Dance spectacle at the Alhambra had energy to burn (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Dance spectacle at the Alhambra had energy to burn

4:30pm Wednesday 2nd November 2011 in Reviews By Emma Clayton

BURN THE FLOOR, The Alhambra

There was a stomach-lurching moment, at the start of last night’s performance, when one of the dancers pulled a man out of my row for a spot of salsa.

I tried not to make eye contact, terrified I’d be the next audience participation victim.

But by the end of this gloriously infectious, high-energy dance extravaganza, I could’ve happily jived my way out of the theatre.

If only I had the skill, grace, athleticism and passion of this troupe of world-class dancers, who delivered a cracking show celebrating all aspects of ballroom, from the elegant Viennese waltz to the dramatic paso doble.

Described as ‘ballroom reinvented’, this whirlwind journey took us from the steamy samba to the cheeky Charleston.

It was like watching Strictly Come Dancing live, only without the clod-hopping celebrity contestants.

The subtle set left the dancers to provide the thrills, accompanied by with two powerful singers and some first-rate musicians, and thankfully there was no contrived narrative link, leaving each routine to slip seamlessly into the next.

A hugely-entertaining show that had the audience on its feet. It was a shame to see so many empty seats, though, especially in a city with such a strong dance heritage.

A strictly sensational show.

Runs until Saturday.