We reviewed the current production of 'Strictly Ballroom' earlier in its run. This review is an updated version of a previously published one.
Based on Baz Luhrmann’s award-winning worldwide film phenomenon, Strictly Ballroom: The Musical has arrived at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre as part of a brand-new UK tour.
Directed by Britain’s best loved TV Judge, Craig Revel Horwood, Strictly Ballroom: The Musical follows arrogant, rebellious young ballroom dancer, Scott Hastings (Kevin Clifton, Rock of Ages). When his radical and daring dance style sees him fall out of favour with Australian Federation, he must dance with beginner, Fran (Maisie Smith, Eastenders). Together they find the courage to defy tradition and discover that to win, your steps don’t need to be strictly ballroom!
Featuring smash-hit songs, including Love is in the Air, Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps and Time After Time, as well as all new music written by internationally acclaimed artists including Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect, this show celebrates a phenomenon that's becoming increasingly popular at a time when the country needs it the most.
Last time I saw this show was the first time I'd ever come into contact with Strictly Ballroom as a concept. I'd never seen the film and the stage adaptation had never been on my radar, so I think I probably went in with a distinct lack of knowledge. However, this time round I got to enjoy the production and its nuances - and, whilst I definitely enjoyed it last time, this is a show you need to immerse yourself in - and it really paid off.
First thing's first, plot-wise the show doesn't claim to be Sondheim - this is a simple story about a guy battling his demons to go with his heart over his head. However, what it lacks in substance is more than made up for by mesmerising routines performed by a cast who give you real belly laughs teamed with outstanding technical ability. Think Priscilla Queen of the Desert meets Strictly Come Dancing and you're not far wrong!
Everyone on stage, whether they play a serious role or one with a bit more of a comedic slant, is more than deserving of their spot on the cast list - and this is very much an ensemble piece. It just wouldn't work without the mix of performers and the energy each of them brings to the stage. And what's lovely is the cast are clearly incredibly comfortable with the material which gives a beautiful slickness to the production that allows our performers to showcase their talents,
Whilst it seems obvious to pick the duo with their names 'above the door', Kevin Clifton and Maisie Smith are simply breath-taking in roles which could have been written for them.
Clifton comes with an obvious pedigree. Having been amongst the nations favourite Strictly pro's and a face behind a number of musicals over the last few years, he lived up to the hype with a stage presence that was exactly what the audience was wanting - and they lapped it up. Whilst I don't doubt that this is a demanding piece, Clifton's experience shone through and he proved why he does what he does so well.
However, this is Smith's first taste of musical theatre and she was, quite simply, outstanding. Her voice has such a beautiful tone to it, switching from a fragile vulnerability to a powerhouse belt with ease - something that she's clearly gained confidence in because her interpretation of 'Beautiful Surprise' was astonishing with a vocal prowess that brought the entire auditorium to almost simultaneous silence and rapturous applause.
What that doesn't mean, though is a second of compromise on her ability as a dancer, which saw her more than keep up with Clifton and manufactured a chemistry between the two which was spot on throughout.
Her performance as Fran was mesmerising from the first note to the bows and she proved that soap actresses are MORE than capable of leading a musical theatre cast - here's hoping there's more musical theatre in her sights when she leaves the tour.
Strictly Ballroom: The Musical runs at Wolverhampton's Grand Theatre until Saturday 18th February. For more information, or to get your tickets, head online to grandtheatre.co.uk.
