A COMMUNITY theatre group has won backing from a national hair salon chain ahead of its latest production, the Broadway musical Hairspray.

Darlington Operatic Society (OS) has teamed up with Saks, which was founded in Darlington, to provide sponsorship for the production, which is famous for its characters' big hair and big personalities.

Society chairman Julian Cound said: “It is fantastic to have the support of Saks for this production – a perfect match in all respects.

"The financial implications of putting on one of our productions at the Civic Theatre are immense. The budget for Hairspray is in the region of £105,000 so any financial support is welcome and we are so grateful to Saks for agreeing to sponsor us in this way.”

Dennis Cheesebrough, chairman and co-founder of Saks International, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Darlington OS in this way. It’s our chance to support the arts through an equally driven, professional local charity. We can’t wait to see the production in April.”

Darlington OS will perform Hairspray, which follows the fortunes of Tracy Turnblad in 1960s Baltimore, between Wednesday, April 22 and Saturday, May 2, with a 2pm matinee on Saturday, April 25.

Tickets are £20 for adults and £14 for children aged 14 and under.

For tickets call 01325 244659 or book online at darlingtonos.org.uk