Final curtain on Hairspray

Largest Ever School Production Wows Audiences

Hairspray, the Tony award-winning Broadway musical based on the 1988 film by John Waters, has wowed audiences at Leeds East Academy. The number of students involved in this production, from Years 7 to 11, presented the school's largest cast to date.

Set in 1962, the musical follows teenager Tracy Turnblad and her dream to dance live on The Corny Collins Show. Against all odds, Tracy wins the television competition and becomes an unlikely dance sensation and national celebrity.

A social commentary on prejudice and freedom of expression, Hairspray is full of dance, comedy and glorious Technicolor, featuring classic dance hits and the famous ensemble routine You Can’t Stop The Beat.

Ms. Spencer-Matthews, director, explains: “Our cast members have worked extremely hard over the past twelve weeks, demonstrating our 7 Core Values spectacularly. Lead actors Jade and Kyle have been an inspiration to our younger pupils with their commitment, focus and talent. Mr Walls, Mr Chrichton and the Technology students have also worked absolute wonders to produce our amazing set. The PA team would like to thank everyone involved, especially the parents of our cast for their continued support.”

Following the first night performance, a proud grandparent said: "Your children are wonderful, wonderful! You could see on each and everyone one of their faces that they had put their heart and soul into the show and it certainly paid off. You should be very proud."

Mr Stokes added: "The students absolutely blew me away when I saw Hairspray. The time and effort from all staff and students cannot be underestimated and the hard work paid off with the students delivering an absolutely fabulous performance! Well done and thank you to all involved."

On 23rd March, Mr Stokes thanked the cast and crew of the show. Click the video for more: