Central Catholic Presents 97th Spring Musical, Hairspray, May 8-10 at Valentine Theatre
The Central Catholic High School music department announces its 97th consecutive spring musical production, Hairspray. The show will take place May 8, 9, and 10 at the Valentine Theatre. Show times are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m., and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets will be available at valentinetheatre.com/events beginning March 6 at 4 p.m. You may also call (419) 242-2787 or visit the box office at 410 Adams Street in downtown Toledo to purchase tickets.
From Friday, March 6 at 4 p.m. through Friday, March 20 at 4 p.m., adult ticket prices will be $16. After that, adult ticket prices will be $20. Student tickets are $12.
The setting of the show is Baltimore in 1962, where the lovable plus-sized teen, 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!
“We are so excited to bring Hairspray to the stage for our 97th annual spring musical,” said Rebecca Buckman ‘04, Director of Vocal Music and the Glee Club. “This show was chosen not only for its high-energy music and vibrant choreography, but for its powerful message of inclusion, courage, and standing up for what is right. Since casting at the end of January, our students have made tremendous progress. The score is both moving and engaging, the choreography is fun and energetic, and the cast has been thoughtfully exploring their staging and character work during blocking. To deepen their understanding, students completed a history project on the 1960s and the end of segregation, which has helped them connect more authentically to the emotional and inspiring moments in the show. Watching them grow - not just as performers, but as storytellers who understand the significance behind the story - has been incredibly rewarding.”
“There are many factors that we consider when choosing a musical each year, and before auditions there is always a moment when I wonder if this is the right show for this time and for these kids,” added Angela Mills, musical director and CCHS English and Drama teacher. “As the weeks have passed since auditions, the answer could not be more clear - a resounding YES! Our students have jumped right in on energetic choreography and vocal rehearsals, and we can't wait to show everyone what we have in store this year!”
Junior Brynn Curtis plays the role of Tracy Turnblad in the show. This is her second year in the Glee Club, and last year she played Flounder in Central Catholic’s production of The Little Mermaid. “I've been doing musical theater for years, so when I chose to attend CCHS, I knew that I would want to be a part of the Glee Club,” Brynn said. “Musical season is one of the highlights of my year! I think people should come out to see the show because we have a strong, dedicated group of students working hard to share the story of Hairspray.”
Sophomore Peter Bertke will be playing Corny Collins in the musical. This is Peter’s first year being in the Glee Club after participating in the CCHS Mixed Chorus as a freshman. “When I was in seventh grade, my family came to see Central Catholic put on Cinderella at the Valentine Theatre, and I was really impressed with how well done and professional looking the musical was,” he recalled. “I knew that when I got to high school, I wanted to join the Glee Club so I could put on a performance just as good as that one.
“This year’s show has such an amazing cast! Hairspray is a difficult show to put on because of its diverse cast and the different types of talent needed for it, but all of our leads and the ensemble are amazing singers, actors, and dancers. All of the cast is working so hard to get this show to its full potential, and I truly believe Hairspray is going to be one of the best shows Central Catholic has put on in years!”
