The Court Theatre, Christchurch, New Zealand.
12 December 2024.
If you’re seeking a night filled with heart, lively dance and an inspiring message of challenging the status quo, Strictly Ballroom at The Court Theatre in Christchurch is the perfect choice!
On Thursday, December 12, this vibrant and high-energy production of Baz Luhrmann’s iconic film – inspired by his upbringing – captivated the audience with its passion, enthusiasm and sheer over-the-top joy. It’s the movie that sparked my own journey into dancing and the film industry, thanks to Tina Sparkle and those unforgettable costumes — especially the iconic sequinned bolero. I can never get enough of Luhrmann’s maximalist style and drama.
For those not familiar, Strictly Ballroom the Musical is the inspiring story – adapted for the stage by Terry Johnson – of a 21-year-old champion ballroom dancer, Scott Hastings (Rania Potaka-Osborne), a ballroom dancer trained from a young age, who faces conflict when his desire to innovate clashes with traditional rules. His partner Liz (Sophie Harris) leaves him for Ken Railings (Ben Freeth), and conservative dance officials warn him against breaking conventions. Scott finds new inspiration in Fran (Lucy Sutcliffe), an awkwardly shy student who reminds him that “a life lived in fear is a life half lived,” and together they aim for the Pan Pacific championships. Despite opposition from everyone, including his mother, Shirley Hastings (Jessie Lawrence) and the dance establishment, Scott chooses Fran as his partner. When they’re disqualified by official Barry Fife (Roy Snow), Scott’s father publicly supports them, leading to a triumphant performance that captivates the audience.
The charm of Strictly Ballroom lies in its heartwarming story of breaking free from the constraints of tradition, family expectations, and the ballroom federation. It’s about finding the courage to dance to your own rhythm. Having seen this production in larger theatres in Sydney, I particularly enjoyed the version at The Court Theatre. The smaller space drew the audience closer to the characters and the story. With family at the narrative’s core, this intimacy enhanced the dynamics between the characters, creating a more personal experience within the seamless and changing scenes. The show’s message resonated through every song, every dance number, and even the exaggerated facial expressions, making every detail shine.
Potaka-Osborne was an impeccable choice for the role of Scott Hastings. His movement was beautifully fluid yet precise, and his poise effortlessly commanded the stage. With an impressive resume that includes West Side Story (Opera Australia), The Wedding Singer (David Venn Enterprises), Moulin Rouge! The Musical (Global Creatures), and Chicago (Crossroads Live), his career is poised for great success.
Lucy Sutcliffe’s portrayal of Fran was a remarkable blend of authenticity and skill. She expertly captured the character’s awkwardness, convincingly portraying a dancer with raw potential but lacking polish. Her strong, steady vocals added depth to the role, while her performance perfectly conveyed Fran’s naive yet determined spirit. In 2019, Lucy won the New Zealand Dance Awards Pro/Am Music Theatre Award and received a prestigious scholarship to train at the Broadway Dance Center in New York City, and is undoubtedly another talent to watch.
Jessie Lawrence and Jonathan Martin, as Shirley and Doug Hastings, were a fantastic pairing. With a hidden secret that drove the dynamic of their relationship, the shattering truth only fuelled their son Scott even more.
The entire cast was beyond entertaining, moving in and out of the simple sets, which were expertly crafted. Transitions were cleverly concealed with choreography and added continuous flair to the production.
Much like the music at the heart of Strictly Ballroom, the choreography was well staged under the direction of Kira Josephson and renowned ballroom choreographer Jonny Williams. The dance numbers were nothing short of electrifying, showcasing various ballroom styles from the waltz to the paso doble. Each sequence blended precise technique with the distinct personal flair each character was striving to express. The choreography flowed effortlessly with the music, and the dancers’ infectious energy elevated the entire production.
Musically, the show dazzled. The well-known hits like “Love is in the Air,” “Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps” and “Time After Time” are joined by new compositions by Sia, David Foster and Eddie Perfect, giving the sperfectly and engaging sound. Richard Marrett’s musical direction ensured that the orchestra lifted the entire production while the talented cast brought each number to life with passion and enthusiasm.
Directed by Benjamin Kilby-Henson, the production perfectly balanced the larger-than-life spectacle of ballroom dancing and the quieter, more personal moments between Scott and Fran. Kilby-Henson kept the pace brisk and engaging, with every scene offering a perfect blend of emotion, comedy, and tension.
The set design and costumes were a visual treat, transporting the audience to a world where glamour and kitsch collide. The glittering backdrop of the Coca-Cola sign, the vibrant lighting, and the colourful costumes all enhanced the feeling of a high-stakes dance competition while also giving it a wonderfully theatrical flair.
If you missed this unforgettable performance, there are still plenty of chances to catch Strictly Ballroom at The Court Theatre. Notably, a Backstage Tour at 2pm on Saturday 18 January 2025 will offer an insider’s view of the production. A special Private Event will also be held in The Court Theatre’s foyer at 7:30pm on Friday 31 January 2025 — be sure to book early as tickets for this performance are limited, and some parts of the foyer will have restricted access. The show’s Closing Night will take place at 7:30pm on Saturday 1 February 2025, so don’t miss your chance to experience the magic one last time!
Whether you’re a fan of the original film or a newcomer to the story, Strictly Ballroom at The Court Theatre offers a night of pure joy. It’s a celebration of passion, individuality and the transformative power of dance, with a talented cast, stunning choreography, and a soundtrack that will remind you that “A life lived in fear is a life half lived!”
By Renata Ogayar of Dance Informa.
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