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We are well and truly welcomed to the 60s in this joyous production of Hairspray!

The musical might be set in the 1960s, but this show is far from outdated. In fact, touring theatre often gets stick for being of poorer quality but this one is a big and beautiful as it gets.

From groovy choreography and dazzling costumes to soulful vocals and psychedelic projections, this musical really lives up to its reputation.

Want more pop-tastic musicals? Don’t forget to read my reviews of Mamma Mia and Six.

A big story

Tracy Turnblad is a young girl with big hair, a big personality and an even bigger dream. To dance on The Corny Collins Show and to do so without segregation.

Sounds like small fry but in a world where only slim is sexy and ‘white is right’, she and her newfound friend, Seaweed, have got a sizeable challenge ahead of them.

They want to break down barriers between black and white people, and turn their hometown of Baltimore into wonderous technicolour. This is the true heart of the show.

Together they prove all lives matter – no matter the colour of your skin or size of your waist, or anything else society has decided they don’t like.

But don’t think this is a serious drama. It’s a laugh out loud musical where every role is a caricature. Expect over the top personalities that educate and entertain.

A belting cast

To say this is Katie Brace’s first gig out of school, her portrayal of Tracy proves she has an incredible future ahead of her. Her unwavering optimism, boundless energy and physical comedy make her an unforgettable leading lady. I’ve watched this show several times and she’s the best Tracy I’ve seen!

Brenda Edwards is mind-blowingly good as Motormouth Maybell. Her powerful and distinctive voice gave me goosebumps, and had the audience captivated. Especially in the emotional number, ‘I Know Where I’ve Been’. It felt really special to see her live. She’s a superstar.

Alex Bourne and Norman Pace have their standout moment as Edna and Wilbur in ‘You’re Timeless To Me’, making the audience giggle just as much as they do on stage. Rebecca Jayne-Davies is another comedic force, playing a suitably simple Penny Pingleton and beams in ‘Mama, I’m A Big Girl Now’ alongside Tracy and Amber Von Tussle.

The Dynamites, Bernadette Bangura, Natalia Brown, Elliotte Williams N’Dure, in particular shine bright during ‘Welcome To The 60s’ and honestly, the whole cast are a collective powerhouse.

Hairspray will leave you with a spring in your step, a smile on your face and twinkle in your eye. It’s a roaring success!

Playing at Manchester Palace Theatre until Saturday 13 November 2021. 2hrs 30 mins (including interval)

Find out when it’s coming near you.

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