The longest-continuing performing arts program in Bay Ridge continues to up the ante by producing ambitious musical Broadway acts. This time, Jeff Samaha Theater Productions, which was founded in 1968, is bringing an adaptation of “Hairspray” to the neighborhood.
The same company that brought big productions such as “Mary Poppins” and “Les Miserables” chose the popular show for several reasons. “We wanted to do something that features our community youth,” said Producer and Managing Director Karen Tadross. “Most productions we did for the last couple of years were adult-based so we wanted to give teens the opportunity to shine.”
The other major reason “Hairspray” was chosen is because of the tone. “It’s a super fun show. NBC is doing a live adaptation in November so it’s a nice opportunity to see it live on stage first before it’s on television,” she added. “Another big reason is for the people who just love the ’60s era and the music.”
According to Tadross, the show’s timely theme is also significant. “The message that “Hairspray” conveys is that of tolerance and acceptance. There are so many themes relevant to today, like bullying,” she said. “We just felt a need to put a spotlight on that.”
The characters, some of them considered outcasts, hint at those themes. “If you look at characters, there’s a man playing a mother dressed in drag and it focuses on the transgender community and gay rights,” Tadross added. “It slightly hints at it. There’s a chubby girl who is typically not accepted and finds a way to change that. There are so many different characters struggling with their identities and being told they don’t fit in and creating change. It’s a nice opportunity for parents to have a dialogue with their kids afterwards about bullying and tolerance for all types of people.”
Jeff Samaha Theater Productions has always undertaken ambitious projects. “Mary Poppins” involved several technical aspects that allowed the lead character to glide on stage. With “Hairspray,” director and choreographer Kathy Valentine is expanding this production in both tone and props. “We have some big set pieces that we created, including a 10-foot-tall hairspray can,” Tadross said. “Those things present a challenge. Each production has different challenges. We relish it and look for pieces that will challenge us and how can we do better.”
Audience members can look at the characters for the show’s big impact. “There are great characters and a strong message behind the story,” Tadross said. “The best way to describe those messages is that we are not hitting you over the head with them. We plant the seed. The audience members take the seed and grows it in their own light.”
As for the cast and crew, Tadross wants audiences to expect top-notch acting and singing. “The production features a full cast of 46 performers. Most of them are local Bay Ridgeites or in the vicinity, which we are thrilled about,” she said. “They’re doing wonderfully. It’s a huge dance show. The music is challenging since there are so many styles of music interpretation and it has to be correct. But they are handling it beautifully.”
A full 15-piece orchestra is included in the show and the age of the cast ranges from nine to 65 years old.
“Hairspray” will premiere on Friday, October 7 at 8 p.m. at the theater at The High School of Telecommunications Arts and Technology, 350 67th Street. Additional shows include Saturdays, October 8 and October 15 at 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. and Sundays, October 9 and 16 at 3 p.m.
Reserved seats are $25 and children 10-years-old and younger get in for $15. For tickets, visit www.ridgechorale.com or call 718-989 9566.
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