Hairspray, Aylesbury Waterside Theatre Review

Reviewed by Amanda Dando

Monday 6th September 2021, a very special day for Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. After like many Theatres, being closed due to the pandemic for some 18 months, finally an opening night! What a show to open with … Hairspray The Musical!

We arrived somewhat late due to traffic, but staff on the door were efficient and polite. This am afraid ladies and gentleman is the new normal. We were asked to provide either our vaccine passport or a LFT test within 48 hours of the show. No problem at all with this and much Iike lots of businesses this is about the safety of all, staff, visitors, actors. Quite right too. Everyone was smiling even though there was a wait to get in, chuffed to be about to see live musical theatre, they were not disappointed. I think we all need to leave ourselves extra time when attending events in these new normal times, less stress all round.

Once you’re in the moment, in the theatre, you realise what’s been missing from your world. Music, dancing, colourful costumes and amazing cast. How actors and actresses coped for so long without being able to perform is beyond me. Everyone should stop what they are doing right now and book a ticket for Hairspray. It will be the best two and a half hours of your week … your month and the best value for money you’ve spent in 2021! (editor’s note – this is the reviewer’s opinion)

Where do I start? I have seen the film only twice, but it’s an important story about judgement, be it your shape your style or your colour. We can all relate in one way or another to Amber and Velma Von Tussle’s treatment of Tracy Turnblad. It would be wrong to single out any one member of what was an amazingly talented cast, but Katie Brace, your voice was just exceptional. Second really only to Brenda Edwards, Motormouth Maybelle, who didn’t feature nearly enough, what a voice! From the opening number, Good Morning Baltimore, my feet were tapping, I definitely wanted to spring to my feet and belt it out with her! All the favourites from the film are in the show, and nearing the end of the second half you couldn’t help but jump up and join in.

The costumes were colourful and in keeping with the era. Everyone looked step perfect to me and the comic timing of Edna Turnblad (Alex Bourne) and Wilbur Turnblad (Norman Pace) was hilarious. Funny of course, but touching in their never ending love for their daughter and what boundaries they would push in their love for her.

All the songs were outstanding, the Dynamites sassy. What’s not to love about Hairspray the Musical. I felt so emotional towards the end, caught in the story, but delighted for everyone involved for them to be back where they belong up there on stage in the lights, but also for us the audience, back in our seats, their adoring public being entertained.

I had an amazing time watching this show and you will to, tickets are on sale until 11th September, go grab yours now, from £13 each plus £3.65 transaction charge.

Rating: Can’t wait to see you all again sometime soon. 5 out 5 for me!

For more information or to book tickets please visit Hairspray The Musical Tickets | Aylesbury Waterside Theatre in Aylesbury | ATG Tickets.

Exchange Street, Aylesbury HP20 1UG