Dartmouth students to perform in GNB Voc-Tech production of “Hairspray”

May 2, 2019

Dartmouth talent will be front and center at the GNB Voc-Tech Theatre Company’s spring production of “Hairspray.”

The production follows a group of Baltimore teenagers as they try to find success on a television dance show against a backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement. It focuses on the group of young teenagers, and their quest to integrate the racially segregated dance television show.

The show includes star Cameron Costa, a Dartmouth senior who plays the lead male character, Link Larkin.

He is caught up in a love triangle between Tracy and Amber, two of the production’s main female characters. Through this budding romance, Larkin’s character is transformed.

“I evolve as a character, starting off as a stereotypical white boy, not really knowing about diversity,” Costa said. “At the end of the show after being convinced by Tracy I switch and fight for equal rights.”

The focus on equality towards the end of the show is not out of the ordinary for Costa.

“In my actual life I’m very about fighting for rights, especially for equality,” Costa said. “I’m glad my character does get to do an evolution between not really knowing and fighting for rights, and going on and fighting for rights at the end.”

Dartmouth’s Sarah Lopes plays Lou Ann. She starts off as a follower of Amber, who despises Tracy. But throughout the show she realizes they aren’t all that different, and reconcile their differences.

Lopes noted the show is a bit different than most shows she’s been in owing to its fast tempo.

“It’s a very fast paced, vibrant show,” Lopes said. “I have been in fast paced shows, but I think this is the fastest. As one scene is leaving another scene is entering on stage, it’s just that quick.”

Nyah Wilson has a small speaking role as Lorraine. She noted the show overall provides a message that does not get talked about every day.

“I think it’s important to put that racial tension out there,” Wilson said. “It’s important to talk about it.”

Show times are May 2, 3, and 4 at 7 p.m., and May 5 at 2 p.m. Shows are at New Bedford Vocational Technical High School, 1121 Ashley Blvd., New Bedford.

Tickets are $10 for students, $12 for seniors, and $15 for adults. Call (508) 998-3321 x424 to order tickets.