REVIEW: BRENDAN COLE: A NIGHT TO REMEMBER (New Wimbledon Theatre)

Sometimes, it’s good to experience something a little different and at the theatre, you can do that most nights of the week. Even better, you can do it from the comfort of a seat and with a bag of chocolates in your lap. I usually enjoy a play or musical – but I was so glad I went to see something a little new tonight.

Brendan Cole is perhaps best known for his regular appearance as a performer on TV’s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’, but he has also toured with several sell-out dance productions. ‘A Night To Remember’ is his latest dazzling show – and if you enjoy dance to any level, chances are sky high you’ll love this.

Packed with explosive routines, breath-taking moves and sparkling costumes, there’s something for everyone in this show. Brendan and his talented cast present over twenty creative dance routines, performing a huge variety of dance styles to well known hits. I particularly enjoyed ‘Kissing You’ (Waltz), ‘Living on a Prayer’ (Paso Doble) and ‘Devil Went Down to Georgia’ (Country). Brendan’s own personal favourite, he divulges, is a Viennese Waltz to the song ‘Cinderella’ – and I have to admit I did feel a little tear prick my eye during this number!

All of the music is live and the show has a fantastic band and singing duo, all led by musical director Barry Robinson onstage. Brendan is also a charismatic host and makes sure the audience is having as much fun as he is. Halfway through the second Act, there is also a Q&A session with Brendan – and he is more than happy to receive cheeky questions about his own personal life or other ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ personalities.

There were a couple of numbers I didn’t find particularly exciting, but that’s to be expected in a show catering for so many tastes and with so many routines. Overall though, this show is energetic, entertaining and beautiful. And if that wasn’t enough, the sheer amount of costumes changes, and the height of the heels in which the female performers manage to dance in, should impress you anyway!

Reviewed by Rachel Callaghan
@WIAAProductions