STRICTLY Come Dancing stars Kevin Clifton and Maisie Smith will appear in Baz Luhrmann's smash hit musical Strictly Ballroom The Musical, directed by the show's judge Craig Revel Horwood and coming to Southampton next year. 

Professional dancer and former Strictly champion Kevin Clifton plays Scott Hastings with Eastenders star Maisie Smith, a Strictly finalist in 2020, making her musical theatre debut in the lead female role of Fran. Kevin and Maisie were previous champions of the Strictly Come Dancing Children in Need Special 2019.

Based on the 1992 award-winning rom-com, the show tells the beguiling story of Scott Hastings, a talented, arrogant and rebellious young ballroom dancer.

When Scott’s radical dance moves see him fall out of favour with the federation, he finds himself dancing with Fran, a beginner with no moves at all.

Inspired by one another, this unlikely pair gather the courage to defy both convention and their families – and discover that, to be winners, the steps don’t need to be strictly ballroom.

READ MORE: Titanic the Musical to return to Southampton in April 2023

Craig Revel Horwood said: "I am absolutely delighted to be directing the amazing Kevin Clifton and the sensational Maisie Smith, together with our super talented cast in Strictly Ballroom The Musical - I know that they’ll all be fab-u-lous! Expect some sexy moves, sizzling costumes and a simply sensational evening!"

Daily Echo:

Kevin Clifton added: "I'm thrilled to finally be fulfilling my lifelong ambition to play Scott Hastings in Strictly Ballroom The Musical. When I was 10 years old I first watched the movie that would become my favourite film of all time.

"This is my dream role. I’m beyond excited to be performing with Maisie again – she’s amazing - and can’t wait to don the golden jacket and waltz all over the UK with her in this incredible show!"

And Maisie Smith said: “Dancing in Strictly has been a huge part of my life, and been so much fun. I’m absolutely delighted to be able to continue that journey. Not only do I get to make my musical theatre debut with my former partner in crime, Kevin Clifton, but I get to work with Craig Revel Horwood again too - I can't wait!"

Strictly Ballroom is at Mayflower Theatre from February 20 to 25 2023. Tickets from mayflower.org.uk

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