Conley to drag up as Edna?

	It has been reported that Brian Conley (left) is a strong contender to take over from Michael Ball in Hairspray. Ball, who leaves the show in July, won the first Oliver award of his 25 year stage career as Edna Turnblad. He has been in the role since October 2007, making Hairspray his longest ever single contract in a show. Unsurprisingly, his replacement in the hit show has been the subject of some quite animated rumours.
Comedian, actor and television presenter Brian Conley revealed in an interview with the Bucks Free Press that he was currently studying the script, commenting that he's "never played a woman on stage before. When asked how he'd bear up wearing a fat suit eight times a week, Conley replied, "I'd ask Michael but he doesn't wear one!"
Although best known for his comedy TV shows and characters such as Dangerous Brian and Septic Peg, Conley is an acclaimed actor and singer. He has released a number of albums, mainly comprising of weel known show tunes, and was most recently seen on stage in Chichester Festival Theatre's critically applauded revival of The Music Man last summer. In 1995, he was nominated for an Olivier after playing the title role in the West End production of Jolson.
Other names mentioned in discussions about a new Edna have been Northern Irish comedia Peter Kay and Cheers star George Wendt, who played the role in New York. MichaelBall appears until Saturday 25 July 2009 and you can book your break here.

Posted by Jack on Thursday 9th April 2009 at 11:44AM

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