Michael Ball Not Hanging Up His Dress Just Yet

West End veteran, Michael Ball, has extended his run in record-breaking musical sensation, Hairspray. Olivier award-winning actor, Ball, will remain in the role of Edna Turnblad until 25th April 2009. This extension will make his current contract with Hairspray the longest Ball has ever performed.

The prolific West End star had this to say: “I am so happy that the divine Mrs Edna Turnblad is going to continue to be a big part of my world for another six months. Hairspray has without doubt been one of the happiest and most fulfilling experiences of my professional life. And I am delighted to carry on being part of this phenomenon.”

Hairspray opened in the UK in October 2007 and rapidly became one of the most popular shows in the West End, delighting critics and audiences alike. The smash-hit musical cleared up at this year's Olivier awards, winning 'Best Musical', 'Best Actor in a Musical' for Michael Ball and 'Best Actress in a Musical' for Leanne Jones.

Not only a critical success, Hairspray is rapidly becoming a financial powerhouse. Having recouped its initial £3.5 million investment in a record-breaking 29 weeks, the show has gone on to sell over 500,000 tickets. Hairspray has also been credited as playing a major role in the redevelopment of the area surrounding the Shaftesbury Theatre.

Ball will be joined on stage by Liz Robertson who will be replacing Tracie Bennett in the role of Velma Von Tussle on 27th October 2008. 16-year-old Raquel Jones will be taking over the role of Little Inez from Natalie Best. Cast members Leanne Jones, Ben James-Ellis, Ian Talbot, Elinor Collett, Adrian Hansel, Johnnie Fiori and Paul Manuel all remain with the show.

Hairspray is booking now until October 2009 at the Shaftesbury Theatre, Shaftesbury Avenue.