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Kevin Clifton and Maisie Smith Strictly Ballroom

Full Cast Announced for 2022/23 Tour of Strictly Ballroom The Musical

The full cast is announced for the new 2022/2023 tour of Baz Luhrmann’s smash hit musical Strictly Ballroom , directed by Craig Revel Horwood, which begins in Portsmouth on 26 th September.

Former Strictly Come Dancing champion, Kevin Clifton stars as Scott Hastings and EastEnders star and Strictly Come Dancing finalist, Maisie Smith makes her musical theatre debut in the lead female role of Fran. Kevin and Maisie were previous champions of the Strictly Come Dancing Children in Need Special 2019.

The 10 month tour – choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood and Strictly Come Dancing’s Creative Director, Jason Gilkison – visits almost 40 venues before culminating in Bristol in July 2023. Foxtrotting around the UK and Ireland, the show is based on the award-winning, global film phenomenon, ‘Strictly Ballroom’ that inspired the world to dance and spawned the smash hit TV series ‘Strictly Come Dancing’.

The cast of Strictly Ballroom The Musical includes: Nikki Belsher (Shirley Hastings); Mark Sangster (Doug Hastings); Gary Davis (Barry Fife); Quinn Patrick (Les Kendall); Oliver Brooks (JJ Silvers); Jose Agudo (Rico); Karen Mann (Abuela); Agnes Pure (Liz); Benjamin Harrold (Ken); Jessica Vaux (Charm); Danielle Cato (Tina Sparkle); Kieran Cooper (Wayne); Maddy Ambus (Vanessa); Adam Davidson (Nathan) and Poppy Blackledge (Pam). The ensemble features Liv Alexander, Edwin Ray, Stuart Rouse, Hollie Jane Stephens, Michelle Buckley and Stylianos Thomadakis.

This uplifting and courageous musical originated as a stage play that Baz Luhrmann devised with a group of classmates at Sydney’s National Institute of Dramatic Art in 1984. Eight years later he made his screen directorial debut with ‘Strictly Ballroom’, the first instalment in Luhrmann’s acclaimed Red Curtain Trilogy . The vibrant film enjoyed staggering success, winning three awards at the 1993 BAFTA awards and a 1994 Golden Globe nomination for Best Picture, going on to become one of the most successful Australian films of all time, earning more than $80 million at the box office. In April 2014 Strictly Ballroom The Musical had its world premiere at the Sydney Lyric Theatre.

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Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom The Musical is a fabulous, feel-good evening full of sequins, singing and salsa. This unmissable kaleidoscope of glitz and glamour is a tonic for the soul and will send your heart soaring and toes tapping long after you leave the theatre!

Full tour listings and ticket information can be found here

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Strictly Ballroom – Milton Keynes Theatre and Touring

Star rating: four stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ✩

The cast of Strictly Ballroom saunters onto the stage at Milton Keynes Theatre, with a star-studded cast, including Kevin Clifton ( Strictly Come Dancing ) as Scott Hastings, Faye Brookes ( Coronation Street ) as Fran, directed by Craig Revel Horwood and and co-choreographed by Horwood and Jason Gilkison. Based on Baz Luhrmann’s film (1992) of the same name, expect outrageous characters, flamboyant outfits and a weird but wonderful storyline.

If you’re after a light-hearted night at the theatre, then this is the show for you. Strictly Ballroom is set in the world of Australian ballroom and follows our protagonist, Scott, as he competes to fulfil his mother, Shirley’s (Nikki Belsher) dream of becoming a ballroom champion. However, Scott causes an uproar when he goes against the strict rules by adding his own moves to the regimented dance routines. With a desire to break the mould, Scott finds a fellow rule-breaker in novice dancer, Fran, as the pair step up their game in preparation for the much anticipated Grand Prix Dancing Championship.

This quirky comedy has plenty of wacky characters that brighten up the stage and cause the crowd to laugh, but at times the slightly flimsy plot loses its pace, with some scenes dragging. This is not the fault of the cast members, who perform to a high standard and make their best attempt to keep the energy flowing on stage. Clifton’s understudy for the night, Edwin Ray, didn’t disappoint, likewise his leading lady Brookes as Fran. While there are a few unnecessary scenes, one that stands out and makes the show is the visit back to Fran’s home, where comedy is pushed aside for a moment and the audience gets to experience an awe-inspiring Paso Doble routine. This scene makes you realise the true dance potential of the cast, which is at times lost among the slapstick.

It’s always great to watch a musical with a live band, which makes all the difference to this show that has a track list of popular songs, like Cyndi Lauper’s ‘Time After Time’ and Johannes Vandenberg’s ‘Love is in the Air’. It isn’t a total medley of well-known tunes though, with a few original songs thrown into the mix. As you’d expect from any show with ‘ballroom’ in its name, the costumes and set, both designed by Mark Walters are full of feathers, sequins and brash colours, which adds to the comedy value.

