IT'S become something of a cult classic since being released in 1992, so I'm surprised it's taken this long for Baz Luhrmann's Strictly Ballroom to be made into a musical. But fans rest assured – it's well worth the wait.
We're all familiar with the glitz and glamour of the dancefloor, thanks to BBC'S Strictly Come Dancing, and this show has it in spades as it parodies the competitive world of ballroom and Latin.
We follow hero Scott Hastings, who's on track to scoop the prestigious title at the Pan Pacific Grand Prix – if he can only find a partner who'll perform his own, flashy moves, instead of sticking to the regulation steps. Enter shy beginner Fran, whose Spanish roots provide the perfect inspiration for a showstopping Paso Doble.
Kevin Clifton has more than proved himself as a dancer but also shows off impressive vocals in the lead role, while the beautiful tone to Coronation Street star and Dancing on Ice finalist Faye Brookes' voice was a perfect fit for the part of Fran. Dance-wise, a mention must also go to Jose Agudo as Fran's protective father, Rico.
As with the film, all the characters are larger than life, and perfectly portrayed on stage. There's plenty of comedy from Scott's pushy mum Shirley, played by Nikki Belsher; eccentric dad Doug, played by Mark Sangster, and ballroom judge Barry Fife (complete with terrible wig), played by Kieran Cooper.
With a cast of more than 20 world class performers, the dancing is pretty special too. In fact, given the direction from dancer, choreographer, theatre director and Britain’s favourite TV Judge, Craig Revel Horwood, you could even say it was fab-u-lous!
Fans of the film will be pleased to hear the show features all the toe-tapping numbers such as Love is in the Air, Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps and Time After Time, as well as several new songs by by internationally acclaimed artists including Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect.
True to the movie, the stage show feels a little bizarre in places, but this is Baz Luhrmann after all.
Full of colour, comedy, fantastic choreo and a touch of romance, you'll be guaranteed to leave with a smile on your face.
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