Hairspray 2015

After last years very successful production of Hairspray as part of Paul Kerryson's valedictory season for Curve he is back with a bigger, brighter, bouncier Balitmore, and this time with an all star cast led by Benidorm's Tony Maudsley, Chicago's Claire Sweeney and Blue Peter's Peter Duncan. Before it heads out into the wilds of theatreland on a one year nationwide tour we have the opportunity to see this very much ramped up, spanglier, ballsier production of a much favoured show.

The awesome voices of Claire Sweeney, Brenda Edwards and Dex Lee splendidly compliment the exhaustive, energetic choreography of the ensemble. All this is as well as the full use of Curve's extensive technical capabilities and serves to provide us with an evening of high energy fun, frolics and entertainment

For those not familiar with either the film or last year's production Hairspray is the story of Tracey Turnblad (Freya Sutton returning to the role after touring with it last year), a plus size high school student in the early 60's. Highlighting that sizeism isn't new, Tracey, considering herself an outsider anyway, takes on the issue of racial segregation in middle America. While this may sound quite a worthy subject it is given the John Waters treatment and emerges as an hilarious tale of redemption. As Tracey's double plus size mother, Edna, Tony Maudsley displays a nimble pair of feet, albeit clad in Nora Batty pop socks, and an undoubted sure touch for both broad and subtle comedy. He is ably partnered by Peter Duncan as husband Wilbur Turnblad. Claire Sweeney has great fun with the villainess of the piece, Velma Von Tussle, mother of spoiled brat Amber.

Tonight's performance ended with a well deserved standing ovation for a very cohesive cast and a luscious looking production. Hairspray is on at Curve until Saturday 19th September

Tickets available at www.curveonline.co.uk
Full tour details at www.hairsprayuktour.com

Firts published in Western Gazette
© Paul Towers 15/9/2015