I saw it in Washington, DC this past March. I thought it was good, but had the same complaint about the sets. There are certain cities that they do have the steps, but on a much smaller scale (they're bleachers!!! (sp?))
They original cast was still there, but I think now some of the leads have been replaced. The woman who played Dorothy Brock was good and had a great singing voice. I liked Catherine Wreford as Peggy. All and all I thought the cast had a lot of energy.
I'm sorry you were disappointed.
I've found that with most tours things are definitely scaled down. If you have a chance to see the Hairspray tour, go. It is definitely up to the standards of the Broadway company.
Hey Dottie!
Did your colleagues enjoy the cake even though your cat decided to sit on it? ~GuyfromGermany