Reviewed by Sabrina Fancy
What a feeling! The 80’s are back in full force with Flashdance the musical. Playing at the charming New Wimbledon Theatre, this production is based on the box office smash film.
Flashdance follows 18-year-old Alex who is a welder by day and an exotic dancer by night. Despite any formal training, she dreams of attending the esteemed Shipley Dance academy. There are several sub-plots within the production, most notably the romance that develops with her rich boss Nick Hurley.
Joanne Clifton, the Strictly Come Dancing champion plays the lead of Alex Owens. Clifton parlays her Latin and ballroom background into a visually intoxicating display of street dance and hip-hop, in this wonderfully choreographed performance done by the brilliant Matt Cole.
I was pleasantly surprised by Ben Adams, who plays Alex’s love interest Nick Hurly. Having previously been a heartthrob in boyband A1, he played the part of Nick perfectly, and his vocals were one of the highlights of the show. His melodic voice was beautiful and I found myself looking forward to hearing him sing.
Most of the staging for this production is made out industrial materials and digital projections, which perfectly captured the essence of the film. Be prepared for lots of spandex, leg warmers and best of all- 80’s pop hits.
Prepare to be blown away by the feel good musical performances, comprising of 80’s classics from the film such as ‘Maniac’, ‘Gloria’ and the Grammy award winning title track ‘Flashdance – What a feeling.’ Other songs added which were not in the original film but brilliant additions include ‘I love rock and roll’ and ‘Manhunt’. These feel good tunes are coupled with incredible choreography to the musical score, which makes this such a treat!
In addition, specific scenes from the film when seen in this production, take on a new lease of life when seen live – specifically the water scene.
If you have never seen Flashdance the film, it is still a production that can be enjoyed immensely. The talented cast succeeded in delivering an excellent performance with high energy and lots of fun. I give Flashdance the musical 4/5 stars.
New Wimbledon theatre itself is lovely and conveniently located less than a 5-minute walk from Wimbledon Overground/Underground station with plenty of places to eat and drink in the area.
Rating: 4/5
Tickets cost from £17.90 to £57.90 (plus £2.85 transaction fee).
Flashdance – The Musical is at the New Wimbledon Theatre in London from 2-7 October 2017, for more information or to book tickets visit www.atgtickets.com/new-wimbledon-theatre or call the box office on 0844 871 7646.
New Wimbledon Theatre, The Broadway, Wimbledon, London, SW19 1QG | 0844 871 7646
