hairspray on tour 2024

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“If life were everything it should be, it would be more like HAIRSPRAY

IT’S IRRESISTIBLE!”

THE NEW YORK TIMES

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Hairspray UK Tour

Hairspray tour announces casting and further dates.

Run and Tell That!

Exclusive: A large portion of the casting and additional dates have been revealed for Hairspray the Musical, which will open on tour in Manchester at the Palace Theatre on 16 July 2024 and run through to April 2025.

Hairspray  alum Brenda Edwards ( We Will Rock You ) will make her directorial debut for the new mounting. Edwards, who has played the role of “Motormouth Maybelle” during three previous tours of Hairspray  will co-direct alongside Paul Kerryson ( Chicago ), with Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre’s new artistic director Drew McOnie ( In the Heights ) serving as choreographer.

The cast will feature Neil Hurst (Edna Turnblad), Joanne Clifton and Gina Murray (Velma Von Tussle – with Murray performing the role from 16 July to 7 September only), Michelle Ndegwa (Motormouth Maybelle), Soloman Davy (Link Larkin), Declan Egan (Corny Collins), Alexandra Emmerson-Kirby (making her professional debut as Tracy Turnblad), Katlo (Little Inez), Reece Richards (Seaweed) and Allana Taylor (Amber Von Tussle).

Ndegwa obtained the role after being selected from more than 3000 people who applied to the open auditions in November last year.

The ensemble includes Ben Anderson, Grace Anyiam, Nina Bell, Joseph Bristow, Vanessa Dumatey, Rebecca French, Stuart Hickey, Jaiden Lodge, Olly Manley, Sasha Monique, Jacob Smith and Issy Wilman. Further casting will be announced soon.

Hairspray , penned by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman, is set in 1962 in a racially-segregated Baltimore, Maryland. It follows teenager Tracy Turnblad, who dreams about dancing on The Corny Collins Show . The score features such standards as “ Welcome To The 60s”, “You Can’t Stop The Beat” and “Good Morning Baltimore”.

The creative team for the new tour includes set and costume designer Takis, lighting designer Philip Gladwell, sound designer Ben Harrison, musical supervisor and arranger Ben Atkinson, musical director and supervisor Richard Atkinson, video designer George Reeve and resident director Juliet Gough. Casting is by Grindrod Burton.

Produced by Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale and Laurence Myers,  Hairspray  will launch the tour at Manchester’s Palace Theatre (16 to 27 July), before heading to the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff (29 July to 3 August), Canterbury’s Marlowe (6 to 10 August), Cheltenham Everyman (13 to 17 August), Liverpool Empire (19 to 24 August), Belfast’s Grand Opera House (26 to 31 August), Milton Keynes Theatre (2 to 7 September), Southend Cliffs Pavilion (9 to 14 September), Birmingham Hippodrome (16 to 21 September), Curve Leicester (23 to 28 September), Theatre Royal Brighton (30 September to 5 October), Edinburgh Playhouse (7 to 12 October), Sheffield Lyceum Theatre (14 to 19 October), New Wimbledon Theatre (21 to 26 October), York Grand Opera House (28 October to 2 November), Nottingham Theatre Royal (4 to 9 November), Newcastle Theatre Royal (11 to 16 November), Hull New Theatre (18 to 23 November), and Bradford’s Alhambra Theatre (25 to 30 November).

Into 2025, the show will visit Southampton Mayflower (6 to 11 January), Hall for Cornwall (13 to 18 January), His Majesty’s Theatre, Aberdeen (20 to 25 January), Glasgow’s Kings Theatre (27 January to 1 February 2024), Wolverhampton Grand (3 to 8 February), Norwich Theatre (10 to 15 February), Aylesbury Waterside (17 to 22 February), Bristol Hippodrome (24 February to 1 March), Woking New Victoria (31 March to 5 April), Venue Cymru (7 to 12 April) and Sunderland Empire (14 to 19 April).

Select venues are on sale at the link below.

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Donald Gordon Theatre

29 July – 3 August 2024

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You can’t stop the beat - HAIRSPRAY is BACK ON TOUR!

Starring Gina Murray (Chicago, Hairspray) as the fierce yet fabulous Velma von Tussle. Making her directorial debut is Hairspray royalty Brenda Edwards (Hairspray, We will Rock You) who will bring new energy and excitement this time from behind the scenes.

Wonderfully fresh and vivid

Featuring some of musical theatre’s biggest and best hit songs, including Welcome to the 60s, You Can’t Stop the Beat, Good Morning Baltimore and so many more. Hairspray is the hilarious, joyous, and inspiring musical for all!

Enter big-hearted Tracy Turnblad and her friends as they dance their way into history in their quest to fight intolerance and racism.

From the spirited Seaweed and his sister Little Inez to the charming Link Larkin and the resolute Motormouth Maybelle, witness a cast of characters who refuse to be silenced in the face of prejudice and discrimination, instead gaining acceptance and equality.

This fun-filled, feel-good show is bursting with show-stopping numbers and dizzying dance routines that you can’t help not to shimmy too!

Age guidance: 8 + (no under 2s)

Running time:  approximately 2 hours 15 minutes including an interval

Start time: Mon – Sat 7.30pm Thu + Sat 2.30pm

£10 off on opening night (top 2 prices), limited availability

Become a member .

Groups of 10+ from £4 off. Available Mon – Thu, top 2 prices. Groups payment date 29 April 2024.   Organise a group visit

£4 off top 2 prices Mon – Thu

Please note that all under 16s must be seated with an adult aged 18 or above

£8 off Mon – Thu (top 4 prices, evening performances only)

All offers are subject to selected seats, allocations and availability

Book as early as you can to ensure the best choice of seats. Ticket prices are subject to change without notice and will reflect current demand.

Presented at

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Pretty Woman: The Musical

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Only Fools and Horses

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The Wizard of Oz

23 – 28 July 2024

The Drifters Girl

7 – 11 May 2024

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Grease The Musical

2 – 7 September 2024

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A new play by Tim Price

18 May – 1 June 2024

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27 – 31 August 2024

A Wales Millennium Centre Production

A new stage adaptation by Hefin Robinson

30 October – 9 November 2024

TINA – The Tina Turner Musical

Presented in association with Tina Turner

10 – 28 February 2026

& Juliet

16 – 28 June 2025

Heathers The Musical

13 – 17 August 2024

Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

15 – 19 April 2025

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The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe

11 – 15 February 2025

Blood Brothers

20 – 24 August 2024

A Night At The Musicals

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20 July 2024

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Hairspray UK Tour

Hairspray the Musical UK Tour returns in 2024!  Initial dates have been announced… Sign up to our touring alerts and we'll let you know when tickets go on sale.

HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL TOUR - 2024 / 2025 DATES & TICKETS

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Official Website: https://hairsprayuktour.com

YOU CAN'T STOP THE BEAT - HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL IS BACK!

Smash-hit musical Hairspray is set to tour the UK and Ireland next year in a major new production co-directed by Brenda Edwards.

Brenda Edwards will make her directorial debut as she joins Paul Kerryson to direct the 2024/25 touring production alongside award-winning choreographer Drew McOnie.

The Loose Women panelist has previously played ‘Motormouth' Maybelle in three tours of Hairspray, as well as appearing We Will Rock You and Chicago.

Brenda Edwards said: “I couldn’t be more thrilled to be invited by the producers to make my directorial debut on the show as a co-director with Paul Kerryson. Hairspray, and this production in particular, has been such a huge part of my life. The show’s story and themes are as relevant as ever and I cannot wait to hold the open auditions to discover a new cast and work together to present a vibrant new production of this timeless musical for everyone to enjoy.”

WHAT IS HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL ABOUT?

It’s Baltimore 1962, where Tracy Turnblad, a big girl with big hair and an even bigger heart, is on a mission to follow her dreams and dance her way onto national TV. Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and soon she is using her new-found fame to fight for equality, bagging local heartthrob Link Larkin along the way.

Hairspray  is a musical based on the 1988 film of the same name which starred Divine and Ricki Lake by cult filmmaker John Waters. With music and lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman  Hairspray  originally opened to rave reviews on Broadway in 2002 and subsequently won eight Tony Awards. The production opened in London at the Shaftesbury Theatre in 2007 and won the Laurence Olivier Award for Best New Musical, Best Actor in a Musical, Best Actress in a Musical and Best Performance in a Supporting Role.

Proving to be an international success, Hairspray has also opened in South Africa, Japan, South Korea, China and Dubai. Following the musical’s phenomenal success on stage, a film of the musical was released in 2007 which starred John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer and James Marsden.

HAIRSPRAY UK TOUR - THE CAST & CREATIVE

*Joanne Clifton will join the cast from the  09 Sep .

Original Screenplay –  John Waters Book – Mark O'Donnell & Thomas Meehan Composer/Co-Lyricist – Marc Shaiman Lyrics – Scott Wittman & Marc Shaiman Directors – Paul Kerryson / Brenda Edwards Choreographer – Drew McOnie

WATCH THE VIDEO TRAILER FOR HAIRSPRAY THE MUSICAL!

Listen to music from hairspray the musical, did you find this useful if so, would you 'like' our facebook page, thank you we are new, and every 'like' goes a long way :).

• Bournemouth
• Derry / Londonderry
• High Wycombe
• Kingston upon Thames
• Milton Keynes
• Newcastle Upon Tyne
• Northampton
• Peterborough
• Southampton
• Southend-on-Sea
• Stockton-on-Tees
• Stoke-on-Trent
• Wolverhampton

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Jun 4 - Jun 9, 2024

Broadway Shows

Ticket Price

$35 (plus applicable fees)

Performance Hall

Fri, Feb 23

Show Description

You Can’t Stop the Beat! HAIRSPRAY , Broadway’s Tony Award-winning musical comedy phenomenon is back on tour! Join 16-year-old Tracy Turnblad in 1960s Baltimore as she sets out to dance her way onto TV’s most popular show. Can a girl with big dreams (and even bigger hair) change the world?

Featuring the beloved score of hit songs including “Welcome to the ‘60s,” “Good Morning Baltimore” and “You Can’t Stop the Beat,” HAIRSPRAY is “fresh, winning, and deliriously tuneful!” ( The New York Times ).

This all-new touring production reunites Broadway’s award-winning creative team led by Director Jack O’Brien and Choreographer Jerry Mitchell to bring HAIRSPRAY to a new generation of theater audiences.

Don’t miss this “exhilaratingly funny and warm-hearted musical comedy” ( The New Yorker ).

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Performance Schedule

• Audio Description
• Open Captions

Swipe to see more details

• Tue Jun 4, 2024 at 7:30 pm
• Wed Jun 5, 2024 at 7:30 pm
• Thu Jun 6, 2024 at 7:30 pm
• Fri Jun 7, 2024 at 8:00 pm
• Sat Jun 8, 2024 at 2:00 pm
• Sat Jun 8, 2024 at 8:00 pm
• Sun Jun 9, 2024 at 1:30 pm
• Sun Jun 9, 2024 at 7:00 pm

If life were everything it should be, it would be more like HAIRSPRAY. It’s irresistible!

- The New York Times

Media Gallery

(center) Caroline Eiseman as “Tracy Turnblad” and Company in Hairspray.

“Good Morning, Baltimore” - Caroline Eiseman as “Tracy Turnblad” in Hairspray.

Deidre Lang as “Motormouth Maybelle” and the Company of Hairspray

(from L) Caroline Eiseman as “Tracy Turnblad,” Greg Kalafatas as “Edna Turnblad” and Company in Hairspray

from L) Ashia Collins, Leiah Lewis and Kynnedi Moryaé Porter as “The Dynamites” in Hairspray

(center) Caroline Portner as “Amber Von Tussle” and Company in Hairspray

Deidre Lang as “Motormouth Maybelle” and Company in Hairspray

(front) Skyler Shields as “Link Larkin” and Company in Hairspray

aloft, from L) Josiah Thomas Randolph as “Thad,” Kalab Quinn as “Duane,” Gabriel Yarborough as “Gilbert” and Company in Hairspray

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Hairspray UK Tour Casting & Further Dates Announced

The producers of the 2024/25 UK and Ireland tour of Hairspray are delighted to announce initial casting and further tour dates for the smash hit musical.

Casting includes Neil Hurst (Edna Turnblad), Joanne Clifton (Velma Von Tussle) – with Gina Murray performing the role from 16 July – 7 September only, Michelle Ndegwa (Motormouth Maybelle), Soloman Davy (Link Larkin), Declan Egan (Corny Collins) Alexandra Emmerson-Kirby (Tracy Turnblad), Katlo (Little Inez), Reece Richards (Seaweed) and Allana Taylor (Amber Von Tussle). The ensemble includes: Ben Anderson, Grace Anyiam, Nina Bell, Joseph Bristow, Vanessa Dumatey, Rebecca French, Stuart Hickey, Jaiden Lodge, Olly Manley, Sasha Monique, Jacob Smith and Issy Wilman . Further casting will be announced soon.

