Energetic ensemble numbers, lavish costumes and stand-out performances: Hairspray welcomes everyone to the 60s in its latest tour production.
If you’re anything like me, you’ll hold very fond memories of the 2007 movie-musical version of Hairspray, a cinematic masterpiece that breathed new life into the already iconic musical. I bring this version of the show up because until last night it was my only experience of the story.
Yes, much to my shame, I had never seen a live production of the show but after coming out of the Palace Theatre last night, I can now say that Hairspray‘s latest tour production is just as fun-loving – and as free wheeling.
From start to finish, Hairspray is a vibrant, colourful, high-energy show which takes you on the journey of teenage misfit Tracey Turnblad as she deals with the struggles of pursuing her dreams, in the face of adversity and a 1960s America that seems determined to halt progression.
The entire cast gave stellar performances from leading lady Alexander Emmerson-Kirby in the role of Tracy, all the way through to the ensemble who constantly wooed me with brilliantly executed dance routines, filled to the brim with swinging-sixties dance moves.
I’d like to take a second to highlight some standout performances, which in my opinion elevated the show to new heights. Starting with Neil Hurst in the role of Edna Turnblad, Tracy’s ‘larger-than-life’ mum.
Neil was a constant comic relief throughout a show that whilst generally lighthearted does tackle some serious issues such as unrealistic female beauty standards and racial segregation.
Neil, alongside his comedic partner Dermot Canavan, gave a standout, belly-laugh performance of their duet ‘You’re Timeless To Me’. It truly had the audience in fits of laughter and lauded huge applause from the entire theatre.
On to Gina Murray as Velma Von Tussle and Michelle Ndegwa as ‘Motormouth’ Maybelle. Both gave superb renditions of their solo numbers and showcased their experience in every scene they were in.
Murray’s rendition of Miss Baltimore Crabs (still always caught off-guard by that name) was impressive, to say the least, with the performer delivering big and bold vocals, all whilst being held upside down by a group of the male cast.
Meanwhile, Michelle Ndegwa’s version of ‘I Know Where I’ve Been’ was spellbindingly beautiful. It carried with it the weight and severity of the number, all whilst delivering knock-out vocals that were filled to the brim with pain and suffering.
Hairspray Production Photos taken on 16th July 2024 in ManchesterStunning vocals all around.
Finally, a small shoutout to Reece Richards as Seaweed. Growing up (and occasionally to this day) I tried many times to stumble my way through Seaweed’s big number, ‘Run And Tell That’, and let me tell you from experience, that’s one damn hard song to sing…
Reece delivered the number expertly, all whilst dancing in a routine that even just watching, made me feel slightly exhausted. Props to Reece… One day I will nail that opening high note (I won’t).
All in all, Hairspray delights, delivering laughter, splendor, and high fuelled entertainment from start to finish – we’d consider a must-see if you’re a fan of the film, especially.
The show runs through till 27th July and with limited tickets still available, there’s no reason to not get yourself down and enjoy an evening of mesmerising, musical fun. You can grab yours HERE.
Hairspray Production Photos taken on 16 July 2024 at the Palace Theatre in ManchesterSeriously, give it a go.
‘Pioneering’ immersive theatre productions to take place inside shipping containers across Greater Manchester
Emily Sergeant
A pioneering production company is bringing immersive theatre inside shipping containers to Greater Manchester.
DARKFIELD has announced their first shows in Greater Manchester for seven years, and will present their three most critically-acclaimed experiences at iconic venues across the region as part of an ‘exciting’ collaboration.
Keen audiences will be able to head to The Lowry, Aviva Studios, and HOME this month to see theatre like they’ve never seen it before.
Renowned for their trademark shipping containers popping up across the UK and internationally, bringing mysterious and exciting experiences across the country, DARKFIELD will present SÉANCE, FLIGHT and ARCADE so crowds can find themselves immersed in the supernatural, boarding a new airline, or navigating a war torn world.
Fresh from sell-out runs at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, BFI London Film Festival, and an extended residency at Shoreditch Town Hall, ARCADE will arrive at The Lowry – which is the company’s newest production.
‘Pioneering’ immersive theatre productions inside shipping containers will be happening across Greater Manchester / Credit: Mihaela Bodlovic | Fiona Rita Blyth
Aviva Studios will welcome one of DARKFIELD’s most popular and critically-acclaimed experiences, FLIGHT.
Over 30 minutes in total darkness, FLIGHT explores the Many-Worlds Interpretation of quantum mechanics, taking audience members through two worlds, two realities, and two possible outcomes to their journey.
And then over at HOME, the company’s first shipping container experience, SÉANCE, will be on show.
The interior of a 24ft container will be transformed into a Victorian séance room, and asks audiences to believe not only what is happening inside the container, but also in what might be conjured up into the room with them.
“We are delighted to be returning to Greater Manchester to present our shows in collaboration with three incredible venues,” commented DARKFIELD, ahead of their arrival in our region.
“We can’t wait to welcome audiences across the region to experience the strange worlds we’ve created.”
Chicago The Musical at The Lowry, Salford – a story of hot jazz and theatrical bliss
Aimee Woodcock
All That Jazz has found its way to Salford this week as Chicago the Musical hits The Lowry, and it’s safe to say the show still knows how to pull in a crowd.
Set in 1920s Chicago, the story centres on Roxie Hart, a chorus girl who shoots her lover and winds up behind bars. Inside Cook County Jail she meets Velma Kelly, a nightclub star with her own double-murder conviction.
Both women want the spotlight as much as they want their freedom, and with the slick lawyer Billy Flynn fighting their corner, it quickly turns into a tit-for-tat battle of who can play the media game best.
The big talking point this time round is Janette Manrara, swapping the Strictly ballroom for the theatre stage in her debut as Roxie. She’s playful, cheeky and full of energy, and it’s clear she’s enjoying every second.
By her side, Djalenga Scott is a knockout Velma. From the moment she kicks things off with ‘All That Jazz’ she owns the stage, captivating the audience with every line.
Together, the pair bounce off each other brilliantly – their love-hate chemistry is one of the show’s strongest pulls.
Chicago The Musical at The Lowry in Salford. Credit: Paul Coltas
Darren Day brings the charm as Billy Flynn, the lawyer who can turn any trial into one big show stopper. His big number ‘Razzle Dazzle’ truly shines.
Stepping in for Brenda Edwards tonight was Victoria Anderson, in her element as Mama Morton, belting out ‘When You’re Good to Mama’ with just the right amount of soul.
Joshua Lloyd shines as Amos Hart, Roxie’s hopeless husband, heartbreakingly relatable in ‘Mr. Cellophane’, while Jordan Lee Davies brings humour and surprise as the iconic Mary Sunshine.
The staging is simple, with the 12-piece orchestra, sat in full view. It gives the whole show a stripped-back, concert-like feel, letting the band drive the energy – and trust us there’s plenty of it throughout the two hour show.
Chicago The Musical at The Lowry in Salford. Credit: Paul Coltas
Of course, Bob Fosse’s iconic choreography is front and centre of each performance and instantly recognisable. The famous ‘Cell Block Tango’ is as gripping as ever, the audience filled with applause upon finishing.
Chicago has been running for nearly 30 years, but it feels far from tired. If anything, its satirical take on fame and the media feels even sharper today than ever.
At The Lowry, it’s delivered with style, glitz and a lot of sass. One for fans old and new and well worth a night out.
Oli Lowe -
19th July 2024 
