The 2024–2025 UK tour of Hairspray bursts onto the stage with infectious energy, dazzling costumes, and, thankfully, a message that still resonates. From the opening number “Good Morning Baltimore”, the show immediately establishes a high-energy tone, driven by a vibrant ensemble and a particularly garish design (by takis). Charming (if not a little simplistic) interpretations of the outlandish characters make the production a hit for all the family. At the same time, it’s no more nor less than that paint-by-numbers musical theatre we’re now so used to seeing on the large touring stages of the UK.

The staging (directed by Paul Kerryson) is slick, with quick scene changes that keep the momentum flowing… even if the musical’s overlong first half is begging to be edited. The choreography (Drew McOnie) is tight, joyful, and full of sixties-inspired flair. Particularly during show-stopping numbers like “You Can’t Stop the Beat”: that number is so insanely frenetic musically; and, in terms of the movement, it functions much like a megamix, or epic act one finale, where all characters seem to get a moment, and it goes on for eight hours… to the audience’s wild delight!

Musically, the live band (conducted by Rickey Long) provides a rich, brassy sound, even though they are hidden away. And the vocals across the board are strong, with harmonies hitting just right. A shame they can’t always be heard, as the sound design (Ben Harrison) is problematic at times, with spoken lines also going amiss.

The 2024–2025 Hairspray tour is a triumphant celebration of inclusivity, love, and dancing your heart out. Unmissable for mega-fans, but perhaps deserves closer consideration for those choosing where to put their hard-earned cash.

Playing at the New Victoria Theatre in Woking 31 March – 5 April, 2025.