(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — The music is pumping. The hairspray is flying. And the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center is buzzing with excitement. The Broadway smash Hairspray lights up the stage through June 1. With bold moves, big laughs, and an even bigger heart, the production has already launched its run with high energy and heartfelt performances—and there’s still time for audiences to catch the fun.
Set in 1962 Baltimore, Hairspray follows the irrepressible Tracy Turnblad, a plus-sized teen who dreams of dancing on The Corny Collins Show. When her wish comes true, Tracy rockets into the public eye—but rather than settle into stardom, she takes on a much bigger mission: integrating the television show and changing the conversation about who gets to be seen and celebrated. Fueled by a vibrant score by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, including showstoppers like “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” Hairspray delivers a joyful, high-powered musical that encourages everyone to dance to their own rhythm.
Whether you’re a fan of dazzling choreography, socially conscious storytelling, or just looking for a feel-good night at the theater, Hairspray offers something for all generations. The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center’s intimate venue makes for an up-close experience where every seat feels like a front row. For those who haven’t yet attended, this is a show worth making time for—full of laughter, relevance, and the kind of live performance magic that stays with you.
The celebration continues on Saturday, May 31, when the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation hosts the 2025 Spotlight Awards, its signature community fundraiser. Guests will be treated to 1960s diner-style fare prepared fresh on-site by Rock N Roll Cafe, followed by desserts and a silent auction. After a brief awards ceremony, the night concludes with a special performance of Hairspray, offering a full evening of recognition, reflection, and entertainment.
Honorees at this year’s Spotlight Awards include Jan Glasband, who will be recognized as the 2025 Pillar of the Arts. According to the Actors’ Repertory Theatre of Simi, Glasband began her arts journey in 1989 when she founded Performance Arts Workshops (PAW) to provide cultural enrichment for her daughters. PAW evolved into the Actors’ Repertory Theatre of Simi (ARTS), which inaugurated the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center in 1995 with You’re A Good Man, Charlie Brown. Since then, Glasband has directed or produced over 100 productions and continues to serve as Executive Program Director of the Simi Valley Cultural Association.
Augusto Guardado will be honored as the 2025 Artist of the Year. According to Broadway World, Guardado served as choreographer for SVCAC’s 2024 production of In the Heights, lending energy, authenticity, and precision to a show that resonated deeply with audiences. Anna Marie Melendrez will be recognized as the 2025 Young Artist of the Year for her emerging talent, while Suzy Jeffords will be named 2025 Educator of the Year for her dedication to inspiring young minds through the arts. Audrey Childress, the 2025 Volunteer of the Year, will be honored for her commitment behind the scenes and steadfast support of local productions.
The Spotlight Awards begin at 6 p.m. and serve as a key fundraiser for the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to arts programming, youth engagement, and community outreach.
Since opening in 1995, the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center has stood as a beacon for local creativity, performance, and storytelling. Located in a restored 1920s-era landmark, the Center offers a year-round lineup of theatrical productions, live music, family events, and youth showcases, all aimed at making the performing arts accessible and enriching for the entire community.
Hairspray is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. For more details, visit www.mtishows.com.
Tickets for Hairspray are $37 for adults, $32 for seniors and students, and $27 for children. Group rates are available for parties of ten or more, and a $3 per ticket processing fee applies to all purchases. For showtimes, Spotlight Awards details, or to purchase tickets, visit www.svvac.org/mainstage or stop by the box office at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center.