Michelle Ndegwa will make her professional debut in the principal role of Motormouth Maybelle having been selected from more than 3000 people who applied to the open auditions in November last year. A soul and gospel singer, best known for her performances as a vocalist for the Gorillaz, Michelle has recorded with Billy Porter, Gregory Porter (Troy Miller), Shapeshifters, Yard Act, Becky Hill, Rita Ora, and Deseri. Her touring, festival and concert work includes: background vocals for Wizkid, Lizzo, Jorja Smith, Emeli Sande, Becky Hill, Nubya Garcia, TLC, Liam Gallagher, Ray BLK, Nina Nesbit, Shakka, Tom Odell, and Trevor Nelson (Soul Christmas at the Royal Albert Hall). She has performed at festivals including Coachella, Glastonbury and BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

Alexandra Emerson-Kirby will also be making her professional debut as Tracy Turnblad. Her passion for musical theatre started at her local YMCA Theatre in Scarborough after which she went on to train professionally at Italia Conti where she recently graduated in Musical Theatre & Dance.

The full tour dates for this iconic musical comedy featuring some of musical theatre’s best hit songs including Welcome To The 60s, You Can’t Stop The Beat and Good Morning Baltimore by Academy Award, Tony and Emmy-winning duo Marc Shaiman (music and lyrics) and Scott Wittman (lyrics) are:

Manchester Palace (16 – 27 July), Wales Millennium Centre, Cardiff (29 July – 3 August), Canterbury Marlowe (6 – 10 August), Cheltenham Everyman (13 – 17 August), Liverpool Empire (19 – 24 August), Belfast Grand Opera House (26 – 31 August), Milton Keynes Theatre (2 – 7 September), Southend Cliffs Pavilion (9 – 14 September), Birmingham Hippodrome (16 – 21 September), Leicester Curve (23 – 28 September), Brighton Theatre Royal (30 Sept – 5 October), Edinburgh Playhouse (7 – 12 October), Sheffield Lyceum (14 – 19 October), New Wimbledon Theatre (21 – 26 October), York Grand Opera House (28 Oct – 2 Nov), Nottingham Theatre Royal (4 – 9 November), Newcastle Theatre Royal (11 – 16 November), Hull New Theatre (18 – 23 November), Bradford Theatres (25 – Sat 30 November), Southampton Mayflower Theatre (7 – 11 January), Hall for Cornwall (13 – 18 Jan) Aberdeen His Majesty’s Theatre (20 – 25 January), Glasgow Kings Theatre (27 Jan – 1 February), Wolverhampton Grand (3 – 8 Feb), Norwich Theatre (10 – 15 Feb), Aylesbury (17 – 22 Feb) and Bristol Hippodrome (24 Feb – 1 Mar), Woking New Victoria (31 Mar – 5 Apr), Venue Cymru (7- 12 Apr) and Sunderland Empire (14-19 Apr). Further dates for March and April are to be announced soon.

The creative team includes Directors Brenda Edwards and Paul Kerryson, Choreography by Drew McOnie, Musical Supervising and Arrangement by Ben Atkinson, Set and Costume Design by Takis, Lighting Design by Philip Gladwell, Sound Design by Ben Harrison, Video Design by George Reeves, Musical Direction and Supervision by Richard Atkinson, Projection Design by George Reeve, Casting by Grindrod Burton and Resident Director is Juliet Gough.

After breaking box office records and delighting audiences in the West End, on Broadway and on the big screen since 1988, the timeless story of Hairspray centres around heroine Tracy Turnblad, who has big hair, a big heart, and big dreams to dance her way onto national TV, and into the heart of teen idol Link Larkin. When Tracy becomes a local star, she is able to use her newfound fame to fight for liberation, tolerance, and interracial unity in Baltimore. But can she win equality – and Link’s heart – without denting her ’do?

Hairspray is a musical based on the 1988 film of the same name which starred Divine and Ricki Lake by cult filmmaker John Waters. With music by Marc Shaiman, lyrics by Scott Wittman Marc Shaiman and book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan, the stage production of Hairspray originally opened to rave reviews on Broadway in 2002 and subsequently won eight Tony Awards. The production opened in London at the Shaftesbury Theatre in 2007 and won four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical. Proving to be an international success, Hairspray has also played in South Africa, Japan, South Korea, China and Dubai. Following the musical’s phenomenal success on stage, a film of the musical was released in 2007 which starred John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer and James Marsden.

Hairspray is produced by Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale, and Laurence Myers

CREATIVE TEAM: Directors: Brenda Edwards and Paul Kerryson Choreographer: Drew McOnie Musical Supervisor and Arranger: Ben Atkinson Set and Costume Designer: Takis Lighting Designer: Philip Gladwell Sound Designer: Ben Harrison Video Designer George Reeves Musical Director and Supervisor: Richard Atkinson Projection Design by George Reeve Casting: Grindrod Burton Resident Director: Juliet Gough

Related News & Reviews Past & Present

• Hairspray The Musical extends tour by 8 weeks Due to phenomenal public demand, Hairspray has today announced it will continue to tour the UK into August of next year. Having entertained...
• Casting announced for UK Tour of Hairspray CAST ANNOUNCED FOR MAJOR UK TOUR OF SMASH-HIT MUSICAL HAIRSPRAY AWARD-WINNING COMEDIAN NORMAN PACE TO STAR AS WILBUR TURNBLAD WITH MATT RIXON RETURNING...
• Hairspray UK Tour 2017-2018 dates announced Producer Mark Goucher has confirmed that following the phenomenal success of the recent UK tour, the smash hit production of Hairspray will embark...
• Hairspray UK & Ireland Tour 2024/2025 Producers Mark Goucher, Matthew Gale and Laurence Myers are delighted to announce that Brenda Edwards (Loose Women, ITV; We Will Rock You, London...
• Hairspray The Musical to tour the UK in 2020-2021 Producers, Mark Goucher and Matthew Gale confirmed today that his smash hit production of Hairspray will go out on tour again in 2020....

About The Author

Next performance at Manchester Palace Theatre from 16 Jul 2024

Book online

More dates to be announced…

MANCHESTER Palace Theatre

16 jul 2024 - 27 jul 2024.

CARDIFF Wales Millennium Centre

29 jul 2024 - 03 aug 2024.

CANTERBURY The Marlowe

06 aug 2024 - 10 aug 2024.

CHELTENHAM Everyman Theatre

13 aug 2024 - 17 aug 2024.

LIVERPOOL Empire Theatre

19 aug 2024 - 24 aug 2024.

BELFAST Grand Opera House

26 aug 2024 - 31 aug 2024.

MILTON KEYNES Theatre

02 sep 2024 - 07 sep 2024.

SOUTHEND Cliffs Pavilion

09 sep 2024 - 14 sep 2024.

BIRMINGHAM Hippodrome

16 sep 2024 - 21 sep 2024.

LEICESTER Curve

23 sep 2024 - 28 sep 2024.

BRIGHTON Theatre Royal

30 sep 2024 - 05 oct 2024.

EDINBURGH Playhouse

07 oct 2024 - 12 oct 2024.

SHEFFIELD Lyceum Theatre

14 oct 2024 - 19 oct 2024.

