Strictly Ballroom The Musical Review
Craig Revel Horwood said: "I am absolutely delighted to be directing the amazing Kevin Clifton and the sensational Maisie Smith, together with our super talented cast in Strictly Ballroom The Musical - I know that they’ll all be FAB-U-LOUS! Expect some sexy moves, sizzling costumes and a simply sensational evening!"
Strictly Ballroom The Musical Review Kevin Clifton & Maisie Smith
An eye catching, flamboyant set greeted us as we entered the auditorium at G Live and set the scene for a wonderfully camp, kitsch show. The glittery, excitable audience buzzed as the lights dimmed and we were taken back to Baz Luhrmann’s 1992 film and the drama surrounding Scott Hastings (Kevin Clifton) and his new dance partner Fran (Maisie Smith).
The stage show is directed by Craig Revel Horwood, who also co-choreographed along with Jason Gilkison, creative director on Strictly Come Dancing. The dancing is as spectacular as you would imagine, so many different dance styles were covered, but what was a slight surprise was how wonderful the singing was too. Kevin has a a powerful voice and Maisie’s is beautiful, in fact the pair of them have a natural chemistry on stage and are a pleasure to watch.
Personal highlights included the Paso Dobble scene with Jose Agudo’s mesmerising dancing and the whole ensemble joining in. And of course the finale, Love is in the Air, a real crowd pleaser, the audience were all to ready to leap to their feet and join in.
A fantastic cast, each and every one of them giving their all, wonderful choreography and seriously stunning costumes. Strictly Ballroom the Musical is great entertainment, funny and glittery with Kevin Clifton shining bright.
Strictly Ballroom The Musical tells the beguiling story of Scott Hastings, a talented, arrogant and rebellious young ballroom dancer. When Scott’s radical dance moves see him fall out of favour with the Australian Federation, he finds himself dancing with Fran, a beginner with no moves at all. Inspired by one another, this unlikely pair gather the courage to defy both convention and their families – and discover that, to be winners, the steps don’t need to be strictly ballroom…
Kevin Clifton said: “I'm thrilled to finally be fulfilling my lifelong ambition to play Scott Hastings in Strictly Ballroom The Musical. When I was 10 years old I first watched the movie that would become my favourite film of all time. This is my dream role. I’m beyond excited to be performing with Maisie again – she’s amazing - and can’t wait to don the golden jacket and waltz all over the UK with her in this incredible show!"
Maisie Smith said: “Dancing in Strictly has been a huge part of my life, and been so much fun. I’m absolutely delighted to be able to continue that journey in Strictly Ballroom The Musical. Not only do I get to make my musical theatre debut with my former partner in crime, Kevin Clifton, but I get to work with Craig Revel Horwood and Jason Gilkison again too - I can't wait!"
Strictly Ballroom the Musical is at G Live, Guildford until Friday 30 December 2022. Tickets are now onsale at GLive.co.uk or 0343 310 0055
