The days leading up to the premiere of a show can be exciting. The week before, however, is called, “Tech Week,” and cast and crew alike deem it the most stressful. “Hairspray” is no exception.

“I play Seaweed Stubbs in this year’s production,” Cayden McCoy (10) said.  “I love theatre, and ‘Hairspray’ seemed like a fun musical, a good way to get involved. However, the week before opening night is the most stressful part of the production.  We rehearse later and try to get all our cues together in a short amount of time.”

The success of the production depends on perfect execution of all the small things, the many moving parts and roles to fill on stage and behind the curtain.

“The most stressful thing about the weeks leading up to the performance is putting everything all together to solidify a perfect show,” Artis Galloway (10) said.

However, along with the constant anxiety that comes with the buildup to opening night, the excitement can be felt in every cast and crew member.

“The best part about being a part of this production would have to be doing something I love with my friends,” McCoy said.

Being a part of such a large production builds chemistry—the castmates who recite their lines repeatedly to one another until perfection, the behind-the-scenes coordinators who perfect the show.  ‘Hairspray’, like other theatre endeavors, is a team effort, where those involved rely on others to deliver and do their part for the benefit of the show.

“Watching the progress of the show and seeing all the scenes finally come together is the best part of being involved with ‘Hairspray’,” Galloway said.

The work pays off.  The countless hours of preparation in school and outside of Springs boil down to the typical grand performances Charger theatre treats Springs to every year.  All eyes will be on the stage, and the butterflies and nerves will be afterthoughts.