A spattering of swear words might not make this appropriate for a very young audience, but otherwise it’s a show that would appeal to families – at times it feels like being at a panto. The performances make this show enjoyable. An overall great night out, it’s just the plot that loses the show its five-star potential.

Hannah Grimmette

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Craig Revel Horwood , Edwin Ray , Faye Brookes , Jason Gilkison , Kevin Clifton , Milton Keynes Theatre , Nikki Belsher , Strictly Ballroom

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Strictly Ballroom (2023), Playhouse, Review

For those unfamiliar with Baz Lurhmann’s 1992 film, it tells the story of rebellious ballroom dancer Scott Hastings (Kevin Clifton), who dares to dance non-federation steps much to the disapproval of his hysterical dance teaching mother Shirley (Michelle Buckley as understudy for Nikki Belsher), his teacher Les (Stuart Rouse as understudy for Quinn Patrick), and Dance Federation President Barry Fife (Gary Davis). Enter Fran (Faye Brooks), a complete dance beginner who timidly tempts Scott to dance his way with her as they discover long-held family secrets, double crosses, and desire as they break the mould, challenge tradition, and forge ahead with new love and passion.

A sweet love story amidst a farcical mockumentary set up and adorned with the glitz of ballroom ensured a cult hit for the movie, but this musical stage adaptation waltzed into the West End to mixed reviews at its 2018 UK debut, and for this reviewer electric anticipation quickly precipitated to apathy as the spectacle of sequins adjusted to reveal a missed opportunity. 

The biggest hurdle was the lack of convincing Aussie accents, making it hard to truly lose yourself in the high energy, quick-paced and over the top performances. The sharply witty script is often muffled with cliched or missed timing in the delivery, with a few awkward moments creating a ripple of uncomfortable giggling in the auditorium. The addition of musical numbers could elevate the spectacle of dance but the original compositions are instantly forgettable despite multiple repetitions and feel shoehorned in, while the recognisable songs like ‘Time after Time’, ‘Perhaps, Perhaps’, and ‘Love is in the Air’ are truncated to further the plot. The first act is a tad too long whilst elements of the second feel rushed, and despite a talented cast clearly giving it their all, there’s an amateurish quality in the final presentation. 

Despite disappointment, there are some great moments in this show especially when dance is being showcased, with an ensemble of slick talent and lead performances that deliver. The best scene in the show by far is Jose Agudo as Fran’s father, Rico, demonstrating the Paso Doble technique which strips everything back to rhythm and ignites the audience with the authentic flamenco enthralling and drawing a much deserved roar of approval. Leads Kevin Clifton and Faye Brooks are comfortable in their roles and create a nice chemistry, while Mark Sangster as Doug Hastings creates a likeable, relatable meek yet freak father to Scott. 

Strictly Ballroom isn't groundbreaking or particularly great, but it’s beautiful to look at with stunning, shocking, and satisfying choreography. It only wants to entertain, and the sheer will of the cast ensures many will get to their feet for a feel-good dance and sing along to end this fluffy, feel-good romp. 

Strictly Ballroom is at the Playhouse until Sat 13 May.  

© Lindsay Corr, March 2023   

REVIEW: ‘Strictly Ballroom The Musical’ – Milton Keynes Theatre, April 2023

Strewth! Strictly Ballroom The Musical is a flashy and frenetic fairy tale with a fab-u-lous message to live unapologetically as yourself.

Based on Baz Luhrmann’s award-winning romantic-comedy film, this feel-good musical tells the story of rebellious Australian ballroom dancer Scott Hastings. Dancing is the be-all and end-all of life itself for Scott’s family, who are all rule-abiding, championship-winning ballroom professionals. Scott has followed in their perfectly placed footsteps and is a rising star on the local circuit, but he is bored stiff. He has mastered all the conventional dances and wants to thrill audiences with his own way of moving.

When Scott’s radical new steps see him fall out of favour with the dance federation, he loses his long-time partner. The Pan Pacific Grand Prix Finals are looming, so he teams up with Fran, the daughter of spirited, flamenco-dancing Spanish migrants and the studio’s quintessential ugly duckling. Together, they find the courage to rise above expectations, defy tradition and dance from their hearts.

Strictly Ballroom The Musical is currently waltzing (and foxtrotting, tangoing, sambaing…) to venues nationwide on its first ever UK and Ireland tour. This new adaptation is directed by Craig Revel Horwood, the notoriously hard-to-please Strictly Come Dancing judge. He has co-choreographed the routines with Jason Gilkison, another name fans of the BBC’s Saturday night dance show will recognise. It’s a flamboyant and fun theatrical extravaganza, with dazzling sets and costumes, delivered by a cast of performers who gutsily give their all. Their joyous intention is to make your heart soar and your feet want to dance.

