TORONTO -- With 40 years, you get Hairspray.

And with Hairspray, you get John Waters, the creator of the original play.

The outrageous performer was in full flight yesterday as David and Ed Mirvish announced that their 2003-2004 season, marking 40 years at the Royal Alexandra Theatre, will include the Canadian premiere of the musical version of his Broadway hit. It begins its run in May 2004.

Waters affectionately called the show, "a musical for people who are cynical about feel-good musicals."

He had some advice for theatres whose shows were in trouble: "Let the audience in for free, and make them pay to get out."

And for teachers trying to get students enthused about theatre: "Wear falsies, pad your crotch. It's not illegal. Keep them interested!"

For outsiders: "Take what society disapproves of and exaggerate it into a style. Then you are always a winner."


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