Strictly Come Dancing star Anton Du Beke delights audience at Newark Palace Theatre

‘It’s all about me’ declared Anton du Beke early in his show at Newark Palace Theatre, pointing to the huge neon sign bearing his name at the back of the stage in emphasis. But that’s not strictly (pardon the pun) true.

Yes, without doubt, he was the star of the show and who everyone in the sell-out audience at the Palace wanted to see. But he brought with him an immensely talented team of dancers, musicians and singers, including his regular collaborator and Strictly singer Lance Ellington.

Most importantly, he made the audiences the stars of the show, whether it was through answering their questions or friendly banter.

Known as a professional dancer and now judge on Strictly Come Dancing, Anton also has a a great singing voice, which he demonstrated with a series of solo numbers and duets with Lance.

And, of course, there was the dancing, including a wonderful tango and a beautiful sequence where he explained how he started dancing. And for Strictly fans in the audience, we discovered what a fleckerl is.

There were also lovely tributes to his two late Strictly co-stars Bruce Forsyth and Len Goodman.

But the most enjoyable part of the evening was stories he told – camping with Giovanni, dancing in the kitchen with his family, and dealing with the indominable Ann Widdecombe. He really is a fantastic storyteller.

It was a wonderful night of entertainment that left everyone with a smile on the face.

He may have started out on the road to fame as a ballroom dancer but he is now a full all-round entertainer. And we don’t care if it is all about him. – SH