Flashdance The Musical

Basically this is the story of 18 year old Alex Owen who works as a steel mill welder by day and a flashdancer at Harry’s Bar by night. There she performs her own innovative routines whilst dreaming of being accepted into the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy. After many twists and turns with romance  as well as hopes and despair, Alex tries out after the encouragement of her mentor, Hannah. This evolves before our eyes through many settings, great dancing and singing. Some of the smash hits of the show are “Maniac”, “Manhunt”, “Gloria”, “I Love Rock and Roll” and the title track “Flashdance – What A Feeling”.

With a cast of thirty three, or thereabouts, and a seven piece band, Director David Harrison and this team have undertaken this ambitious project.

Aleisha Rose as Alex Owens had to carry the production and, for the most part, she did very well indeed with her acting and dancing skills but her singing needed more clarity at times. She was not helped by the band’s volume with some of the solos. Adam Goodall – Nick Hurley – developed into a good partner for Alex. Congratulations to the other male soloists and Shelby Cuncliffe as Gloria.

The strength of this performance was in the standard of the dancers – flashdancers and ballet artists. The ensemble singing was also a strength.  At times, unfortunately, the general pacing seemed to drag down the necessary speed and interplay.  Perhaps some judicious editing would help – if permitted.

For most of the production, I was absorbed and enjoying most aspects of what was occurring before me. I am sure with a few more runs an even better night at the theatre will occur for the viewers of this well thought out, challenging musical. The only way is to go, see, check and enjoy for yourself.

William Davies