But, after various Covid-related delays, the coiffed 60s-infused show is finally back on tour and arrives this week at Curve theatre in Leicester.

For those new to the show or the film, we follow teenager Tracy Turnblad whose dream it is to dance on The Corny Collins Show in her hometown of Baltimore. After sweeping the show with a dazzling performance she becomes an overnight celebrity. 

She then tries to use her fame to fight for liberation, tolerance and interracial unity in the town but is up against the authorities trying to segregate young people who want to dance, and more, together.

The rock-ola musical is a great combination of cult Grease-esque rhythm and blues music and comedy and this production captures the full positive spirit from the curtain-raise.

The breath-taking “Welcome to Baltimore” opening sets the scene for the entire show with an optimistic outlook on life set against tough societal odds and from the sound of the crowd at Curve, boy did we all need it.

There are many highlights, none more so than the phenomenal lead Katie Brace as Tracy. Funny, likeable and kind-hearted, Katie is a future star in the making with a voice to die for and a performance that grabs your attention right at the outset. And her physical comedy was another hilarious highlight that could be so easily overlooked given that voice.

The rest of the cast is top-notch too. X-factor star Brenda Edwards has the most sombre ballads which nicely breaks up the fast-paced pinball tracks with her soulful voice. Rebecca Thornhill as sultry mother Velma Von Tussle who opposes Tracy’s progressive plans is every bit as alluring, and conniving, as Michelle Pfeiffer in the film version. 

And the hilarity continues with Alex Bourne (in drag as Edna) and Norman Pace (as Wilbur) playing Tracy’s supportive parents. The pair get the funniest scene of the night as the frisky double-act duet and dance to a saucy scene that had the audience in hysterics.

The soundtrack is no doubt solid in itself and the rest of the cast more than deliver in their supportive roles – with Penny Pingleton’s and Charlotte St.Croix’s voices particularly magical in their musical moments.

Big hair, jitterbug choreography and a turntable of high-octane pop hits, Hairspray ends as the antidote we all need after 18 months of Covid stress. In the electric auditorium, there seemed to be an outpouring of much needed positivity. The themes of the show explore racial segregation which is certainly a timely subject right now, but for those looking for a hit of escapism into a world of musical fun and 60s-infused jukebox style hits won’t be disappointed either.

So, whether you’re a fan of the film, the show, or just into having a great night out, anyone looking for a satisfying evening of upbeat entertainment, then shimmy and hop on down to Curve for astounding musical merriment and back-combed bouffant brilliance. 

£42 – £10

DISCOUNTS*

£18 Under 16s

£20 16 – 26yrs (with a FREE 16-26 Membership)

£20 Under 18s school groups

15% off for Members / £4 off for Groups 10+ / £5 off for Groups 20+

Signed: Thu 7 Oct, 2.15pm

BSL Interpreter: Karen Sly

Captioned: Thu 7 Oct, 7.30pm

For more information: https://www.curveonline.co.uk/whats-on/shows/hairspray