Tuesday 11 November 2008

Review of Hairspray, Shaftesbury Theatre






















The Shaftesbury Theatre, Image: Ffion Rees

Based on the issues surrounding racial segregation in 1960's America, I knew that I would no doubt love the West End musical Hairspray.

It's soulful, rhythm and blues music makes the show upbeat and the audience has no shame in standing up and dancing along to every song.

Having started in 1988, this musical still remains one of the most popular shows for both young and older audiences. It has won 27 Major Awards including the prestigious 2008 Olivier Award for Best Musical.

The story is set in Baltimore, 1962 where racial tension is clear and the The Corny Collins Show is still segregated.

Young Tracy Turnblad wants to become star of the show and decides to audition, even though her strict mother disapproves.
Tracy quickly become the most popular member of the show and fights for the right of her African-American friends to be able to take part.

The show only allows black children to appear on the show once a month when they have "Negro Day". She successfully integrates The Corny Collins Show.
Performed everyday in the Shaftesbury Theatre, the cast include Michael Ball, Ben James-Ellis and Liz Robertson. It should no doubt be at the top of your list of musicals to see.

There are plenty of themes with importance particularly the issues surrounding race but the humour and music means that it is easy to watch and more fun than serious.

I would highly recommend Hairspray at the Shaftesbury Theatre, it is one that should not be missed.

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