hairspray uk tour 2022

Hairspray UK Tour

Hairspray the Musical UK Tour returns in 2024!  Initial dates have been announced… Sign up to our touring alerts and we'll let you know when tickets go on sale.

HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL TOUR - 2024 / 2025 DATES & TICKETS

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YOU CAN'T STOP THE BEAT - HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL IS BACK!

Smash-hit musical Hairspray is set to tour the UK and Ireland next year in a major new production co-directed by Brenda Edwards.

Brenda Edwards will make her directorial debut as she joins Paul Kerryson to direct the 2024/25 touring production alongside award-winning choreographer Drew McOnie.

The Loose Women panelist has previously played ‘Motormouth' Maybelle in three tours of Hairspray, as well as appearing We Will Rock You and Chicago.

Brenda Edwards said: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be invited by the producers to make my directorial debut on the show as a co-director with Paul Kerryson. Hairspray, and this production in particular, has been such a huge part of my life. The show’s story and themes are as relevant as ever and I cannot wait to hold the open auditions to discover a new cast and work together to present a vibrant new production of this timeless musical for everyone to enjoy.”

WHAT IS HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL ABOUT?

It’s Baltimore 1962, where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for equality, bagging local heartthrob Link Larkin along the way.

Hairspray  is a musical based on the 1988 film of the same name which starred Divine and Ricki Lake by cult filmmaker John Waters. With music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman  Hairspray  originally opened to rave reviews on Broadway in 2002 and subsequently won eight Tony Awards. The production opened in London at the Shaftesbury Theatre in 2007 and won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Musical, Best Actor in a Musical, Best Actress in a Musical and Best Performance in a Supporting Role.

Proving to be an international success, Hairspray has also opened in South Africa, Japan, South Korea, China and Dubai. Following the musical’s phenomenal success on stage, a film of the musical was released in 2007 which starred John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer and James Marsden.

HAIRSPRAY UK TOUR - THE CAST & CREATIVE

*Joanne Clifton will join the cast from the  09 Sep .

Original Screenplay –  John Waters Book – Mark O'Donnell & Thomas Meehan Composer/Co-Lyricist – Marc Shaiman Lyrics – Scott Wittman & Marc Shaiman Directors – Paul Kerryson / Brenda Edwards Choreographer – Drew McOnie

WATCH THE VIDEO TRAILER FOR HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL!

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• Bournemouth
• Derry / Londonderry
• High Wycombe
• Kingston upon Thames
• Milton Keynes
• Newcastle Upon Tyne
• Northampton
• Peterborough
• Southampton
• Southend-on-Sea
• Stockton-on-Tees
• Stoke-on-Trent
• Wolverhampton

Beyond the Curtain

Theatrical Content Including Reviews and Interviews

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Hairspray - royal and derngate (uk tour).

The musical set in Baltimore in 1962 delivers a punchy piece about race and equality that feels more relevant than ever as we follow Tracy Turnblad and her wish for getting her favourite TV show fully integrated. 

The energy bursts from the cast and through to the audience on a  cold January  opening night.  Drew McOnie's lively, vibrant choreography is delivered with excellence by a tremendous company.  Visually the tour does lack a bit of the spectacle compared to previous stagings of the show, especially in the set design but if the set is a little lacking in places the cast and Philip Gladwell's colourful lighting more than makes up for it. 

Leading the production and the literal 'New Girl In Town' is Katie Brace who makes her professional debut as Tracy Turnblad. She is perfectly cast and brings all the right emotions and heart to the character. She has boundless energy and gorgeous vocals and mirroring Tracy's journey I expect big things will follow for Brace.

Matching Brace is another star turn from Rebecca Jayne-Davies who plays Tracy's best friend, Penny Pingleton. She manages to effectively portray Penny being both under the thumb of her mother whilst bringing out her own teenage desires that are waiting to be discovered. 

Tracy's larger-than-life parents are brought to life by Alex Bourne as Edna and Norman Pace as Wilbur Turnblad. Bourne does a fine job and has a likeable stage presence to her Edna whilst Pace rings the right cartoonish goofiness to his Wilbur. Together the pair deliver 'You're Timeless To Me' with humour that will have you in stitches of laughter.

Joshua Pearson understudies Link Larkin with skill as the character battles for his own big break with everything else going on around him. Rebecca Thornhill thrives as the nasty TV producer Velma Von Tussle as does Jessica Croll as her daughter Amber. Both have the right amount of nastiness without being too far over the top. Reece Richards brings terrific dance to his Seaweed and matches well with those around him.  Richard Meek dazzles as TV host Corny Collins.

