Run and tell that! Musical favourite Hairspray is heading out on another UK and Ireland tour next year – and it’s returning to York.
It will be the second major tour for Brenda Edwards (Loose Women, ITV; Paddington The Musical, Savoy) and Paul Kerryson’s production of Hairspray, which came to York in 2024.
Now, it’s heading back to the Grand Opera House York from 1-6 November 2027.
This iconic musical comedy features some of musical theatre’s most well-known songs including Welcome To The 60s, You Can’t Stop The Beat and Good Morning Baltimore by Academy Award, Tony and Emmy-winning duo Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.
Choreographed by Olivier Award winner Drew McOnie, the production has also revealed its initial casting – as Neil Hurst will return to play the iconic role of Edna Turnblad.
A much-loved British actor, comedian and writer, Neil began his career touring the country in comedy and variety shows, supporting comedy legends such as Bruce Forsyth, Ken Dodd and Cannon and Ball.
His recent theatre credits include The Full Monty (national tour) as well as being an award-winning pantomime favourite headlining the annual panto at Nottingham Theatre Royal. His television credits include two series in a recurring live improvisation role on Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, working alongside Michael to set up his Unexpected Star of the Show.
Brenda Edwards, who has previously played Motormouth in three tours of Hairspray, said: “I am so thrilled that this wonderful musical is returning to cities across the UK as it holds a very special place in my heart!
“I had so much fun making my directorial debut as a co-director with Paul Kerryson first time round. The show’s story and themes continue to remain as relevant as ever and I cannot wait to share this vibrant new production of this timeless musical with even more people.”
The timeless story of Hairspray centres around heroine Tracy Turnblad, who has big hair, a big heart, and big dreams to dance her way onto national TV, and into the heart of teen idol Link Larkin.
When Tracy becomes a local star, she is able to use her newfound fame to fight for liberation, tolerance, and interracial unity in Baltimore. But can she win equality – and Link’s heart – without denting her ’do?
Completing the creative team is set and costume design by Takis, lighting design by Philip Gladwell, sound design by Ben Harrison, musical supervising and arrangement by Ben Atkinson, musical direction by Richard Atkinson, projection design by George Reeve, casting by Grindrod Burton, associate director Juliet Gough and associate choreographer Shaquille Brush.