As a tongue-in-cheek celebration of the cutthroat world of ballroom dancing and a rendering of the cult classic film, it is packed full of all the melodrama and crude Aussie charm you might expect. Unfortunately, as a stage show, so much of the content is delivered full on and at full volume that spectacle and shouting detracts from the storytelling. The over-the-top characters are all trying to work out where and how they fit. Their desire to choreograph a sense of belonging for themselves is something that we can all relate to. They just go about it too forcefully – and loudly – for us to truly connect and care.

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Kevin Clifton is contracted as Scott Hastings and his inclusion in the cast must be putting bums on seats. The press night performance did not feature Clifton, which happens and is just one of those things. However, although the appearance of any artist is never guaranteed, the production’s website does not look as if it advises when his holiday dates or regular rest days are scheduled for. This seems slightly mean-spirited towards theatregoers who might be keen to see him live.

Potential Clifton-related disappointment aside, rest assured that understudy Edwin Ray wins an audience over in crowd-pleasing Scott Hastings style. And former Coronation Street actress Faye Brookes is a beautiful surprise as Fran. Away from the cobbles, Brookes has toured as Roxie Hart in Chicago , Princess Fiona in Shrek and Elle Woods in Legally Blonde . Those leading-lady vocals are present and correct here, along with an antipodean accent, physical comedy skills and character-driven dance quality.

The dance mannerisms required for Strictly Ballroom must be difficult to achieve and sustain. The characters who exist in a bizarre ballroom bubble bop with enthusiasm, but they are not top-tier professionals. Rather than being technically perfect, they need to be compulsively watchable as agitated individuals who take their need to win a dancing competition, or prove a point, far too seriously. Meanwhile, the Spanish characters, who rely on the rhythm of their hearts to guide their expressive movements and their life decisions, need to be dynamic but believable.

The choreography effectively embodies both worlds. The ballroom dancers sweep around the floor with pretentious urgency, collective hands of time counting down to the all-important finals. Meanwhile, the passion that Fran’s family members feel burns with scintillating intensity.

Jose Agudo gives the most riveting display as Fran’s father, Rico. It is impossible to tear your eyes away from his commanding performance of percussive footwork, crisp hand clapping and strong arm shaping. Karen Mann is an understated delight as Fran’s grandmother, Abuela. She clearly communicates the message of authenticity and bravery. Don’t be scared. Be yourself. A life lived in fear is a life half lived.

Songs from the 1992 film, including ‘Love Is In The Air’, ‘Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps’ and ‘Time After Time’, feature as break-into-song numbers. There are also new songs by internationally acclaimed artists Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect. It is heartening to see that the music is played live by an excellent band.

Some of the dance routines and songs seem to be cut too short and some feel unnecessarily drawn-out. The first act is long, at 75 minutes, and the second act, although much shorter (45 minutes), is hindered by an air of hesitation. This is possibly not helped by the startling use of lighting, which sometimes means that the house lights suddenly come up. Stylistically, this is a clever way to bring us, as the real audience, into the insular ballroom world, as the audience at the competitions. After all, this is the rebellious crusade that Scott goes on when he decides to pay attention to the way that dancing makes him – and an audience – feel. Holistically, such striking illumination might be disruptive from a storytelling perspective.

Strictly speaking, Strictly Ballroom The Musical is a dance-centric diversion that is always dazzling, frequently deafening and occasionally moving. The key takeaway? Everyone is making up their own steps as they go along so aspects of a dance, show or experience may not work out. That’s fine. Just don’t be a “gutless wonder”. Feel the fear and do whatever you want to do anyway.

Running time: Approximately 2 hours 20 minutes, including one interval.

Age guidance: 12+

*Production photography by Ellie Kurttz.

Strictly Ballroom The Musical continues at Milton Keynes Theatre until Saturday 8 April 2023. The UK tour continues until 15 July 2023, with later dates still to be announced.

This review is also featured on Total MK .

Georgina Butler is an editor, a dance writer and a ballet teacher.

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Musical Theatre News

TheatreSpy has the latest news and gossip about West End musicals, tours and concerts featuring musical theatre artists

Monday, August 15

Full cast announced for tour of strictly ballroom.

They will be joined by Nikki Belsher/ Shirley Hastings, Mark Sangster/ Doug Hastings, Gary Davis/Barry Fife, Quinn Patrick/ Les Kendall, Oliver Brooks/ JJ Silvers, Jose Agudo/ Rico, Karen Mann/ Abuela, Maddy Ambus/ Liz, Benjamin Harrold /Ken, Jessica Vaux/ Charm, Danielle Cato/ Tina Sparkle, Kieran Cooper/ Wayne, Agnes Pure/ Vanessa, Adam Davidson/ Nathan and Poppy Blackledge/ Pam, alongside ensemble members Liv Alexander, Edwin Ray, Stuart Rouse and Hollie Jane Stephens and on stage swings Michelle Buckley and Stylianos Thomadakis .The musical is directed by dancer, choreographer, theatre director and TV Judge, Craig Revel Horwood .