Special mention must go to all the ensemble members who all move with the highest ability and enhance the piece brilliantly especially in the larger numbers.

Hairspray feels as timely as ever with its themes of racism and body positivity. Director Paul Kerryson's slick lively production ultimately will uplift and delight especially as the production heads towards its joyous final of 'You Can't Stop The Beat' which has the audience up on their feet for the curtain call reprise.

I defy you to not leave feeling uplifted as you exit the theatre. We all need a little bit of joy right now and Hairspray certainly offers this. Big, bold and beautiful.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hairspray continues at Royal and Derngate until Saturday 5th February with tickets available from  royalandderngate.co.uk . The tour continues thereafter  https://www.hairsprayuktour.com/

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5 Reasons To See ‘Hairspray’ UK Tour 2022

• Post author By thestageycouple
• Post date 11th January 2022
• No Comments on 5 Reasons To See ‘Hairspray’ UK Tour 2022

Sunderland Empire, 10/01/2022

Good Evening Sunderland! It’s 1962 in Baltimore and Tracy Turnblad is waking up for another day of the same old life in a narrow minded town but still as optimistic as ever about it. An audition comes up for Tracy at a local TV dance show and she wants to take that opportunity to change the world for the better, which doesn’t sit well with some…

Read on for our five reasons why you should see Hairspray on its UK tour!

1. Katie Brace as Tracy Turnblad

Sunderland-born and bred Katie Brace makes her professional debut on this tour as the leading lady. The raucous reception for Brace throughout the show is so well deserved as she completely encapsulates everything Tracy Turnblad is about; beaming with excitement and optimism from the first beat until the curtain call. Brace is note perfect and delivers the comedy of the role impeccably too. An outstanding performance from a new name who is quite obviously having the time of her life up there. Definitely a name to look out for in the future!

2. There’s such energy from every performance

Hairspray is a fast and energetic show, and this tour does not disappoint with the effort that the cast out into the choreography. Almost every song throughout the show requires the cast to be dancing with a lot of enthusiasm, making the audience wonder how a cast can move so much and perform numbers so well at the same time. Whether it’s The Twist or The Mashed Potato, the cast have you itching to be on your feet and joining in.

3. The script is really funny

Every scene across the show is packed with little one-liners and puns that are delivered by many members of the cast. The jokes really complement the optimistic nature of the story and allow the show to flow so well keeping the audiences attention between each big number. A comedic highlight is the epilogue of ‘You’re Timeless To Me’ performed by Alex Bourne (Edna Turnblad) and Norman Pace (Wilbur Turnblad); not only do they have the audience in stitches but can barely contain themselves too.

4. The songs in this show are infectious

Many people will know the classic track ‘You Can’t Stop The Beat’ but this show is packed with timeless songs, each one being more of an ear worm than the last. Songs like ‘Welcome To The 60s’ and ‘You’re Timeless To Me’ will be stuck in your head for days. A standout performance with regards to musical numbers is Brenda Edwards as Motormouth Maybelle. Her numbers ‘Big, Blonde and Beautiful’ and especially ‘I Know Where I’ve Been’ blow the roof off the auditorium as she belts out those notes.

5. The message of the show

The morals of Hairspray as a story are all about inclusion. Inclusion regardless of skin or body type and while this was set in the 60s where integration was just beginning, the message stands very much in this day and age too. If the audience can take home anything from Tracy’s story, it’s that no matter who you are or what you may look like, you belong in society and deserve to have a voice and be heard!

Hairspray is such a fun show, packed with great songs and hilarious dialogue. If you’re up for an evening out to forget the worries of life and enjoy a fun show, this is for you! Find remaining tickets and tour dates by clicking here!

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A married couple sharing our love for Theatre, Film & Tv!

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Buy Hairspray tickets for the ultimate feel-good factor for all the family as this iconic musical returns to the West End

Michael Ball reprises the role of Edna Turnblad in Hairspray at the London Coliseum next summer, as the upbeat story about dancing and equality runs for a limited season from 22nd June 2021.

Based on John Waters ‘ 1988 film, Hairspray follows Tracy Turnblad, a Baltimore teenager who dreams of dancing on her favourite television show. Her mother Edna is worried she’ll be bullied for her weight, but when Tracy’s moves make her a local celebrity, she uses her new-found fame to campaign for equality and representation.

