1998

Theatre producer Margo Lion first conceived of Hairspray as a stage musical after seeing a television broadcast of the original film. She contacted Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman to create the music and the lyrics. Jack O’Brien and Jerry Mitchell were hired by Lion to direct and choreograph, respectively.

 

2002

Hairspray opened on Broadway at the Neil Simon Theatre on August 15, 2002.

 

2003

At the 2003 Tony Awards, Hairspray received nominations in 12 categories, winning 8 for Best Musical, Best Book, Best Original Score, Best Costume Design and Best Direction.