEN:Tonight to July 1.
WHERE: Rotorua Girls' High School Performing Arts Centre.
COST: Tickets from Rotorua Girls' High School office between 8.30am to 3.30pm week days. $12 for students, $15 for adults, $10 for 12 and under. $50 for a family pass of two adults, three children, or family of five. $3 for school matinees.