New WIMBLEDON Theatre

21 oct 2024 - 26 oct 2024.

YORK Grand Opera House

28 oct 2024 - 02 nov 2024.

Nottingham Theatre Royal

04 nov 2024 - 09 nov 2024.

Newcastle Theatre Royal

11 nov 2024 - 16 nov 2024.

HULL New Theatre

18 nov 2024 - 23 nov 2024.

Bradford Alhambra Theatre

25 nov 2024 - 30 nov 2024.

SOUTHAMPTON MAYFLOWER THEATRE

07 jan 2025 - 11 jan 2025.

TRURO Hall For Cornwall

13 jan 2025 - 18 jan 2025.

ABERDEEN His Majesty’s Theatre

21 jan 2025 - 25 jan 2025.

GLASGOW King’s Theatre

27 jan 2025 - 01 feb 2025.

WOLVERHAMPTON Grand Theatre

03 feb 2025 - 08 feb 2025.

NORWICH Theatre Royal

10 feb 2025 - 15 feb 2025.

AYLESBURY Waterside Theatre

17 feb 2025 - 22 feb 2025.

BRISTOL Hippodrome

24 feb 2025 - 01 mar 2025.

MALVERN Theatres

03 mar 2025 - 08 mar 2025.

DERRY Millennium Forum

10 mar 2025 - 15 mar 2025.

DARTFORD Orchard Theatre

24 mar 2025 - 29 mar 2025.

WOKING New Victoria Theatre

31 mar 2025 - 05 apr 2025.

LLANDUDNO Venue Cymru

07 apr 2025 - 12 apr 2025.

SUNDERLAND Empire Theatre

14 apr 2025 - 19 apr 2025, share this with your friends.

• West End & London Musicals
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Hairspray tour

Currently touring until 19 April 2025

Hairspray is back on a UK four for 2024! Based on the 1980s movie of the same name, Hairspray is set in 1960s Baltimore, Maryland and follows Tracy Turnblad as her dream to dance on The Corny Collins Show turns into a campaign for racial integration.

Hairspray UK tour dates and tickets

• Manchester , Palace Theatre 16 July 2024 - 27 July 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Cardiff , Wales Millennium Centre 29 July 2024 - 3 August 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Canterbury , The Marlowe 6 August 2024 - 10 August 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Cheltenham , Everyman Theatre 13 August 2024 - 17 August 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Liverpool , Liverpool Empire 19 August 2024 - 24 August 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Belfast , Grand Opera House 26 August 2024 - 31 August 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Milton Keynes , Milton Keynes Theatre 2 September 2024 - 7 September 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Southend , Southend Cliffs Pavilion 9 September 2024 - 14 September 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Birmingham , Birmingham Hippodrome 16 September 2024 - 21 September 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Leicester , Leicester Curve 23 September 2024 - 28 September 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Brighton , Brighton Theatre Royal 30 September 2024 - 5 October 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Edinburgh , Edinburgh Playhouse 7 October 2024 - 12 October 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Sheffield , Sheffield Theatres 14 October 2024 - 19 October 2024 Book tickets ➤
• London , New Wimbledon Theatre 21 October 2024 - 26 October 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Nottingham , Nottingham Theatre Royal 4 November 2024 - 9 November 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Newcastle , Newcastle Theatre Royal 11 November 2024 - 16 November 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Hull , Hull New Theatre 18 November 2024 - 23 November 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Bradford , Bradford Theatres 25 November 2024 - 30 November 2024 Book tickets ➤
• Southampton , Southampton Mayflower 6 January 2025 - 11 January 2025 Book tickets ➤
• Truro , Hall For Cornwall 13 January 2025 - 18 January 2025 Book tickets ➤
• Aberdeen , His Majestys Theatre 20 January 2025 - 25 January 2025 Book tickets ➤
• Glasgow , Glasgow Kings Theatre 27 January 2025 - 1 February 2025 Book tickets ➤
• Wolverhampton , Wolverhampton Grand 3 February 2025 - 8 February 2025 Book tickets ➤
• Norwich , Norwich Theatre 10 February 2025 - 15 February 2025 Book tickets ➤
• Aylesbury , Aylesbury Waterside Theatre 17 February 2025 - 22 February 2025 Book tickets ➤
• Bristol , Bristol Hippodrome 24 February 2025 - 1 March 2025 Book tickets ➤
• Woking , New Victoria Theatre 31 March 2025 - 5 April 2025 Book tickets ➤
• Llandudno , Venue Cymru 7 April 2025 - 12 April 2025 Sign up for updates
• Sunderland , Sunderland Empire 14 April 2025 - 19 April 2025 Book tickets ➤

Welcome to the 60s, where everyone’s grooving to a brand-new sound! Enter our vivacious heroine Tracy Turnblad, who has big hair, a big heart, and big dreams to dance her way onto national TV, and into the heart of teen idol Link Larkin. When Tracy becomes a local star, she is able to use her newfound fame to fight for liberation, tolerance, and interracial unity in Baltimore. But can she win equality – and Link’s heart – without denting her ‘do?

Meet the cast

Those on the cast include Neil Hurst (Edna Turnblad), Joanne Clifton (Velma Von Tussle) – with Gina Murray performing the role from 16 July – 7 September only, Michelle Ndegwa (Motormouth Maybelle), Soloman Davy (Link Larkin), Declan Egan (Corny Collins) Alexandra Emmerson-Kirby (Tracy Turnblad), Katlo (Little Inez), Reece Richards (Seaweed) and Allana Taylor (Amber Von Tussle).

Making up the ensemble are Ben Anderson, Grace Anyiam, Nina Bell, Joseph Bristow, Vanessa Dumatey, Rebecca French, Stuart Hickey, Jaiden Lodge, Olly Manley, Sasha Monique, Jacob Smith and Issy Wilman .

About the show

Age recommendation and guidance: 2 hours 30 minutes incl. interval

Running time: 150

Brenda Edwards, who has previously played ‘Motormouth’ Maybelle in three tours of Hairspray, will co-direct the new production alongside Paul Kerryson (Chicago, Sweeney Todd; Curve Theatre) with choreography by Drew McOnie.

The musical made its debut on Broadway in 2002 and features a book by Mark O’Donnell and Thomas Meehan with music by Marc Shaiman and lyrics by Shaiman and Scott Wittman.

