Michael Ball extends in Hairspray to 25 April 2009

Michael Ball has extended his run playing the role of ‘Edna Turnblad’ in Hairspray to 25 April 2009 at the Shaftesbury Theatre

There are also a few cast changes from 27 Oct 2008: Liz Robertson will take over the role of ‘Velma Von Tussle’ from Tracie Bennett; Zoe Rainey will take over the role of ‘Amber Von Tussle’ from Rachel Wooding; and 16-year old newcomer Raquel Jones the role of ‘Little Inez’ from Natalie Best.

The rest of the principal cast members remain with the show: Leanne Jones (Tracy Turnblad), Ben James-Ellis (Link Larkin), Ian Talbot (Wilbur Turnblad), Elinor Collett (Penny Pingleton), Adrian Hansel (Seaweed), Johnnie Fiori (Motormouth Maybelle) and Paul Manuel (Corny Collins).

Adam Spiegel, from UK producers Stage Entertainment, said: “I am absolutely delighted that Michael and many others in the cast have decided to stay with the production. Hairspray is the happiest show in London, both on stage and behind the scenes, and knowing we have Michael leading us into our second year is a dream come true. That he’s doing so in a dress is simply a bonus!”

Michael Ball said: “I am so happy that the divine Mrs Edna Turnblad is going to continue to be a big part of my world for another six months. “HAIRSPRAY” has without doubt been one of the happiest and most fulfilling experiences of my professional life. And I am delighted to carry on being part of this phenomenon.”

Hairspray, opened at the Shaftesbury Theatre to terrific notices from the popular press on 30 Oct 2007, following previews from 11 Oct: THE INDEPENDENT says, "Was the show worth it? Yes, yes and again yes." THE GUARDIAN says, "Where the show really scores is in its ability to integrate serious issues into a lightweight plot." THE DAILY TELEGRAPH says, "You will laugh, you will scream, you might even shed a sentimental tear or two. " THE TIMES says, "Delightful."

At the 2008 Olivier Awards, “HAIRSPRAY” won ‘Best Musical’, as well as ‘Best Actor in a Musical’ for Michael Ball, and ‘Best Actress in a Musical’ for Leanne Jones.

Hairspray has book by Mark O’Donnell & Thomas Meehan, music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman & Marc Shaiman, and is based upon the New Line Cinema film written and directed by John Waters.

It is directed by Jack O’Brien, choreographed by Jerry Mitchell, and produced in the West End by Stage Entertainment / SEL & GFO New Line Cinema / In Association With Live Nation

Baltimore's Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, has only one passion -- to dance. She wins a spot on the local TV dance programme, 'The Corny Collins Show' and, overnight, is transformed from outsider to irrepressible teen celebrity. But can a trendsetter in dance and fashion vanquish the program's reigning princess, win the heart of heartthrob Link Larkin, and integrate a television show?