Hairspray

We review Broadway's hit musical comedy in London starring Michael Ball.

What's the story?
Hairspray is based on the superb, if somewhat dark, movie of the same name by John Waters, which features a very young Ricki Lake. With the book written by Broadway Midas, Thomas Meehan, who also wrote Annie, The Producers and many more we knew we were in for a fantastic evening.

So it's 1962, change is happening all over, bands are big, hair is bigger. Tracy Turnblad is the biggest girl with the biggest passion - to dance on the Corny Collins Show while also winning the heart of the man of her dreams, Link Larkin. Sounds like a lot to do in a day - and we've not even mentioned make-overs, prison, hairstyles and chicken and waffles!

What's to like?
This show is a non-stop whirlwind of happiness! From the overture, your feet are tapping and your shoulders will be moving to the fabulous score and lyrics from Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. From the flawless cast a special mention has to go to Adrian Hansel's breathtaking Seaweed, whose energy is electrifying and if his stage presence and performance skills are anything to go by, this man is destined for great things. Michael Ball plays the largest mother in Baltimore with aplomb. We were worried after being a fan of the original and somewhat let down by Mr Travolta in the movie remake, but Edna lights up the stage whenever she is there and even makes a polyester housecoat look good! Terrific Mrs Turnblad!

What's not to like?
Nothing, only the fact that the show has to end, and that we had to emerge from the elation of the auditorium to the drizzle of a London Monday evening!

Who would like it?
The Shaftesbury theatre was full, from young families and couples to the rather more mature audience member. This truly is a show for everyone as long as you can smile, laugh and love music!

Verdict
With an amazingly strong cast, a superb set and stunning score, the standing ovation from the completely sold out house on a Monday November evening says it all.

Rating
5/5

Check out our gallery of must-see musicals here 

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