45°
Lead players in Stamfords All-School Musical "Hairspray" say the experience has allowed them to learn as actors, stretch as singers and grow as all-around performers.
Zoe Depreta, 16, a Westhill High School sophomore, plays leading lady Tracy Turnblad. I love it. Its such an unbelievable experience, she said. Zoe, who wants to be a working actress, had to project Tracys outgoing qualities to adequately portray the role.
Shes a very bubbly girl. Theres also lots of dancing, singing and acting. Ive never experienced this level before. Zoe also had to get used to carrying some extra weight onstage. Tracy is plus size. Zoe is not. So shell wear padding during the show.
Mikko Valkonen, a 16-year-old Westhill junior, also wears padding. He plays Edna Turnblad, Tracys mom. The role has been played by males since it was first introduced into popular culture in 1988.
Ive always loved the show, said Westhill junior Skyler Ross, 16, who plays Wilbur Turnblad, Tracys dad. Ross, who has been acting since age 7, said he enjoyed the light-hearted role. Its just an incredible experience.
Dijon Whyte, 17, an AITE senior, plays Seaweed, who falls for the wrong girl. At first Dijon was intimidated by the part. But not because of the character he played.
Im a dancer, so Im new to singing, said Dijon, who has performed throughout Stamford and wants to be a professional dancer. He soon became comfortable with the roles singing demands, however.
Westhill junior Kera Lalli, 16, plays Amber, the rival of Zoes character. In real life, the two are best friends.
Kera was happy to get the part, so I was motivated to learn my lines, she said, adding she enjoyed the challenge to act kind of different.
Questions? Comments? Observations? Felicia can be reached at fhunter@mainstreetconnect.com
Click here to follow Daily Voice Stamford and receive free news updates.
