Kentridge High School proudly presents the high-energy, feel-good musical “Hairspray,” running April 30 through May 10.
This spring’s production is especially meaningful as it marks the final curtain call for longtime director Jennifer Grajewski, who is retiring after an extraordinary 43-year career in education, including 24 years leading Kentridge’s acclaimed drama program.
Grajewski has been a cornerstone of the Kent School District’s performing arts scene, directing hundreds of students and earning top honors at the 5th Avenue High School Musical Theatre Awards. Under her leadership, Kentridge won Best Overall Production for “Hairspray” in 2016 and “Footloose” in 2006, helping to cement the program’s reputation for excellence. She was also named Outstanding Arts Educator in 2020.
Beyond the classroom, Grajewski has been a driving force in the local arts community as founder and artistic director of the nonprofit community theater, At the Ridge Theatre. For the past 25 years, she has awarded more than $300,000 in scholarships to local performers and welcomed over 1,500 children to theater camps designed to train and inspire the next generation of artists. She plans to continue her work in community theater and plans to expand At the Ridge Theatre into a year-round program offering educational and performance opportunities for all ages across the region.
“Hairspray” is a fitting farewell for a director who has long championed student voice, inclusion, and creative expression. Set in 1960s Baltimore, “Hairspray” follows spirited teen Tracy Turnblad as she dances her way onto the Corny Collins Show with big dreams and even bigger hair. Audiences can expect toe-tapping tunes, dazzling choreography, and a cast of incredibly talented students who bring this iconic story to life.
Performances will be at the Kentridge High School Performing Arts Center, 12430 SE 208th St., April 30 through May 10, Wednesdays through Saturdays at 7 p.m., with additional matinees at 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 3 and May 10.
Tickets are available at http://linktr.ee/kentridgeplayers. Prices are $8 to $10.
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