Hairspray – About the Show
Highlights of Hairspray – Must-See Moments
Hairspray is a Broadway musical that became a smash hit after being adapted from the movie in 2002.It went on to win eight Tony Awards in 2003, including Best musical, making it one of the most well-rounded shows of its time.
The musical was later adapted into a Hollywood film directed by Adam Shankman, creating the rare phenomenon of both Broadway and Hollywood promoting the same story at once.
With its lighthearted comedy and infectious energy, Hairspray is pure entertainment from start to finish.
The music is upbeat pop, set against the backdrop of the nostalgic “American Graffiti” era.
From beginning to end, the show bursts with cheerful songs and lively dance numbers that delight audiences around the world.
Hairspray – Show info
Show details of Hairspray
![]() |
Theater location: Neil Simon Theatre 250 West 52nd Street New York, NY (Map) |
![]() |
Performance Run: Previews: July 18, 2002 Opening: August 15, 2002 Closing: January 4, 2009 |
![]() |
Show Links: |
![]() |
Type of the show: Based on a Movie Fun Stunning Songs Stunning Dance Tony Award Winner |
Hairspray – Story
The Plot / Summary of Hairspray
At the audition, she is thrilled to meet her idol, TV star Link, but the producer refuses to even let her try out because of her size. Similarly, a Black girl named Inez is told to leave due to discrimination.
Refusing to accept this, Tracy learns dance moves from her Black classmate Seaweed, the son of the show’s host, and boldly crashes the program. She wins a spot as a regular, and her upbeat personality, completely unconcerned with her size, makes her an instant sensation in town. Even her initially hesitant mother, Edna, is overjoyed.
However, the show still enforces discriminatory rules against Black performers. Outraged, Tracy joins a protest, clashing with the police and ending up in jail. Her actions spark a wider movement that forces people to confront the issue of racial segregation in television.
Meanwhile, the show prepares for the “Miss Hairspray” contest. Just as Amber, the glamorous blonde lead dancer, is about to be crowned champion, Tracy bursts onto the stage in a dazzling costume and…
Hairspray – Movie
The YouTube trailer of Hairspray
Here’s the signature number from the Broadway musical Hairspray, “You Can’t Stop the Beat.” Don’t miss the high-energy singing and dancing!
Hairspray – FAQ
-
Can I buy tickets for Hairspray (Broadway show) on the day of the show?
Tickets are available for purchase until the day before the show through our booking page. See more details about Hairspray tickets.
-
How much are tickets for Hairspray (Broadway show)?
Tickets for the Broadway musical Hairspray start at $59 with our discounted prices. See more details for Hairspray tickets.
-
Is the English in Hairspray (Broadway show) hard to understand?
The musical Hairspray is an enjoyable show even if you don’t understand English. We recommend reading the synopsis before you go. For other recommended shows, please refer to the Broadway Musical Selection Guide. You’re sure to find a show you’ll love from among the many musicals in New York.
-
Do you have a summary or synopsis of Hairspray (Broadway show)?
The story and synopsis of the Broadway musical Hairspray are introduced in the Hairspray Story section. Reading this beforehand will help you easily understand the storyline.
Hairspray – Review
From Dog:
Better than the movie!
Bright, cute, and even more fun than the movie – it exceeded my expectations. Tracy may be small and chubby, but her singing and dancing were outstanding. One highlight was when the actor playing her mom (a man in drag) improvised hilarious lines whenever a slip-up happened on stage.
I hadn’t planned on seeing Hairspray, but when I found out Amber was being played by Ashley Spencer (who I knew from a TV audition show and who is now starring in GREASE), I decided on the spot to buy a ticket for the matinee. The balcony was nearly empty, so I got to move up to the front!
September 6, 2008
From Hamachan:
The right choice
In June, two of us went to New York mainly for Major League Baseball, but since we were in the city, we decided to see a Broadway musical for the first time, and it ended up being “Hairspray.” We bought tickets on the same day without knowing what to see, and were lucky to get front-center seats. Even without fully understanding English, we had a great time. Looking back, I think we made the perfect choice.
What stuck with me was the incredible vocal power of the Black female singers, the unforgettable presence of the “mom” character, and how the show tackled discrimination with humor and lightness. And yes, Asians were stereotyped too; but it was all part of the comedy!
September 1, 2008
From Kana:
My impressions
It was cheerful from beginning to end, pure teenage energy. While it touched on issues like segregation (“why can’t kids of different races dance together?”), the overall tone was very light. That said, the storyline was a bit predictable.
The actor playing the mom was brilliant, throwing in so many ad-libs that his partner lost his lines on stage. It was hilarious to watch!
February 29, 2008
From Tracy’s Biggest Fan:
Tracy!!
Absolutely amazing! I had just watched the movie, but the stage musical was so much more fun. Honestly, it’s the Best musical I’ve ever seen. The audience was buzzing with excitement, and I already want to see it again!
December 10, 2007
From Sydney:
Thank you so much
First of all, thank you At New York for arranging the tickets! I was lucky enough to get a front-row seat: right in front of the orchestra and so close to the stage that my neck hurt from looking up (lol).
Watching this show in America reminded me of why I used to dream about the U.S. when I was young. The era, the vibe, it felt nostalgic. The powerhouse voices of the Black singers carried the show, and even without understanding all the English, I still enjoyed it immensely. It’s a fun and moving musical that also gives you a glimpse into American culture.
September 12, 2007
List of Broadway Shows
Discover the exciting lineup of musicals you can book now with At Broadway, plus a look back at the amazing shows we’ve offered in the past!
Explore Other Broadway Theater Tickets
Helpful info for buying musical tickets