With a catalogue of 60s inspired songs including “The Nicest Kids in Town” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat”, Hairspray is a fun and cheery musical about embracing your individuality, with a heart-warming mother-daughter relationship at its centre. The original Broadway production (2002) collected eight Tony Awards, with its West End transfer adding four Olivier Awards, including Best Actor in a Musical for Michael Ball .

Ball now returns to the role of Edna Turnblad, having gone on to win an Olivier Award for Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street . Before he gets out the big hair and heels for Hairspray , he was recently seen in the all-star concert production of Les Miserables .

Lizzie Bea will star in the iconic role of Tracy Tunblad. Lizzie is currently performing in the UK Tour of Kinky Boots after having returned from Atlanta, performing in the world premiere production of Becoming Nancy (Alliance Theatre).

Acclaimed West End star Marisha Wallace will take the role of Motormouth. Marisha won rave reviews when she took over from Amber Riley in the smash hit Dreamgirls (Savoy Theatre), and has just finished starring in the original West End cast of Waitress (Adelphi Theatre).

Entertainment legend Les Dennis will play Wilbur, replacing the previously announced Paul Merton who has had to step down from the production due to prior commitments. He is best known for hosting TV game show Family Fortunes for 15 years. His stage credits include Chicago, The Addams Family and Me and My Girl.

Also in the cast are Rita Simons (Eastenders) as Velma von Tussle, Jonny Amies (Sex Education) as Link Larkin , Mari McGinlay (Cinderella) as Penny, Ashley Samuels (Fun Home, Motown) as Seaweed, and Michael Vinsen (Follies, The Book of Mormon) as Corny Collins.

Hairspray features music and lyrics from Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman , a book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan , direction from Jack O’Brien ( The Full Monty ) and choreography by Jerry Mitchell ( Kinky Boots ).

Don’t miss out on Michael Ball ’s return to a beloved character and irresistibly feel-good musical. Hairspray runs at the London Coliseum from 22nd June 2021.

Please note: Michael Ball will not be performing on the following days: 20 July, 17 August and 14 September.

Child friendly?

Hairspray is a feel-good family show, but the exact minimum age recommendation has not yet been confirmed.

Copyright © 2024 Official Theatre - London theatre box office and show information About Us | Reviews | Interviews

Hairspray: Get to know the hit musical touring the UK

Time to let your hair down!

It's big, blonde, and beautiful and it's back touring the UK. Fans of Hairspray the musical will be delighted to know that the feel-good show has hit the road and could be coming to a theatre near you.

For all the information on how to get tickets, who's in the cast and where you can see the tour, read on and prepare to sing your heart out to all the classic hits!

What is Hairspray the musical about?

Set in Baltimore in 1962, Hairspray the musical sees chunky but funky 16 year old Tracy Turnblad set to make it on a local TV dance show, have her dream man fall for her and bring everyone together. Of course, Tracy faces a whole host of obstacles along the way. The only thing bigger than Tracy's dreams is her hair!

Who wrote Hairspray?

Thomas Meehan wrote Hairspray the musical and is also known for writing Annie and The Producers. Mark O'Donnell co-wrote the book with Thomas, Marc Shaiman wrote the music and also co-wrote the lyrics with Scott Whitman.

Who directed Hairspray?

The original Broadway production and the 2021 London revival were directed by Jack O'Brien. The three-time Tony Award winner also produced The Full Monty and has worked on some more contemporary dramas including The Invention of Love and The Piano Lesson.

The UK tour was directed by Paul Kerryson who is the former Artistic Director of Leicester's Curve Theatre.

He's directed various productions of Stephen Sondheim musicals such as Follies, Company, Sweeney Todd, Pacific Overtures, Into The Woods and Merrily We Roll Along. Other musicals he's directed include West Side Story, on Your Toes, Rent, The Wizard Of Oz, The Rocky Horror Show, 70 Girls 70 and Calamity Jane.

Where can I see Hairspray on tour?

The UK tour of Hairspray will be visiting Woking, Bristol, Milton Keynes, Blackpool, Sunderland, Cheltenham, Northampton, Bromley, Cardiff, Poole, Edinburgh, Dartford and Glasgow.

Who will star in the UK tour of Hairspray?

Brenda Edwards (Chicago, We Will Rock You, The X Factor, Loose Women and Songs of Praise) as Motormouth Maybelle, Norman Pace (ITV's The Hale and Pace Show) as Wilbur Turnblad, and Alex Bourne (Annie, Mamma Mia!, We Will Rock You) as Edna Turnblad.

