It’s Hairspray!

The first major school production following the refurbishment of the school hall sparked roaring excitement among the student body. Organised by teachers from across the entire school, including the drama and music departments, ‘Hairspray’ 2018 offered yet another chance for some of the most talented singers, dancers, and actors to make their debut on stage. With over 150 members of both staff and the student body involved in the production, the three nights of performances proved to be a resounding success.

Based upon a true story, Hairspray follows the story of our female protagonist, Tracy Turnblad, as she battles against the harsh criticisms of society. A journey filled with love and hope, the show serves to provide a voice for those who suffer from discrimination and prejudice, highlighting the issue of social change as well as the message that anyone can have the power to change society, so long as they have the courage to stand up and make their voice heard.

This year’s production emerged from many months of hard work and dedication, with weekly rehearsals taking place from the end of August up until the final performance in December.

“Being cast as a principal role in my first ever school production was extremely exciting,” said Chris Wong from 12G2, who played Link Larkin in the show. “I’d never carried this weight of responsibility on the performing stage before, and it was definitely challenging channelling energy into the incredible singing and dancing the musical was able to offer. However, our teaching staff were incredible for guiding us through a frazzling 4 months of long rehearsals, and made the end result something truly amazing.”

Aside from cast and chorus members on stage, the production would not have been possible without the stage crew and technicians working tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the event would run smoothly.

A full orchestra, conducted by Mr Nicholson, played for the entirety of the production, was composed of over 40 gifted musicians that worked together to create a most exciting atmosphere for the cast members and audience.

Drummer and percussionist Ryan Chan, 13D1, described the production as “so much more” than he had initially expected. “Seeing the amount of effort that everybody put in to the performance really blew me away. Also, as a Year 13, the realisation that Hairspray is my last production at Sha Tin College really hit hard when we finished the last performance. Being able to play with such an amazing orchestra is an experience that I will remember deeply.”

The production was a huge success and we hope to see more events like this in the future.

By Emily Wong 12G2 and Clement O’Young 13G1