Big Hair, Bigger Heart: Hairspray Dazzles in Sunderland
The stage is set, the beat is bold, and last night the Sunderland Empire was swept into the colourful chaos of 1960s Baltimore as Hairspray bursted into town. With toe-tapping tunes, sky-high hairdos, and a message that never goes out of style, this vibrant production doesn’t just entertain — it uplifts. As Tracy Turnblad dreams big and dances her way to change, the cast delivers charm, charisma, and choreography that’ll have the whole theatre on its feet. Sunderland, get ready — because you can’t stop the beat!
Backdrops are projected using an interactive screen, a creative use of technology that is becoming ever more popular in theatre shows and in this instance helped to add depth to the scenes. Lighting design plays a role in setting the mood also. A live band is unveiled on stage throughout, enhancing the show’s authenticity and energy.
I haven’t been to a musical that had so much applause in recognition of songs sang by the cast members throughout the show. The show got a roar from the audience as it started and the standing ovation it deserved at the end also.
Katie Brace, a Sunderland local herself stepped on her hometown stage yet again in this role. She played the role of Tracy Turnblad in her professional debut, which was the last time I saw the show in its 2021-2022 tour. I liked her then but loved her tonight! Brace was my standout for the night. Like spirit animals we as people could imagine ourselves as, if there was a spirit character for an actor then Brace has it in Tracy Turnblad. Brace plays this role with natural ease, comfort and confidence. She exuded Joy, happiness and the naive hopefulness her character has, accompanied by a belting voice. You are a credit to the North East!
Neil Hurst was a wonderful Edna Turnblad and brought many laughs to the stage with his feminine mixed with macho portrayal ! There was a wonderful number with husband Wilbur played by Dermot Canavan who himself brought many laughs, when they sang ‘You’re timeless to me’ this was so endearing and I’m sure had an unscripted moment that brought laughter to the audience.
Joanne Clifton excelled in her role of Velma Von Tussle, Solomon Davy as Link Larkin had a wonderful voice, Declan Egan kept the show flowing as Corny Collins. Freya McMahon provided a timid showing of Penny Pingleton as we would expect and of whom came of age at the end! Allana Taylor gave her best to be centre of attention as Amber Von Tussle, Reece Richard’s as Seaweed gave some smooth vocals. Michelle Ndegwa m shone when she was on stage and had some powerful vocals to boot. A shout out too Katlo too playing Little Inez. Our band dynamite also provided some soulful voices.
This shows success lies in all the cast principal and supporting playing their parts and they all do. Choreography was on point and had all the cast dancing seamlessly in and around eachother.
I enjoyed this much more second time around than the first time seeing it. Hairspray is back in Sunderland and you definitely cannot stop this beat!