Hairspray

The producers of "HAIRSPRAY" are delighted to announce that Brian Conley is to join the cast as larger-than- life 'Edna Turnblad' in the hit musical, currently running at London's Shaftesbury Theatre.  Brian is joined by Chloe Hart taking over as big-haired, big-hearted 'Tracy Turnblad' and Liam Tamne as heartthrob 'Link Larkin'.
 
Brian Conley is one of the UK's biggest entertainment stars with credits spanning musicals, television, film, comedy and variety.  His career highlights include multiple series of "The Brian Conley Show" for ITV, regular appearances at "The Royal Variety Show", television comedies "The Grimleys" and "Time After Time" and lead roles in hit musicals "Me & My Girl", "Jolson" and "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang", as well as many sold-out comedy and music tours and pantomimes.
 
Commenting on joining the cast of "HAIRSPRAY", Brian said:
"I've done a lot in my career, but wearing a dress and heels every night and being married to Nigel Planer weren't things I was expecting to be doing all at the same time, and in front of thousands of people!  I'm absolutely delighted to be back in the West End and joining one of the most uplifting, happy and, not to mention, successful shows in town.  Being part of something that brings a smile to people's faces, especially in these troubled times, is a real treat and I can't wait to get on stage at the Shaftesbury."

Newcomer Chloe Hart steps into the lead role of heroine 'Tracy Turnblad', her first job straight out of Guildford School of Acting and Liam Tamne joins the cast directly from "Wicked".
 
Nigel Planer and former "Emmerdale" star Verity Rushworth, are also confirmed to stay with the production through till October 2009 as 'Wilbur Turnblad' and 'Penny Pingleton'.