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Strictly Ballroom – The Musical

Closed: 15 July 2023

New Fran casting set for ”Strictly Ballroom” tour

New lead casting has been set for Strictly Ballroom ‘s ongoing tour.

Joining Kevin Clifton in the show from 27 March and taking over from previous star Maisie Smith will be Dancing on Ice finalist and Coronation Street star Faye Brookes.

Brookes is no stranger to the stage, having appeared in the likes of Chicago and Legally Blonde . She said today: “I’m thrilled to be joining the tour of Strictly Ballroom and can’t wait to work with Craig Revel Horwood, Kevin Clifton and the hugely talented cast. I’m so excited to be playing the role of Fran and making it my own. Bring it on!”

Smith is set to perform until 25 March, playing her final performance in Southend. Brookes will then appear in Bradford, Milton Keynes, Norwich, Bournemouth, York, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Derry, Dublin, Glasgow, Aylesbury, Nottingham, Salford, Leeds and Bristol.

Horwood directs the musical, which is based on Baz Luhrmann’s 1992 film. It follows an unlikely romance between Scott Hastings (Clifton) and Fran (Smith/Brookes) set against the colourful backdrop of the Australian ballroom dancing scene.

The show features a book by Luhrmann and Craig Pearce and hit songs such as “Love is in the Air” and “Time After Time”, as well as new songs by artists including Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect.

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Strictly Ballroom The Musical | Review

Mini travellers.

18th October 2022

Strictly Come Dancing finalist and much-loved former EastEnders star, Maisie Smith, makes her musical theatre debut as she co-stars in the 2022/23 UK tour of Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom The Musical in the lead female role of Fran, alongside her former Strictly dance partner, Kevin Clifton, who she waltzed her way to victory with in the Strictly Come Dancing 2019 Children In Need Special.

Strictly Ballroom plays the Liverpool Empire from Monday 17th to Saturday 22nd October. The musical, based on the award-winning global film phenomenon of the same name, inspired the world to dance and spawned the smash hit TV series Strictly Come Dancing. And now, new for 2022/23, this all-singing, all-dancing and all-glittering show–directed and co-choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood-is set to dazzle audiences once more with this glittering cast.

When the invitation to come and review Strictly Ballroom the Musical arrived I leapt at the chance. Every Saturday night we settle down with the three girls to watch Strictly Come Dancing and have done for years. The girls love it. So with the 12 year old in toe I arrived at the Liverpool Empire, excited to watch Kevin Clifton do some ballroom.

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Strictly Ballroom was created by Australian director Baz Luhrmann. The premise of this story is about a man, Scott Hastings who tries to make his “own” way through the world of ballroom dancing by concocting his own steps – however, there are restrictions from his Mother and “teacher” but he soon succeeds to earn the acceptance of his mother and finds true love.

The show didn’t set off to a good start. Technical problems meant the show started around 20 minutes late which combined with a no show from Kevin Clifton which wasn’t explained meant the audience was confused and a tad disappointed from the very beginning. You could hear the muttering as Edwin Ray (the understudy) arrived on stage playing the role everyone assumed should be Kevin, as many had missed the sign on the door on the way in announcing the role change.

Technical problems continued at the interval with this lengthening to half an hour. Disappointing when the show had started late.

The opening number with bright dresses and lively music made my 12 year old turn to me in excitement and I thought all would be well.

It was well, but it wasn’t wonderful, and I’ll try and explain why.

I think that as an audience we didn’t really ‘get’ the Australian humour. There was a bed scene that was unnecessary and a few jokes that didn’t really add anything to the show other than smut. There was a few audience laughs at those jokes but otherwise they felt like a tumbleweed that didn’t really hit the mark.

The chemistry between Edwin Ray and Maisie Smith didn’t quite cut it either. Plus neither did their dance scenes. I think sadly the BBC spectacle of Strictly Come Dancing which combines dancing, with a huge budget and incredible graphics has spoilt ballroom for most of us. It just isn’t quite the same.

Not all the dance scenes failed to hit the mark though. The number with Scott (Edwin) and Fran (Maisie) just before the interval, when they find themselves in the middle of a family party and they learn the passion of the paso doble is superb. If only there had been more moments like that….

Maisie Smith created some fabulous moments when she was on stage alone. She has a lovely singing voice and I was surprised to love those scenes more than her dancing which I expected to be her forte.

Overall I had a lovely time at the theatre with my twelve year old and we enjoyed Strictly Ballroom the Musical, it just wasn’t one we fell in love with. I do wonder if the audience would have been lifted by Kevin Clifton, and whether this would in itself have changed the mood, but sadly that wasn’t the case for last night.

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Strictly ballroom the musical - royal and derngate review.

