hairspray and michael ball

By Catherine Jones on Sep 25, 09 02:37 PM

As you probably know from today's Echo (link at the end of this) I went to review Michael Ball at the arena last night.
Although he's shrugged off the Hairspray cross-dressing mantle at the moment, he's returning to the role of Edna Turnblad for a national tour next year.
He told last hight's audience "come and see me in Manchester."

Yes, alas, his schedule is such that although he's wriggling back into the fat suit and the heels for a few stints in the show (Glasgow, Manchester, one or two others) that doesn't include the fortnight it's at the Liverpool Empire next August.
I popped backstage quickly after last night's show to say "hi" and voiced my disappointment he can't fit Liverpool in to his own schedule - and put in a word for the city in the hope he'll find a big, starry name to replace him.
I hope I left him (as well as starring he's also an associate director) with something to ponder. After all, you can't stop the beat.....

Here is the link to my review: http://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/liverpool-entertainment/echo-reviews/2009/09/25/review-michael-ball-at-the-echo-arena-liverpool-100252-24777020/