Strictly Ballroom was a mixed bag of glitz, glamour, hits and quite a few misses.
It started late. These things happen in theatre, but it seemed the show was a little off kilter from the very beginning, and struggled to recover. Strictly Come Dancing pro Kevin Clifton, booked to play the lead, fell ill and understudy Edwin Ray took on the role instead.
Strictly Ballroom tells the story of passionate ballroom dancer Scott Hastings, who's determined to shake up the ballroom dancing scene with unique and progressive moves of his own. He continues to cause a ruckus after choosing a complete beginner, Fran, as his dance partner.
A charming love story ensues, as the couple unite over their feelings of isolation and seek solace in one another. The show aims to offer insight into the backstage world of ballroom dancing, pulling the curtain back on the glitter and faux smiles lurking beneath the familiar façade.
The show was adapted for the stage from the beloved 1992 film of the same name by creators Baz Luhrmann and Craig Pearce, and has been directed and co-choreographed by Strictly Come Dancing legend, Craig Revel Horwood.
Edwin Ray stood in for Kevin Clifton, playing the lead role of Scott Hastings, while the shy yet talented Fran was played by EastEnders and Strictly Come Dancing alum Maisie Smith. Smith perfectly encapsulated Fran's awkwardness and simmering determination to be seen, delighting the auditorium with an endearing and charming portrayal.
Ray had a tough job on his hands - it was clear many Kevin Clifton fans were in the audience - but he managed to win over the crowds. The performer fell short with an early solo in Act One; this scene was meant to show us Scott's talent and wild abandon but it was played a little too safe and gentle, so came across as underwhelming.
There were a few awkward pauses throughout the show, as well as some questionable wigs, off-colour, dated jokes, and a few shaky accents that veered between attempts at Australian and thick Cockney. I have been cursed with two left feet but even I spotted the noticeable difference between the professionally trained dancers, who dominated the stage with flawless precision and prowess, and actors who can merely follow choreography.
The central love story between Scott and Fran was beautifully played by Edwin Ray and Maisie Smith, and helped carry the few stilted and slower moments throughout the show. Strictly Ballroom has all the ingredients to be a roaring success, but its opening night at the Liverpool Empire sadly fell short.
Strictly Ballroom is at the Liverpool Empire from Monday, October 17 until Saturday, October 22. You can book tickets here.
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