By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
MJC Theater Staging Musical Hairspray Play
MJC Hairspray PIX

The Modesto Junior College Theater, Music and Dance Departments present the musical Hairspray on March 16, 17, 22, 23 and 24 at 7 p.m. and March 25 at 2 p.m. in the Auditorium of the Performing and Media Arts Center on East Campus, 435 College Ave., Modesto.

The 1950s are out, and change is in the air. Hairspray, winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, provides family-friendly fun, piled bouffant-high with laughter, romance, 1960s-style dance music and tuneful songs.

It’s 1962 in Baltimore, and lovable plus-size teenager 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!

Lead cast members include: Marilyn Diaz-Norris as Tracy Turnblad, Jesse Garcia as Link Larkin, Christine Ford as Penny Pingleton, Andrew Merrill as Seaweed J. Stubbs, Tasha Williams as Motormouth Maybelle, Ambrosia Lobo as Velma Von Tussle, Jasmine Soria as Amber Von Tussle, Patrick Norris as Corny Collins, Philip Azevedo as Edna Turnblad, and Andrew Kelly as Wilbur Turnblad.

The production is directed by MJC Professor of Theater Arts Lynette Borrelli-Glidewell, with Music Professor Cathryn Tortell as musical director and Dance Professor Kim T. Davis as choreographer. Costumes are designed by Mary Reilly, and Ty Helton and Kevin Saunders are providing set and lighting design for the production.

Tickets are $15 general admission and $12 for students, seniors and children, and are available in advance through the MJC Box Office, (209) 676-6776, open Tuesday through Friday, noon to 5 p.m., online at www.mjc.tix.com or at the door beginning 90 minutes prior to each performance.