Review of Strictly Ballroom starring Kevin Clifton at Theatre Royal

EVERY so often a theatre show comes along that leaves you feeling warm and fuzzy - and that is precisely what Strictly Ballroom does.

Any fan of the 1992 Baz Luhrmann film will have high expectations for this story being told on stage but Strictly Come Dancing maestro Craig Revel Horwood does not let the audience down.

As director and choreographer, he has managed to capture the heart of the Strictly Ballroom story beautifully so that audiences can learn to love it all over again.  

Starring Strictly's Kevin Clifton as tortured Scott Hastings, the audience is transported to 90s Australia where ballroom dancing is everything for this young dancer who has dreamt of winning the coveted Pan-Pacific Grand Prix Dancing Championship since he was six years old.

Scott's flair for creative choreography doesn't sit well with his partner or those in charge of his craft. And when he stumbles across beginner Fran, played by former Coronation Street star Faye Brookes, not only do they form a new dance partnership but sparks fly as they fall for each other. 

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The chemistry between Clifton and Brookes was just incredible to watch. They instantly bounced off each other making their love credible for the audience. 

This was possible in part due to Clifton who really brought the character to life and proved to be a triple threat. Yes, his dancing ability was always a given due to his background, but his acting and singing really impressed throughout. He owned the stage and you couldn't take your eyes off him.

Brookes complemented the confidence and power of Clifton's character by adopting the not-so-confident manners of Fran. Her comedic timing was spot on and she had the audience in stitches. 

They were supported by a cast who lit up the stage with their dancing, hilarious dialogue and outrageous antics at times.

But the choreography of course was the real highlight especially the scene involving the teaching of the Paso Doble by Rico, played by Jose Agudo. Riverdance was given a makeover as the cast produced a rhythmic stomp in a straight line on stage. It truly was a sight to remember. Agudo was an incredible dancer with real power on stage and his energy bounced off the entire cast.

This stage show was everything I hoped it would be and more. It was camp, funny and full of character. The story has real heart and the talent of the entire cast just reminds you why ballroom still remains to be so popular.

Catch Strictly Ballroom at the Theatre Royal in Glasgow until Saturday.