South Florida, I’m going to say it simply, but this is your sign to get back into a theater seat. Right now, "Hairspray" is lighting up the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, and it’s exactly the kind of feel-good, high-energy show that just works this time of year. Running through April 26, Slow Burn Theatre Company is doing what they do best taking a beloved musical and making it feel fresh, fun, and completely engaging from start to finish.

From the moment it starts, you’re in Tracy Turnblad’s world, big hair, big dreams, and a story that’s still just as relevant as ever. What I’ve always loved about "Hairspray" is how it doesn’t try too hard. It’s naturally bright, naturally funny, and still manages to say something meaningful about inclusion, representation, and finding your voice. And here, that balance really lands. It never feels heavy, it never feels forced, it just flows in a way that keeps you completely in it.

And yes, we need to talk about the music, because this is one of those shows where every number hits. “Good Morning Baltimore” pulls you in right away, “Welcome to the ’60s” is pure fun, and by the time “You Can’t Stop the Beat” comes around, it’s one of those full-room moments where you can feel the energy shift. The vocals are strong, the choreography keeps everything moving, and there’s this genuine sense of joy coming from the stage that makes it impossible not to get caught up in it.

Visually, it’s exactly what you want. The costumes pop, the staging feels clean but still dynamic, and everything moves at a pace that keeps you engaged without ever feeling overwhelming.

One thing I appreciated about this Slow Burn show is how connected their productions feel. Even with a show this big, there’s still that sense of intention and community, and you can tell this cast is invested, and that makes such a difference in how the story comes across.

What also makes this moment feel special is that Hairspray isn’t just a one-off, but it’s part of a strong season that’s been building all year. Shows like Disney’s Frozen and Beautiful: The Carole King Musical have already brought that mix of nostalgia and storytelling, and Hairspray feels like the perfect spring highlight — light, upbeat, and just genuinely fun to experience live.

But don’t worry, it doesn’t end here. Coming up next, the season shifts into something a little more modern and emotional with “Alanis Morissette’s Jagged Little Pill: The Musical,” running June 13–28. It’s a different tone, more raw, more contemporary, but it’s exactly the kind of follow-up that keeps things interesting and shows how much range this company really has.

And if you’re already thinking ahead (because same), the upcoming 2026–2027 season is already teasing major titles like "Come From Away," "Mean Girls," and "Dear Evan Hansen," which honestly just confirms that Slow Burn is continuing to level up in a big way.

For now though, this is your window. "Hairspray" is here, it’s joyful, it’s meaningful, and it’s the kind of show that leaves you smiling, singing, and maybe even planning your next theater night before you’ve even left your seat.

Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 SW 5th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312. For more information visit BrowardCenter.org or SlowBurnTheatre.org