An iconic comedy musical is coming to Malvern next year as part of a major UK tour.
Hairspray will run at Malvern Theatres from October 11 to 16, 2027, as part of a newly announced tour across the UK and Ireland.
The story follows Tracy Turnblad, a determined teenager in 1960s Baltimore with dreams of dancing on national television.
Filled with optimism, Tracy becomes a local celebrity and uses her new fame to push for social change and racial integration.
Hairspray features beloved songs including Welcome to the 60s, You Can’t Stop the Beat, and Good Morning Baltimore.
With music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman, the musical first opened on Broadway in 2002 and has broken box office records.
It later opened in London at the Shaftesbury Theatre in 2007, winning four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical.
Neil Hurst will reprise his role as Edna Turnblad in the upcoming tour.
He is a familiar face from comedy tours and television appearances, including Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, and has theatre credits such as The Full Monty.
Read more
LIVE - Scenes for popular TV show being filmed at Worcestershire pub
UK shoppers spot new Tango flavour on supermarket shelves that is ‘best' ever
Rare Beatrix Potter 50p coins go on sale for more than £40,000
The 2027 tour is directed by Brenda Edwards and Paul Kerryson, with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Drew McOnie.
Set and costume design will be by Takis, lighting by Philip Gladwell, and sound by Ben Harrison.
Ms Edwards, who has played Motormouth in three Hairspray tours, said: "I am so thrilled that this wonderful musical is returning to cities across the UK as it holds a very special place in my heart.
"I had so much fun making my directorial debut as a co-director with Paul Kerryson first time round.
"The show’s story and themes continue to remain as relevant as ever and I cannot wait to share this vibrant new production of this timeless musical with even more people."
Hairspray is produced by Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale, and Laurence Myers.
The tour will include venues across the UK and Ireland, including stops in Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dublin, and Birmingham, with Malvern in October.
More casting and venue details are expected to be announced.
