Enjoy Celebrity Radio’s Review Hairspray The Musical UK Tour…
Hairspray is the feel good musical of the millennium.
It’s fun, funny, sassy, uplifting, meaningful, cheeky and celebrates the talents of a terrific cast.
It’s the 60’s story of maverick Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart.
‘You Can’t Stop The Beat’ is the climax to this 2.5 hour romp. You’ll be on your feet during this 5* finale concluding this 4*+ funfest.
Hairspray is also cutting and has true 2016 relevance, some 50+ years since it was set. Race, culture, class and acceptance are the backbone of this powerful play.
I caught the tour in Feb 2016 at the glorious Sheffield Lyceum Theatre where the show runs until Feb 13th.
This sold-out mega-hit gives the local audiences an opportunity to enjoy Broadway quality talent and writing.
GET TICKETS HERE! – The UK tour continues across the UK through May 2016.
Here’s Tony Maudsley (Edna) & Claire Sweeney (Velma) in conversation…
I’ve seen this show all over the world, first on Broadway nearly 15 years ago.
This production is beautifully staged, cleverly lit, perfectly choreographed and has excellent sound.
I loved the Live brass which is virtually unheard of in touring theatre these days. It certainly gave this addictive score an extra edge.
Hairspray is packed with hits! Everyone song is a winner from ‘Good Morning Baltimore’, ‘Welcome To The 60’s’ and Brenda Edwards killer 11 o’clock number ‘I know where I’ve been’.
This has to be the most Star-studied cast in history!
Brenda Edwards is a powerhouse talent as Motormouth Maybelle offering a masterclass in owning your role. She sets the bar for vocal power, control and pure stage magnificence!
Ms. Edwards has X-Factor in bucket loads and unquestionably steals the show vocally. Her personal (and the only) mid-show standing ovation was very much deserved.
Tony Maudsley leads the cast as the fabulous Edna. He’s got big shoes to fill following Ball & Conley who nailed the role in the West End.
His impressive physical proportions are perfect for Edna (think Gemma Collins mixed with a classier Cilla from Corrie).
Maudsley gravelly voice is delicious and reminiscent of Fierstein who originated the role. The zingers are perfectly delivered with punch.
His comic timing & warmth, especially in the second half during ‘Timeless To Me’, milks every drop of funny for the audiences delight.
Here’s the breathtakingly brilliant Brenda Edwards in conversation…
Freya Sutton is a gorgeous Tracey. A powerful voice, stunning stage presence and the epitome of the character on every level. We fell in love with her within seconds.
Dex Lee is a joy to watch as the irrepressible Seaweed whilst ‘Mr. Charm’ Ashley Gilmour has a silk-like persona and voice perfect for Link.
Claire Sweeney also wows as the vile & bitter ex-beauty queen bitch Velma Von Tussle. A lovely voice.
Don’t miss Hairspray on tour! It’s clever, moving, hysterical and beautifully produced.
Review by Alex Belfield for Celebrity Radio 8th Feb 2016.
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