Also joining the cast is Katie Brace, who will make her professional stage debut as Tracy Turnblad, with Rebecca Thornhill as Velma, Richard Meek as Corny Collins, Ross Clifton as Link Larkin, Jessica Croll as Amber Von Tussle, Rebecca Jane Davies as Penny Pingleton and Charlotte St. Croix as Little Inez.

Is the Hairspray film based on the musical?

Hairspray the film is based on the musical and was released in 2007 with both the musical and the 2007 film based on the original 1988 comedy of the same name that was written by the legendary John Waters and starred the iconic drag queen, Divine as Edna.

How long is Hairspray the musical?

The show is two and a half hours long including an interval.

How can I get tickets for the Hairspray UK tour?

Tickets and venue information for the touring production of Hairspray are available from the Hairspray UK tour website.

Is Hairspray in London?

During the summer of 2021 a fabulous production of Hairspray ran in the at the London Coliseum which was a welcome addition to the West End following over a year of theatres being shut by the COVID-19 pandemic. The production closed in September 2021.

Who was in the 2021 West End cast of Hairspray?

Michael ball as edna turnblad.

Michael Ball returned to play Edna Turnblad in Hairspray the musical! The double Olivier Award-winning actor first took up the role of Edna Turnblad in 2008, Michael then toured across the UK in the role. Michael has had an extensive career in theatre, television and as a recording artist. Starring in both the West End and on Broadway, Michael made his West End debut in the role of Marius in the original cast of Les Mis . Michael then went on to star in multiple productions including The Phantom of the Opera and Sweeney Todd .

Lizzie Bea as Tracy Turnblad

Lizzie Bea played the role of Tracy Turnblad in Hairspray the musical. Lizzie trained at the National Youth Theatre, the National Youth Music Theatre and the Nation Student Drama Festival, she previously starred in the UK tour of Kinky Boots playing the role of Pat.

Les Dennis as Wilbur Turnblad

Les joined the cast replacing Paul Merton, who had to withdraw after the show's postponement. Les' career in comedy, theatre, and television spans across 50 years. Les was a prominent face of Saturday Night television in the 80s and 90s appearing in the The Russ About Show, The Les Dennis Laughter Show and was the host of ITV's Family Fortunes from 1987 to 2002. In recent years Les has appeared in various stage productions including some with the Royal Shakespeare Company, as well as spending two years as a regular on Coronation Street after Hairspray he was right back at the Coliseum starring in the English National Opera's production of HMS Pinafore.

Marisha Wallace as Motormouth Mabel

Marisha Wallace played the role of Motormouth Mabel. You'll recognise Marisha for her roles in Waitress the musical and the incredible Effie White in Dreamgirls . Marisha has also had a successful music career alongside performing on stage, most recently recording with Seal and James Blunt and being the special guest of Todrick Hall on during his performances in the UK and Amsterdam.

Jonny Aimes as Link Larkin

Heartthrob Link Larkin was played by Jonny Amies in Hairspray at the London Coliseum. Jonny is most known for his role as Sam in the hugely popular Netflix show Sex Education and fans of the show are excited to see him take to the stage!

Rita Simons as Velma Von Tussle

Rita Simons played Velma Von Tussle in Hairspray. The English actress is most known for her role in iconic soap EastEnders as well as a long career involving being in girlband Girls@Play, roles in London's Burning and Mile High and theatre performances in Legally Blonde the musical and Everybody's Talking About Jamie .

WATCH: The cast of Hairspray perform at Britain's Got Talent

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How to listen to Magic at the Musicals:

Magic at the Musicals plays the best of musicals from stage and screen and is brought to you by Magic Radio. You can listen to us online, on our app, smart speakers and DAB.

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★★★★☆   Pump up the volume

Playhouse: Mon 14 – Sat 19 Mar 2022 Review by Martin Gray

Unlikely civil rights heroine Tracy Turnblad dances her way to a social justice triumph as Hairspray returns to the Playhouse for a week until Saturday and comes back to Glasgow at the end of the month.

There some shows that come to Edinburgh so regularly that skipping them is the only way to stay sane. Not Hairspray , though. The musical, based on the John Waters film, is such a blast of sunshine with its songs by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman that a great presentation can have you smiling for weeks.

Richard Meek, Katie Brace and Reece Richards with the ensemble. Pic Mark Senior

I’m grinning as I write this and I fully expect the expression to hang around for a while after enjoying this touring treat in a deservedly packed house.

