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★★★★
Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer Nikita Kuzmin is currently touring the UK with Supernova: a new production created by renowned choreographer Jason Gilkison and produced by Burn the Floor. This is the second headline tour from the six-time Italian Champion in Latin and Ballroom dance and after raving about last year’s Midnight Dancer, I was thrilled to have the opportunity to watch this new show at the Marlowe Theatre when it stopped in Canterbury for one night only. On what was the hottest day of the year so far, Kuzmin, guest star Janette Manrara, the company of seven dancers and singer Lois Faith showcased their exceptional talent in a lively new dance production.
Show concept and format
Supernova is a celebration of Kuzmin, his influences and the different sides of his character. Told through extended dance sequences in alternating Ballroom, Latin and Contemporary styles, the audience is treated to a highly entertaining evening of dance, personal insights into who the real Nikita is and welcoming and hilarious audience interaction. Hollywood, Salsa and Romeo and Juliet are some of the themes covered, providing a varied programme of choreography.
Typically I prefer dance shows to have a more cohesive narrative running all the way through, but one thing is for certain, audiences really get to know Kuzmin thanks to interludes where the performer directly talks to the audience, both alone and alongside Manrara. Additionally, the second half of the show in my opinion doesn’t quite get the balance right between choreography and audience interaction, but the material ends on an all-time high with an exquisite Vogue number and exciting finale.
Visual design
The production’s visuals are a feast for the senses, specifically Henry Thomas’ radiant set, Richard G Jones’ dynamic lighting and Leo Flint’s eye-catching video design. When combined with Vicky Gill’s sparkling costumes, you can’t help but smile at the vivid colours and patterns on stage. The ambiance also constantly shifts to match the theme of the choreography, highlighting how versatile Latin, Ballroom and Contemporary dancing can be.
A heartfelt spectacle
Uplifting and full of heart from start to finish, Nikita Kuzmin: Supernova is a really jubilant night at the theatre. Kuzmin’s ability to be totally open and vulnerable with the audience alongside Gilkison’s imaginative choreography, makes this a must-see for Strictly Come Dancing enthusiasts. The show continues to tour until 25th July, with performance dates and ticket links available via the show’s website.
*My ticket for ‘Nikita Kuzmin: Supernova’ was gifted in exchange for an unbiased review.
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