Charlotte from the MKFM team made a visit to Milton Keynes Theatre last night (3 April 2023) to see Strictly Ballroom The Musical, and here is her review...
I was very excited to be invited to see Strictly Ballroom The Musical. The show, based on the award-winning global film of the same name, is what inspired the smash-hit TV series Strictly Come Dancing.
Directed by Craig Revel Horwood, who co-choreographs with Strictly’s creative director Jason Gilkison, the musical is now at Milton Keynes Theatre until 8th April.
Strictly Ballroom tells the story of talented dancer - played by former Strictly Come Dancing professional and 2018 champion, Kevin Clifton. When Scott’s radical dance moves see him fall out of favour with the Australian Federation, he finds himself dancing with beginner Fran (Faye Brookes). The unexpected pair inspire eachother and 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.
Unfortunately, Kevin Clifton was not available for the opening night at Milton Keynes Theatre and as a fan of Kevin, I was definitely disappointed. However, Edwin Ray stepped in and still managed to blow the audience away with his beautiful moves and convincing emotions. Edwin Ray definitely had the look and the feel of the role and the disappointment of Kevin Clifton being unable to perform his role didn't last for long.
Faye, took over the role of Fran on 25 March but it is obvious that she is no stranger to musical theatre. Faye is best known for her role in Coronation Street and for making it to the final of Dancing on Ice. You would not think Faye had only been in the role for just two weeks, it felt like she was made for it. Faye was incredibly funny and had the audience laughing all the way through.
My personal star of the show had to be Rico, Fran's father, played by Jose Agudo. Jose lit up the stage in his very first appearance and continued to bring power and emotion everytime he stepped foot on the stage. His dancing is incredible and mesmerising. Jose plays a convincing disappointed father who quickly realises his daughters dreams, his voice is incredibly powerful too and I believe the role of Rico was made for him!
As well as the emotional story which is explored throughout the production, the show features some hilarious moments including comedic wigs, outfits and funny one-liners.
Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom is a beautiful show full of dancing, singing and wonderful surprises. Definitely get down to MK Theatre to see it if you can!
You can catch Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom The Musical at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 8th April.
General bookings: 0844 871 7615*
Access bookings: 0333 009 5399
Group bookings: 0207 206 1174
Online Booking: ATGTICKETS.COM/MiltonKeynes*
*Fees may apply. Calls cost up to 7p per minute, plus your phone company’s access charge
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