Burn, a dance production showcasing five Latin American dances and five standard ballroom dances, was created and produced by Harley Medcalf. He got the idea in 1997 after attending Elton John’s birthday party in London.
The production is the first touring theatrical ballroom dance show.
Vonzell Solomon –– 2nd runner up in “American Idol’s” fourth season –– was the lead female vocalist. Male vocalist, Peter Saul matched Solomon’s performance.
Solomon’s mainly known as a singer, songwriter, and actress. Currently, she’s in the process of finishing her latest CD.
During the show her voice carried throughout the theater and resonated. Solomon sounded absolutely beautiful, her tone was clear and her voice was rich and harmonious. The audience seemed captured by her singing every time she opened her mouth.
The production’s choreography puts a twist on traditional ballroom steps, combining many popular and famous dances like the Lindy, Foxtrot, Cha-Cha, Rumba, Viennese Waltz, Samba and Quickstep, among others.
One refreshing difference between this show and others was the connection with the audience. Dancers jumped off the stage, danced in the isles and shook their bodies, which gave the lucky first ten rows a more personal show. There was never a dull moment.
Burn the Floor runs until Feb. 13 at the Bank of America Theatre.
Copyright 2011 Chicago Defender
