The Last Tango: Darlington Civic Theatre

WHAT an appropriate title for the next to last production before the Civic stage darkens for the big transformation!

Vincent Simone and Flavia Cacace are well-known to Strictly viewers, but their fame extends far beyond that; they’ve enjoyed world-wide success on the competition circuit for years, produced their own tutorials on DVD and both won the title of Rear of the Year in 2013. Their universal appeal is demonstrated by the diverse audience they attract, including Fiona aged eight and three-quarters, applauding enthusiastically along with her mum and grandma. Fiona’s first love is Scottish country dancing, but she’s very keen to have a dress that swirls like those onstage; the costumes are very glamorous and nearly all cut on the bias for maximum swirl. Top choice is the full-length red gown that Flavia wears for her flamenco-style solo: it’s eye-popping, and so is Flavia’s performance.

The dance content is virtually continuous, based around an engaging chap called George, going through items in his attic and remembering his youth. It’s a tender love story and its great strength is the acting ability of the two principals; not only do they perform the dance steps with breathtaking skill and grace, but they really make you believe the romance is real.

The music is ably provided by a live band led by Steve Geere, crisp rhythms as befits the Latin American theme and what a bonus, not too loud. Victor and Flavia are simply stunning; the house was packed, but do get tickets if you can.

* Runs until Saturday (May 21). Box Office: 01325-486555 or darlingtoncivic.co.uk

Sue Heath