The international musical comedy Hairspray the Musical returned to the UK with a new tour, which started in August 2017. I was really excited when I saw this advertised online. Growing up, I’ve been lucky enough to see a range of West End musicals, however Hairspray has always been one that I always wished to see.
For those who don’t know the storyline, the musical is set in Baltimore in 1962. Tracy Turnblad, the main character and focus on the show, is a large girl with big hair and an even bigger dream: to dance her way onto national TV, and into the heart of teen idol Link Larkin. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for integration. The story follows her in her hope of winning equality.
We attended the show at the Nottingham Theatre Royal. My parents came to visit me at uni for the day so we could all see it together. I have walked past the theatre quite often when walking to and from places in the city, however, I have never been in before. The architecture is stunning; the building has been around since 1865. The beams and large windows add to the period appearance and add to the appeal of the building.
The show was fantastic; it is such an uplifting, feel-good performance, one that it is impossible not to smile along with the actors/actresses. I love all of the original Hairspray songs so I was pleased when the show featured my favourites, including Welcome to The 60s, You Can’t Stop The Beat and The Nicest Kids in Town. I found it very hard not to sing along! I had seen the TV version of the show, however, in my opinion, it does not compare to the live show. I loved how involved the audience got which added to the friendly atmosphere and fun experience. I also really liked how colourful and vibrant the outfits were, no two were the same; the producers and stylists definitely captured the 60’s image with their use of silhouette and pattern.
The UK tour doesn’t end until August 2018 so if you are a lover of musicals or want to watch an upbeat show with the family, I would definitely recommend grabbing a ticket if you can. I would absolutely like to watch it again; Hairspray is just one that I can never get bored of.
Have you ever seen Hairspray before?
Rachel
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