I saw the Burn the Floor matinee today, and I don't think I have ever disagreed with WAT and Whizzer more. I thought the show was amazing.
I'm seen much better dancing in other Broadway shows currently running. Please tell me where, because I've obviously missed it (even though I have seen every Broadway show currently open). Not only is the choreography outstanding and amazingly difficult, it is also executed to perfection. I was in awe the entire time.
The show is supposed to be divided up into four sections, but none of them stuck to their suggested theme, and it just became a mess of frenetic dancing. Actually, I found the 4 sections to be quite distinct, and yet they flowed together marvelously. I loved how the sets were broken up. I think the director (also the choreographer) did a great job with this. Frenetic is the last word I would use to describe this.
I felt like I was getting seasick from the cruise ship antics of canned music (only the percussion and violin is live) and fourth rate singing. "After All" and "Proud Mary" were definite low points. After seeing this comment, I was expecting awful singing. I was definitely surprised. The singers were amazing. I have no idea what Whizzer is talking about. "Proud Mary" was excellent. Also, the saxophone (live) was amazing as well.
The bottom line is it failed to make any sort of impression, and in a few months I probably won't even remember I saw it. I find this really hard to believe. It was easily the best dance show I have seen (and I have seen MANY dance shows in my day). If this doesn't win Best Choreography awards this year, I will be shocked. The energy of the entire show was electrifying. I will remember this show for years to come, and will definitely be making many return trips.
There were definite standout dancers, but all of them were very strong overall. I thought Maks was honestly the weakest, but that's relative. He was still amazing. Karina was incredible, but for me the real star of the show was Giselle Peacock. Her stage presence was amazing, and her Act II Cha-Cha was incredible. The standing ovation at the end was hardly mandatory. I have never jumped to my feet so quickly. Do not miss this show. Ballroom may not be for everyone, but the energy of this show has you on the edge of your seat at all times.
Updated On: 8/2/09 at 11:31 PM