Anton And Erin: Swing Time

The Alhambra

THE lively comic banter between Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag flows with as much ease as their Viennese Waltz.

In their entertaining new show, Swing Time, the dancing was interspersed with witty anecdotes from ballroom's golden couple, leaving me wondering why this amiable double act haven't been given their own TV slot yet.

Swing Time is delightfully old-school, blending a variety of dance styles, from dramatic tango to fun Fosse. With music from the fabulous 25-piece Manchester Concert Orchestra, the show unfolded to timeless classics and musical theatre favourites, including Minnie the Moocher and Strike Up the Band.

Among the highlights were Together Wherever We Go, showcasing Anton and Erin's sparkling partnership - singing as well as dancing - beautifully; a whirlwind of a routine to I Got Rhythm; Anton's smooth soft shoe shuffle, leaving 'footprints in the sand'; and Well, Did You Evah, a lovely duet by Anton and Lance Ellington, a top-class vocalist who will be familiar to Strictly fans.

Joining Anton and Erin on stage was an impressive ensemble of professional dancers switching seamlessly from classic ballroom to jazz to a cute Austin Powers-inspired Sixties routine.

With several costume changes throughout, Erin and the girls glittered in some beautiful frocks, while the sharp-suited chaps worked their Gene Kelly charm. "This is from Strictly; still fits like a glove," grinned Anton, in a cool cream waistcoat. "Brendan Cole wouldn't fit into it," he added, with a cheeky wink.

The second half featured a Q&A, with the pair answering questions from the audience. Working the crowd with razor-sharp comic timing, they were like a comedy double act in sequins. One couple, asking for tips for their forthcoming wedding dance, were treated to an impromptu masterclass, while Anton looking back on his Strictly Come Dancing partners had us in stitches. Spinning Ann Widdecombe around the dance floor has left him skilled at "shifting wardrobes"...

A hugely entertaining evening. Give this pair a TV show!

Runs until tonight.

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