Michael Ball as Edna!

[acrocksyo]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 10:31am

I am actually very intrigued by this casting choice. I love Michael Ball, but the role is kind of like Dolly Levi, it's not supposed to have a strong singer cast in it. But I could be totally wrong, what does everyone else think?

[JRybka]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:07am

I personally am thrilled! I will totally have to go to London now to see it. I find him very sexy AND talented.

[songanddanceman2]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:13am

i have been waiting for Hairspray in london for years, and now its here im sooooooooooooo happy , well was , im not to thrilled at the thought of Ball but looking forward to watching Leanne as Tracey

[kec]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:16am

I think it's great. :)

[acrocksyo]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:16am

Michael Ball is amazing, but how's he in comic roles? I see him as more of a leading man with his strong baritone, and the like.

[kaycee]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:21am

I enjoyed his comedic performance in The Woman In White. I think he'll be fantastic!

[kec]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:24am

It's called expanding his horizons... he started with Count Fosco in London (and then NY), then moved to Reginald Bunthorne with the NYCOpera, where he really shone as the vain poet.

[D2]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:29am

His "horizons" have been expanding for years. But he is a terrific entertainer and I bet he'll be a hoot as Edna.

[Lori]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:29am

Michael has wonderful comic timing and he's a natural mimic. If you've ever seen him tell a story on stage or on a talk show (or at a stage door) you know what I mean.

He also excels at "over the top" characters, as evidenced both by his portrayal of Count Fosco and Reginald Bunthorne.

I think he'll be great, and just because the role hasn't previously been played by anyone with a great voice doesn't mean it can't be. It will be a unique dimension that he'll bring to the role.

[bobby_luvs_bway]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:40am

I think it's inspired casting. I can't wait to hear what his character voice will sound like. He's got such a big voice, I hope it doesn't over power the score.

[theaterdude87]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 11:58am

I think it is a great casting choice.

[Julian2]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 12:06pm

Does this mean we'll get an OLCR?

Updated On: 6/15/07 at 12:06 PM

[Lori]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 12:15pm

Does this mean we'll get an OLCR?

Fingers crossed for that!!!!!!!!!

[ljay889]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 12:19pm

Wow. interesting.

[BobbyBubby]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 12:25pm

Yes! This means a London recording is a must!

[kec]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 12:29pm

Bobby, from your message to the eyes of the producers...

[jo]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 12:48pm

What a blast of a role for Michael!

Michael is a natural at comedy and excellent in over-the-top roles.

He has been quoted as saying that he actually auditioned for the role...so Marc Shaiman and company must have been impressed with what he can bring to the role.

Exciting news at the West End! And hope we get a cast recording of this production.

[broadwayguy2]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 12:54pm

I'd love a new cast recording.. the has the final lyrics used in the show and doesn't chop the score up as much.. I miss the 'buton' on "60s" and the dance music in the finale when I listen to the OBC recording...

[Weez]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 1:31pm

Yes! This means a London recording is a must!

Definitely! Along with thje absolutely positively happening OLCR of 'The Drowsy Chaperone' with Elaine Paige!!!

Okay, maybe there'll be a London recording, but I wouldn't go so far as to say "Michael Ball's in it, ergo there'll certainly be one!".

Anyway! As posted on the West End board, I'm not immediately certain about the idea, but if the producers are happy, then I'm sure it'll be fine. My 'Hairspray'-hating Michael-Ball-loathing housemate on the other hand is upset that this is happening in the same country she lives in. XD

[acrocksyo]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 2:01pm

I'm just interested to see if he'll hold back on his booming voice. I kind of hope there is a London recording.

[WhenURScrap]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 2:03pm

It's a perfect casting choice if they don't need a strong singer ...

[Becoz_i_knew_you21]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 2:26pm

I would actually want to see that.

[mrkringas]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 2:29pm

So typical to read comments about "his voice is this that and the next"

Trust in the casting process! Not every Edna need sing that score the same but what is vital is that every Edna gives a funny and believable performance and makes it their own.

Thats what he will hopefully do and thats what I am interested in...not omigod u guys how can someone go from leading man with high b flats to a leading character role

[BigFatBlonde]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 3:45pm

Aspects of Lovehandles

[ruthiefan_felix]

Posted: 6/15/07 at 3:56pm

YES!!!! SO excited now!!!