More Hairspray for Michael Ball

Since opening this autumn, Hairspray has proved hugely popular with theatre audiences and critics alike scoring a whopping 10 nominations for this years What's On Stage Theatregoer's Choice awards and announcing an extended booking period. Currently starring as Edna Turnblad, Michael Ball has announced an extension to his stay in the production.

In Hairspray Michael Ball dons a wig and dress to play Edna Turnblad, mother of Tracy and wife of Wilbur. Ball's performance has gone down a storm in the West End and he has been nominated for Best Actor in a Musical. Mel Smith, who plays Wilbur has been nominated for Best Supporting Actor in a Musical with cast members Leanne Jones, Tracie Bennet and Ben James Ellis also nominated. The show nominated for Best New Musical with further nominations in Best Director, Best Set Designer and Best Choreographer. Along with her nomination for Best Actress in a Musical, Leanne Jones is also nominated for London Newcomer of the Year. Hairspray is Jones' first role on the West End. Michael Ball has extended his appearance in the show to coincide with the recently announced booking period, taking the show and Ball up to 25 October 2008.

Hairspray follows Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart. Tracy's lifetime dream is to dance and when she lands a spot on a local TV dance show Tracy goes from outsider to teen celebrity over night. Her next mission becomes toppling the show's current dancing princess and win the heart of heartthrob Link Larkin.

Hairspray is based on the 1988 John Waters film of the same name. Book your tickets for this musical today as part of a Holiday Extras Theatre Break.

Published By:
Tony Hill