It’s 1962 and teenage Tracy Turnblad wants nothing more than to dance with ‘The Nicest Kids in Town’ on The Corny Collins Show  an after-school pop show. With cast member Brenda indisposed for, er, nine months, there’s an opening.

While there’s resistance from producer Velma Von Tussle – she’s not down with Tracy being slightly chubby – our heroine’s charm, pep and sheer dance talent win her a spot. But there’s another battle to be fought – to get African-American kids on the show regularly, rather than solely on the monthly, token ‘Negro Day’.

ridiculously singable

Helping out are Tracy’s best pal Penny Pingleton, parents Edna and Wilbur, record shop owner Motormouth Maybelle and more.

Hairspray is a full-on Broadway musical, replete with colour, life and ridiculously singable songs and hi-energy dancing, but it deftly delivers the traditional glam and glitter while facing up to all kinds of prejudices – race, body shape, class and age.

Katie Brace. Pic: Mark Senior.

The show’s success depends in large part – no gag intended – on whether you like Tracy. Safe to say that Katie Brace, in her professional debut, doesn’t disappoint. She has the moves, she has the puppyish charm and she has the voice – though it’s occasionally tough to make out lyrics… A little more concentration in the annunciation department and she’ll be there.

Brace works brilliantly with the rest of the cast, particularly Rebecca Jayne-Davies as Penny who is inspired to break free from her over-possessive – think roped to the bed – mother, by Tracy’s attitude that you don’t accept an unfair world, you change it.

Speaking of mothers, Alex Bourne is magnificent as laundress Edna, who regains the woman she was with a hand from Tracy. Bourne somehow manages to be constantly winking to the audience without actually blinking, and his big baritone makes for some cracking comedy moments.

a theatrical bonfire of brilliance

Bourne is paired with TV comedy favourite Norman Pace as Wilbur, from whom Tracy gets her irrepressible optimism. Wilbur has a quiet first act, but when his big duet with Edna arrives in the second half, boy, does Pace show what he can do.

Pace and Bourne are pure Vaudeville in their delivery of You’re Timeless to Me , a love song that manages to be hilarious yet deeply touching. The chemistry between the two is off the scale, it’s two pairs of funny bones rubbing against one another to create a theatrical bonfire of brilliance.

Alex Bourne and Norman Pace. Pic Mark Senior

In a show full of fantastic tunes – Good Morning Baltimore , Without Love , I Can Hear the Bells – You’re Timeless garners the biggest response. If there’s a better moment on the Edinburgh stage this year, I’ll be amazed.

While the rest of the songs are basically feel good, there is a poignancy to I Know Where I’ve Been , as Motormouth Maybelle opens her heart about her lifelong fight to be more than a second-class citizen. The song is beautifully delivered by Bernadette Bangura (depping in for the indisposed Brenda Edwards) who provides precision without skimping on emotion.

Rebecca Thornhill has a whale of a time as Velma Von Tussle, the wicked queen of The Corny Collins Show, especially in her big number, Miss Baltimore Crabs . Richard Meek is adorably sweet as TV host Corny Collins, Ross Clifton makes an amusingly narcissistic Link Larkin, the object of Tracy’s affection, and Jessica Croll is a hoot as Amber Von Tussle, Velma’s Mini-Me.

bundle of dynamite

Charlotte St Croix is a bundle of dynamite as Motormouth’s daughter Little Inez, barred from even auditioning for the TV show by her race, while Reece Richards brings real warmth, and a lovely voice, to her brother Seaweed, who basically brings on puberty for Penny.

The entire ensemble produce great work, their energy levels off the scale as they show off Drew McOnie’s sharp choreography, aided by a fantastic orchestra led by Rickey Long. This production boasts refreshed orchestrations from Ben Atkinson, and they work beautifully, bringing an almost big band flavour to the pop stylings of The Corny Collins Show – and for once having the band on stage made sense. The musicians aren’t always in view, mind, with subtly clever back projections supplementing the adaptable set.

The show ends with the irresistible You Can’t Stop the Beat , reminding us that no matter how bad things are, people power can make things better. Enjoy the music, absorb the message – that’s a pretty powerful Hairspray .

Running time: 2 hours 30 minutes (including one interval) Edinburgh Playhouse , 18 – 22 Greenside Place, EH1 3AA. Monday 14 – Saturday 19 March 2022 Evenings: 7.30pm, Mats Weds, Sat: 2.30pm. Tickets and details: Book here .

