FOR those unfamiliar to the story, Hairspray takes you back to the sixties with upbeat toe-tapping musical numbers, a wonderful colourful set and costumes.

It centres around Tracy Turnblad – a big girl with big hair, a big heart and one passion – to dance on The Corny Collins Show. With the TV station’s plans to cancel the monthly Negro Day, Tracy is forced to open her eyes to the racial inequality that her friends face.

Natasha said: “I watched the original film version of Hairspray when it first came out. I loved it from the start and it impressed me how John Waters could produce a movie that touched me.

“He was able to make a fun and crazy film with a great song score that didn't dilute the serious underlying topic of discrimination.

“I am a voluptuous, black woman who has experienced discrimination. Yet I have gotten through by being strong and understanding that you cannot let ignorance hold you down.

“This is exactly what the film and the play is about, so when I got a chance to audition, I jumped at it.

“If you ask any of my friends they would say Motormouth Maybelle is me in real life - sassy, bold, nurturing and larger than life.

“I hope everyone who comes to watch will be inspired by all the characters and the fantastic music. It's a show for everyone no matter what age, sex or dress size.

“It is a show that doesn't discriminate.”

Tickets to see BAOS' production of Hairspray are available from the box office on 01256 844244 or online at anvilarts.org.uk.