Blood Brothers was the last performance that I saw at the Phoenix and since my lack of enthusiasm for musicals and the less than full auditorium, I wasn’t exactly excited to be returning. Foremost the reason behind this lies behind having no knowledge on Strictly Come Dancing. The audience last night due to it being previews was completely different to what is expected in the West-End. Networking with one another, media professionals, some dressed impressively and others as expected on any day.
Russell Grant appeared on stage prior to the show’s start, the news that his injury has pulled him out of the performance has left him disappointed, in particularly since it is also his birthday. The love that people have for him was declared with the gasps that echoed through the auditorium. His speech was accepted with adoration.
Having no knowledge on what was about to take place, I was very impressed with the opening scene. The stage, a music bar with an Italian/Latin setting was complimented with the dancers outfits and most importantly James Whiteside’s lighting accentuated each dance and vocal set. Although seated in the dress circle the view was perfect. You don’t need to be followers of SCD to understand the stars of the show; the costumes and applause from the audience confirm this. The couple work their magic with each contorts of the body. The entrance of the villain resembles a snake hunting for food. His attempt to steal the ‘prize’ is thwarted, maybe if she came across as an individual would it have been appealing to watch. The exchange between the two men came across as an amusing camp dance clash. Flavia looked outstanding in the black dress in the final solo dance, fitted over her ever-twisting body. The two lovers breathtakingly confirmed that yes I accepted Midnight Tango for what it is.
For anyone who is apprehensive I do recommend it, the semi standing ovation on this seating level confirmed the enthusiasm for the dancers, I assume at any other performance night this will most certainly be elevated.
The Audience Experience 