"Love is in the air" as Strictly Ballroom The Musical heads out on its first UK and Ireland tour.

Baz Luhrmann's 1992 film was first adapted into a stage show in 2014 in Australia and has enjoyed various runs including a West End run at the Piccadilly Theatre but this production is a new staging helmed by director Craig Revel Horwood who co-choreographs the show alongside Jason Gilkison. Fans of Strictly Come Dancing will recognise both names from the hit TV dance contest.

For those, like me, who aren't familiar with the film the story then you are presented with a paper-thin plot but it is delivered by a tremendous company that keeps you engaged throughout. The central character of Scott Hastings is a ballroom dancer who rebels by breaking out his own dance steps against tradition much to the disapproval of his peers. Upon breaking up with his current dance partner and being down on his luck Scott needs someone else and he meets shy young beginner Fran who has great talent hidden under the surface and they begin a blossoming partnership. I won't spoil the rest but you may be able to guess where it is heading.

With the dance credentials of Revel Horwood and Gilkinson at the helm, it's undoubted that the dance sequences are the musical's strongest sequences. The dancing is exquisite with moves skillfully staged on a set designed by Mark Walters who also provides dazzling costumes including some lavish ballgowns. The dancing is breathtaking with a variety of styles on show. 

Leading the cast on the press night in Northampton was the astonishing Edwin Ray as Scott. The role is normally played by Kevin Clifton but understudy Ray is more than a match for the part. Ray giving a fully-rounded triple-threat performance of acting, singing and dancing. His vocals are soaring and he makes the movement look effortless. It's no mean feat to take on the role when the audience is coming expecting to see the ex-Strictly star Clifton but any doubters are gone during the first scene.

Making her musical theatre debut is a sublime Maisie Smith as Fran. She develops in confidence much like the character as the show goes on. She shows great comedic talent and shows off the dance skills that made her a deserving Strictly finalist in 2020. Hidden under the surface is a phenomenal vocal range that could easily make her a top-selling artist. Smith and Ray have great chemistry together and create a believable central partnership.

Jose Agudo steals every moment as Rico with beautiful Flamengo lines. Mark Sangster delights giving some great comedy moments as Doug Hastings whilst Gary Davis impresses as Barry Fife with strong stage presence and vocals. The ensemble shows world-class dancing but not without a couple of stumbles and falls. 

The show's soundtrack features well-known tracks including Cyndi Lauper's 'Time After Time' and 'Love Is In The Air' made famous by John Paul Young. These numbers are highlights where as some of the original songs don't quite hit those heights. The standout musical number comes late on in the second act as Scott and Fran duet a gorgeous track 'Beautiful Surprise'.

Strictly Ballroom will leave you uplifted as you exit the theatre after 2 and a half hours of sublime dance and enjoyable musical theatre. It's hardly life-changing stuff but it'll give you a bit of joy and what more could you ask for? Fab-u-lous fun.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ and a half.

Strictly Ballroom plays at Northampton's Royal and Derngate until Saturday 4th March 2023. Tickets are available from  https://www.royalandderngate.co.uk/ . The tour continues thereafter with dates booking through until June 2023, visit https://strictlyballroomtour.co.uk/ for the full tour schedule.

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Strictly Ballroom

Based on Baz Luhrmann’s award-winning worldwide film phenomenon, Strictly Ballroom: The Musical is heading out on a brand-new UK and Ireland tour starring Strictly Come Dancing favourite Kevin Clifton and treasured Coronation Street star and Dancing on Ice finalist, Faye Brookes.

With direction from dancer, choreographer, theatre director and Britain’s favourite TV Judge, Craig Revel Horwood, Strictly Ballroom the Musical will be will be foxtrotting around the UK from September 2020. Bringing together a cast of over 20 world class performers, Strictly Ballroom the Musical follows arrogant, rebellious young ballroom dancer, Scott Hastings. When his radical and daring dance style see him fall out of favour with Australian Federation, he must dance with beginner, Fran. Together they find the courage to defy tradition and discover that to win, your steps don’t need to be strictly ballroom!

Featuring break-into-song numbers such as Love is in the Air, Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps and Time After Time, as well as several wonderful new songs by internationally acclaimed artists including Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect. This spectacle is sure to make for an unforgettable evening under the glitter ball that will send your heart soaring and toes tapping!

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Maisie Smith 'suddenly replaced on Strictly Ballroom tour' as fans fume over decision

Maisie Smith was said to have missed some performances due to illness and then went on a pre-planned holiday with her boyfriend, Max George, with an understudy stepping in

• 06:25, 1 NOV 2022
• Updated 06:44, 1 NOV 2022

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Strictly Ballroom fans were left reeling after Maisie Smith was replaced on stage amid claims they had no warning about her and pro Kevin Clifton 's non-appearance.

Maisie, 21, missed some performances due to illness and then went on a pre-planned holiday alongside boyfriend Max George, 34, and her family, with an understudy stepping in.

