CEDAR FALLS — Protests, outrage, the continued fight for inclusion, and the occasional musical number. Marshall County Democratic Party Co-Chair Joshua Drewelow plays Edna Turnblad in the Cedar Falls Community Theater production of “Hairspray.”

Having been rehearsing since the beginning of April, the production premiered just two days before nationwide “No Kings” protests were held. Drewelow spoke about the coincidental timing of the premiere.

“The timing feels serendipitous. While Hairspray bursts with color and music, it’s fundamentally about pushing back against unjust systems — exactly what the No Kings protest was all about. Whether it’s fighting censorship, protecting LGBTQ+ youth, or demanding representative government, the underlying thread is the same: people deserve dignity, voice, and space to be fully themselves,” he said. “It’s powerful to be part of a show that celebrates difference and joy the night before thousands of Iowans take to the streets to protest authoritarianism. Both moments — on stage and in the streets — are about reclaiming space, telling our stories, and refusing to let fear win. It reminds us that the arts and activism have always moved in rhythm with each other.”

The premiere of the play also lines up with Pride Month. And although Drewelow didn’t play a part in deciding to schedule the show in June, he does believe the themes are “especially impactful” as a result.

A main staple of the play is the fight for equality and inclusion, which is still relevant today although it has changed in different ways.

“It’s evolved — but not in a straight line. We’ve made undeniable strides in civil rights, LGBTQ+ visibility, and gender equity. But with every step forward, we’ve also seen backlash. The current wave of anti-LGBTQ+ legislation, the gutting of public education systems, and the attack on bodily autonomy are reminders that progress must be defended, not just assumed,” Drewelow said. “In many ways, Hairspray shows us both how far we’ve come and how much further we have to go. It’s a reminder that the struggle for equality is generational — and that each generation must pick up the baton. We can’t treat justice like a destination. It’s a constant effort, and art like this plays a critical role in keeping that conversation alive.”

The original John Waters movie came out in 1988. Drewelow remarked on the lasting reputation of the play.

“The great thing about theater is that everyone watching brings their own perspective. We might all see the same show, but it can mean different things to each of us. Even though Hairspray is set in the ’60s and written in the ’80s, it still hits home in 2025. It’s about people who want to be seen and heard–who are tired of being told they’re not enough. Whether it’s racism, body image, or gender norms, the show challenges all the stuff that makes people feel small,” Drewelow said. “Sadly, these issues are still very real today, especially for Black, brown, queer, and trans folks. What makes Hairspray special is that it doesn’t just fight back — it also celebrates. It shows that change isn’t just about laws — it’s also about joy, community, and being proud of who you are.”

A self-confessed musical theater nerd, Drewelow has acted in nine shows to date, all musicals.

“It’s always been a fun way for me to be creative and connect with others,” he said.

Drewelow has a laundry list of characters he wishes to one day have the opportunity to play, from Uncle Fester in The Addams Family Musical to Lennie from Of Mice and Men. This is the actor’s first time playing the character of Edna Turnblad, but Drewelow has been having fun and talked about his character.

“She’s got so much heart and humor, and her personal growth makes her such a meaningful character to play — especially now,” he said.

Drewelow had this to say about being the Marshall County Democratic Party Co-Chair playing a character in drag during Pride month as “No Kings” protests went on nationwide, “Honestly, I see it as the perfect convergence of everything I believe in. Pride Month is about visibility, resistance, and celebration — three things that drag embodies beautifully. Playing Edna Turnblad isn’t just about putting on a costume — it’s about stepping into a character who learns to embrace change, challenge her fears, and fight for what’s right. That journey mirrors what so many people are experiencing in real life. My involvement with the Marshall County Democrats means being unapologetically visible and supportive, especially at a time when drag performers, queer youth, and educators are being targeted. Art has always been a form of resistance, and right now, we need both political action and cultural courage to move forward.”

Anyone who feels inspired by the enduring wonder of productions like “Hairspray” is encouraged to get involved in theater and the arts, especially community theater. Keep an eye out for any upcoming auditions or shows at the Marshalltown Community Theater, so you don’t miss out on the fun.

The Cedar Falls Community Theater production of “Hairspray” runs through June 22. Don’t miss out on the timely show, and get your tickets at www.mycfct.org for a chance to see the local Democratic leader donning a dress and an updo, belting out a tune in this ever-relevant classic.