Holiday Drives at Syracuse Stage

During the run of “Hairspray,” Syracuse Stage is asking patrons to consider bringing non-perishable food items and winter coats/gloves/hats for local families in need.

Non-perishable food items will benefit the pantry at Grace Episcopal Church, 819 Madison St. in Syracuse. Suggested food items include canned stew/soup, canned meats/tuna, canned vegetables, canned fruit, canned beans, canned sauce, baby food or formula, dry pasta, baking mix, peanut butter, jelly, breakfast cereals, oatmeal, grits and rice.

Winter coats, gloves and hats of all sizes are being collected for families of Franklin Elementary School in the Syracuse City School District.

In addition, following each performance, “Hairspray” cast members are collecting donations to support services for people living with HIV or AIDS. Donations will support the DePalmer House (a transitional living center in Syracuse for homeless adults with HIV/AIDS), the Pediatric AIDS Unit at SUNY Upstate Golisano Children’s Hospital, and Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS.

The Tony Award-winning musical “Hairspray” performs through Jan. 4 in the Archbold Theatre at the Syracuse Stage/Drama Complex, 820 East Genesee St. Local critics have praised “Hairspray” as a “can’t miss event in Syracuse this Holiday season,” “sensational” and “enthralling from open to close.” Tickets and info are available at http://www.syracusestage.org.