BIG hairdos and big excitement abound as budding seven to 18-year-old stars of the stage rehearse larger-than-life musical numbers from Hairspray JR in Hamble.

Adapted from the legendary Broadway show that won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this feel-good production is part of local theatre company Light UP’s annual Summer Youth Project.

The project aims to bring young people together for two weeks, resulting in a professionally staged production at The Rose Theatre, located at Barton Peveril College, Eastleigh tomorrow (Friday August 13).

Hairspray JR. is a dynamic musical with an important message: that acceptance comes in all shapes, sizes, and cultures. The story follows Tracy Turnblad, a full-figured girl with large hair and a big heart, who has only one passion – to dance. When her determination lands her a spot on a local television dance program, The Corny Collins Show, she is transformed from an outsider to an irrepressible teen celebrity who fights for inclusion and rallies against racial segregation.

Tickets for shows at 2.30pm and 7pm are on sale now.