Big hair, segregation, hopes of integration, and lots and lots of hairspray.

For the next two weekends, all of that and more can be found at Stuver Auditorium as the theater department presents its fall musical, “Hairspray.” The Broadway musical which inspired a film version is based on a non-musical film of the same title directed by John Waters. The show focuses on a plump teenager named Tracy Turnblad who aspires to be on the Corny Collins TV show. The show opened on Thursday.

After one of the stars leaves, Turnblad decides to try out for the show and makes the part.

While on the show, the big girl with an even bigger heart learns a lesson about racial inequality and stands up for what she believes is right.

Theater arts teacher Wendy Barrett is the director of the musical.

“I hope the audience comes in with an eager enthusiasm to want to sing along and dance and an open mind to pay attention to the serious messages,” Barrett said.

Senior Samantha Kumpe plays the role of Shelly, the nicest girl in town. Through her role, she said she learned a valuable life lesson.

“It should not matter what you look like,” Kumpe said. “If you have talent you should be able to display it.”

Fans of the movie might notice some slight differences in the theater department’s production,  but to Barrett the overall message still remains clear.

“Lessons of tolerance and acceptance are the goal of our musical,” Barrett said.

The musical will be presented on Oct. 29 and Nov. 3 at 7 p.m. and on Oct. 30 and Nov. 6 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $8 for students, $10 for adults.