June 2025 | Volume 75
THE HAT GAZETTE
THIS ISSUE: Under the HAT wITH JACQUELINE WINTERS | HAIRSPRAY | SUMMER IN SESSION
UNDER THE HAT: JACQUELINE WINTERS
Tom: Hi Jacqueline! For those who may not be familiar with your work, can you start us off with a brief rundown of your relationship to the arts?
Jacqueline: Hey Tom! Thanks so much for having me for this interview! My relationship with the arts started really early — I began dancing at just three years old with D&R dance limited, and from there, the love for performing never really stopped growing. I got my first real taste of musical theatre with the Glace Bay Glee Club, and quickly - the stage became like a second home to me. My first full musical was Les Misérables at The Savoy Theatre and honestly, that show lit a fire in me. There was something about the depth of the story and the emotion behind it that made me realize how powerful theatre could be. From there, I knew this was something I wanted to keep chasing. I first auditioned for the HAT in 2015, where I was cast as a steel plant sweetheart in Heart of Steel. That production marked the beginning of a really meaningful chapter for me — one where I started to feel like part of a creative community that values storytelling with purpose and heart. Since then, I’ve been so lucky to grow through many different roles and projects, and every step has just deepened my love for the arts.
Tom: It is so nice to get to chat with you. And I am SO EXCITED you’ll be taking on the role of Tracy Turnblad this Summer for Hairspray!!! I’ve known you from the dance world since forever, but I vividly remember a HAT audition you did where you sang “Waving Through A WIndow” from Dear Evan Hansen and having to pick my jaw off the floor. Can you speak a little more about your journey from HAT Resident Company to being in shows like The Penelopiad to this Summer?
Jacqueline: Aw thank you so much! I’m shocked you still remember that audition! Being a part of both the HAT resident company and Glace Bay Glee have given me the opportunity to be in an environment surrounded by so many other emerging artists. The classes they offer really give you the opportunity to explore, take risks and really fine tune your craft! From there, taking part in larger productions like The Penelopiad, A Christmas Carol, Mamma Mia!, and more recently playing Lily St Regis in Annie allowed me to apply everything I’d learned in new and exciting ways. Each show brought something different — whether it was emotional depth, vocal stamina, comedic timing, or connection with younger audiences — and each one pushed me to stretch a little further. And now, stepping into this summer season, I feel like I’m bringing all of that with me—every rehearsal room, every risk I took while performing, and all the lessons I’ve learned along the way. This summer is especially exciting because I feel more grounded in who I am as a performer. I know how to lead when needed, support when needed, and stay open to growth. It’s a full-circle moment in some ways, but also just the next chapter in a journey I’m still really passionate about.
Tom: Truly, this feels like a long overdue spotlight for you and your talent. So, I know Hairspray is a show that is near and dear to your heart. Do you remember the first time you became aware of it and when it planted a seed in your heart?
“If you’re someone who usually avoids musicals—maybe you think they’re too cheesy, too long, or just “not your thing”—Hairspray might be the one to surprise you. ”
Jacqueline: It really is! I remember when the movie version of the musical first came out in 2007. I BEGGED my mom to take me to the drive-in to see it. I was pretty young, but I just remember being completely captivated — the music, the energy, the colours, the characters — it was electric. I truly feel like that movie was life changing for me. Growing up plus sized, you’re kind of told you’re supposed to look a certain way, and if you don’t fit into society's standards, then you’re different. There was something so powerful about seeing a girl like Tracy take up space, lead with kindness, and stand up for what’s right. As I got older and started getting more involved in theatre, Hairspray became one of those dream shows — the kind you always hope you’ll get the chance to be part of one day. I am beyond thankful that this is actually my second production of Hairspray, my first production being in 2019 with Music of the Night! Back then, I was in the ensemble - and I cannot tell you how fun it was being a part of this show. Now, getting to perform in the show as Tracy? It’s more than a full-circle moment. It’s an absolute dream come true!
Tom: I think there are genuinely few shows that possess the heights of cathartic joy Hairspray gets to hit. What is it about the musical that you feel has helped it endure decades and stay a favourite amongst audiences and performers alike?
Jacqueline: Well for starters, From the first beat, Hairspray bursts with energy. The music is infectious, the choreography is high-energy, the costumes are vibrant, and the characters are full of life. But underneath all that joy is a story about racism, body image, discrimination, and the power of young people to create change. Hairspray is one of those shows that makes an audience member feel good, but also makes you think - and I think it’s rare for a show to be that uplifting while still carrying such an important message. Tracy’s belief that everyone deserves a place at the table, no matter what they look like or where they come from — still resonates just as strong today as it did in the show’s setting of the ‘60s. I think that’s why Hairspray hasn’t only lasted all these years - but is still thriving.
Jacqueline Winters posing for a Heart of Steel promotion photo in 2015. Photo by Chris Walzak.
