Merton to make West End musical debut in Hairspray

Published: 25 January 2020
Reporter: Sheila Connor

Paul Merton as Wilbur Turnblad

Have I Got News For You star Paul Merton is to star as Wilbur Turnblad alongside Michael Ball, who will return to the role of Edna, in the musical Hairspray at London Coliseum from 23 April 2020 for 18 weeks.

Lizzie Bea will play Tracy Turnblad with Marisha Wallace asf Motormouth. Rita Simons and Jonny Amies will also join the cast as Velma Von Tussle and Link Larkin.

Tracy Turnblad, in 1962 Baltimore, is a big girl with big hair and big dreams. Can she make it on the local TV dance show, win the heart of teen heartthrob Link Larkin and bring everyone together—whatever their colour, size or hairdo?

Produced by Adam Spiegel Productions and Fiery Angel, the production will bring back the original creative team of director Jack O'Brien and choreographer Jerry Mitchell.

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