Glasgow King’s Theatre , 297 Bath St, Glasgow G2 4JN Mon 28 March – Sat 2 April 2022 Evenings: 7.30, Weds, Sat mat: 2.30pm. Tickets and details:   Book here .

The cast of Hairspray. Pic Mark Senior

Tags: Alex Bourne , Ben Atkinson , Bernadette Bangura , Charlotte St Croix , Drew McOnie , Hairspray , Hairspray the Musical , Jessica Croll , Katie Brace , Martin Gray , Musicals , Norman Pace , Playhouse , Rebecca Thornhill , Reece Richards , Review , Richard Meek , Rickey Long , Ross Clifton

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Cast announced for new UK tour of Hairspray

Casting has been announced for the new UK tour of hit musical Hairspray this year.

Brenda Edwards (Loose Women, ITV; We Will Rock You, London Coliseum) who has previously played ‘Motormouth’ Maybelle in three tours of Hairspray will join the creative team alongside Paul Kerryson (Chicago, Sweeney Todd; Curve Theatre) to helm the new national UK and Ireland tour.

Choreographed by Olivier Award winner Drew McOnie (In the Heights, King’s Cross Theatre; Jesus Christ Superstar, Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre), the tour will open in Manchester at the Palace Theatre on 16 July 2024 and tour through to July 2025.

Meet the cast

Those on the cast include Neil Hurst (Edna Turnblad), Joanne Clifton (Velma Von Tussle) – with Gina Murray performing the role from 16 July – 7 September only, Michelle Ndegwa (Motormouth Maybelle), Soloman Davy (Link Larkin), Declan Egan (Corny Collins) Alexandra Emmerson-Kirby (Tracy Turnblad), Katlo (Little Inez), Reece Richards (Seaweed) and Allana Taylor (Amber Von Tussle).

Making up the ensemble are Ben Anderson, Grace Anyiam, Nina Bell, Joseph Bristow, Vanessa Dumatey, Rebecca French, Stuart Hickey, Jaiden Lodge, Olly Manley, Sasha Monique, Jacob Smith and Issy Wilman .

Brenda Edwards said: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be invited by the producers to make my directorial debut on the show as a co-director with Paul Kerryson. Hairspray, and this production in particular, has been such a huge part of my life. The show’s story and themes are as relevant as ever and I cannot wait to hold the open auditions to discover a new cast and work together to present a vibrant new production of this timeless musical for everyone to enjoy.”

Hairspray tour dates, venues and tickets →

Hairspray is a musical based on the 1988 film of the same name which starred Divine and Ricki Lake by cult filmmaker John Waters. It has music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman and book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan.

Hairspray centres around heroine Tracy Turnblad, who has big hair, a big heart, and big dreams to dance her way onto national TV, and into the heart of teen idol Link Larkin. When Tracy becomes a local star, she is able to use her newfound fame to fight for liberation, tolerance, and interracial unity in Baltimore. But can she win equality – and Link’s heart – without denting her ’do?

Mark Shaiman (Composer/Co-Lyricist) said: “Brenda Edwards has been a part of the Hairspray family since she took on the role of ‘Motormouth’ Maybelle in 2015 and hearing that she is co-directing the latest tour is music to my ears. The strength and soul that Brenda brings to both her performances and her life have already made me a fan and I hope a friend for life, and I can’t wait to see how she brings her personal perspective to our show. Brava Brenda!”

Completing the creative team is set and costume design by Takis, lighting design by Philip Gladwell, sound design by Ben Harrison, musical supervision and arrangements by Ben Atkinson, musical direction by Richard Atkinson, projection design by George Reeve, casting by Grindrod Burton and resident direction by Juliet Gough. Hairspray is produced by Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale, and Laurence Myers.

More on: Brenda Edwards Gina Murray Hairspray Joanne Clifton News

Josh is Stageberry's editor with over five years of experience writing about theatre in the West End and across the UK. Prior to following his passion for musicals, he worked for more than a decade as a TV journalist.

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Casting for Hairspray 2021/2022 UK and Ireland tour

Bourne ( Annie , Mamma Mia! ) will step into the distinctive high hair and high heels of Edna Turnblad opposite comedy star Pace ( Chicago , The Rocky Horror Show ) who returns to the role of Wilbur Turnblad with former X-Factor finalist turned musical theatre star and TV ‘loose woman’ Edwards ( Chicago , We Will Rock You ) also returning as Motormouth Maybelle.

