Hairspray Jr.

Brand new company Luminary Entertainment bursts into business with this bright and breezy trip to the 1960s, a youth production of Hairspray Jr. Ensuring their future from the outset, Luminary’s cast features young people from 9 to 17.

A simple set design, over three levels, by Luke Miller, throws the focus firmly on the young cast, while Guy Jackson and Bailey Fellows have created effective light and sound design.

Laura Foster, a picture-perfect Tracy, likeable, with a genuine smile, leads the cast, and is paired nicely with Archer Harwood, who creates a believable Link Larkin. Director Jayde Carson has used the age gap in this cast to effect in the casting of Tracy’s parents, with very young and short Kody Fellows delivering a lovely performance as Wilbur, opposite one of the eldest and tallest cast members, Zac Mussura, bravely donning drag, as Edna.

Ebony Uetake shines as Amber Von Tussle in a standout performance, nicely supported by Olivia Fellows, a lovely Velma Von Tussle. Darcey McDonald, whom I believe is making her Musical Theatre debut, is an impressive Penny Singleton, paired well with Lexi Baggaley’s well placed Prudy. Jacob Clayton is a confident and charismatic Corny Collins.

Rea Selepe is outstanding as Seaweed J. Stubbs, a convincing sibling to real-life sister Halle Selepe, who makes a magnificent stage debut as Little Inez. Kiki Van Wilde brings a big voice and a lot of charm to Motormouth Maybelle (unfortunately not given enough to do in the junior version).

The cast of 29, including several in their first stage appearances, work hard, with a good sense of ensemble - making the most of cameos and short appearances. Special mention to Luna Har Paz for a top-notch moment as Matron. They are well guided by director Jayde Cason, vocal director Sam Ferguson and choreographer Rachel Vonk.

The matinee show I attended, was a little low on audience, so I would love to encourage friends, family, and supporters of youth and community theatre to get along to see this show. Packed with promise and potential, this young cast deserves our support.

Kimberley Shaw