Sources close to the star reportedly said she was always going to be unavailable on the dates when the show waltzed into Wales and Liverpool.

READ MORE: EastEnders star Maisie Smith wows fans in teeny thong bikini on lavish breakaway

One person wrote on social media: “My sister & I took our 90 year old mum to the Liverpool Empire yesterday afternoon.

“Kevin Clifton is her all time favourite & was the main reason for wanting to go. There was no prior warning that neither Kevin or Maisie were appearing.

“The show started late. Without them it was a total disappointment.

"Very underwhelming and we would have gone home at the interval had it not been for the amazing paso doble at the end of the first half. Most disappointing show I’ve ever seen.”

Another fan commented: “My mum and I were also at last night’s show we’re very disappointed and upset that Kevin Clifton and Maisie Smith were not starring in the performance.

“We paid £97 for front row tickets to see the stars of the show. It was a terrible let down we’d driven all the way from Manchester to see them. Completely gutted we didn’t get to see them.”

A further fan added: “I was supposed to go tomorrow but show was cancelled so had to move to Friday, but Maisie has just gone on holiday.”

Maisie is playing Fran in the musical, directed by Craig Revel Horwood , alongside Kevin, and is scheduled to tour with them until March.

It comes after Maisie sparked rumours of an engagement to boyfriend Max after eagle-eyed fans spotted her sporting a ring on her left hand.

The former EastEnders actress shared a couple of snaps to Instagram of the pair looking loved up as she wore a ring on her wedding finger.

One excited fan commented: "Is that a ring? On your RING FINGER?!"

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REVIEW - STRICTLY BALLROOM THE MUSICAL | THE LOWRY | 26/06/2023

Strictly Ballroom The Musical is based on the 1992 Baz Luhrmann movie of the same name. This production of the musical has been directed & Co-Choreographed by Craig Revel Horwood who is best known for being a judge on the hit BBC1 show strictly Come Dancing.

On press night at the Lowry the show had a few technical issues which lead to us being let in to the auditorium quite late and there was also a 15 minute show stop just after the first number. Once the show restarted though everything seemed to rum smoothly but you could tell that some of the cast looked a little nervous at first when the show restarted. There were also five cast changes on the night I viewed the show and although the understudy's did a good job it just felt like the show just didn't really flow very well, I don't know if this was something to do with the fact that there were so many understudy's on that night or if the show is always like that.

The musical is set in Australia and tells the story of ballroom dancer Scott Hastings, Scott craves the freedom to dance his own moves but it is not permitted in the dance competition rules. At the championship competition Scott decides to dance his own moves which angers federation head Barry Fife, who disqualifies Scott and his partner Liz from the competition leading to Ken Rawlings & Pam Shorts taking the win. Scott's dance partner Liz later dumps Scott to dance Ken Rawlings as his dance partner Pam broke both her legs in a car accident. As the Pan pacific Grand Prix looms Scott's mum Shirly and Coach Les start hunting for a new dance partner for him.

Scott's mum Shirly and coach Les teach ballroom dancing at Shirly's studio, one of the "beginners" at the studio named Fran likes the way Scott dances his own way and approaches him about becoming his dance partner. Scott eventually agrees as he is intrigued by her willingness to dance his way. Meanwhile Barry Fife has arranged for Scott to partner with champion dance Tina Sparkle. Scott has to choose weather to dance with Fran or with champion dancer Tina.

One of the things which I feel lets the musical down is the songs as they just weren't very memorable, I can't actually remember any of the original songs which feature in the show. As well as original songs the show does feature some well-known songs that were in the movie such as time after time and love is in the air and it is these songs which were the highlights in the show.

the set was actually quite nice when you first walked in it definitely draws your eye to it with all the lights and sparkle, it doesn't change much throughout the show but props are used to indicate a change in location and there's also a screen at the back which would change to represent that they are in different places so I thought the set

was good. The costumes were beautiful, the gorgeous Ballroom costumes were brightly coloured with glitter and sequins and just looked stunning

The best thing about this show has to be the dancing the choreography in the show is excellent especially in the group dance numbers. One of my favourite scenes in the show happens at the end of act one when Scott visit's Frans Family at the bar and they dance the Pasodoble, this results in the entire cast getting involved in the dance and it was just a great high energy routine which was just wonderful to watch.

Stand out performance for me came from Faye Brookes as Fran she definitely stole the show for me I thought her portrayal of Fran was so good I just love the way she played

her as quite Meek and nerdy and I thought she had great comedic timing. Faye's voice is beautiful and she really shined when she sang Frans solo ballad, her dancing was also just excellent. I have to say Kevin Clifton who played Scott his dancing is amazing, obviously he's a professional dancer he's been on Strictly but his singing was surprisingly quite good I wasn't expecting him to be as good as singer as he was considering that's not his profession I thought he did really well.

