A Lighter Hairspray to Head to Las Vegas in Late 2005

An abbreviated version of the musical Hairspray is coming to Las Vegas. A 90-minute, intermission-less take on the tuner will begin a multi-year engagement at the Luxor Las Vegas in late 2005.

"We think the match between Hairspray and Las Vegas is ideal," New York producer Margo Lion said in a statement. "Hairspray is a nonstop party, and there's no better place for a party than the Las Vegas Strip."

Set in 1962, Hairspray centers on pleasantly plump Baltimore teen Tracy Turnblad, who dreams of dancing on the popular television show The Corny Collins Show. When her dream comes true, Tracy is transformed from social outcast to sudden star, but she must use her newfound power to vanquish the reigning teen queen, win the affections of heartthrob Link Larkin and integrate a TV network, all without denting her 'do.

Based on the 1988 John Waters film of the same name, Hairspray is the recipient of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Director Jack O'Brien, Best Book Mark O'Donnell and Thomas Meehan and Best Score Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman.

The musical's creators--including O'Brien, choreographer Jerry Mitchell, O'Donnell, Meehan, Shaiman and Wittman--will be modifying the show for its Vegas run.