Review: Why Hairspray at Newcastle Theatre Royal is a Must-Book
The four-time Olivier Award winning musical, Hairspray, has come to Newcastle Theatre Royal
If you’re anything like me, the 2007 hit movie-musical will still be a firm favourite, so the stage show adaptation had to be good to compete. Thankfully, it didn’t disappoint. In fact, I think it was better! Featuring all the recognisable tracks such as Welcome to the 60s, Mama, I’m a Big Girl Now, and everyone’s number-one You Can’t Stop the Beat, the story follows Tracy Turnblad (Katie Brace) and her friends as they strive to change the world.
After a dancer pulls out of the popular talent show The Corny Collins Show, open auditions are held and Tracy is desperate to get in, much to her mother Edna’s (Neil Hurst) dismay. Immediately rejected by the ruthless producer Velma Von Tussle (Joanne Clifton of Strictly Come Dancing fame) for how she looks, Tracy and her new friends are determined to make Baltimore a more inclusive place.
The show is big, bold and beautiful – technicolour lights, dazzling costumes and an impressive set with a live band on stage who appear throughout the show. The talent on stage is second to none. Tracy, with her trademark hair, is performed perfectly by Katie. Her naive wishful thinking and overwhelming likability is backed up by her fantastic voice, especially in her opening number Good Morning Baltimore.
Neil Hurst’s Edna is an absolute hoot; his laugh-until-you-cry line delivery keeps the audience engaged throughout the show, with the rendition of (You’re) Timeless to Me being the funniest of it all. Much like her brother, Kevin, who we saw a couple of weeks ago in Chicago, Joanne Clifton as Velma is a real treat – though she’s the villain in the story, we can’t help but love her character, humour and impeccable dance skills.
The final group number You Can’t Stop the Beat got the audience on their feet, singing and dancing along with the cast, and we stayed on our feet for a very deserved standing ovation.
There is so much to love about this show, reminding you how brilliant uplifting musicals at Newcastle Theatre Royal are. With comical characters, upbeat songs and a production that captures the ‘60s perfectly, Hairspray is a must-book for all the family. But don’t hang around – tickets are limited.
Hairspray is at Newcastle Theatre Royal until 16th November. Book your tickets at theatreroyal.co.uk or from the box office on 0191 232 7010.