I did enjoy Strictly Ballroom the musical I think it is a fun night out but I do thing there are a few things that let the show down such as the original songs which just weren't memorable and for me the songs in a musical are really important so for that reason I am rating Strictly ballroom Three and a Half Stars.

Strictly Ballroom The Musical is on at The Lowry until 1st July you can purchase tickets by clicking on the button below.

If you would like more information about the musical and see where it will be touring to please click the button below.

*Our tickets for this show were kindly gifted in exchange for an honest review

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Strictly Ballroom: The Musical UK Tour Review

  There is something quite wonderful about the works of Baz Luhrmann. He seems to add a sense of wonder, elegance, and a touch of eccentricity to each piece of work he makes, and his 1992 film Strictly Ballroom is one of those fine pieces of cinematography.  

If you were to team up this classic with the choreography and direction of Craig Revel Horwood, you will be sure to create a piece of theatre that is quite simply fab-u-lous. Currently taking to the Mayflower Theatre stage in Southampton, we were treated to a show that would get 10’s across the board.  

Based on the film of the same name, Strictly Ballroom introduces you to rebellious Australian dancer Scott Hastings, who causes quite the commotion when he dances in a new and radical way at a dance competition. Needing to find his dancing feet again, he finds an unlikely dance partner in beginner Fran. Over the course of the show you witness the judgements of others, but see the true freedom that someone can find when they lose themselves in the rhythm of the music and follow their heart.  

Filled with recognisable songs such as “Love is in the Air” and “Time After Time”, you are also introduced to songs by artists such as Sia and David Foster too. The music blends old and new to create something that ticks all the boxes for every audience member. With costuming that will be fit on any Strictly ballroom, and staging that cleverly transports you through the show, you are immersed from start to finish.  

Kevin Clifton takes to the role of Scott Hastings with such ease, it was almost as if the role was made for him. Between dancing on stage constantly, singing his heart out, and acting, he is a true triple threat. Poppy Blackledge stepped into the role of Fran with grace and flourish and you would be honoured to be able to see her play this role that she understudies so brilliantly as she dances and sings with such passion and excellence.  

I absolutely adored both Mark Sangster as Doug Hastings, and Jose Agudo as Rico. Both portraying protective parents with Jose blowing us away with his Paso Doble whilst Mark’s quiet yet observant Doug was the perfect blend of comedy and sincerity. I have to say that each and every actor on stage was nothing short of brilliant, with each being a triple threat that allows this show to showcase their multiple talents.  

Strictly Ballroom is a show that will entertain and excite audiences with its electrifying dances and eccentric performances. It’s a show that is perfect for fans of the film, or those that just appreciate a good show about losing yourself in dance, finding your passion, and falling in love.  

Strictly Ballroom is showing at the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton until Saturday 25th Feb before continuing on a UK Tour. For more info and to purchase tickets please follow the links below:

Strictly Ballroom Mayflower Tickets

Strictly Ballroom UK Tour Info

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Strictly Ballroom fans furious as Maisie Smith is replaced at last minute

• Fay Leyfield
• Published : 16:01, 31 Oct 2022
• Updated : 19:03, 31 Oct 2022

STRICTLY Ballroom fans were left furious after Maisie Smith was replaced on stage.

Angry theatre lovers claim they were given no warning about her and Kevin Clifton’s absence.

Maisie , 21, missed some performances due to illness and then jetted away on a pre-planned holiday with boyfriend Max George , 34, and her family, leaving her understudy to stand in for her.

Sources close to the star say she was always down for pre-agreed no availability on the dates when the show arrived in Wales and Liverpool.

But her fans were not happy and the situation was only made worse when the production was cancelled for two nights on the trot due to technical issues.

Complaining about the situation on Facebook, one person wrote: “My sister & I took our 90 year old mum to the Liverpool Empire yesterday afternoon.

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“Kevin Clifton is her all time favourite & was the main reason for wanting to go. There was no prior warning that neither Kevin or Maisie were appearing.

“The show started late. Without them it was a total disappointment. Very underwhelming and we would have gone home at the interval had it not been for the amazing paso doble at the end of the first half. Most disappointing show I’ve ever seen.”

Another person moaned: “My mum and I were also at last night’s show we’re very disappointed and upset that Kevin Clifton and Maisie Smith were not starring in the performance.

“We paid £97 for front row tickets to see the stars of the show. It was a terrible let down we’d driven all the way from Manchester to see them. Completely gutted we didn’t get to see them.”

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Someone else wrote: “I was supposed to go tomorrow but show was cancelled so had to move to Friday, but Maisie has just gone on holiday ☹.”

Maise has been touring the country with boyfriend Max George in tow.

They sparked engagement rumours over the weekend when she was spotted wearing a huge ring.  

Maisie is playing Fran in the musical, directed by Craig Revel Horwood, alongside  Kevin Clifton.