They will be joined by Katie Brace who will make her professional stage debut as Tracy Turnblad with Rebecca Thornhill as Velma, Richard Meek as Corny Collins, Ross Clifton as Link Larkin, Jessica Croll as Amber, Rebecca Jane Davies as Penny and Charlotte St. Croix as Little Inez.

The cast will also include: Elizabeth Armstrong, Bernadette Bangura, Natalia Brown, Shaquille Brush, Liam Dean, Andrew Dillion, Amandla Elynah, Zoe Heighton, Ceris Hine, Paul Hutton, Jamie Jonathan, Hayley Johnston, Joshua Nkemdilim, Rosie O’Hare, Alexanda O’Reilly, Joshua Pearson, Joseph Poulton and Elliotte Williams-N’Dure.

Originally due to begin performances in August last year, Mark Goucher and Matthew Gale’s third major UK and Ireland tour of their successful version of the hit musical Hairspray will follow its opening run in Plymouth by visiting the Cheltenham Everyman Theatre; the Mayflower Theatre in Southampton; Manchester’s Palace Theatre; Sheffield Lyceum; Ipswich Regent Theatre; Aylesbury Waterside Theatre; Liverpool Empire; The Alhambra Theatre in Bradford; Brighton Theatre Royal; Birmingham Hippodrome; Leicester Curve; Nottingham Theatre Royal; Wolverhampton Grand Theatre; Dublin’s Bord Gáis Energy Theatre; the Grand Opera House Belfast; New Victoria Theatre, Woking; Milton Keynes Theatre and Blackpool Grand Theatre. The 2022 section of the tour will begin at the Sunderland Empire followed by Wycombe Swan, Royal and Derngate Northampton, Bromley’s Churchill Theatre, Cardiff New Theatre, Edinburgh Playhouse, The Orchard Theatre, Dartford and Glasgow King’s Theatre. Further 2022 dates are to be announced.

Directed by Paul Kerryson, the show has choreography by Drew McOnie, musical direction by Ben Atkinson, set and costume design by takis, lighting design by Philip Gladwell and sound design by Ben Harrison.

Based on cult filmmaker John Waters’ 1988 film which starred Divine and Ricki Lake, Hairspray boasts music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman and book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan.

With Harvey Fierstein starring as Edna, Hairspray debuted to rave reviews on Broadway in 2002 and subsequently won eight Tony Awards including Best Musical and the leading actor award for Fierstein.

Premiering in London at the Shaftesbury Theatre in 2007, the show won four Laurence Olivier Awards including Best New Musical and the Best Actor Award for Michael Ball.

The touring production featuring direction by Kerryson and choreography by McOnie launched at Leicester Curve in 2015, and returned in 2017 for a second successful tour which ended in August 2018.

Hairspray is one of two major touring productions from Goucher’s independent production company returning this summer with the support of the UK Government’s Cultural Recovery Fund. Goucher and first-time producer Jason Donovan are also due to bring their crowd-pleasing production of hit musical Priscilla Queen of the Desert back for a number of tour dates from 23 June ahead of a hoped-for West End return.

Angela Thomas

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Alex Bourne , Brenda Edwards , Charlotte St. Croix , Drew McOnie , Hairspray , Jessica Croll , Katie Brace , Mark Goucher , Matthew Gale , Norman Pace , Paul Kerryson , Plymouth Theatre Royal , Rebecca Jane Davies , Rebecca Thornhill , Richard Meek , Ross Clifton

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Lizzie Bea as Tracy Turnblad and company. Photo by Tristram Kenton

Lizzie Bea as Tracy Turnblad & Michael Ball as Edna Turnblad. Photo by Tristram Kenton

Marisha Wallace as Motormouth Maybelle. Photo by Tristram Kenton

Lizzie Bea as Tracy Turnblad, Les Dennis as Wilbur Turnblad & Michael Ball as Edna Turnblad. Photo by Tristram Kenton

The company of Hairspray. Photo by Tristram Kenton

Look who’s back! Don’t miss Michael Ball reprising his Olivier Award-winning role as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray the Musical. The huge-hearted, smash-hit musical arrives at the magnificent London Coliseum for a strictly limited season.

This all-singing all-dancing production also stars entertainment legend Les Dennis. As a comedian, impressionist, game show host, reality TV star, soap, screen and stage actor, Les Dennis’ showbiz career has spanned 50 years. Now, he is to return to the West End in the multi-award-winning smash hit musical as Wilbur Turnblad having previously performed the role on tour.

