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The Tony and Olivier Award-winning musical Hairspray is set to embark on a major new UK and Ireland tour in 2027, including London dates, with Neil Hurst returning to the iconic role of Edna Turnblad.

Producers Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale and Laurence Myers have announced that Brenda Edwards and Paul Kerryson‘s production of Hairspray will begin its second national tour at Manchester’s Palace Theatre in July 2027, before touring the country into early 2028.

The tour visits the New Wimbledon Theatre for its London dates from 31 August 2027, with choreography by Olivier Award winner Drew McOnie. Further casting is to be announced.

Large cast of performers in vibrant 1970s-style costumes posing on a theater stage.

A returning creative team

The production reunites the creative team behind the acclaimed first tour. Brenda Edwards, the Loose Women panellist and Paddington The Musical star, who has previously played Motormouth Maybelle in three tours of Hairspray, co-directs, reprising her directorial role alongside Paul Kerryson.

Edwards said the show “holds a very special place in my heart,” adding that its “story and themes continue to remain as relevant as ever.“

Leading the company is Neil Hurst, returning as Edna Turnblad. A much-loved British actor, comedian and writer, Hurst’s recent credits include The Full Monty on national tour and a recurring improvisation role on Michael McIntyre’s Big Show, alongside his status as an award-winning pantomime favourite.

The creative team is completed by set and costume designer Takis, lighting designer Philip Gladwell and musical supervisor Ben Atkinson.

About Hairspray

Set in 1960s Baltimore, Hairspray tells the story of big-hearted, big-haired heroine Tracy Turnblad, who dreams of dancing her way onto national television and into the heart of teen idol Link Larkin.

When Tracy becomes a local star, she uses her newfound fame to fight for liberation, tolerance and interracial unity. But can she win equality and Link’s heart without denting her ‘do?

Featuring some of musical theatre’s best-loved songs, including Welcome to the 60s, You Can’t Stop the Beat and Good Morning Baltimore by the Academy Award, Tony and Emmy-winning duo Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, Hairspray has been a global phenomenon since opening on Broadway in 2002, where it won eight Tony Awards.

Its 2007 West End premiere at the Shaftesbury Theatre won four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical.

Plan your visit to Hairspray (London)

  • London venue: New Wimbledon Theatre, The Broadway, London SW19 1QG
  • London dates: 31 August – 4 September 2027
  • Tour opens: Palace Theatre, Manchester, July 2027
  • Other dates near London: Southend Cliffs Pavilion (24–29 August 2027), Brighton Theatre Royal (15–20 November 2027), Woking Theatre (22–27 November 2027). See full tour listings for all venues and dates.
Hairspray UK Tour
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Hairspray UK Tour
Main photo: Hairspray Tour: Images provided by PR

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