Hairspray
The New Theatre, Oxford, 12 October 2010
Despite falling at the first hurdle and getting my wires crossed about what time the minibus was due to pick us all up, we had a smooth journey up the A34 and so I managed not to detrimentally delay the arrival of the other Theatre-Goers to the West End Production of Hairspray on tour at the New Theatre Oxford. The advert describing Hairspray as, ‘the mother of all musicals’ is certainly not wrong! We were treated to Scene after Scene of vibrant, noisy, feel-good singing and acting from an outstandingly professional cast that had the full house clapping wildly and up on its feet dancing and cheering as the final curtain came down.
There were some memorable performances, including the duet from Brian Conley as Edna Turnblad and Les Dennis as the amiable husband Wilbur who runs the Har-de-Har Hut, which left them – never mind the audience – reeling with laughter. Laurie Scarth gave a fantastic performance as the central character Tracy Turnblad, her singing only outshone by the stunning vocal chords of Sandra Marvin as Motormouth Maybelle.
It was a real treat and should definitely not be missed if you have yet to experience this Sixties style romcom with the happy ever after ‘Aaahh’ factor mixed with a poignant reminder of what segregation in the USA meant for youngsters at that time….In fact it was so fantastic young Liam had his fingers in his ears throughout much of the wild applause that followed every Scene…..it really was that good! Our thanks as ever especially to Malcolm and the Upton Village Theatre Group Committee for organising yet another fantastic evening out….may we all enjoy many more.
Lesley Shaw October 2010