2025-26 Season
Own Your Own Story!
Posted October 24, 2025 in Articles
Author: Celeste Houmard
Posted: Oct 24, 2025 / 03:22 PM EDT
Updated: Oct 24, 2025 / 03:36 PM EDT
CLEVELAND (WJW) – Cleveland’s Near West Theatre will be presenting the feel-good Broadway hit “Hairspray” through the holiday season.
The eight-time Tony Award-winning musical “Hairspray” is an iconic show with irresistible songs. This year, you can see it right in the heart of Gordon Square from Nov. 21 through Dec. 7.
According to a news release from Near West Theatre, the production is part of the theater’s 2025-26 season, “Own Your Own Story,” which is meant to celebrate “voices that dare to be different and communities that come together through the arts.”
“Sadly, many of the themes of Hairspray are still relevant in 2025,” co-director Kristy Cruz said. “The idea that we not only judge people but determine their worth by their size, the color of their skin, their ethnic background, sexual orientation, gender affiliation, or age is still prevalent today. Fortunately, the show’s message of finding the courage to stand for what’s right, loving who you are, finding your community, and knowing your worth is equally as strong.”
According to the release, the production team hopes that the show’s audiences walk away feeling uplifted and empowered.
“I think the idea of not being afraid to take up space, use your voice and advocate for the people in your community whose voices aren’t being heard are all very strong messages in this show, and they’re so applicable to today,” co-director Jailyn Harris said. “We hope audiences leave feeling a sense of hope, a call to action and maybe a little relief from the hardship we’re all facing day-to-day. There is room for joy in every resistance and choosing to love and live as your authentic self is more than enough.”
‘Hairspray” will be shown at Near West Theatre’s ADA-compliant venue located at 6702 Detroit Ave.
Tickets cost $20. To get your tickets now, click here for call the box office at 216-961-6391, weekdays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Performance dates:
Click here for more details about the musical.
Original Article: https://fox8.com/news/near-west-theatre-presents-broadway-hit-hairspray-in-heart-of-gordon-sq
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