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She is currently scheduled to tour with them until March 2023.

The Sun has contacted Strictly Ballroom for comment.

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Review: Strictly Ballroom at Liverpool Empire ***

The evenings are closing in and Strictly Come Dancing is back on our TV screens in a riot of Saturday night salsa, samba, spandex and sequins.

The telly spectacular’s name was inspired both by the Beeb’s long-running ballroom dancing competition show Come Dancing, and by Baz Luhrmann’s 1992 big screen hit.

And both also collide in this production of the stage musical version of the cinematic romcom, at the Empire as part of an inaugural UK tour, which has modern day Strictly’s dabs all over it.

It’s directed by acerbic judging paddle wielder Craig Revel Horwood, who co-choreographs the dance moves with Strictly’s creative director Jason Gilkison. Not only did both of them grow up in the Australian dance world, but Luhrmann reportedly based his leading characters on a young Gilkison and his dance partner.

Meanwhile former Strictly professional Kevin Clifton, who has forged a new career in musical theatre (he appeared here just four months ago as Cosmo in Singin’ in The Rain), is signed up in the starring role, while 2020 celebrity finalist Maisie Smith puts her Strictly training to good use in her musical theatre debut.

I say Clifton is signed up, but there was disappointment for his fans on the opening night with the Strictly star apparently indisposed.

It was left to his understudy, Matthew Bourne regular Edwin Ray, to try and rip up the floor and the rule book as Scott Hastings, the rebellious genius of the antipodean amateur dance scene whose flashy moves have been denounced by the stuffed tuxedoes of the Australian Federation.

Abandoned by his professional partner less than a month before the Pan-Pacific Championships, Scott is persuaded by gauche beginner Fran (Smith – in ugly duckling mode until, surprise, surprise, she takes off her glasses) to give her a chance to dance his steps, his way, instead.

Strictly Ballroom the Musical. Photos by Ellie Kurttz

Initially reluctant, Scott eventually agrees to train her (closely in the vein of Dirty Dancing, even down to Fran being ticklish). In return, Fran and her fierce Spanish family deliver some life – and dance – lessons to Scott, who slowly comes to realise just what, and who, is really important to him.

There are colourful group dance numbers, there’s backstage bitching and marabou-fringed campery, there’s a dance rival (Benjamin Harrold’s Ken Railings) who has raided the Smashy and Nicey dressing up box, a snarling, panto-esque stage mother (Nikki Belsher) and a plotting, sleazy baddie (an enjoyably bombastic performance from LJMU alumnus Gary Davis). And, of course, there’s a glitterball hanging over Mark Walters’ colour light-fronded set.

Thus, the elements are all there. And yet for some reason, much of the show feels, well, strictly average and somewhat lacklustre.

It lives and dies on the quality of the dance, and while there are plenty of nifty moves from the accomplished cast, some of the dance numbers simply need much more va-va-voom and room to breathe.

The most impressive and rousing scene of the night comes just before the interval where Scott (the unwitting Tony to Fran’s Maria) finds himself in the middle of a family fiesta and is comprehensively schooled in the art of the paso doble.

The audience loves it – and rightly so. More of that please.

Elsewhere, the burgeoning relationship between Scott and Fran doesn’t really convince.

I realise it’s challenging to come in at the last minute and generate an instant connection live on stage, so perhaps Clifton and Smith (who has a sweet singing voice) have more chemistry together.

Liam Marcellino

Training: Graduated with a first-class BA (hons) from London Studio Centre, receiving the Dame Anna Neagle Award on behalf of Cameron Mackintosh for the Student Most Likely to Succeed.

Theatre credits: Ensemble in Cabaret (UK Tour), Wayne in Strictly Ballroom (Toronto, West Yorkshire Playhouse and West End), Chino in West Side Story (Salzburg Festival), Ensemble and understudy Felicia in Priscilla, Queen of the Desert (UK Tour), Ensemble and cover Doody/Teen Angel in Grease (UK tour); swing and understudy Billy Kostecki/ Neil Kellerman in Dirty Dancing (UK tour); ensemble and understudy Troy in High School Musical (Asian tour); Aladdin (Camberley) and guest singer in Barbra and Liza (Leicester Square Theatre).

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Here is some of our great customised merchandise for this performer. Also check out:

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Strictly Ballroom

Strictly Ballroom From the award winning visionary Baz Luhrmann, creator of Moulin Rouge!, Romeo & Juliet and The Great Gatsby, comes Strictly Ballroom The Musical. This feel-good new musical is based on the multi-award-winning film that inspired the world to dance. Strictly Ballroom tells the inspiring story of Scott Hastings, a championship bal...

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After a seven-month run at the Piccadilly Theatre, Drew McOnie’s staging of Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom The Musical, starring Jonny Labey, Zizi Strallen and recent addition Matt Cardle, will play its final performance on Saturday 27 October.

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