TWP Blog

Tracy Waitkus Photography 805.264.2771

Avila Beach, California

And finally, the themes touched upon in Hairspray Jr are so important and so relevant in today’s world. Tracy and Edna learn to love and accept themselves despite the criticism and mean-spiritedness that comes their way. And all the characters come to realize that life is better when ALL people are welcome and included. We can’t help but feel hopeful when the show closes!

Coastal Youth Theater has developed a reputation for staging amazing musical productions. I’ve had the pleasure of photographing each one of their shows including Alice in Wonderland Jr, Legally Blonde Jr, Fiddler on the Roof Jr, and Aladdin Jr to name just a few. But I’ll go out on a limb and say that their production of Hairspray Jr in April 2018 has been my absolute favorite CYT show to date!

What made this such a special, stand-out production? First, I would have to say that the show was perfectly cast. CYT has attracted a number of very talented young performers and each of them brought something unique and personal to their Hairspray role. And the cast as a whole had an enormous amount of chemistry! From the Council Members on the Corny Collins show to Motormouth Mabel and her crew, the ensemble scenes and numbers were fantastic. These kids LOVE performing together!

Secondly, the costumes were fabulous. Talented costume designer Jamie Douglas really outdid herself with this show. The colorful wardrobe and all the 1960’s details added so much to the production. For a photographer, this was such a fun, vibrant show to have the privilege of shooting.