Pretty as a Penny Debuts ‘Hairspray’ at Lawrenceville Arts Center
Pretty as a Penny Productions is launching its inaugural theatrical production with the Tony Award-winning Broadway musical Hairspray, running at the Lawrenceville Arts Center from October 2–24, 2026. Dedicated to expanding access to the performing arts across Georgia, Pretty as a Penny Productions will direct net ticket proceeds from this high-energy landmark staging toward funding free local youth arts workshops and creative education programs.
Founded with a mission to foster inclusive, community-centered storytelling while empowering the next generation of creatives, Pretty as a Penny Productions makes its professional debut with one of American theatre’s most beloved musicals. Set in 1962, Hairspray follows Tracy Turnblad, a big-hearted teenager with even bigger hair, whose dream is to dance on the popular local television phenomenon, The Corny Collins Show. When her passion and rhythm land her a spot on the broadcast, Tracy uses her new platform to spark a movement, leading a campaign to integrate the show and advocate for equality in her community.
Packed with iconic, soul-infused numbers including “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” “Good Morning Baltimore,” and “Welcome to the 60s,” this inaugural production pairs Broadway-caliber vocal performances and dazzling vintage costume design with a message about breaking down barriers and driving social progress. Beyond the stage, every ticket purchased directly supports the company’s core mission to break down economic barriers in arts education by funding free, hands-on theatre and music workshops for local youth who otherwise lack access to creative enrichment.
Presented at the state-of-the-art Lawrenceville Arts Center, the limited four-week engagement serves as a flagship theatrical event for Gwinnett County’s fall arts calendar. The production offers evening and matinee performances designed to engage theatre lovers of all ages while establishing Pretty as a Penny Productions as a vital new champion for community-driven arts.
Tickets are on sale now exclusively through the official Lawrenceville Arts Center box office at lvilleartscenter.com/eventer/
Main image courtesy of 'Hairspray'
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