Hairspray

Bloomington Center for the Arts
1800 W. Old Shakopee Rd. Bloomington

Based on John Waters' cult classic movie Hairspray, this live musical adaptation swept the 2003 Tony Awards and inspired a remake of the classic film -- this time starring John Travolta in drag. Set in 1962, Hairspray follows "pleasantly plump" teenager Tracy Turnblad, whose dream is to dance on a local TV dance program. When she wins a spot, she becomes an overnight celebrity and launches a campaign to integrate the show, which until then did not allow black dancers (except once a month on "Negro Day"). Packed with catchy tunes that nod to Elvis and Motown and a plot that's both bubblegum sweet and socially relevant, this feel-good musical takes the stage at Bloomington Center for the Arts.