Review: Hairspray

Hey readers!

It's time for my review of Hairspray. 

"Starring Michael Ball, Hairspray follows the story of Tracy Turnblad, an aspiring dancer who wins a part on a local TV show, The Corny Collins Show, and becomes an overnight sensation. Featuring the songs 'Good Morning Baltimore' and 'You Can't Stop the Beat'." 

Hairspray is one of the most fun and uplifting shows around, and is guaranteed to provide audiences with the feel-good factor. At a time when many are in need of escapism, this is likely the perfect show for many theatregoers. At the heart of the story is a message that encourages people to unite and work together to solve their problems, which is something that we can all learn from; particularly in our current situation. In addition to this, the narrative of Hairspray is also noteworthy for the way in which it tackles race-related issues. Whilst the show is set in 1962, the subject matter is still relevant in the modern day. The show encourages individuality, acceptance and freedom, thus advocating against intolerance and bigotry. There are many important lessons to be learnt from Hairspray, and the show does well to balance out these themes with the more light-hearted moments too. 

The award-winning musical score of Hairspray, by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, is iconic, and will likely be familiar to many individuals. There are a variety of upbeat and catchy tunes, almost all of which will stay with you long after you leave the London Coliseum. A number of highlights from the score include 'Welcome to the 60's', 'I Know Where I've Been' and 'You Can't Stop the Beat'. In addition to this, the orchestrations by Harold Wheeler were equally as terrific. They really helped the music come to life, whilst the band members themselves were simply extraordinary.

For the most part, the cast of this revival are excellent. There are a wide number of very talented actors, singers and dancers to be found within the ensemble, with many of them qualifying as triple threats. Having said that, there were some performances which felt somewhat over-exaggerated. Whilst Hairspray requires its cast to be 'cheesy' at certain points, this did at times make it feel a little inauthentic. It is worth noting however that the star of the show is Michael Ball, who has returned to his award-winning portrayal of Edna Turnblad. It was clear that Ball was cherishing his time onstage, which in turn made his whole performance all the more fun to watch. Ball's ability to portray Edna so well highlights just how versatile he actually is; the character bares no similarity to some of the other roles Ball is known for, and yet he performs the role with ease. Also worthy of a special mention is Marisha Wallace, who portrayed Motormouth Maybelle. Wallace's rendition of 'I Know Where I've Been' was incredible, receiving a well-deserved standing ovation from the audience. 

The scenic design by David Rockwell is good, though it looks somewhat misplaced on the London Coliseum stage. As those who have been to the Coliseum will know, it is an extremely large stage; the set of Hairspray however is rather small and has had to add a border around it in order to remedy this. This does make me wonder as to whether the production may have been better suited to a smaller venue, thus ensuring that the set does not get swallowed by the stage. The choreography, by Jerry Mitchell, however is extraordinary and provides yet another overall highlight. The dance numbers were exhilarating to watch, and the ensemble performing them were extremely talented. In particular, the choreography for 'You Can't Stop the Beat' was outstanding, and made for a tremendous finale. 

Now for my final verdict on Hairspray. I give Hairspray...

Hairspray is undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable musicals out there this minute, and it's one I would recommend to anyone looking for an escape. With an entertaining story and fantastic music, Hairspray will leave many feeling overjoyed.

Think it should have got a higher rating? Agree with my rating? Think it should have got a lower rating? If so comment below.

Thanks for reading!

-The Basic Theatre Reviewer