JADAR

★★★★☆

With over 6 six years of experience touring the UK together, and even longer as Strictly Come Dancing professionals (Aljaž recently returning, while Janette now hosts the sister show, It Takes Two), the pair are a shining example of Strictly stardom with their charismatic smiles, heartfelt chemistry, and electrifying routines. Aljaž Škorjanec & Janette Manrara’s A Night To Remember takes audiences through decades of music, from Nina Simone and Elvis Presley to their influences on other artists, like Michael Jackson and Teddy Swims. They treat us to a wide array of blues, soul, jazz and pop classics, reimagining music new and old through a with flamboyant dance fusions combining retro stylings with sprinkles of contemporary fun.

Joining the pair are dancers Kiera Brunton, Natasha Mould, the enchanting Tonyè Scott-Obenè, and Nick Godfrey with his refreshing acrobatics. The live band were an enthralling group of virtuosos consisting of musical director and swinging trumpeter Jack Tinker, saxophonist Christ Aldridge, percussionist Vito Vultaggio, organist Greg Coulson, bassist Roger Inniss. Leading them is pianist and singer Tom Seals, whose dulcet tones and excitingly sophisticated melodies constantly enthral alongside powerhouse vocalist Jill Marie Cooper. Each bandmember has a clear passion for the music and their craft, often drawing my attention during ensemble moments as they excitedly jammed out and harmonised. 

Whether it be the Viennese waltz or the jive, each dance was jampacked with enchanting twirls and lifts, hip swivels, and elaborate footwork. While the stylised choreography felt a little too campy and contemporary for their respective song choices in some of act one’s numbers, the show soon found its way with a perfect blend of retro and modern-day techniques. Director and Choreographer Gareth Walker brings so much vibrancy with his enigmatic routines. Perhaps a little more attention could be given to defining each genre of music and dance, however, I acknowledge that this would dampen the refreshingly modern twists. 

One particularly jaw-dropping moment saw Janette being flung across the stage in a daring drop that had me visibly shook! Janette was a constant source of awe, sometimes lavishly unfurling in her suave partner’s arms other times, performing with fiery precision. Aljaž was charming and suave, often hosting the show between segments before effortlessly floating back to the dancefloor. 

These chats, while nicely linking the themes together, dragged the fast-paced action to a grinding halt. It’s sadly an issue that many Strictly shows face since bridging dance routines and leaving time for costume changes can lead to a lot of dead time. Despite being a little tedious and jarring, these segments feel more seamless than in some of their counterparts’ shows, thanks in part to the duo’s charming delivery, flirtatious comments, and the typical Strictly humour. 

Doug Cairns’ set is gorgeously lit, evoking old school Hollywood with the moon set piece and the amber lit backdrop in the show’s opening. The circular centre-point was also a nice touch, highlighting the duo’s entrance in a James Bond-esque tunnel. The piano was also used as another level for the dancers, while lights cutely decorated the edges and trims of the staging. There was something missing in the latter half… maybe another interesting focal point or prop would have elevated the set in the latter half but it’s a minor gripe in an otherwise polished and jazzy design. 

Carol Howard’s costumes are equally as elaborate with tassles, feathers and sequins galore. Janette’s costumes in particular were all so meticulously crafted with bejewelled mesh layering, floaty skirts, a Jessica Rabbit-esque red dress, golden cocktail dresses with flapper skirts, glittering jumpsuits, and a few slightly more toned down looks before her vibrant finale pantsuit. I particularly loved the burlesque and flapper inspired detailing in the more audacious costumes. The odd outfit felt a little tame in comparison, especially for the men, but often slotted neatly with the era and its fashion. 

A Night To Remember really is what it says on the tin. It’s a glitzy evening of thrills with a fascinating concept taking us through a well-loved and surprisingly varied time in musical history with tasteful contemporary twists. With a little fine tuning and a pinch more pizazz, the show could reach a new level of artistic sophistication.

Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara tour the UK with A Night to Remember until June 8.