Critically acclaimed Marisha Wallace will also join the cast as Motormouth, having previously played Becky in Waitress and Effie White in Dreamgirls in 2017, for which she received rave reviews.

Lizzie Bea who performed in the UK Tour of Kinky Boots will play Tracy.

Set in Baltimore, 1962, follow the story of Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and big dreams. Can she make it on the local TV dance show, win the heart of teen heartthrob Link Larkin and bring everyone together – whatever their colour, size or hairdo? Well if you want a change, you’ve really got to shake things up!

From the original award-winning creative team of director Jack O’Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell, and featuring the infectiously feel-good songs Good Morning Baltimore, You Can’t Stop the Beat and Big, Blonde and Beautiful this inspirational, fun-loving and fabulously uplifting musical sensation is back and bigger than ever.

It’s the show that gives maximum lift. Don’t miss out – book now!

Edna Turnblad - Michael Ball

Wilbur Turnblad - Les Dennis

Tracy Turnblad - Lizzie Bea

Link Larkin - Jonny Amies

Motormouth Maybelle - Marisha Wallace

Velma Von Tussle - Rita Simmons

Amber Von Tussle - Georgia Anderson

Inez - Kimani Arthur

Male Authority Figure - Dermot Canavan

Female Authority Figure - Lori Haley Fox

Penny Pingleton - Mari McGinlay

Seaweed J Stubbs - Ashley Samuels

Corny Collins - Michael Vinsen

Shelly/Ensemble - Imogen Bailey

IQ/Ensemble - Pearce Barron

Duane/Ensemble - Jordan Benjamin

Sketch/Ensemble - Nicholas Collier

Brad/Ensemble - Joel Cooper

Fender/Ensemble - Luke George

Gilbert/Ensemble - Christopher Gopaul

Lou-Ann/Ensemble - Lily Laight

Tammy/Ensemble - Hannah Grace Lawson

Brenda/Ensemble - Madeleine Lawton

Dynamite/Ensemble - Holly Liburd/Mireia Mambo/Robyn Rose

Thad/Ensemble - Kody Mortimer

Lorraine/Ensemble - Kibong Tanji

Walking cover - Chris Howell/Natalie Woods

Swing - Winny Herbert/Will Luckett/Tinovimbanashe Sibanda/Amy West

Director - Jack O'Brien

Producer - Adam Spiegel Productions & Fiery Angel

Casting Director - Jill Green CDG

Choreographer - Jerry Mitchell

Costume - William Ivey Long

Lighting Designer - Kenneth Posner

Set Designer - David Rockwell

Sound - Steve C.Kennedy

Book By - Mark O'Donnell & Thomas Meehan

Lyrics By - Scott Wittman & Marc Shaiman

Music By - Marc Shaiman

Original Wigs and Hair Design - Paul Huntley

Associate Director -   Benjamin Endsley Klein

UK Associate Choreographer and Director -  Dominic Shaw

UK Wigs and Make Up Design - Richard Mawbey

UK Associate Set Designer - Tim McQuillen-Wright

UK Associate Lighting Designer - John Harris

Orchestrations by - Harold Wheeler

Music Supervisor - Alan Williams

Musical Director - Alan Berry

Costume Supervisor - Sabrina Cuniberto

Props Supervisor - Lily Mollgaard

Advisory Content

The show has adults themes of racism and body image in a lightheaded uplifting manner.

Age Suitability For This Show

Unlike film, theatre doesn't have an official age classification organisation. That means all age recommendations are subjective and should be treated as guidelines unless otherwise stated. With this in mind, we ask you to use your judgement in regards to a show’s suitability prior to purchase. However, we are more than happy to help you make a decision. Please email our Customer Care team to find out more about your chosen show.

Minimum age for admission to the venue is 5+. No babes-in-arms allowed

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This show has now closed, however you may also be interested in:

Guys & dolls – standing tickets, ushers: the front of house musical, showstopper the improvised musical, get more from your ticket, stk steakhouse – free welcome drink, q-park – 50% off.

Unlike film, theatre doesn't have an official age classification organisation. That means all age recommendations are subjective and should be treated as guidelines unless otherwise stated. With this in mind, we ask you to use your judgement in regards to a show’s suitability prior to purchase. However, we are more than happy to help you make a decision. Please email [email protected] to find out more about your chosen show.

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Cast To Be Announced.

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