The award-winning musical Hairspray is set to return to Liverpool's Empire Theatre in 2027 as part of a new UK tour. The production, which has become one of the most popular stage shows of the past two decades, will bring its story of Tracy Turnblad to the city centre venue.
Tour Dates and Ticket Information
Hairspray will run at the Liverpool Empire from September 13 to 18 September 2027. Tickets for the Liverpool performances will go on sale on Monday, July 6. The tour will visit theatres across the UK and Ireland throughout the year.
About the Show
Set in 1960s Baltimore, Hairspray follows teenager Tracy Turnblad as she lands a spot on The Corny Collins Show and uses her newfound fame to challenge racial segregation and promote inclusion. The musical features hit songs including Good Morning Baltimore, You Can't Stop the Beat, Welcome to the 60s and I Know Where I've Been.
Based on the 1988 film by John Waters, Hairspray won eight Tony Awards following its Broadway debut. It has since enjoyed successful West End runs and several UK tours.
Other Liverpool Theatre News
The announcement comes after the Victoria Wood Estate confirmed a new stage adaptation of the iconic sitcom dinnerladies. The show, more than 25 years after its original BBC One broadcast, is the first piece of Victoria's work to be commissioned by the Estate.
Originally created, written and starring comedy legend Victoria Wood, dinnerladies ran for two series and 16 episodes between 1998 and 2000. It won a British Comedy Award for Best TV Comedy in 2000. The new stage adaptation features a storyline inspired by the original episodes and characters. Les Dennis will play maintenance man Stan, with further casting to be announced.
Speaking about joining the production, Les Dennis said: “I’m so thrilled to be on board with this new production of Victoria Wood’s dinner ladies. I’m lucky enough to say I knew Victoria - she and I performed on the comedy circuit in the 1970s and were both finalists on New Faces. I was always such a fan of her - both as a person, and as a comedic voice. Being part of this tour and seeing these beloved northern working-class characters brought to the stage is a perfect way to keep her legacy alive. I’m the first cast member to be announced as Stan, and I can’t wait to see which fantastic actresses will be bringing these amazing dinner ladies characters to life – they're all such fantastic roles. I think fans of Victoria will be in for a real treat after hearing director Sean Foley’s plans for this tour.”
