Review: FLASHDANCE at Kursaal Oostend

The Broadway version of Flashdance has hit the stage!

Be ready to take a trip back to memory lane where you get the storyline of a young girl who is a welder at a steel mill during the day and an exotic dancer by night.

You'll be tapping your feet to the most iconic songs ever like 'Maniac', 'I love Rock and Roll', 'Gloria' and Irene Cara's number one hit, platinum record 'What a feeling'.

Of course, it wouldn't be a Broadway show without some new renditions of songs that will keep you entertained during the whole show. With a total of 26 songs, the story will move you in all kind of directions. They also cleaned up the original script and gave it a more modern twist which really makes it more approachable and up-to-date.

The sentimental side has made room for a more optimistic, cheerful play. The interaction with the characters and humor is brilliantly slick! Especially Jimmy, the relentless wise guy who wants to make it as a stand-up comic in New York really comes up with some good hits and constant comebacks.

A big shout-out to Joanne Clifton for delivering profoundly in the leading role. She really is a tripod with her incredible vocal range, amazing dance skills and believable acting.

Besides the brown curly permed mullet, Joanne Clifton really NAILED her role of Alex Owens. Not only did the off-the-shoulder sweatshirt and sharp tongue show her dedication to the main character, but her dance moves and characterization were op point!

A new addition to the cast is the Flemish Ann Van Den Broeck. It is her first international tour and she is excited to be playing the role of Hannah, Alex's mentor, a retired ballerina who shares her knowledge and wisdom. It seems quite a stretch at first, because initially the role was portrayed by an elderly woman. But they did personalize the script a little to make it more realistic, which you can read in my interview with Ann.

This musical definitely brings back the 80's with the retro clothing. Neon realness, spandex sport clothes and wide pants will all be brought back to life on stage.

This production is a huge recommendation for fans of the movie, fans of musicals and people who want to have a good time in general. It's visually also very appealing as the light effects deliver some quality spectacle to the musical beats. The neon clothing never looked so bright in the dark.

The highlight is definitely the iconic strip club scene where Alex performs a delicate dance that ends with a huge splash. Beware front row, you might get wet.. Literally!