A smash-hit musical is coming to Milton Keynes Theatre.

Hairspray The Musical will be lighting up the stage from October 4 to 9, 2027 as part of its UK and Ireland tour.

Neil Hurst will reprise his role as Edna Turnblad in the new production, which has already proved a hit in the West End, on Broadway, and on cinema screens.

Brenda Edwards, who has appeared on three UK tours in the role of Motormouth, said: "I am so thrilled that this wonderful musical is returning to cities across the UK as it holds a very special place in my heart.

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"I had so much fun making my directorial debut as a co-director with Paul Kerryson first time round.

"The show’s story and themes continue to remain as relevant as ever and I cannot wait to share this vibrant new production of this timeless musical with even more people."

Hairspray tells the story of Tracy Turnblad, a teenager in 1960s Baltimore who dreams of dancing on national television.

When Tracy hits the big time, she uses her newfound celebrity to advocate for equality and integration - while trying to win the affections of teen heartthrob Link Larkin.

The show features well-known musical theatre numbers including Welcome To The 60s, You Can’t Stop The Beat, and Good Morning Baltimore, written by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.

Hairspray began as a 1988 film directed by John Waters, starring Divine and Ricki Lake.

It was adapted for the stage in 2002, going on to win eight Tony Awards on Broadway.

The musical opened at London’s Shaftesbury Theatre in 2007, earning four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical.

Designed by Takis, with lighting by Philip Gladwell and sound by Ben Harrison, the 2027 tour boasts a seasoned creative team.

Musical supervision and arrangement is by Ben Atkinson, with musical direction from Richard Atkinson.

George Reeve serves as projection designer, with Grindrod Burton handling casting.

Juliet Gough is associate director and Shaquille Brush is associate choreographer.

Hurst, a familiar face from theatre and television, began his career touring the UK in comedy shows alongside legends like Bruce Forsyth and Ken Dodd.

His stage credits include The Full Monty, Fat Friends The Musical, and Evita.

Hairspray has played in South Africa, Japan, South Korea, China, and Dubai.

In 2007, the musical was adapted into a film starring John Travolta, Michelle Pfeiffer, and James Marsden.

Tickets for the Milton Keynes performances are available at www.atgtickets.com/MiltonKeynes.