Why Watch Hairspray
Winner of an unprecedented 8 Tony Awards in 2003, out of a total of 13 nominations, Hairspray was one of the most successful shows to feature on Broadway. It ran for an astonishing 2,642 performances until the 4th of January, 2009. It has been adapted as a musical film in 2007, featuring an ensemble cast that included John Travolta, Christopher Walken, Amanda Bynes, Queen Latifah, James Marsden, and Zac Efron!
When it debuted on West End, Hairspray went on to be nominated for 11 Olivier Awards and won 4. Erstwhile musician and composer Marc Shaiman is in charge of the music. A winner of a Grammy, Emmy and Tony Awards, Shaiman has often been praised for his extensive repertoire of work in the film and music industry. Jack O’Brien, a three-time Tony Award winner and American Theatre Hall of Fame inductee, is in charge of the direction, and you are guaranteed an unforgettable evening!
The Story
The story follows Edna Turnblad, a mother of a high-school girl, Tracy. Tracy, although overweight, is an aspiring dancer, and dreams of performing on “The Corny Collins Show.” She auditions for the show when one of the members of the Corny Collins Collins goes on leave for a period of 9 months. Unfortunately, Tracy is rejected by the producer, Velma Von Tussle, owing to her weight. She meets a dancer, Seaweed Stubbs, who teachers her several dance moves. The following day, Tracy uses the dance moves to catch the attention of Corny Collins himself, at the Summer Hop. On seeing her skills, Collins offers Tracy a role on his show. Von Tussle is left distraught at the news and is determined to ruin Tracy.
Tracy goes on to become an overnight sensation on the show. Soon, she gains popularity both inside and outside the school. Both Edna and Tracy see a massive change in their lives, as they attempt to deal with this newfound fame. Soon enough, things take a turn for the worse, as several people plot against Tracy. Will she be able to emerge unscathed through these trying times? Will she be able to find love amidst all the chaos? Join Tracy as she attempts to integrate the show and meets intriguing characters on the way!
Good for
Fans of Marc Shaiman | Fans of Michael Ball | Lovers of musical comedies
Critics Reviews
Not released yet.
FAQ
Know Before You Go
Show Details
Show Timings
Tuesday – Saturday
7:30 PM
Thursday & Saturday
3:00 PM
Sunday
4:00 PM
Duration
2 hours and 15 minutes, with 1 intermission
Leading Roles
Michael Ball as Edna Turnblad
Directed by
Jack O’Brien
Choreographed by
Jerry Mitchell
Songs by
Music by Marc Shaiman, with lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman
Know Before You Go
Audience
To be confirmed
Available Facilities
Wheelchair accessible
In-house bar
Coat check
Seating
The London Coliseum has a seating capacity of 2,359 in total.
Outside Food
Strictly prohibited. If you’d like to grab a meal before or after the show, check out our guide to the 30 Best Restaurants in West End.
Dress Code
Smart and casual wear is recommended. Keep in mind, the theatre is air conditioned throughout the year and can get a bit chilly.
Cancellation Policy
This experience cannot be canceled, amended or rescheduled.
You will receive an email with your voucher. You may display your voucher on your mobile phone. Please carry a valid photo ID for identification.
