Tracy Turnblad

Tracy Turnblad is a big girl with an even bigger personality who just wants to dance on the Corny Collins Show. She does not see limits, she sees opportunities. When she discovers that the show is segregated, she fights to change it, not with anger but with joy, inclusion, and the irresistible power of dance.

Personality for Dance

Tracy moves with infectious, uncontainable energy. She cannot hear music without dancing. She dances in her bedroom, in the street, in detention, everywhere. Her style is not polished or technically perfect, it is joyful and genuine. She puts her whole heart into every step. What she lacks in refinement she makes up for with enthusiasm and natural rhythm. She takes up space unapologetically and brings everyone around her into the dance.

The Outfit

Top

A bright, cheerful 1960s blouse or a fitted top with a Peter Pan collar. Bold colors and fun prints. For the Corny Collins show, a matching outfit with the other dancers.

Bottom

A full circle skirt in a bright color or bold print, hitting just below the knee. Petticoat underneath for volume. This is the classic 60s silhouette.

Accessories

A big hairdo (see hair]. Pearl or bead necklace. A small purse. Bright lipstick.

Shoes

Saddle shoes or white go-go boots. Character shoes in white or a fun color.

Hair

Big. Really big. A teased, voluminous 60s updo or bouffant. This is Hairspray after all. The bigger the hair, the better. Wigs are helpful here.

Special Details

A can of hairspray as a recurring prop. A portable radio she dances with. For Good Morning Baltimore, the whole neighborhood wakes up around her as she dances through the streets.

Movement Tips

Good Morning Baltimore should feel like the most exciting morning of her life, every morning. She greets the day with full-body enthusiasm.
She dances with her whole body. Nothing is held back, nothing is restrained.
When she gets on the Corny Collins show, let the joy be overwhelming. She has achieved her dream.
She includes everyone. In group numbers, she literally pulls people into the dance who are standing on the sidelines.
You Can't Stop the Beat is everything she believes made physical. Joy, inclusion, community, all in one number.

Age Recommendations

Best for ages 11-17. Tracy suits confident, joyful dancers with natural charisma and strong jazz or musical theater skills. The role needs someone who can command the stage with personality and energy. Technique matters less than heart.