Hairspray The Musical

Hairspray returns to Milton Keynes Theatre this week, featuring a talented new cast that brings the same infectious energy and feel-good spirit the show is known for.

Set in 1962 Baltimore, Hairspray tells the story of Tracy Turnblad, a girl with big hair and even bigger dreams. She dances her way onto national television and becomes a local star, but Tracy’s mission goes beyond fame—she fights for racial equality, using her newfound platform to challenge segregation, all while winning the affections of heartthrob Link Larkin.

The musical is based on the 1988 film that starred Ricki Lake and has been a Broadway favorite since its 2002 debut. The 2007 film adaptation, featuring John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, and Zac Efron, only boosted its popularity.

Neil Hurst (Edna Turnblad), Gina Murray (Velma Von Tussle), Michelle Ndegwa (Motormouth Maybelle), Soloman Davy (Link Larkin), Declan Egan (Corny Collins), Alexandra Emmerson-Kirby (Tracy Turnblad), Katlo (Little Inez), Reece Richards (Seaweed), and Allana Taylor (Amber Von Tussle) all deliver standout performances.

The ensemble includes Ben Anderson, Grace Anyiam, Nina Bell, Joseph Bristow, Vanessa Dumatey, Rebecca French, Stuart Hickey, Jaiden Lodge, Olly Manley, Sasha Monique, Jacob Smith, and Issy Wilman.

The show’s leading ladies, Michelle Ndegwa and Alexandra Emmerson-Kirby, are both making their professional debuts. Ndegwa, a soul and gospel singer best known for her work with the Gorillaz, was selected from over 3,000 applicants at open auditions. Alexandra Emmerson-Kirby’s journey began at Scarborough’s YMCA Theatre, and she recently graduated from Italia Conti, marking a fresh chapter in her career as Tracy Turnblad.

This production doesn’t rely on elaborate sets or flashy gimmicks. Instead, it’s filled with catchy songs, relentless energy, and an unwavering positivity that shines through even when it tackles difficult themes like racial segregation in 1960s America. The show's solution to these societal problems? Dance, kindness, and unity.

Directed by Brenda Edwards (Loose Women, We Will Rock You) alongside Paul Kerryson (Chicago, Sweeney Todd), with choreography by Olivier Award winner Drew McOnie (In the Heights, Jesus Christ Superstar), Hairspray is a feel-good hit that’s hard to criticize. If you haven’t seen it yet, this is the perfect chance to tick it off your list. You’re guaranteed to leave with a smile.

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