Musical destined for the West End

11:28am Thursday 9th October 2008

COME Dancing is a high-tempo, bittersweet musical by former Kinks frontman Ray Davies which has the potential to become a West End smash.

Set in the Ilford Palais, which was demolished last year, Come Dancing tells the story of the venue at its height in the 1950s, when the old music-hall tradition was beginning to give way to rock and roll.

The beautifully-designed set reflects the popular dance-halls of the time, complete with a band, stage, dance floor, chandeliers, curtains and even a bar.

For a good half an hour before the show, cast and audience members dance on the floor, recreating the excitement of a night out at the Palais.

The show opens with Davies himself, looking lean and sprightly for his 64 years, performing the Kinks standard Tired of Waiting For You, and 1980s hit Come Dancing.

Davies then acts as the storyteller throughout, popping on to the stage to both narrate and reflect on the action.

The story, which is inspired by the death of Davies' real-life sister, features Davies' "fictional family" as they prepare for a night out at the Palais.

Davies' fictional sister Julie, a former polio-sufferer who has been left almost unable to walk, falls for black saxophonist Hamilton.

The story initially focuses on a love-triangle between Julie, Hamilton and the fiery rock and roll singer Tosher.

An incident then happens at the Palais, which means it is “never the same again.”

The music alternates between the old dance-hall numbers and rock and roll, reflecting a changing society.

Suave and seedy club host and singer Frankie Harris, played brilliantly by Alasdair Harvey, is backward in both his entertainment style and social attitudes, refusing to allow Hamilton to play in his band because of his race.

His comment “this is a dance-hall, not a zoo,” brought gasps of astonishment from the Stratford audience.

Despite moments of seriousness, the overall tone of Come Dancing is light and there are some exquisite comic moments.

Julie’s exclamation “What, in Ilford?!” to the suggestion she may find her “Mr Universe” brought laughter, as did a song about a couple’s dream to move to Stevenage.

Those expecting a large number of Kinks’ hits will be disappointed as the show is peppered largely with original numbers.

There are few obvious stand out singalong songs, but the overall verve and energy of the tunes ensures Come Dancing feels like a good musical.

Come Dancing had the potential to be bad, the product of a faded rock star wallowing in nostalgia, but it is not, Davies' work mixes humour and sadness and is entertaining throughout.

The show has a limited run in Stratford, and it is hoped it will make the transition to the West End. At this rate, this Dedicated Follower of Fashion may be performing for a bit longer yet. CARL BROWN

Come Dancing is at the Theatre Royal Stratford East, Gerry Raffles Square, Stratford, London, E15 1BN until October 26. Box Office open Mon – Sat, 10am – 7pm. For tickets call: 020 8534 0310 Mon – Sat, 10am –6pm.