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Jack O'Brien & George C. Wolfe Will Each Receive the 2024 Special Tony Award

The 77th Annual Tony Awards will air on Sunday, June 16, 2024;

Jack O’Brien and George C. Wolfe will each receive the 2024 Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre.   “Honoring these two gentlemen for their outstanding achievements and contributions to theatre is not only a recognition of their innate talent and dedication, but to a lifetime of brilliant work. With credits such as ‘Hairspray’ and ‘The Invention of Love,’ Jack O’Brien has showcased astounding diversity, skill and passion throughout his esteemed career,” said Jason Laks, interim president of The Broadway League. “In his role as Artistic Director of The Old Globe Theatre for 25 years, he also leaves a lasting legacy of strengthening the relationship between the commercial and nonprofit worlds."   “Both of our honorees have shown a true commitment to the craft that has led to remarkable success across their deeply applauded breadth of work. George C. Wolfe ’s stellar contributions as a playwright, director, producer and artistic director, including his unforgettable direction in productions like ‘Angels in America: Millennium Approaches’ and  ‘Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk,’ have left a lasting impression on audiences,” said Heather Hitchens , president and CEO of the American Theatre Wing. “Beyond his tremendous dedication to storytelling, he has shown an unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion throughout his illustrious career that has shifted culture and elevated the theatre community.”

Jack O’Brien

Director Jack O’Brien was recently nominated for a Tony Award for his direction of the new musical, “Shucked.” He has also won three Tony Awards for his direction of “Hairspray,” “Henry IV,” and “The Coast of Utopia.” Other Broadway credits include Arthur Miller ’s “All My Sons,” “Carousel,” “The Front Page,” “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” “It’s Only a Play,” “Macbeth,” “The Nance,” “Dead Accounts,” “Catch Me If You Can,” “Impressionism,” “Dirty Rotten Scoundrels” (Tony Award nomination), “Imaginary Friends,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” “The Invention of Love” (Tony Award nomination and Drama Desk winner), “The Full Monty” (Tony Award nomination), “More to Love,” “Getting Away with Murder,” “The Little Foxes,” “Damn Yankees,” “Two Shakespearean Actors” (Tony Award nomination), and “Porgy and Bess” (Tony Award nomination).    O’Brien’s off-Broadway credits include Tom Stoppard ’s “The Hard Problem,” “Pride’s Crossing,” and “Hapgood” ( Lucille Lortel Award). Other productions include “Il Trittico” at the Metropolitan Opera, “Guys and Dolls” at Carnegie Hall , and “Much Ado About Nothing” for The Public’s Shakespeare in the Park. Recent National and International tours include Rodgers & Hammerstein’s “The Sound of Music” and “Hairspray.” In London, “Love Never Dies,” “His Girl Friday,” and “Hairspray” (Olivier nomination), which also saw a revival at London’s West End Coliseum. Mr. O’Brien was the Artistic Director of The Old Globe Theatre from 1981 to 2007, and directed six programs for PBS’s “American Playhouse.” He is the author of two memoirs, “Jack Be Nimble” and “Jack in the Box, or How to Goddam Direct,” both published by Farrar, Strauss, and Giroux. He lives in Connecticut with an exceptional Norwich Terrier named Coda.  

George C. Wolfe

Writer, director and producer George C. Wolfe ’s expansive career has earned him 23 Tony Awards, winning five, including Best Direction of a Play for “Angels in America: Millennium Approaches” and Best Direction of a Musical for “Bring in 'da Noise, Bring in 'da Funk.” Additionally, Wolfe was the Producer of The Public Theater /New York Shakespeare Festival from 1993-2005, directed/adapted “Spunk” (Obie), and created “Harlem Song” for the Apollo Theatre. Wolfe’s work outside of theatre includes directing and co-writing the HBO film "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks Lackawanna Blues,” for which he earned The Directors Guild Award, a National Board of Review Award, a Christopher Award, and the Humanitas Prize. For Netflix, he directed “Ma Rainey's Black Bottom,” which was nominated for five Academy Awards, and most recently “Rustin” (Gotham Award).    Wolfe is also the Chief Creative Officer of the Center for Civil and Human Rights, and from 2009-2017 served on The President's Committee for the Arts and The Humanities. Additional awards include the PEN Mike Nichols Writing Performance Award, Actors Equity Paul Robeson Award, Society of Directors and Choreographers Mr. Abbott and Callaway Awards, The Dramatists Guild Hull-Warriner Award, The New Dramatists Outstanding Career Achievement Award, The NAACP Lifetime Achievement Award, The Lambda Liberty Award, The Spirit of the City Award, The Brendan Gil Prize, The Distinguished Alumni Award from NYU, a Princess Grace Award, The Monte Cristo Award, and was inducted in the Theatre Hall of Fame. Wolfe was named a Library Lion by the New York Public Library and a living landmark by the New York Landmarks Conservancy.  

Mia Farrow and Patti LuPone shared a statement, "We congratulate Jack on this Lifetime Achievement Award and, more importantly, on the lifetime of achievements that make him such a worthy honoree. As we’re spending the rest of the year working with him on The Roommate — his 30th Broadway production — we just hope it doesn’t go to his head."

How to Watch the Tony Awards 

The 77th Annual Tony Awards, hosted by Ariana DeBose , will air live from the David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City on Sunday, June 16, 2024 (8:00-11:00 PM, LIVE ET/5:00-8:00 PM, LIVE PT) on the CBS Television Network, and streaming on Paramount+ in the U.S. (live and on-demand for Paramount+ with SHOWTIME subscribers, or on-demand for Paramount+ Essential subscribers the day after the special airs).*   The Tony Awards are produced in collaboration with Tony Award Productions, a joint venture of the Broadway League and the American Theatre Wing, and White Cherry Entertainment. Ricky Kirshner and Glenn Weiss are showrunners and executive producers for White Cherry Entertainment, and Weiss will serve as director. Jack Sussman is also an executive producer.  

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Things to do in Pensacola: Navy Days Celebration; Lift Every Voice; Hot Glass Cold Brew

Seven days out is your guide to entertainment events, concerts, festivals and activities in Escambia and Santa Rosa counties.

Monday Night Blues

7 p.m. Monday, May 13. Seville Quarter, 130 E. Government St. Seville Quarter and the Blues Society of Northwest Florida are bringing the “blues” back to the Seville Quarter Entertainment District. The event features live blues music and "BBQ and Bud" food and drink specials. More info: 850-434-6211 or sevillequarter.com .

Pretty Woman: The Musical

7:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday, May 13 and 14. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. Pretty Woman: The Musical, based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray, Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde). The musical features an original score by Grammy winner Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance (“Summer of ’69”, “Heaven”), and a book by the movie’s legendary director Garry Marshall and screenwriter J. F. Lawton. Tickets start at $80. More info: 850-595-3880 or pensacolasaenger.com .

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

Satisfy your taste buds: News Bites: Find out what's cooking in the Pensacola area's dining scene

Bands on the Beach

7 p.m. Tuesday, May 14. Gulfside Pavilion at Casino Beach, Pensacola Beach. Bands on the Beach is Pensacola Beach's popular outdoor summer concert series with performers for every musical taste. Featuring a lineup of regional artists, the series delivers an eclectic musical experience throughout the entire summer. This week features Modern Eldorados. Spectators are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Free. More info: 850-932-2257 or visitpensacolabeach.com .

