‘You Can’t Stop The Beat’: ‘Hairspray’ Opens - Award-Winning Musical Brings Music, Laughter And A Message Of Acceptance To The Lake Ida Theater

Set in Baltimore in 1962, “Hairspray” follows Tracy Turnblad, an enthusiastic teenager with big dreams and an even bigger personality. Tracy wants nothing more than to dance on “The Corny Collins Show,” a popular local television program that reflects the music, fashion and social attitudes of the era. When she finally earns a place on the show, however, her ambitions quickly grow beyond becoming a local celebrity.

Tracy recognizes that the program's racial segregation is unfair and decides to use her newfound popularity to challenge the rules and help bring Black and white dancers together. Her efforts put her at odds with those determined to maintain the status quo, but her optimism, determination and willingness to stand up for others help inspire a broader movement for change.

The result is a musical that combines comedy and entertainment with meaningful themes of inclusion, equal opportunity and the courage to challenge discrimination.

Based on the 1988 film written and directed by John Waters, “Hairspray” features a book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan, with music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Shaiman. Its soundtrack draws heavily on the dance music and rhythm and blues sounds of the early 1960's, creating a lively backdrop for Tracy’s journey from enthusiastic teenager to advocate for change.

Audiences can look forward to memorable numbers including “Good Morning Baltimore,” which introduces Tracy’s love for her hometown, and “Welcome to the 60’s,” a celebration of new possibilities and changing attitudes. Other highlights include the emotionally powerful “I Know Where I’ve Been” and the high-energy finale, “You Can’t Stop the Beat.”

The musical’s combination of infectious music, physical comedy and social commentary has helped establish it as a favorite among theatergoers. Since its Broadway debut, “Hairspray” has earned widespread recognition, including eight Tony Awards, among them Best Musical, Best Book of a Musical and Best Original Score. The production also received a Grammy Award for Best Musical Show Album, 10 Drama Desk Awards and four Olivier Awards, including Best New Musical.

Although the story addresses serious issues, “Hairspray” delivers its message through humor, exuberant dancing and characters whose personalities are as memorable as their hairstyles. Its appeal extends across generations, making it an inviting choice for families, longtime musical theater fans and audiences discovering the show for the first time.

The Delray Beach Playhouse has scheduled 16 performances over four weekends, giving residents and visitors several opportunities to see the production. The Thanksgiving holiday weekend includes performances Friday, November 27th, 2026 at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday, November 28th, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.; and Sunday, November 29th, 2026 at 2:00 p.m. The holiday schedule offers families gathering in South Florida another option for spending time together.

Following its opening weekend, performances continue from Friday, December 4th, 2026 – Sunday, December 6th, 2026 with evening and matinee shows, before the production returns for its final weekend from Friday, December 11th, 2026 – Sunday, December 13th, 2026. The closing performance is scheduled for Sunday, December 13th, 2026 at 2:00 p.m.

Single tickets start at $55. “Hairspray” is the first production in the Playhouse’s 2026 – 2027 Main Stage subscription season, which will continue with “Groundhog Day,” “Boynton Beach Club” and “The Shawshank Redemption.” The upcoming lineup offers a range of theatrical experiences for audiences interested in returning throughout the season.

Located at 950 Northwest 9th Street, Delray Beach, Florida 33444 along Lake Ida, the Delray Beach Playhouse offers free parking for theatergoers. A concession stand is open before every performance, providing an opportunity for guests to enjoy refreshments before the curtain rises.

The Playhouse has been presenting theater on Lake Ida since 1947 and holds the distinction of being Palm Beach County’s oldest continuously operating theater. Over the decades, its programming has grown to encompass Off-Broadway musicals and plays, tribute concerts, comedy, cabaret and children’s theater, along with camps and classes designed to introduce younger generations to the performing arts.

With “Hairspray,” the theater begins another season with a production that celebrates the power of music, individuality and standing up for what is right. Tracy Turnblad’s determination to change the rules of a television dance show becomes a reminder that even seemingly small acts of courage can help move a community forward.

As the cast brings the story to life through spirited performances and familiar songs, audiences will have the opportunity to experience a musical whose central message remains relevant: everyone deserves a chance to be heard, to participate and to belong.

At the Delray Beach Playhouse, the new season begins with a beat that audiences can dance to—and a message they can take home long after the final curtain.

Performance Schedule

Friday, November 20th, 2026 — 7:30 p.m. (Opening Night)

Saturday, November 21st, 2026 — 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 22nd, 2026 — 2:00 p.m.
Friday, November 27th, 2026 — 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 28th, 2026 — 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, November 29th, 2026 — 2:00 p.m.
Friday, December 4th, 2026 — 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 5th, 2026 — 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 6th, 2026 — 2:00 p.m.

Friday, December 11th, 2026 — 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, December 12th, 2026 — 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, December 13th, 2026 — 2:00 p.m. (Closing)

Tickets

Single tickets start at $55. “Hairspray” is the first production of the Playhouse’s 2026–27 Main Stage subscription season, which continues with “Groundhog Day,” “Boynton Beach Club” and “The Shawshank Redemption.” For tickets and subscriptions, call the box office at: (561) 272-1281 Or visit: delraybeachplayhouse.com.

Location

The Delray Beach Playhouse, 950 Northwest 9th Street, Delray Beach, Florida 33444, on Lake Ida. Free parking, with a concession stand open before every performance.

About The Playhouse

The Delray Beach Playhouse has been presenting theater on Lake Ida since 1947 and is the oldest continuously operating theater in Palm Beach County. Programming spans Off-Broadway musicals and plays, tribute concerts, comedy, cabaret, children’s theater, camps and classes.