The producers of Hairspray the Musical have announced today that the multi-award-winning smash-hit musical will now begin its rescheduled performances on Thursday 22 April 2021 and will play a strictly limited 19-week season to Sunday 29 August at the London Coliseum.
Until 26 July 2020, all existing ticket holders have priority to move their tickets to a new date. All new ticket purchases can be made from 27 July, so mark your diaries!
Fans will be pleased to know that Michael Ball returns to his legendary, Olivier Award-winning role of Edna Turnblad, alongside one of the UK’s greatest comedians, Paul Merton (BBC Radio 4’s Just A Minute, Have I Got News For You), who will be making his West End musical debut as Edna’s husband, Wilbur.
Paul Merton as Wilbur Turnblad and Michael Ball as Edna Turnblad in Hairspray The Musical. Photo credit: Dewynters
Michael Ball said: “Just like Edna’s famous roll-on foundation garments, it’s been a struggle but it’s finally going on, and I couldn’t be more thrilled. Hairspray is the perfect show to help the West End rediscover its joy, energy, talent and relevance. Nothing says “we made it through” better than sitting in a theatre, watching a community facing the huge social issues of their day and conquer them with the help of family, friends, commitment and love….oh and some brilliant songs, spectacular dance routines and huge belly laughs. It’s just the antidote we need. See you there.”
Starring alongside him will be West End star Marisha Wallace (Dreamgirls, Waitress), who will take the role of Motormouth, Lizzie Bea who will be making her West End debut in the role of Tracy Turnblad and Rita Simons (Eastenders’ Roxy Mitchell) and Jonny Amies (Granchester on ITV; Sex Education on Netflix/Eleven Film) will also star as Velma Von Tussle and Link Larkin respectively.
Lizzie Bea & Marisha Wallace in Hairspray the Musical. Photo credit: Dewynters
The smash-hit all-singing all-dancing production is set in Baltimore, 1962 and follows the story of Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and big dreams. Can she make it on the local TV dance show, win the heart of teen heartthrob Link Larkin and bring everyone together – whatever their colour, size or hairdo? Well if you want a change, you’ve really got to shake things up!
With the original award-winning creative team of director Jack O’Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell, and featuring the infectiously feel-good songs Good Morning, Baltimore, Big, Blonde and Beautiful and You Can’t Stop the Beat, this inspirational, fun-loving and fabulously uplifting musical sensation is back and bigger than ever.
Tickets will be available on Official London Theatre from 27 July, so keep your eyes peeled!