It isn’t hard to understand why “Hairspray” is a popular musical production. The show is put on in playhouses around the country, and is loved both for its high-energy stage show and its message. This Thursday, when the Market House performs the show for the second straight weekend, audiences will get a chance to hear and see the powerful play.

“It is about a girl that just doesn’t fit the mold,” said director Michael Cochran. “But she embraces that, and she takes it in. There are story lines talking about racism and dealing with parents; it touches almost everything.”

Josh and Lea Morehead, who play the lead roles of Tracy and Edna Turnblad, respectively, brought a unique relationship to the stage as well. They are brother and sister-in-law, and practiced acting skills together before auditioning for the show. Cochran said “Hairspray” is Lea Morehead’s first show, a true testament to her dedication.

“Lea (Morehead) wanted to be in this show,” Cochran said. “She rehearsed with Josh and when she came in, we knew it was a fit. This is her first show, and she is a high school teacher playing a high schooler, but it just fits. “

“Hairspray” is also one of the largest regional casts the theater has hosted. Cochran said the group is regional, coming from as far away as Clarksville, Tenn., and has experience in both singing and dance. Out of the cast of more than 30, 12 are making their debuts at the theater.

“There is just so much talent,” Cochran said. “They all put in a lot of work, but it is very cool to have some Market House veterans and others who are stepping on the stage for the first time.”

Although Cochran said the cast members were chosen based on their ability to dance, he said the expertise levels vary from novice to expert. That made the job of the production’s choreographer, Emily Chapman Hensel, slighty harder.

“She did a great job working with everyone,” Cochran said. “She designed numbers that weren’t too hard for people to pick up, but didn’t make the cast look inexperienced. And, in turn, every one of our actors worked until they perfected  it.”

Call Corianne Egan, a Sun staff writer, at 270-575- 8652 or follow @CoriEgan on Twitter.