"Hairspray," Broadway's musical comedy that inspired a second motion picture by the same name, has hit Marietta.

The Atlanta Lyric Theatre's production of the musical - which won eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, in 2003 - premiered at the Earl Smith Strand Theatre on Friday night. It will continue to run at the theater through Aug. 8.

The Atlanta Lyric Theatre promises that audiences will be swept away by the humor, romance, and of course, the foot-stomping music of "Hairspray," which is set in Baltimore in the 1960s.

The main character, Tracy Turnblad, is described as a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart. An appearance on a local TV dance show transforms her overnight into a teen celebrity. But she makes an even larger impact on the community when she falls in love with heartthrob Link Larkin and ultimately integrates the racially segregated television program, "The Corny Collins Show."

Actress Caitlin Smith, who plays Tracy Turnblad, says she has fallen in love with the character.

"I have learned a lot from Tracy about letting my inner star shine through," said Smith, who has a musical theatre degree from Nashville's Belmont University.

"Tracy has such a wonderful innocence and optimistic attitude. I have fallen in love with her ability to believe in herself and follow her dreams despite the obstacles. As adults, our self-confidence is often shadowed by the doubts we feel."

Smith said she has been a fan of "Hairspray" since watching the original 1988 film when she was younger and then seeing it performed on Broadway.

Marietta resident Jevares C. Myrick has also been a longtime fan of "Hairspray." The 2003 Pebblebrook High School graduate portrays the character Seawood Stubbs - a dancer who falls in love with Tracy's best friend - in the musical.

Myrick, 24, said he believes "Hairspray" remains so popular, "because it's just a simply fun, upbeat musical for masses."

However, there are also some important messages behind the fun and music, Smith said.

"The show addresses issues of racism and body image, and I think people are drawn to a story where the underdog wins," she said. "Hairspray starts at 100 miles per hourand never slows down. The music and choreography is unforgettable. An audience loves a show that leaves them dancing up the aisles on the way out."

The Atlanta Lyric Theatre's production of "Hairspray" is directed by Brandt Blacker, artistic director, and choreographed by Cindy Mora.

Tickets are priced between $25 and $35 with discounts available for children, seniors and students. They're available at the Strand Theatre Box Office or charge-by-phone at (404) 377-9948. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.AtlantaLyricTheatre.com.