Jon English to Frock Up as Edna in Parramatta Hairspray

Jon English frocks up as Enda Turnbald in Packemin Productions’ production of Hairspray at Parramatta’s  Riverside Theatre from July 26, partnered with Helpmann Award nominated Wayne Scott Kermond as Wilbur, while Cle Morgan will also be reprising the role of Motormouth Maybelle which she played in the original Australian production.

The trio of professionals will share the stage with some of Sydney’s best community theatre performers.

Pro-am company Packemin Productions’ has previously produced popular musicals Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat, Oliver! and The Wizard of Oz at Parramatta, in grand style, combining professional experience with top community theatre and young local talent.

Considered one of the Australia’s foremost entertainers, English is a multi-award winning singer, actor and composer whose success on the stage and screen has included musicals, drama and comedy. He has released 15 albums, written musicals and scores for film and television, as well as touring internationally with his band. He has won ARIA and Logie Awards including Best Vocalist and Best Actor.

Stage highlights that include playing Judas in the original Australian production of Jesus Christ Superstar and Pirate King in the Broadway version of Pirates of Penzance, and the subsequent Esgee productions of Pirates, Pinafore andThe Mikado.

"It's such a hoot!" says English. "I'm a huge fan of the 60s as that was the era I first started discovering music. The Beatles in 1963 changed my life. This show has such catchy music too which means it's a lot of fun to watch and the same goes for being in it.”

Jon is no newcomer to drag, though

“It's a tough challenge for guys, but I got my balance in heels as Carmen Miranda in the Dad's Army musical, so it's all coming back to me for the role of Edna. I've known (Producer and Director) Neil for a long time, which makes it great to work on this together and the kids in the cast are insanely talented. It's going to be fantastic!”

“It’s a perfect match!” enthuses Director Neil Gooding. “Jon is such a beloved performer and people have strong memories of roles he has played such as The Pirate King and Judas, not to mention his comedic skill in All Together Now, so we’re absolutely thrilled to have Jon on board, bringing his experience and talent to the show. With him playing the hilarious Edna Turnblad, this production is shaping up to be our best yet!”

Song-and-dance man Wayne Scott Kermondplays Edna’s doting husband Wilbur Turnblad.

"When (Producer and Director) Neil asked me if I wanted to be part of Hairspray, of course I said yes!" said Kermond. "To work with Packemin Productions again, this time alongside Australian rock'n'roll and theatre legend Jon English, is a wonderful opportunity. I play Wilbur who is the husband of Jon's character Edna. In the dance numbers we haven't quite worked out which one of us is leading yet and with him being tall and me being short - well, let's just say the comedy aspect is coming along quite naturally!”

Show business is in Kermond’s blood. “Born in a trunk”, he is a fourth generation performer.

“Hairspray is such a joyous musical with an incredible score. The role of Wilbur is an uplifting one compared to my role in Packemin's Oliver! last year. Although Fagin had a comedic element, it was a much darker show overall. Hairspray has the best of what the 60s gave us with Motown, the fun fashion and through the colourful song and dance numbers, it reminds us that we're all the same in this world. With such a strong cast and positive message, the show is pure entertainment for everyone, whether you're two or 102.”

July 26 – August 10

Tickets from $30

Bookings www.riversideparramatta.com.au

www.packemin.com.au 

Earlier coverage - BIG HAIR for Jessica and Michele in Pro-Am HAIRSPRAY with Jon English

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L-R - Back - Peter Watson as Mr Pinky, Michele Lansdown as Velma, Jessica Rookeward as Tracy, Jon English as Edna, Wayne Scott Kermond as Wilbur, Kyle Sapsford as Corny. Front - Atunaisa Lasalosi as Seaweed, Mikayla Williams as Penny, Ayanda Dladla as Little Inez, Alyssa Wilkins as Amber and Christopher Glynn as Link.