Strictly Ballroom: The Musical At Mayflower Theatre, Southampton Review

Reviewed By Lily D

Love Was In The Air last night as audience members filed out of the packed Mayflower Theatre following the opening night of Craig Revel Horwood’s brand new production Strictly Ballroom: The Musical. Based on Baz Luhrmann’s 1992 cult classic award-winning film of the same name, Strictly Ballroom: The Musical is a glitzy, sparkly and eye-opening introduction to the world of ballroom dancing in 1980s Australia.

Craig Revel Horwood’s direction combined with the chorographical genius of Jason Gilkison are a
match made in ballroom heaven. With a cast full of “triple threats”, it is a perfect blend of ballroom
beauty and theatrical thrills. A real mix of colourful, camp moments and stunning dance routines.
There are some saucy scenes thrown in for good measure so perhaps not one for the kiddies.
We are introduced to Scott Hastings (Kevin Clifton), a rebellious young ballroom dancer with
enormous potential. His desire to dance non-regulation dance moves sees him fall out of favour with the Australian Dance federation and we witness the many glitzy, sequin-laden feathers that are ruffled in the process. To be able to dance his own steps he must partner with beginner Fran (Poppy Blackledge), a stark contrast from the big hair and fake tan of the professionals. Together they find the courage to follow their hearts and dance to their own rhythm.
Kevin is excellent in the role of Scott. Vocally reserved but note perfect, he danced with a strength and charisma we have all come to know and love. Unfortunately Maisie wasn’t playing the part of Fran however any disappointment we may have had soon vanished as powerful vocals and breath taking dance moves enthralled the audience. With impressive Austrian accents and great chemistry, they were a perfect pairing.

Nikki Belsher and Quinn Patrick offer great support as the walking rollercoaster of emotions Shirley
Hastings and her “assuredly non-romantic” past dance partner Les Kendall. Their chemistry was
heart-warming and her upbeat comedic timing complemented her 80s leg warmers perfectly! Long-suffering husband “Dooooouuuuuuuuuuggggggg” stole the show as we discovered the truth of his past. Exceptional vocals presented by ladies-man and caricature-like Barry Fife (Gary Davis), complete with the beloved blue sequinned tuxedo, famously portrayed first in the film.

The stand-out moment of the show for me took place at the end of Act One, with Rico (played by the spectacularly talented Jose Agudo) and his Paso Doble. Rico burst out on the stage and stole the spotlight, stunning audience members with his breathtaking and powerful Paso showcase. Audience members erupted with appreciation, a fitting end to the first act.

There is so much to love about this production with hit songs such as Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps,
Time After Time and of course Love Is In The Air. Combine that with a striking curved set, efficacious lighting displays, phenomenal barely-there costumes and first-class dancing, featuring a cast of more than 20 world-class performers and you have a show that is Strictly Superb. It’s a 10 from me! Fab-ULous!

Rating: 5/5

The Mayflower Theatre, Southampton
Monday 20th February – Saturday 25th February 2023
Tickets can be purchased from www.mayflower.org.uk/ 02380 711811
Tickets start from £22.50