‘Hairspray’ Busts In Vegas

An abbreviated version of “Hairspray” is closing after a lackluster 15-week run in Las Vegas, proving again that keeping musicals alive on the Strip isn’t easy.

Co-producers Michael Gill and Myron Martin announced the closing date to the cast and crew on June 5th. The cast’s final performance was scheduled for June 11th, according to the Los Angeles Times.

The 90-minute version of the Tony Award-winning production apparently didn’t mesh well with the Vegas Strip.

“We make this decision with regret and disappointment, but with the reality that the show did not find the audience it needed for us to continue,” Gill reportedly said in a statement.

The musical, based on John Waters’ 1988 film, got off to a rough start when production was delayed for several months.

“Hairspray” opened at Luxor Hotel & Casino during CIC on February 15th, with Harvey Fierstein reprising Broadway role as housewife Edna Turnblad. He was booked for a four-year run, the Times reported.

Fierstein ended his stay in late April, with “MADtv” sketch comedian Paul Vogt taking his post.