Cheltenham's own Alex Bourne is to take the stage as the international sensation Hairspray returns to the Everyman Theatre this month, direct from the West End.

Alex, who was born and raised in Cheltenham, returns to tread the boards in Gloucestershire as leading lady Edna Turnblad in the feel-good musical of the year.

Alex, who now lives in Hertfordshire with his family, is excited for his return to his hometown. He said: "The Everyman is where my love of theatre began. I've never played it professionally and so I'm very excited to come home!"

Alex joins an incredible cast including Brenda Edwards (We Will Rock You, X-factor, Sister Act) as Motormouth Maybelle and Norman Pace (Rocky Horror Picture Show, One Man Two Guvnors, Our Man In Havana) as Wilbur Turnblad.

Talking about a new year of jam-packed shows Mark Goucher, chief executive of the Everyman Theatre, said: "After an incredible Pantomime season where we were very lucky not to lose a single show, we're eagerly anticipating the year ahead and the opportunity to bring some of the biggest productions we've ever hosted to our stage."

Hairspray will transport you to the 60s, where everyone's grooving to a brand-new sound. Enter our heroine Tracy Turnblad, who has big hair and even bigger dreams to dance her way onto national TV. Will Tracy be able to use her growing local stardom to fight for tolerance, interracial unity and equality in Baltimore?

This fun-filled, feelgood show is bursting with show-stopping numbers, dazzling costumes, and dizzying dance routines guaranteed to wow. Featuring iconic tracks like Welcome To The 60s, You Can't Stop The Beat and Good Morning Baltimore, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The Everyman Theatre is taking every step to ensure that your night out is as safe and fun as possible. In line with Government guidance, the theatre is using extra ventilation, enhanced cleaning before and after each show and has made mask-wearing mandatory throughout the building.

The iconic musical comedy starts its run at the Everyman Theatre on the 17th of January through to the 29th.

Tickets for Hairspray are on sale now and available via the Everyman Theatre box office on 01242 512515 or everymantheatre.org.uk