Theatre UAB will present the musical comedy “Hairspray,” fast-paced, family-friendly, filled with fantastic costumes and featuring a cast of 28 actors, April 11-15.

Theatre UAB is the performance company of the University of Alabama at Birmingham College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Theatre.

Based on the 1988 John Waters film by the same name, it’s the story of young, vibrant Tracy Turnblad in 1962 Baltimore. Determined to dance on “The Corny Collins Show,” Tracy sets out on a mission to make that a reality. After being rejected from her audition, she meets Seaweed, who introduces her to new dance moves that land her a coveted place on the show. After becoming an overnight success, Tracy uses her newfound influence to advocate for racial integration on the television show. Throughout the musical, Tracy is the catalyst for change, not only within her own thinking, but also the people and the world around her.

Shows are at 7:30 p.m. April 11-14 and at 2 p.m. April 15, in UAB’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center, Sirote Theatre. Tickets are $15 and $20, $6 for students, and $10 for UAB employees and senior citizens. For tickets, call 205-975-2787 or go to www.AlysStephens.org. Visit Theatre UAB online at www.uab.edu/cas/theatre.

While Theatre UAB’s production is full of large, musical numbers, with fancy sets, costumes and hair, at its core sits the fight for equal rights, says co-director and choreographer Roy Lightner, MFA, assistant professor.

“This production celebrates acceptance,” Lightner said. “Acceptance of race, love, body and dreams. How beautiful that song and dance is used as the vehicle to demand equality.”