This isn’t a sponsored post.
BrumHour saw Hairspray at the invite of Wolverhampton Grand.
By David Fox x.com/DavidFoxTheatre
Hairspray at Wolverhampton Grand: Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐”Camp, colourful and a whole lot of fun!”
Directed by Brenda Edwards, lyrics/music by Marc Shaiman. lyrics by Scott Wittman, book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan
Hairspray the hit, vibrant, feel-good musical that transports audiences to 1960s Baltimore, where the bubbly and determined Tracy Turnblad dreams of dancing her way onto the popular Corny Collins Show. Along the way, she challenges societal norms, tackles racial segregation, and proves that individuality and inclusivity can create meaningful change.
Packed with infectious songs, dazzling choreography, and a heartfelt message of acceptance, Hairspray delivers an uplifting celebration of self-expression, love, and the power of standing up for what’s right.
Hairspray has been dazzling crowds for well over 20 years now. Winner of 8 Tony Awards and 4 Laurence Olivier Awards (including Best New Musical 2003), the show continues to delight audiences. Adding an exciting twist to this production, Hairspray veteran Brenda Edwards (Hairspray, We Will Rock You) makes her directorial debut, infusing the show with fresh energy and a dynamic vision from behind the scenes.
The cast of Hairspray are fantastic with many stand-out performances. Katie Brace makes a fantastic Tracy Turnblad with a very soulful and funny performance. Reece Richards as Seaweed and Solomon Davy as Link Larkin showcase excellent performances – both incredibly talented singers and dancers. Complementing the cast is Strictly Come Dancing star Joanne Clifton (Shrek the Musical, The Addams Family), who shines as the fierce and fabulous Velma von Tussle. Another stunning turn comes from Michelle Ndegwa as Motormouth Maybelle – an amazing voice and powerhouse performance!
For me, the stand-out star of the show is (naturally) Neil Hurst as Edna Turnblad. Literally larger than life Hurst is very funny and clearly having a whale of a time performing this role. The duet of You’re Timeless to Me was wonderful with the stars’ enjoyment and laughter, infectious for the audience.
Musical numbers in Hairspray are nothing short of sensational, with each song bringing its own infectious energy and charm. From the rousing Good Morning Baltimore to the dazzling and dynamic Welcome to the 60s, the show keeps the audience tapping their feet and singing along. And, not forgetting the grand finale, You Can’t Stop the Beat – an absolute showstopper that bursts with joy and leaves everyone on an exhilarating high.
I really liked the set – good use of projection screens to show different locations, such as the Turnblad’s house, the city streets, a giant television and the Corny Collins Show studio. It was particularly good when the set split to reveal the amazing band playing behind. The set and lighting really accentuate the vibrant colours of this musical.
Hairspray is the ultimate feel-good classic, and this high-energy production is packed with show-stopping musical numbers and electrifying dance routines that leave the audience buzzing with excitement. A well-deserved standing ovation at the end of the show!
There is lots to love in this production from amazing cast, stunning set-pieces, and wonderful sets and effects – camp, colourful, and a whole lot of fun! Hairspray is at Wolverhampton Grand until 8th February 2025. Discover what is coming up at Wolverhampton Grand here: grandtheatre.co.uk/whats-on.