Tom: I know rehearsals have yet to start, but is there anything you’re already looking forward to in this process? I imagine it is going to be such a blast with this creative team and this bonkers talented cast.
Jacqueline: Even though rehearsals haven’t started yet, the excitement is VERY real! I think what I’m most looking forward to is diving into the energy and joy that Hairspray naturally brings out in people. It’s such a feel-good show with such a strong heart, and getting to build that world with this incredible creative team and this stacked cast? It’s going to be electric. With any show, I love watching the performers grow from our first read through right up until closing night. I’m especially excited to rehearse the big ensemble moments — numbers like “You Can’t Stop the Beat”. The moments where the entire cast comes together, and the adrenaline when everyone’s onstage, feeding off each other’s energy, there’s nothing else quite like it!
Tom: There really isn’t. If anyone reading this tends to avoid musicals, is there anything you’d like to say to them to convince them to take a chance on Hairspray?
Jacqueline: Absolutely. If you’re someone who usually avoids musicals—maybe you think they’re too cheesy, too long, or just “not your thing”—Hairspray might be the one to surprise you. It really is going to be a blast, and a show you’ll be sorry you’ve missed. So if you’re hesitant—come for the comedy, stay for the message, and don’t be surprised if you’re cheering by the curtain call!
Tom: Well said. Thank you for doing this and so nice to get to chat! Break all the legs on this one Jacqueline.
Jacqueline: Thanks Tom!
What PATRONS Are Saying about:
“The talent of both the vocalists and the choreography was brilliant. The meal was warm and delicious and served quickly. The most impressive thing about the show is the energy that was evident in every number from the opening till the finale. Well done everyone.”
RD
“Absolutely amazing show and meal! Much respect to all involved in the performance and production. Love the new video screens too.”
BE
“Smiles everywhere! From the entertainers, to the staff/servers to the guests. I haven’t seen so many genuinely happy people enjoying each other’s talents and company!!“
NCF
TWO NEW DATES ADDED FOR THIS AUGUST
LIMITED TICKETS REMAIN
THE MAY RADICAL ACCESS
TICKET LOTTERY
Each month we hold a draw exclusive to RA donors, to remind them how amazing we know they are. The draws are completely random and all donation levels are included.
This month’s prize?
2 tickets to WES BARKER: MAGIC IS FUNNY
WINNERS
LeeAnne MacLeod-Archer
Genevieve Sauve
Steffan MacNeil
NEXT UP: HAIRSPRAY
Directed by Wesley J. Colford
Music Directed by Chris Tsujiuchi
Choreographed by Aaron Aquino-Annobil & Nicole Rosove
You can't stop the beat!
It's 1962 in Baltimore, and the lovable teen, Tracy Turnblad, has only one desire - to dance on the popular "Corny Collins Show." When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star. She must use her newfound power to dethrone the reigning Teen Queen, win the affections of heartthrob, Link Larkin, and integrate a TV network... all without denting her 'do!
This beloved Broadway sensation comes to Cape Breton for the first time in a stunning local production of incredible talent. Join us in Summer 2025 for.. HAIRSPRAY!
Select Seats available for Free every performance while supplies last thanks to Radical Access. There will also be a Pay-What-You-Choose Preview performance that will be launched and go on sale in Spring 2025.
Radical Access donors of $25+/monthly or $300+/annually save $10.00 PER ADULT TICKET as a thanks for your incredible support. Upgrade or start a donation today to instantly get access to this perk.
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Well friends, we’ve made it to the end of a truly incredible Winter/Spring Season! With every department, from the performers to the designers, stepping up their game and creating new personal bests, it’s hard to imagine how we’ll top this. But our sights are already set on our Summer ambitions!
We’ve got one final encore performance of THE PRODUCERS tomorrow (Thursday, May 29th) and then BEST OF BROADWAY kicking off one week later. Following that we’ll be bringing the long awaited hit musical HAIRSPRAY to the mainstage. Meanwhile, over at the Academy we’ll be preparing for DISNEY’S DARE TO DREAM - led by a HAT favourite you haven’t seen in a minute (more on that soon). If you know a young person looking to get involved in theatre this summer we have a handful of spots left in our Production Camps. Act fast to secure their spot today, then catch them on the mainstage in August! All that plus The Sea Shanty Show and Punch Up will both be touring to the Chester Playhouse this Summer.
Things are just heating up and we haven’t even mentioned the Fall… yet.
FINAL REMINDER TO RA DONORS!
Don’t forget to transfer your donations into the new system and start getting your perks!
Already in action for those of you in the new system: discounted tickets for Hairspray, some free film screenings being announced shortly, and more coming this Fall!
Not sure if you’re switched into the new system? Email us at info@highlandartstheatre.com and we can let you know!
** EFT DONORS ARE ALREADY TRANSFERRED **
SHOWING IN JUNE
