Strictly Come Dancing The Live Tour – Leeds First Direct Arena

THE TOURING version of Strictly Come Dancing always proves cracking entertainment, and this year's show was one of the most memorable.

The top celebrity dancers of 2019's TV competition were among the best in recent years, and certainly had personality alongside their dance talent.

Those personalities shone as bright as the giant glitterball above the stage in a production that pulled out all stops to entertain all ages.

Each of the seven celebs performed two of their best dances from the TV series, even better thanks to the extra practice and the electricity of a huge live audience.

There was talent all round, from hard-working underdog Mike Bushell and social media star Saffron Barker to the all-round excellence of former Emmerdale actor Kelvin Fletcher and children's TV presenter Karim Zeroual.

The audience voted for their favourite competitor. In Leeds – and I'll bet the whole tour – it was between children's fave Karim and adults' heartthrob Kelvin.

The competitive dances were only part of a superbly-conceived show, alongside exciting group dances by professionals and celebrities, powerhouse singing, and crowd-pleasing surprises (Bruno Tonioli singing and Shirley Ballas proving the best dancer of all).

Stacey Dooley, winner of the previous year for this competition, was a terrific host, combining humour, professionalism and down-to-earth charm.

Much of the humorous banter between Stacey and hosts Craig Revel Horwood, Bruno and Shirley might have been scripted, but it was hilarious nonetheless.

David Knights

* Strictly Come Dancing The Live Tour is at Nottingham Motorpoint Arena on Tuesday and Wednesday, February 4 and 5, with afternoon and evening performances. Visit strictlycomedancinglive.com for further information.