29th April 2025
Hairspray
Huddersfield Light Opera Company, Lawrence Batley Theatre
Choreographer: Leah Binns
This is a very complex show and one I would imagine which is not easy to direct, however Ash White and his team have done a brilliant job on this production, the whole cast was so enthusiastic which came across the footlights, every single member smiled all the way through which was a delight to see. The main character in this is The Cat in the Hat and was played to perfection by Matt Ellis, he acted sang and danced through this like a true professional and managed to smile all the way too. Matt was ably supported by Hannah Mitchell as Gertrude McFuzz, the bird who falls in love with Horton the Elephant played by Brad Swinburn, these two were ideal, Hannah is a very talented actress who also was able to put her songs over with conviction in which she alternated between singing and squawking the songs like a bird. Brad played a large but gentle elephant whose singing voice was a joy to the ear. It would be impossible to mention all the characters in this show as there are so many of them but mention must be made to Brett Swinburn as JoJo, he was brilliant in this part and for a young man of 11 he was so professional and kept his character all through the show. Others I must mention are Hollie Webb as Mayzie La Bird who sang so sweetly and also April Taylor, Chloe Mae Sayles and Sam Shirtliffe as the three Bird Girls, they put their songs over in perfect harmony and moved with grace just like the birds they portrayed. Thank you STEPS for a very enjoyable evening.© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.