The Community Theatre League is set to present the smash-hit Broadway musical “Hairspray” from April 17-19 at the Journey Bank Community Arts Center, a press release said.

“Bursting with heart, humor, and electrifying music, this beloved production brings together one of CTL’s largest and most dynamic casts for an unforgettable theatrical event,” said the press release.

Now in its sixth annual production at the Journey Bank Community Arts Centers, this ongoing collaboration between CTL and the venue traces its roots back to the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, when performance spaces everywhere were navigating unprecedented uncertainty. What began with “The Bridges of Madison County,” an intimate, small-cast production performed for socially distanced audiences, has since grown into a celebrated annual tradition.

Each year, productions have expanded in size, scope and spectacle, evolving into the large-scale, high-energy experiences audiences have come to expect. With the Journey Bank Community Arts Centers offering a grand, historic stage enhanced by state-of-the-art technology, and CTL showcasing the very best of local talent, this tradition has brought hits like “Ragtime,” “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast,” “Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Cinderella,” and “Disney’s The Little Mermaid” to life. “Hairspray” continues that evolution, delivering CTL’s biggest, boldest and most high-energy production yet.

Set in 1960s Baltimore, “Hairspray” follows Tracy Turnblad, a big-hearted teen with big dreams, as she dances her way onto a local TV show and sparks a movement for change during a time of transformation and progress. With infectious songs, high-energy choreography, and larger-than-life characters, the show celebrates the power of inclusion, amplifies voices that deserve to be heard, and reminds audiences that joy and unity can be powerful forces for change.

Featuring a vibrant, diverse cast of performers from across the region, this production reflects the very spirit of community that defines CTL. From big laughs to bigger dance numbers and a hugely important message, “Hairspray” brings together artists of all backgrounds to tell a story that continues to resonate with audiences today.

The production staff of “Hairspray” includes directors Rubie Natal and Aubyn Johnson, as well as Brett Hosterman (music director) and Maiai Cenimo (choreographer).

The cast includes: Kaidyn Rogers (Tracy Turnblad), Seth Sponhouse (Edna Turnblad), Tyler Boyles (Corny Collins), Jove Graham (Wilbur Turnblad), Taylor Elliott (Link Larkin), Xavier Johnston (Seaweed Stubbs), Emily Shapeero (Penny Pingleton), Jenn Shibata (Velma Von Tussle), Naomi Alexander (Amber Von Tussle), Cheri Nicholas (Motormouth Maybelle), Kayla Swann (Little Inez), Caroline Cipriani (Prudy Pingleton), Lydia Tressler (Shelley), Nolan McGrath (Fender/Flasher), Julie Horan (Tammy), Seth Confer (Sketch/Bum), Hannah Marie Swanson (Brenda), Hailey Fafel (IQ), Kelly Long (Lou Ann), Nicole Shoop (Brad), Jasi Shand (Dynamite), Lana Perry (Dynamite), Anny Batista (Dynamite), Paul Young (Gym Teacher/Principal), Tim Heilmann (Harriman Spritzer), Ryan Lannan (Mr. Pinky), Makayla Flournoy-Brown (Cindy Watkins), Sean Nolder (Ensemble), Jabi Harris (Ensemble), Julius Zerbe (Ensemble), Isaiah Gant (Ensemble), Charlesse Smith (Ensemble), Audrie Nicholas (Ensemble), Aleah Stahlnecker (Ensemble), Aurora Beagle (Ensemble), Kristin Perez (Ensemble), Amanda Chapple (Ensemble), Curtis Sherwood (Vocal Ensemble), Josiah Hicks-Lee (Vocal Ensemble), Hannah Bastian (Vocal Ensemble) and Rebecca Winter (Vocal Ensemble).

“This show is pure joy,” said Seth Sponhouse, executive artistic director of CTL, who also takes the stage as Edna Turnblad. “We chose ‘Hairspray’ because it celebrates everything we believe in at CTL, community, inclusion, and lifting every voice. And while it’s set in the 1960s, its message feels just as relevant, if not more so today. It reminds us that change can start with one person, but it takes all of us to keep the momentum going. And on top of that, it’s just an absolute blast. Big laughs, big dance numbers, and a whole lot of heart.”

“Audiences can expect an evening filled with laughter, dazzling visuals, and songs that will have them dancing in their seats,” said the press release. “With its irresistible energy and uplifting message, ‘Hairspray’ is a theatrical experience for all ages.”

Performances of “Hairspray” will be held at 7:30 p.m. April 17 and 2 p.m. April 18-19. For more information or tickets, visit caclive.com or call 570-326-2424.