Mel Smith as 'Wilbur Turnblad' in Hairspray

Mel Smith as 'Wilbur Turnblad' in Hairspray

It has now been officially confirmed that Mel Smith will play'Wilbur Turnblad', in the musical Hairspray, which opens at the Shaftesbury Theatre 30 Oct 2007, following previews from 11 Oct - booking to 15 Mar 2008.

As previously reported, he joins Michael Ball (Edna Turnblad), and 22 year-old complete unknown Leanne Jones, making her first professional appearance, playing 'Tracy Turnblad'.

Further casting to be confirmed!

This production had its Broadway premier at the Neil Simon Theatre in 2002, where it still continues to run

The show 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?


Originally published on

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