Dieruff grad Sabrina Joseph going full circle with role in ‘Hairspray’ at State Theatre
When Sabrina Joseph began her musical theater journey, it was in the production of “Hairspray” during her time at Dieruff High School. She’d later go on to participate in the State Theatre’s annual Freddy Awards and take part in the ceremony’s opening and closing performances.
The Dieruff and DeSales University graduate will be making a homecoming visit on Saturday, Feb. 18, to the State, this time as part of the touring production of, ironically enough, “Hairspray.”
Set in the 1960s, “Hairspray” tells the story of 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad (Niki Metcalf ) as she dances her way onto TV’s most popular show and winds up changing the world. The show features a beloved musical score and a talented ensemble cast that also includes Andrew Levitt and Sandie Lee.
Joseph’s role in the touring production is that of a swing, an important position that requires her to master multiple parts. Slightly different than an understudy, Joseph is an offstage performer who goes on often at a moment’s notice if someone in the ensemble is unable to do so.
I recently spoke with Joseph about the upcoming “Hairspray” performance and her local ties to the Lehigh Valley and State Theatre in this exclusive interview.
Q: What can fans expect from the upcoming “Hairspray” tour stop at the State Theatre?
Sabrina Joseph: You can expect a great show with a lot of fun energy, moving moments and, at the end, a big dance party.
Q: What can you tell me about your role in this touring production?
A: I’m a swing for the show, which is an understudy for the ensemble members. My role is to learn multiple ensemble roles and be ready to go on for them at any given time due to someone going on vacation, being sick, or has an injury. Sometimes I may have two days’ notice, but often times it may be hours before the show or even while the show is happening.
Q: Tell me a little about your experience growing up in the Lehigh Valley and your connection to the State Theatre.
A: My first experience with musical theater and pretty much my first taste training was in the Lehigh Valley. “Hairspray” was my introduction to musicals and the first show I did my freshman year at Dieruff. I was also present at the State Theatre’s Freddy Awards the four years I was in high school and a part of the show’s opening and closing performances. That exposure really helped me with the path of my career. I also had a lot of support from director Sarah Pastelyak, who’s still at the school, and choreographer Andrea Forrest. They supported me going to college for the arts.
Q: What do you think it will it be like returning to the State Theatre in a touring production?
A: Definitely emotional. During high school I considered the State Theatre my home. When I first visited it as a teenager, I wasn’t sure how I’d fit in. All I knew was that what I was doing with my friends was fun and it gave me a sense of community. Being able to go back now with the very show that introduced me to musical theater feels very much like a homecoming.
Q: How important do you think it is for students to have access to music and theater in school?
A: It’s very important. Anything within the arts is self-expression and an outlet to explore things about yourself that you probably didn’t know you were capable of doing. It’s
also something where you can watch your growth over time. Growing up, I didn’t have the same access as theater stars who were able to take dance lessons since they were 5 or develop a strong relationship with a vocal coach. I really relied on things that were provided by the school district. Being able to have that exposure and also be with a community that encouraged me to keep going changed how I viewed what a career in the arts would look like.
Q: What’s the best advice you can give someone who’s pursuing a similar artistic journey?
A: The best quality about yourself is who you are, and that can carry you further than you think it can. You don’t need to change to find work in the arts. If you audition and don’t get a show it’s not because you don’t fit in, it’s because you’re destined for something else. Celebrate your body for what it can do and remember to be gentle with yourself on days that are harder.
Q: What are you most looking forward to about your return to the State Theatre?
A: I’m excited to be in Easton again and get to see the people that saw me grow up and discover myself through the arts.
I’ve had former teachers, classmates and friends all reach out to me about being at the State Theatre and can’t wait to see me. It’s also not too far from where my parents live so I’ll be able to see their faces for the day. I’m also curious to see if I’ll feel the same excitement I did when I was in high school and when I first walked through the doors and backstage of the State Theatre.