Archive: March 2025. This article describes a past event; dates, prices and booking details are historical. See the organiser’s website for current information.
Hairspray at Buxton Opera House: Unmissable magic and a vocal powerhouse – a must-see feel-good hit
The opening night of Hairspray at Buxton Opera House was nothing short of electric. With toe-tapping tunes, dazzling choreography, and a message that hits home as powerfully today as it did in 1962, this is a show that grabs your attention – and your heart – from the first note and never lets go.
Set in racially segregated 1960s Baltimore, the story follows Tracy Turnblad, a plus-sized teenager with dreams as big as her beehive. She wants to dance on The Corny Collins Show, get the guy, and make the world a better place – one dance move at a time. Along the way, she fights discrimination, challenges stereotypes, and champions integration, proving that everyone deserves a chance to shine.
Tracy’s rise to fame, her fight for justice, and her unstoppable optimism are portrayed with infectious energy by a vibrant cast. But it’s Neil Hurst as Edna Turnblad who steals the spotlight – his performance is a comic masterpiece. The role of Tracy’s mother was played by Divine in the original 1988 film. Hurst’s duet with Dermot Canavan as Wilbur, You’re Timeless to Me, was not only hilariously touching but also featured a perfectly timed burst of ad-libbing that had the audience in stitches.
The energy in the theatre was palpable from the word go. The duets between each of the lead girls and their ‘mamas’ was a highlight in one of the opening numbers Mama, I’m a Big Girl Now.
Vocally, the show is sensational. Michelle Ndegwa as Motormouth Maybelle delivers powerhouse performances, with Big, Blonde and Beautiful and I Know Where I’ve Been; Her presence is commanding, and her voice soars. Strictly Come Dancing’s Joanne Clifton dazzles as Velma Von Tussle, embodying the glamorous villain with poise and sass and exceptional stage presence, while Olly Manley’s Link brings a smooth, swingy charm reminiscent of Frankie Valli.
The entire ensemble cast here are brilliant with other standout performances from Allana Taylor (Amber Von Tussle), Reece Richards (Seaweed) and Freya McMahon (Penny Pingleton), and, Declan Egan as Corny Collins, perfectly portraying the host.
Paul Kerryson, then CEO of Buxton Opera House & Pavilion Arts Centre, co-directed the tour with Brenda Edwards, who made her directorial debut. Edwards reached the semi-final of The X Factor in 2005 and played Motormouth Maybelle on the 2017 tour, which also visited Buxton.
Hairspray is more than just a feel-good musical – it’s a celebration of love, acceptance, and standing up for what’s right. It’s a reminder that we all have dreams and we all deserve the chance to chase them.
The closing number You Can’t Stop the Beat had the audience on their feet, clapping and dancing like it was 1962 all over again.
Buxton Opera House, Water Street, Buxton, SK17 6XN
T: 01298 72190
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