This summer, Hairspray makes a triumphant return to the stage 21 years after its original Broadway debut.
Hairspray Returns to Cardiff
This summer, Hairspray makes a triumphant return to the stage 21 years after its original Broadway debut. This vibrant and energetic tour is lighting up the Cardiff Wales Millennium Centre until Saturday August 3rd, so there's still a fleeting chance to snag a ticket! With familiar hits from the movie and additional numbers unique to the stage show, Hairspray is an unstoppable force that will have you dancing in your seat.
Set in the 1960s, Hairspray follows Tracy Turnblad and her friends as they embark on a mission to change the world. The cast dazzled with phenomenal voices and infectious energy, breathing new life into this beloved musical. Alexandra Emmerson-Kirby, in her debut professional performance as Tracy, delivered the role with impressive precision and charm. Neil Hurst (known for "The Full Monty" and "The Wizard of Oz") took on the iconic role of Edna Turnblad—previously portrayed by John Travolta in the 2007 film and Michael Ball in the 2008 UK tour—and won over the audience with his heartfelt and humorous performance. His on-stage chemistry with Dermot Canavan's Wilbur was both comedic and endearing, making their relationship completely believable.
The production's staging seamlessly blended modern elements with a nostalgic 1960s aesthetic. Stage props representing Edna's and Penny's houses, along with on-stage setups for the jail and Motormouth Record Store, were skilfully combined with a dynamic digital backdrop that lifted to reveal a live orchestra during the Corny Collins Show. This clever use of staging satisfied the desire for a contemporary yet authentic theatre experience.
Every aspect of this stage performance was a delight, including the spontaneous moments like Wilbur and Edna's giggles during their porch scene. Particularly poignant were the two backdrops that served as powerful reminders of the ongoing fight for freedom, featuring photos from 1960s marches against racial segregation and a memorial to activists like Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
Flawless scene transitions, impressive choreography, vibrant musical numbers, and stunning costumes were a testament to the dedication of the production team. Pre-show jitters about Edna's portrayal quickly dissipated as Neil Hurst grew into the role, delivering a performance that did not disappoint.
Hairspray is running at the Wales Millennium Centre until August 3rd, and a few tickets are still available. Don't miss out on this lively and heartwarming performance by an incredibly talented cast! Find out more at https://www.wmc.org.uk/en/whats-on/2024/hairspray
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