Based on Baz Luhrmann’s award-winning movie, Strictly Ballroom: The Musical is heading out on a new UK and Ireland tour starring Strictly Come Dancing favourite Kevin Clifton and BBC Eastenders actress Maisie Smith.
Directed and co-choreographed by Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood, the show follows the fortunes of arrogant, rebellious young ballroom dancer Scott Hastings (Clifton). When his radical and daring dance style sees him fall out of favour with the Australian Federation, he must dance with beginner Fran (Smith). Together they defy tradition and win with steps that aren't strictly ballroom...
Featuring songs including Love is in the Air, Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps and Time After Time there's also new music by artists including Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect.
Maisie first wowed Strictly fans with her dancing in 2019 in the Children In Need TV Special with Kevin Clifton. The following year she danced her way into the Strictly final, and earlier this year joined the cast of the Strictly Live Arena Tour.
“Dancing in Strictly has been a huge part of my life and been so much fun," she said. "I’m absolutely thrilled to be able to continue that journey in Strictly Ballroom. Not only do I get to make my musical theatre debut with my former partner in crime, Kevin, but I get to work with Craig Revel Horwood too. Can't wait!"
Kevin said: “I’m excited to be performing with Maisie again – she’s amazing! When I was 10 years old I first watched Strictly Ballroom and it has become my favourite film, so this is my dream role!”
Dates across the north this year and next include: Liverpool Empire (October 17-22); Venue Cymru, Llandudno (October 24-29); Blackpool Winter Gardens (November 21-26); Bradford Alhambra (March 27-April 1, 2023); York Grand Opera House (April 24-29); The Lowry, Salford (June 26-July 1) and Leeds Grand (Jul 3-8, 2023).