‘She has a big personality like me, so it’s a perfect role!’

Hairspray is calling into Swansea next week, so we asked leading lady Brenda Edwards a few questions about the musical favourite

Could you tell us about Motormouth Maybelle and what attracted you to the role?

I remember watching the original film and then I went to see the Musical in 2007, on Broadway and 2008, in the West End, I really enjoyed the whole show, but was particularly excited by the Motormouth character.

Having a son and daughter of my own, I could relate to her nurturing strong protective side where she has to be in charge and then there is the entertaining side, where she plays her music and has fun with everyone, while having that serious side lending an ear or a shoulder if needed, but she does have her own opinions on things and doesn’t mind voicing it.

Owning her own record shop I think she is the central hub where all the kids in the neighbourhood can come and hang out – and the songs she sings are just fabulous! She has a big personality just like me, so I think it’s a perfect role.

You did the previous tour of Hairspray, what drew you back?

I wanted to come back on this tour production for the second time, because it really helped to get me through, what

I was going through, when after the first half of the tour, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer. The songs in the show are uplifting in so many different ways and performing in the show helped me not to focus on the chemotherapy.

One of the songs that I sing and especially drew strength from, was I Know Where I Have Been, the words already had so much meaning to me, and throughout the rest of the tour helped me to stay positive and keep thinking of brighter days!

Does it feel different to the last tour?

Oh my god, yes! It’s amazing! I thought Drew McOnie’s choreography was a lot the first-time round, (well, it was a lot the first-time round).

But, this time round, it’s almost like choreography wise we are doing what we had the first time round and then add the same amount on again, but all in the same period of time. I also think, as I obviously haven’t been doing much exercise over the last year I’m finding it a bit harder this time round to get up to speed, but the more we run it the easier its becoming... best all singing all dancing workout ever!

The energy levels are so high from the start, all the way through. From Good Morning Baltimore to You Can’t Stop the Beat there is just so much going on.

What can audiences expect from Hairspray – if anyone is not familiar with the show, how would you describe it in three words?

Bigger, brighter and beautifuller! I love it! Audiences can expect energy, a lot of laughs some fantastic songs played by a phenomenal band, while at the same time listening to the message which I think is so current I know, I am sounding like I am a 1960s hippy, but I just wish everyone would just spread the love and get on with one another, put your differences aside, cause there will always be difference of opinions that what makes us individuals. I think that’s what this show embodies no matter what race, size opinions in the end it’s all about coming together and showing a united front. Hopefully people will come out of the show thinking, “OK, that’s given me food for thought at the same time as a great night’s entertainment.”

What’s your favourite moment or song in the show and why?

I just love You Can’t Stop the Beat because it goes through so many different gear changes .

Hairspray is set in the 1960s, but if you could be born in any other decade which one would it be, and why?

I love period dramas, especially the style and fashion tassles and beads etc. I am such a magpie because I love all the shiny things, sequins,beads and diamantes – that’s just me! So, that is the era I would love to be in. Fabulous costumes. Fabulous dresses. Fabulous headdresses.

What do you consider your greatest achievement or highlight of your career away from the stage?

I will always say my greatest achievement in life are my children, they are a real blessing. The highlight of my career would have to be recording my Debut Album Bring It Back, I’m very proud of the songs I wrote and I feel it shows all sides of my personality.

You’ve starred in some brilliant roles in Chicago and We Will Rock You among many other well-known productions – are there any other musical roles you would love to play?

I really want to originate a role I would love to play Ursula if it ever came to the West End.

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