THE Nicest Kids In Town are back with larger-than life performances, gravity-defying dos and scales-busting voices.

Last week no fewer than 180 aspiring actors and talented young technicians came together as part of the Wyvern Theatre’s Summer Youth Project to bring the people of Swindon an unmissable production of cult musical Hairspray.

After a hectic rehearsal schedule which saw the budding stars run their lines, memorise a catalogue of 60s-inspired ditties and learn tricky dance routines for up to 12 hours day, the cast is ready to hit the stage for five full-scale performances starting tonight.

"It's been a really special and uplifting experience this year,” said Youth Project veteran Carli Green, 18, who plays Seaweed.

“Some old faces have returned and the new creative have really supported us in developing our performances. All the young actors and technicians will remember it for a long time and I expect audiences will too!"

Set in 1960s Baltimore, Hairspray follows Tracy Turnblad, a plus-size teenager with a heart of gold who dreams of dancing on national television.

When she is cast on The Corny Collins Show, she uses her newfound fame to fight for racial equality, bagging local heartthrob Link Larkin along the way.

“In just ten short days the young cast and crew have pulled together to make this production; young people of all ages, sizes, gender, ethnicity and ability,” said directors Ben Occhipinti and Mark Powell.

“Underneath the 60s spectacular we hope people also spot the serious themes that can easily bounce past without being noticed. Tracy and Edna are bullied for being overweight. Seaweed and Motormouth suffer even more serious segregation simply because of the colour of their skin. In our current world, one that’s over half a century after the one Corny Collins is broadcasting in, these public prejudices are still too apparent.

“We hope that people leave the theatre humming the tunes, impressed by their achievements, but also thinking about the acceptance they have demonstrated both on and off stage.”

Applications for next year’s Summer Youth Project will open after Christmas. The next generation of SYP actors is encouraged to come along for a taste of what to expect next summer.

Hairspray runs at the Wyvern Theatre until Sunday 23. Tickets cost between £12 and £14. To book visit swindontheatres.co.uk or call 01793 524481.