Reverend Horton Heat

7 p.m. Wednesday, May 15. The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. Reverend Horton Heat will perform live in concert with Surfrajettes. $25 in advance; $30 at the door. More info: thehandlebar850.com .

Santa Rosa County Farm Tour

8:30 a.m., registration; 9 a.m., tour; Thursday, May 16. UF/IFAS West Florida Research & Education Center, 4253 Experiment Drive, Jay. The 2024 Santa Rosa County Farm Tour will showcase the diversity of agriculture production in Santa Rosa County highlighting specialty crops and beef cattle production. Registration includes lunch. $30. More info: bit.ly/3TioMw4 .

St. Christopher's Concerts

6 p.m. Thursday, May 16. St. Christopher's Episcopal Church, 3200 N. 12th Ave. Christopher's Concerts free live music showcases featuring some of the best local bands in the area. Food will be available for purchase on site. This week features NOBIUS. Free. More info: scpen.org/christophers-concerts.html .

Cinemas in the Sand

Sunset Friday, May 17. Gulfside Pavilion, 20 Casino Beach Blvd., Pensacola Beach. Pack up your beach chairs and a blanket, and dig your toes in the sugar-white sand while watching classic family movies on Pensacola Beach. The Santa Rosa Island Authority invites families and kids, young and old, to Cinemas in the Sand movie nights on Pensacola Beach. This week features The Parent Trap. Free. More info: visitpensacolabeach.com .

Pensacola Navy Days Celebration

Friday through Sunday, May 17 through 19. Downtown Pensacola. Pensacola is hosting its inaugural Pensacola Navy Days celebration. This three-day event aims to honor the valor of past and present military personnel stationed at Naval Aviation Station Pensacola and surrounding military installations. Navy Days hopes to reinforce the bond between the Pensacola community and our nation's military heroes. Event highlights include Gallery Night from 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, the Navy Days “Night at The Museum” Gala from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Friday, the Navy Days 4K Run/Walk at 8 a.m. Saturday, the Navy Days Parade at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Navy Days At Community Maritime Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, and the Blues on the Bay concert from 6 to 8 p.m. Sunday. More info: pensacolanavydays.com .

Gallery Night

5 p.m. Friday, May 17. Downtown Pensacola. Gallery Night Pensacola is a nonprofit organization with a dedicated goal of inspiring culture, engagement, and the practice of arts of all types in an entertaining event for all ages and walks of life. These monthly events focus on specific themes, highlight featured artists, and recruit the best creators the area has to offer. This month’s theme is Navy Days. More info: gallerynightpensacola.org .

Hot Glass Cold Brew: Under the Big Top

5 p.m. Friday, May 17. First City Art Center, 1060 N. Guillemard St. The next iteration of Hot Glass Cold Brew is sure to be a circus. Organizers are putting together a memorable evening celebrating art, community, and supporting local artists. Full admission includes a handmade artisan glass or ceramic cup, entertainment for the evening, and two complimentary craft beers (or wine). Entertainment includes glass blowing and pottery demonstrations, live music, an art market, kids activities, and a gallery opening. $30 for members; $40 general admission; $5 for kids age 12 to 17 and free for kids younger than 12 with a paid adult. More info: firstcityart.org .

Bands on the Blackwater Fall Concert Series

7 p.m. Friday, May 17. Jernigan’s Landing, 5154 Willing St., Milton. Come by boat or bring a lawn chair and join friends and neighbors for the best live music on the Gulf Coast at the award winning, family-friendly Bands on the Blackwater concerts. The series offers a variety of music. This week features Caitlin Krisko & the Broadcast. Free. More info: 850-983-5400 or facebook.com/BandsOnTheBlackwater .

Gourmet experience coming to festivals: New management is raising the standards for food at many of Pensacola's biggest festivals

Navarre Beach Paddle Classic

8 a.m. Saturday, May 18. Navarre Beach Marine Park, 8739 Gulf Blvd., Navarre. The third annual Navarre Paddle Classic, sponsored by Navarre Beach Yoga Studio, will take place at the Navarre Beach Marine Park on the Santa Rosa Sound to benefit the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. More info: navarrebeachseaturtles.org .

Sip and Dip

2 p.m. Saturday, May 18. Sir Richard’s Public House, 2719 E. Cervantes St. Sir Richard’s Public House will host a ‘Sip and Dip’ featuring premium tequilas paired with chips and specialty dips. The featured tequilas include Avión Cristalino, Milagro Select Barrel Reserve Anejo, Tequila Ocho Plata, and Herradura Reposado. The featured dips include Smoky Salsa, Elote Street Corn, Shrimp Ceviche, and Mango Pineapple Pico. Attendees can purchase additional food from Sir Richard’s through the bar’s food truck. $45. More info: sirrichardslounge.com .

Lift Every Voice

7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 18. Cokesbury Church, 5725 N. Ninth Ave. Celebrate five centuries of music by Black composers as the Choral Society of Pensacola concludes its season with Lift Every Voice. Artistic director Peter Steenblik and Treble Ensemble director Isabelle Peterson will lead the 110-voice chorus, accompanied by organist and pianist Hyunjoo Kim, with soprano Allanda Small as guest soloist. The program features primarily sacred works, including a 16 th century setting of a Lenten prayer by the first Black composer known to have his work published. Admission: $25 (adult), $20 (senior/military), $10 (student), $5 (child), and $15 for groups of 10 or more (available in advance only). Tickets are $5 more on the day of the event. More info: choralsocietyofpensacola.org .

Vintage Block Party

1 p.m. Sunday, May 19. The Handlebar, 319 N. Tarragona St. The Handlebar is hosting a vintage block party with music by Melodious Allen and the Funkheads. Free. More info: thehandlebar850.com .

Broadway Lights Dance Center: Tangled Adventures

5 p.m. Sunday, May 19. Saenger Theatre, 118 S. Palafox St. The Broadway Lights Dance Center presents their 2024 recital, Tangled Adventures. Attendees will enjoy dancing, singing, acting and much more. Tickets start at $25. More info: 850-595-3880 or pensacolasaenger.com .

Blues on the Bay

6 p.m. Sunday, May 19. Community Maritime Park Hunter Amphitheater, 301 W. Main St. This free concert series is one of the most popular events for locals and visitors to spend the final hours of their weekend enjoying great music with family and friends in a great atmosphere. Concert spectators are invited to bring coolers and lawn chairs. Guests of all ages are encouraged to enjoy the cool breeze of the bay while listening and dancing to some of the region's best musical talent. This week features Modern Eldorados. More info: 850-436-5670.

