With a lightning-quick flick of the heel and a dramatic toss of the head, their lean brown limbs became entwined in the passionate embrace of the Argentine Tango tonight. As popular professionals on TV’s Strictly Come Dancing, Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace dazzle viewers with their ballroom repertoire. But it is the sensual tango where the world latin champions really excel, and it was a treat to see them in action; celebrating the drama, sensuality and elegance of the dance they have made their own.

Set in a late-night bar in downtown Buenos Aires, this show was joyous, poignant, sexy and soul-stirring, retaining the passion of the tango while adding exciting new touches.

Vincent and Flavia were joined by a troupe of first-class dancers, accompanied on stage by fabulous live band Tango Siempre and haunting vocalist Guillermo Rozenthuler.

The gorgeous atmospheric set – a pre-war bar, with iron spiral staircase leading to a balcony – gradually came to life as a lone violinist struck up and dancers arrived in twos and threes.

Then Vincent and Flavia took to the floor, with the seemingly effortless grace, flawless technique and bewitching sensuality of world-class performers. Perfectly in tune, matching each other’s moves like rippling waves, they were captivating.

Produced by Arlene Phillips, the show paid tribute to tango’s street dance roots and added a fusion of genres such as Fosse and salsa. Little human dramas were played out in fast-paced dance routines, capturing new and faded romances, sizzling temptation, wild jealousy, broken hearts, a thrilling brawl and the joy de vie of a fiesta.

Weaving throughout was a gentle sub-plot involving the older bar owner and his wife, beautifully played by Teddy Kempner and Tricia Deighton.

The night ultimately belonged to Vincent and Flavia, and their intoxicating, spine-tingling tango. Pure bliss. Runs until Saturday.