Flashdance the Musical - Edinburgh

Reviewed By: Liam Rudden

Seldom does a five star musical tour the provinces so I didn't expect much from this reworking of the cult 80's movie.

Consequently, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that director Kenny Leon's take on the story of the female welder with an ambition to dance was one of the best pieces of musical theatre to visit Edinburgh in the last decade – if not longer.

Victoria Hamilton-Barritt, who played the lead character Alex Owens, is a star in the making. You'll be paying big bucks to see her on the West End soon, mark my words.

Former Hear'say member Noel Sullivan, as her love interest proved an accomplished and captivating lead man, demonstrating an acting ability which will soon allow him to break out of the song and dance man category.

In the Theatre Royal Bar afterwards Noel admitted the part has taken him out of his comfort zone, but that he is loving the challenge.

As for the veteran Bernie Nolan as Alex's mother, well, she just makes it look so easy, as does – surprisingly – ex-Corrie star Bruno Langley.

Then we come to the choreography: Arelene Phillips might now be in her 60s, but in this production the Duchess of Dance shows she can still give the youngsters a run for their money – not least in the surreal yet tear inducing routine in which Alex learns of the death of her mother (Nolan). Stunning stuff.

© The Evening News: Fringed Out, 23/9/08

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