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The Bushnell announces seven Broadway series shows for 2024-25 season

The Bushnell Performing Arts Center in Hartford announced its 2024-25 Broadway series of musicals on Monday.

The slate of shows for the upcoming season includes the Neil Diamond bio-musical “A Beautiful Noise” Oct. 1-6, 2024; the return of Disney’s “The Lion King” Nov. 13-Dec. 1, 2024; “MJ the Musical” Dec. 10-15, 2024; a radically rethought revival of “Peter Pan” Feb. 4-9, 2025; “The Wiz” March 11-16, 2025; “Some Like It Hot” April 29-May 4, 2025; and “Back to the Future the Musical” June 4-8, 2025.

The schedule breaks down to two jukebox musicals, two refreshed and reinterpreted 20th-century musical classics and three musical versions of famous movies (one of them from Disney).

The Bushnell continues its tradition of hosting the first national tours of recent Broadway hits. Two of the shows, “MJ” and “Back to the Future,” are still running on Broadway as their first national tours commence. The Broadway production of “Some Like It Hot” closed in December after running for around a year. “The Wiz,” a revival of the 1974 Black version of “The Wizard of Oz,” is touring before it gets to Broadway, playing The Bushnell less than three weeks before it begins preview performances at New York’s Marquis Theatre.

Besides the seven shows in the subscription season, The Bushnell announced return bookings of two musicals that have already played the venue in recent years: “Les Miserables” from Oct. 29 to Nov. 3, 2024, and the concert-style British history lesson “Six” Dec. 31, 2024 through Jan. 5, 2025. Various tours of “Les Mis” have been coming to The Bushnell since 1989, most recently in 2017. When “Six” happens, it will be only two years since the first tour of the show about the six wives of Henry VIII played The Bushnell in January 2023.

Tickets are not yet available. Bushnell Broadway series subscribers are contacted first about renewing their subscriptions. Then, new subscriptions are offered to those not currently subscribing. Finally, months from now, single tickets will go on sale for the shows.

Of the seven subscription shows, five are the first national tours of new musicals that have never appeared at The Bushnell. The other two, “Peter Pan” and “The Wiz,” first came to The Bushnell decades ago but in very different forms. This new production of “Peter Pan” has been rewritten by playwright Larissa Fasthorse (Broadway’s “The Thanksgiving Play”), with a particular interest in reworking the original script’s objectionable depictions of Native Americans.

“Some Like It Hot” is based on the 1959 film comedy directed by Billy Wilder and starring Tony Curtis, Jack Lemmon and Marilyn Monroe. It’s not the first time the movie has been turned into a musical. A previous attempt, “Sugar,” by Jule Styne, Bob Merrill and Peter Stone ran on Broadway in 1972 and (retitled as “Some Like It Hot”) played the Shubert Theatre in New Haven in 2002. This new one has a score by the “Hairspray” and TV “Smash” team of Scott Wittman and Marc Shaiman and a book by Matthew López and Amber Ruffin. López has had several of his plays (including the world premieres of “Somewhere” and “Reverberation”) produced by Hartford Stage, which also commissioned (but did not end up producing) his Tony-winning epic “The Inheritance.”

Ruffin, best known as a writer/performer on “Late Night with Seth Meyers” and for her now-defunct “Amber Ruffin Show” on Peacock, also had a hand in the tour of “The Wiz,” adding new material to the show’s book.

It took years, but The Bushnell has finally caught up with the backlog of Broadway series shows whose visits to Hartford were delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The last straggler was “The Cher Show,” which was originally scheduled to play The Bushnell in November of 2020 and finally arrived earlier this month. This will likely be the first season since 2021 which has not had to make room for delayed runs of musicals originally planned for previous seasons.

The 2024-25 season begins in the fall. There are still three more Broadway shows coming in the current 2023-24 season: the “Wizard of Oz” prequel “Wicked” April 24 through May 12, “Beetlejuice” May 28 through June 2 and “Funny Girl” June 18-23.

The Shubert in New Haven announced its own 2024-25 Broadway series slate last week with “Tina: The Tina Turner Musical,” “Dear Evan Hansen,” “Clue,” “Mean Girls” and “Ain’t Too Proud: The Life & Times of the Temptations.” All but one of those shows, the non-musical play “Clue,” has already played The Bushnell on earlier tours. Other Connecticut theaters that host Broadway tours, such as the Waterbury Palace, will announce their 2024-25 seasons soon.

For more information on The Bushnell’s upcoming 2024-25 season, go to the venue’s website at bushnell.org .

©2024 Hartford Courant. Visit courant.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Experts Say These 6 Hair Trends Will Outshine All Others This Summer

It feels like spring has only just arrived (thanks, UK weather forecast) but trust me, summer is just around the corner—I promise. And along with planning my holiday and summer wardrobe, I'm also curious as to what summer hair trends will be the major players for 2024. Summer is often the busiest time of year. Our schedules are packed with weddings (need wedding guest hair inspo ? Step this way), festivals, summer soirées and holidays, which all require some hair inspiration. And when the summer temperatures soar we want low maintenance hairstyles that can make us look pulled together, fast (because who wants to use a hairdryer when it's 28 degrees out?) To find out what hair trends we can expect to see this summer, I asked celebrity hairstylist and owner of Hershesons salons, Luke Hersheson (who tends to the tendrils of Dua Lipa and Emily Ratajkowski, to name a few) to share what he predicts will be trending this summer. From the haircuts to get acquainted with to the easy hairstyling tricks that will see you through festival season and beyond, scroll ahead for the biggest summer hair trends of 2024.

Summer is often the busiest time of year. Our schedules are packed with weddings (need wedding guest hair inspo ? Step this way), festivals, summer soirées and holidays, which all require some hair inspiration. And when the summer temperatures soar we want low maintenance hairstyles that can make us look pulled together, fast (because who wants to use a hairdryer when it's 28 degrees out?) To find out what hair trends we can expect to see this summer, I asked celebrity hairstylist and owner of Hershesons salons, Luke Hersheson (who tends to the tendrils of Dua Lipa and Emily Ratajkowski, to name a few) to share what he predicts will be trending this summer. From the haircuts to get acquainted with to the easy hairstyling tricks that will see you through festival season and beyond, scroll ahead for the biggest summer hair trends of 2024.

Summer Hair Trends 2024: 6 Experts Say Will Be Everywhere

1. cowgirl bangs.

Time to welcome back cowboy-core with a hearty yeehaw—because it's not going anywhere for summer, says Hersheson . As seen on Laura Harrier here, we're seeing the curtain fringe come back with a bang, but this it has a "softer, more rugged" look, which "lends better to natural textures," he says. "They're slightly shaggier than a polished curtain bang, but without losing any of the versatility."

Sabrina Carpenter's cowgirl curtain fringe is convincing me to finally try a fringe for summer. Plus, it looks great worn with hair up or down.

