First published: 19 Mar 2010

Following the departure of Hairspray at the end of this month, the Shaftesbury theatre is to play host to another dance-inspired show, Flashdance The Musical, which arrives in the West End on 24 September (press night 14 October).

Tom Hedley and Robert Cary’s stage musical, which has been touring the UK since 2008, is based on the 1983 film which was a surprise box office success. Set in Pittsburgh, it tells the story of 18-year-old Alex, a welder by day and ‘flashdancer’ by night, who dreams of obtaining a place at the prestigious Shipley Dance Academy.

The score includes the tracks Maniac, Manhunt, Gloria, I Love Rock And Roll and the Oscar-winning title track Flashdance… What A Feeling, as well as 10 original songs written by Cary and Robbie Roth for the stage musical. 

Flashdance The Musical is directed by Nikolai Foster and choreographed by Arlene Phillips, whose previous credits include the musicals Saturday Night Fever, Grease, We Will Rock You and The Sound Of Music. Phillips is also well known for her judging roles on reality dance shows Strictly Come Dancing and So You Think You Can Dance?

No casting has yet been confirmed for Flashdance the Musical, which is now booking at the Shaftesbury theatre to 26 February 2011.

CB