Theatre Review: Hairspray, Wales Millennium Centre
Summary:
Rating: ★★★★
Running Dates: Monday 29th July - Saturday 3rd August 2024
Where to see it: Wales Millennium Centre
Duration: 2 hours and 15 minutes (including interval)
Keywords: Joyous, Feel-Good, Inspiring
Photo Credit: Ellie Kurttz
Review
What a way to reunite humour, fun, acceptance, and inspiration in one spectacular musical!
A Nostalgic Burst of Fun and Inspiration!
What a way to reunite humour, fun, acceptance, and inspiration in one spectacular musical! With special mention to the beautiful set and costume designs, the production effortlessly transports the audience to the vibrant American 60s.
Hairspray is the story of Tracy, a teenager living in Baltimore, Maryland USA during the 1960s - her life dream: dancing on ‘The Corny Collins Show’. Tracy is not in the standard of beauty staring in that show, but this is not stopping her from believing in her dream. As soon as Corny Collins sees her dancing, he invites her on the local TV show. A nobody to Star overnight, the show gives Tracy the opportunities to advocate for racial integration on the television show.
The show stars Strictly Come Dancing’s Joanne Clifton as the fierce yet fabulous Velma von Tussle. Making her directorial debut is Hairspray royalty Brenda Edwards (Hairspray, We Will Rock You), who brings new energy from behind the scenes.
The audiences follow the cast through an energetic, joyous, inspiring, and hilarious performance. The musical features some of theatre’s biggest hit songs, including "Welcome to the 60s," "You Can’t Stop the Beat," "Good Morning Baltimore," and many more. It’s impossible not to sing along and feel the urge to dance with the characters.
The amazing performances from the Cast made me forget it wasn’t actually the 60s in the USA! Special praise goes to Solomon Davy (Link Larkin) for his incredible "freeze" performance that made me question reality. Let’s not forget the live band deserves recognition for their outstanding contribution both behind and in front of the scenes.
Photo Credit: Ellie Kurttz
Standout Quote or Moment: Look out for the duet between Edna and Wilbur Turnblad, played by the incredible Neil Hurst and Dermot Canavan. This performance masterfully blends a range of emotions and provides plenty of laughs, making it a truly memorable highlight of the show.
Similar Plays: Grease, The Prom
Last Impression: Hairspray is a must-see, bursting with energy, nostalgia, and sheer entertainment.
To get tickets for the show click here
We were kindly gifted these tickets in exchange for a review.
Written by Elisa Page Massonnat