Get the Look

This mousse is a game-changer for adding volume, hold and that cool-girl texture to lengths.

A hot brush is ideal for creating volume and shape in a curtain fringe.

No hot brush? No problem. A round brush and your trusty hairdryer are ideal for shaping curtain fringes.

2. Half-Up, Half-Down

This might be the ultra low-maintenance hairstyle for summer that pulls your look together in seconds—especially if you employ some chic hair accessories. "Accessories aren’t going anywhere, and whilst bows are definitely still in, this summer one of the best ways to add a hint of interest to your half-up, half-down look is to add a mini claw clip or two," says Hersheson . Don't mind if we do.

I love this half-up, half-down look on Hailey Bieber. Note the tiny plaits and bows—so cute.

*Adds to basket immediately*.

These tiny bow hair ties will instantly elevate any hairstyle.

This claw clip looks ten times more expensive.

3. "Old Money" Bob

The bob haircut has reigned for a while now, and we're not seeing it go anywhere for 2024. While last year we say blunt, jaw-skimming bobs takeover salons, this year we're welcoming the longer and bouncier variety in form of the old money bob, seen on Zendaya during her Challengers press tour. "The old money bob is perfect for those who cut their hair and don’t want to go super short again—this is a brilliant way to polish up shorter hair," says Hersheson .

I've had Elsa Hosk's bouncy bob on my hair inspo board for summer.

The key to a bouncy bob? Heated rollers. The large barrels on these will give you '90s-supermodel volume.

For hold, prep your hair with a mousse. Color Wow's provides tonnes of volume.

There is nothing worse than sticky hairspray. Oribe's has a flexible hold that won't leave your lengths stiff, rather glossy and swishable.

4. Baby Braid Tendrils

With Hailey Bieber as a fan of baby braid tendrils, I've since seen baby braids all over my For You Page, and Hersheson predicts they'll be big news this summer. And there are multiple ways to style them, whether you braid two face-framing tendrils, or combine them into a half-up, half-down hairstyle—the opportunities are endless. "Braid the front two sections of hair and tie off at the bottom. This will keep your hair out of your face and is perfect for adding a bit of movement back into the front sections of hair that can get smoothed out by touching/being tucked behind the ear," he says. "They're perfect paired with beach waves."

I love this goddess braids style worn with two face-framing tendrils.

A tail comb will help achieve precise partings and sections for styling braids.

Running a little pomade through the lengths before braiding can help with hold while adding smoothness and shine. The additional brush in this kit is great for styling edges, too.

Tiny elastics are key to ensure hold without the bulkiness of a traditional hair tie.

5. Mid-Length Cut

The mid-length cut is set to be the perfect middle ground for those who want to switch up their long hair without going too short, or for those who have gone for a short cut and want to grow it out. "For everyone who braved it and got a bob last year, sometimes shorter isn’t always the favourite—and that’s totally ok," says Hersheon . "The good news is, the mid-length cut is back in, and by growing out a bob you’re already there. Just find a stylist who can help clean it up a little bit and the awkward growing out stage will cease to exist."

Both Margot Robbie and Emily Ratajkowski have recently opted for mid-length cuts—we're calling our hairdresser immediately.

Looking to grow out your bob? Whenever I take these supplements, I see my hair grow like crazy—they really work.

For those who like to wear their hair sleek, it doesn't get better than GHD's Chronos hair straightener for all the smoothness without the heat damage.

Mid-length hair looks amazing with soft waves, and this hair tool helps you achieve the look effortlessly.

6. Beach Waves

Beach waves are a timeless hairstyle we'll turn to every summer. "It comes back every single year and honestly there's no shame in beach waves coming back time and time again," says Hersheson . "Luckily, there are tonnes of ways you can achieve this look now without having to step foot near a beach. Use Hershesons The Wavemaker (£150, above) or let your hair dry naturally with Air Dry Spray (£16) and let any natural movement your hair has come to life."

Sienna Miller wore beachy waves, so I'm wearing beachy waves.

Mist through lengths and allow to air-dry to enhance your hair's natural texture.

No beach holiday? This mermaid waver cheats it for you.

From enhancing natural curls to giving straight hair body and texture, this is a summer staple to have in your hairstyling remit.

Eleanor Vousden is the beauty editor for Who What Wear UK . She was previously deputy editor at Hairdressers Journal , health writer at Woman & Home and junior beauty editor at beauty website Powder. She has also contributed to Wallpaper and Elle Collections with written and styling work.Working as a beauty journalist since 2015 after graduating in fashion journalism at the London College of Fashion, she has been highly commended at the BSME Talent Awards for her work on Powder and also contributed to the title winning Website of the Year at the PPA Awards .Eleanor’s journalistic focus is to provide readers with honest and helpful beauty content. Through words, video and live broadcast, she has interviewed several celebrity makeup artists, hairstylists and top dermatologists throughout her career, as well as celebrities such as Sarah Jessica Parker and Scarlett Johansson. She has a particular interest in finding solutions for acne and eczema, which she has experienced firsthand. She has also amassed a large collection of fragrances and can never say no to a new candle.When she’s not writing or testing the latest beauty product or treatments, she’s on the seafront in her hometown of Brighton and Hove, where she lives with her partner and her miniature dachshund.

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It's surprisingly wearable.

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Summer's biggest beauty trend has arrived.

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SNYDE | Ricki Lake opens up on 35-lb weight loss, new diet

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SNYDE | Ricki Lake talks dramatic 35-lb weight loss, reveals doctor pushed drugs

The former talk show host, 55, took to social media to celebrate dropping the pounds, posting a photo wearing the same dress she said she wore 17 years ago to the premiere of the documentary “The Business of Being Born.”

“Oh, this old thing??” she wrote in the Instagram caption on Wednesday. “Just had it hanging around.”

Alongside a flurry of comments from followers who heralded the weight loss, fellow former talk show host Rosie O’Donnell wrote: “Can’t believe [you] keep clothes for so long!!!!”

“ Ozempic is really working for you. You’ve lost a lot of weight,” another person commented.

But even after a doctor’s suggestion to get on medication to lose weight, Lake said she has not subscribed to the drugs that have become trendy amongst the rich and famous.

“He was saying [I wasn’t] going to be successful without it,” the “Hairspray” breakout told “Good Morning America” in an interview that aired Thursday. “I like a challenge. I like proving people wrong. It pissed me off.”

Lake attributed losing 35 pounds since October to a more natural approach to wellness — making lifestyle changes including exercise, intermittent fasting and the keto diet.

In February, she shared on Instagram that she had lost weight after making a “commitment to myself to get healthier.”

“I think it’s safe to say I’m in the best shape of my life,” she said on “GMA,” adding, “This is what happy looks like. I could cry. I’m so happy.”

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