A Review of 'An Evening with Kevin and Joanne Clifton'

The title is completely apt. In an overall spontaneous, informal and conversational structure, featuring a Q&A, music reflects their personal taste and memorable moments in their lives. Whether it’s nods to musical theatre, old routines from Burn The Floor and Strictly Come Dancing or the injection of Kevin’s idol, Robbie Williams, it’s a truly personal insight.

Kevin’s voice stands out from the start with a stunning high note in a duet of ‘Let Me Entertain You’ with Joanne. Kevin’s leather tails and hand held mic stand, derivative of Freddie Mercury’s, and Jo’s leather corset-style belt create a real rock and roll feel which sets the tone for the majority of the show.

Joanne Clifton really shows the versatility of her voice, highlighting with the toned rasping voice of a rock-star but changing the mood with ease, slowing down amongst quite a fast-paced show, to feature her beautifully soft emotional vocals.

Amongst funny jokes based on their sibling rivalry, they really supported each other, whether it was light punches on the shoulder or proud introductions their touching brother-sister relationship shone through.

Kevin dances effortlessly as usual with a smooth ‘Gene Kelly-ness’ but the shining star was the smile across his face. His appreciation for art was so touching as he grew emotional saying it is ‘the most important thing’ and he ‘can’t live without it.’

The way the dancers used the music was incredible. Throughout the show they switch with effortless fluidity between dances, including some brilliantly simple and spontaneous talking links.

The costumes and staging were simple but very effective when backed by incredible lighting which worked together beautifully with the music to create some stunning sequences and powerful silhouettes.

Even the points of the show that could be considered predictable improved upon expectation, including a creative and humorous performance of ‘Anything You Can Do’.

Highlight: My favourite moment was when Kevin Clifton sang ‘I Gotta Get Through This’, also featuring stand out moments of dancing from Lauren and Giorgio and the kind of final moment of glory alone onstage that Kevin absolutely deserves as a performer.