Loose Women panellist Brenda Edwards opened up on a brand new career opportunity she’s working on that is worlds away from her position on the ITV daytime programme

Brenda Edwards was thrilled to announce her debut directing role for Hairspray: The Musical on Tuesday’s edition of Loose Women.

“I am excited because I’ve been offered by the producers of Hairspray my debut director role to direct Hairspray: The musical next year,” Brenda said before admitting to suffering from “imposter syndrome”.

“I’ve played the role of Motormouth for like five years in this particular production and it was very overwhelming to be asked,” she continued. “At the time, when they asked me I thought about it and, at the end of the day, I am a product of an open audition so I suggested to them that I wanted to conduct open auditions to give opportunities and chances to people who might not necessarily have them.”

Brenda, who has previously played “Motormouth” Maybelle in three tours of Hairspray, will join the creative team alongside Paul Kerryson to direct a new production of Hairspray which will embark on a major national UK and Ireland tour in 2024.

Brenda has played 'Motormouth' Maybelle in three tours of Hairspray
Brenda has played ‘Motormouth’ Maybelle in three tours of Hairspray ( 
Image:
ITV)

Speaking about her new role, Brenda said:“I couldn’t be more thrilled to be invited by the producers to make my directorial debut on the show as a co-director with Paul Kerryson. Hairspray, and this production in particular, has been such a huge part of my life. The show’s story and themes are as relevant as ever and I cannot wait to hold the open auditions to discover a new cast and work together to present a vibrant new production of this timeless musical for everyone to enjoy.”

Composer and Co-Lyricist Marc Shaiman said: “Brenda Edwards has been a part of the Hairspray family since she took on the role of “Motormouth” Maybelle in 2015 and hearing that she is co-directing the latest tour is music to my ears. The strength and soul that Brenda brings to both her performances and her life have already made me a fan and I hope a friend for life, and I can’t wait to see how she brings her personal perspective to our show. Brava Brenda!”