Hickory – Hickory Community Theatre is thrilled to welcome Bradshaw Call to the Pamela Livingstone stage for the very first time in its upcoming production of Hairspray. Call will step into the iconic role of Edna Turnblad—a part he’s already familiar with, having recently portrayed her at the Lincoln Theatre Guild.

Set in 1960s Baltimore, Hairspray follows teenager Tracy Turnblad whose big hair and even bigger dreams shake up a segregated television dance show. With catchy tunes, heartfelt humor, and dazzling dance numbers, this Tony Award–winning musical delivers an irresistible message: you really can change the world if you stand up for what’s right and aren’t afraid to dance to your own beat.

“This role has been on my bucket list for more than twenty years,” Call shared. “When I finally got the chance to play Edna, I fell in love with her. She’s so genuine and truly kind and loving. She would do anything for her family, and she’s larger than life.” Now Call gets to step into character as Edna a second time.

Offstage, Call is a baker at Knob Hill Goat Farm – Creamery & Bakery in Morganton, where he lives and works. A graduate of Mars Hill University, he relocated to Morganton from Asheville in the wake of COVID and has lived in the Hickory area for the past four years. He says he was drawn to HCT by its reputation for high-quality productions and is delighted to be part of the company.

Audiences can look forward to experiencing Call’s warmth, humor, and heart in this beloved musical that celebrates acceptance, joy, and the power of community.

Hairspray runs September 5-20 in the Jeffers Theatre, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30pm, Sundays at 2:30pm and Thursday, September 15 at 7:30pm. This show is considered suitable for ages 10 and up, but parents should consult the content advisory online at hickorytheatre.org/hairspray.

Tickets are $18 for adults and $12 for students and youth 18 & under. Visit hickorytheatre.org or call 828-328-2283 to get yours today. This production is produced by MoreRon Productions.

Hickory Community Theatre is a Funded Affiliate of Arts Culture Catawba and receives sustaining support from the North Carolina Arts Council, a division of the Department of Natural and Cultural Resources.. The 77th season is supported by The City of Hickory, A Cleaner World, Shurtape Technologies, Acuna & Acuna Dentistry and BelleAge.

Photo: Bradshaw Call plays Edna Turnblad in Hairspray at Hickory Community Theatre, September 5-20. Photo by Jordan Spears.