The award-winning Hairspray The Musical is set to return to the stage this summer, with a socially distanced run on West End between 22 June and 29 September.
Hairspray made its debut on Broadway in 2002 and quickly became one of the most successful musicals of the last two decades. The West End original production began its run in 2007, and has won four Oliver Awards.
The story is based on the John Waters film of the same name. Set in 60’s Baltimore, USA, it follows Tracy Turnblad as she navigates racial issues of segregation, dreams of fame, and love. It was also adapted into a film in 2007 starring Nikki Blonsky, John Travolta, and Michelle Pfeiffer.
The West End revival will star Lizzie Bea as Tracy, and Michael Ball as Tracy’s mom Edna, a role which won him an Oliver Award back in 2008. Comedian Paul Merton will be making his musical debut as Tracy’s father, Wilbur. The musical is also set to star Marisha Wallace as Motormouth Maybelle, and EastEnders’ Rita Simons as Velma Von Tussle.
Jack O’Brien and Jerry Mitchell, who were both part of the original West End production, will reprise their role as director and choreographer respectively. The music comes courtesy of Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman.
Hairspray The Musical arrives at the London Coliseum from 22 June 2021. Tickets are available for purchase here.
Words by Stella Baricic.
Support The Indiependent
We’re trying to raise £200 a month to help cover our operational costs. This includes our ‘Writer of the Month’ awards, where we recognise the amazing work produced by our contributor team. If you’ve enjoyed reading our site, we’d really appreciate it if you could donate to The Indiependent. Whether you can give £1 or £10, you’d be making a huge difference to our small team.
Image: London Coliseum