Civic Theatre, Darlington – 16 to 21 May. Reviewed by Audrey McConnell
The Last Tango with Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace, excellent show with fantastic dancing.
The perceptive but very touching storyline told through dance through the memories of the older Vincent played by Teddy Kempner, looking back on his life, from their first meeting in the 30’s through pre and post – war Britain, falling in love, wedding, Christmases, birth of their children and finally the last tango.
Vincent and Flavia have such a rapport as a couple who are exciting to watch, their dance moves are precise and perfectly in unison synchronised and sensual. Their acting shows emotion and passion through facial expressions and movements without the need for speech
The dances are exciting and enchanting, how can these fantastic dancers manage their routine without losing their footing? When Flavia floats onto the stage for the first time the audience gasped and her union with Vincent in the dances had the audience spellbound.
Vincent and Flavia are supported by a fantastic troupe of dancers who’s energy is outstanding, how they manage some of the very fast numbers without losing their footing is a wonder. The live band and singers did a sterling job through a variety of song genre. When the cast went on stage to perform jive Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy I’m sure many wanted to join in.
The finale was spellbinding a beautiful Rumba followed by the Argentine Tango which was breath-taking
The curtain came down to a standing ovation from a very enthusiastic audience. Lets hope that this is not the last time we see these two on the stage.