Strictly Come Dancing: The Professionals- London Palladium

Aptly titled 'The Showstopper Tour', a dozen professional dancers from the prime time BBC hit show have taken to the stage this spring on a jam-packed UK tour. Starring the familiar household names Karen Hauer, Neil Jones, Dianne Buswell, Gorka Marquez, Luba Mushtuk, Graziano Di Prima, Carlos Gu, Nancy Xu, Nikita Kuzmin, Jowita Przystał, Vito Coppola and newbie Michelle Tsiakkas, who gets her own spicy solo section inspired by her Cypriot-Sri Lankan roots, this was a glittering two hour spectacular oozing with razzmatazz from start to finish.

Choreographed by the creative director of the TV series Jason Gilkison, who seamlessly blends the traditional with the contemporary with the unique Strictly flair we all know and love, the show celebrates the most memorable highlights of the previous series alongside incredible new and ambitious crowd pleasers. From Fosse to fiery Argentine Tango, contemporary to the classic simplicity of the Waltz: there's something for everyone in this dance extravaganza.

Although a little cheesy in places, the quips and humorous skits (the nod to the Margot Robbie hit film with an energetic dance off between Nikita and Gorka as the Kens of the Live Tour and TV series went down particularly well) hit all the right notes to intersperse with the dancing. From comic discussions of fatherhood to a heartfelt reflection on found family, its clear that the dancers have become celebrities in their own right and have built up a lovely rapport with their fans.

With no margin for error, all twelve were on top form as they delivered the impeccable routines with such ease and passion. There were several highlights in such a strong performance: a medley of renowned choreographer Bob Fosse's greatest works (Jowita Przystal's incredible strength and suppleness was showcased beautifully in her Cabaret solo), a touching tribute to the late Robin Windsor and a high octane Act 1 finale crammed full of the legendary Tina Turner's greatest hits. But there were softer, quieter moments too; the understated and elegant Rumba performed by Luba and Graziano to Kate Bush's Running Up That Hill immediately stands out. With solo moments for everyone, it feels truly fitting that each professional and their unique skillset is given the chance to take the spotlight.

Overall, this production is an absolute treat for any Strictly fan; a power packed two hours celebrating the magic of dance culminating in a well deserved standing ovation.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