Hairspray Review

Mayflower, Southampton – until 27 January 2018.  Reviewed by Karen Millington Burnet

5*****

Wow, a five star performance from an energetic and athletic troupe. There was barely a moment of stillness from beginning until the standing ovation at the end. The only minute of relative calm turned into high comedy as the pantomime dame and leading man played out the eternal comedy of the romantic kiss between husband and wife-in-drag. But enough of what came later; first, the high energy.

From the moment the unlikely heroine, Rebecca Mendoza’s Tracy Turnblad, came on stage I struggled to understand how she expected to maintain her rather portly frame for the run; she barely paused for breath as she romped from one spectacular number to the next and from one high octane routine to the next, culminating in the explosive finale.  However, this is a cast of talent and Brenda Edwards’ Motormouth, together with Gina Murray’s Velma made up a powerful musical experience. Huge strawberries to Annalise Liard-Bailey whose Penny was a revelation; only just graduated and delivering a consummate performance, singing voice and routine – definitely one to watch for the future. Amongst such a talented cast, it becomes invidious to select too many for special mention from such an able team – the athleticism, the dancing, the singing, the faultless timing…amazing – but of course Matt Rixon’s Edna and Norman Pace’s Wilbur will be forever unforgettable, ably assisted by a great script and huge comic timing.  Nevertheless, in my opinion, Rebecca Mendoza walks away with the “Man of the Match” accolade this time.

Inevitably, so much of the success of the evening lies in the hands of the back stage crew and I was blown away by the great lighting and choreography; the Mayflower delivers every time with it’s back stage teams and this ensembles’ team have really proven their worth.  Inevitably in a musical, much rests in the hands of the band and this occasion was no exception; truly as energetic as the performers – and as polished. The set and costumes completed the visual feast and made for a dazzling evening.

A wonderful evening and a great way to brighten a very damp January. A thoroughly good evening and a genuine recommendation; a must see.