Hairspray
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Introduction to "Hairspray"
"Hairspray" debuted in London’s West End at the Shaftesbury Theatre on October 30, 2007, following its Broadway triumph in 2002. Based on John Waters’ 1988 film, with a book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan, music by Marc Shaiman, and lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman, this musical ran for 1,250 performances until April 2010. Starring Michael Ball as Edna Turnblad and Leanne Jones as Tracy, it won three Olivier Awards. A 2021 revival at the London Coliseum, led by Ball and Lizzie Bea, reinforced its status as a joyous celebration of dance, diversity, and defiance.
The Creative Team Behind the Show
Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman crafted the infectious score think "Good Morning Baltimore" and witty lyrics, earning Tony nods. Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan’s book brought Waters’ quirky vision to life. Directed by Jack O’Brien, with Jerry Mitchell’s high-energy choreography, the 2007 production shone with Michael Ball’s drag bravura and Mel Smith’s Wilbur. The 2021 revival, directed by O’Brien again, featured Paul Merton and Marisha Wallace, blending fresh faces with veteran flair to keep the beehive buzzing.
A Big-Haired Fight for Equality
Set in 1962 Baltimore, "Hairspray" follows plump teen Tracy Turnblad, who dreams of dancing on "The Corny Collins Show." Winning a spot, she falls for Link Larkin and challenges the show’s segregation, roping in her laundress mom Edna and dad Wilbur. With Motormouth Maybelle and Seaweed, Tracy leads a march against racism, facing off with snobby Velma Von Tussle. Jail stints and a TV showdown later, integration triumphs. Hits like "You Can’t Stop the Beat" and "Big, Blonde and Beautiful" propel this tale of body positivity and justice.
Performance and Reception
The 2007 opening dazzled, with The Guardian calling it “a riot of colour and optimism,” earning Ball and Jones Oliviers. Its 1,250-show run packed houses, buoyed by a cast recording hitting UK charts. Critics praised its heart Variety dubbed it “irresistible” though some noted its sugar-coated take on race. The 2021 revival, delayed by COVID, ran 103 performances, with The Stage lauding its “exuberant return.” Both incarnations proved "Hairspray"’s knack for lifting spirits and sparking cheers.
Legacy in West End Theatre
"Hairspray" redefined jukebox-adjacent musicals, blending retro tunes with modern sass, influencing shows like "Kinky Boots." Its West End runs 2007 and 2021 total over 1,350 performances, with the 2007 Broadway cast album and 2007 film (starring John Travolta) amplifying its reach. Staged globally from South Korea to Brazil, it’s a West End mainstay, returning to the Dominion in 2024. Its message of inclusion and unstoppable rhythm keep it towering high in London’s theatrical skyline.