THE must-see musical of the year, Hairspray, has arrived at the Lighthouse in Poole. 

Captivating from start to finish and applauded with a standing ovation finale, this brilliant musical has got to be seen to be fully appreciated. 

Dazzling the audience with power-house vocal performances, upbeat and energetic dance routines alongside spectacular production - it’s no wonder Hairspray is a box office record-breaking hit.

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Welcoming Poole to 1960s Baltimore, the story follows Tracy Turnblad as she follows her dreams to dance on national TV with The Nicest Kids in Town. 

Tracy’s audition makes her a local star and she soon uses her new-found fame to fight for equality - bagging heartthrob Link Larkin along the way. 

Spot-on casting and two incredible understudies made the performance utterly unforgettable. 

Bournemouth Echo: Corny Collins and The Nicest Kids in TownCorny Collins and The Nicest Kids in Town

Starring as Motormouth Maybelle, stepping in for Brenda Edwards, Bournemouth's very own Bernadette Bangura’s performance was an absolute stand-out.

Her rendition of Big Blonde and Beautiful had the audience shimmying on the edge of their seats as she displayed her jaw-dropping vocal range. 

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And making her professional debut, Katie Brace, starring as lead Tracy Turnblad, brought full-on energy to the auditorium with her spectacular voice, dizzying dance moves and charm.

Hilarious and loved-up duo Edna and Wilbur Turnblad, played by Alex Bourne and Norman Pace had the audience roaring with laughter in their You’re Timeless To Me duet. 

Rebecca Thornhill was also fiercely fabulous as producer extraordinaire Velma Von Tussle, but from the lead characters all the way through to the ensemble - every performance on stage packed a punch and brought infectious energy to this spectacular performance.

See it at the Lighthouse until Saturday, March 5.