High octane, fiery dance spectacle that sets the stage ablaze.

There’s good reason why it’s been going strong for 25 years now; Burn the Floor: Ballroom Reimagined isn’t just your ordinary dance show, but the ultimate high-voltage theatrical experience. From the moment it opens as the violin rings out and the dancers emerge, you know you’re in for something special. Arriving at Singapore’s Esplanade Waterfront Theatre for one weekend, this brand-new production features the finest international champion dancers, bringing raw energy, poise, and sheer brilliance to the stage across all dance forms.

The Esplanade Waterfront Theatre provides the perfect venue, intimate, yet grand, and the performers made it feel like the world’s most exciting ballroom. It’s a show that invites the audience in to dance along. What elevates this show is the way it marries dance with live music. The band is outstanding – with thrilling electric guitar solos, dynamic percussion, where even a triangle can be made sexy, thanks to percussionist Martin Rivura) and powerhouse vocalists Dion Holganza and Mark Stephanoff delivering showstopping numbers like “Fever,” “Chandelier,” and “Mr. Bojangles.” Their renditions bring not only voice but soul to the stage. Dion’s performance of “Man’s World” was a masterclass in vocal power and emotional delivery.

This is a production that loves dance in all its forms, from the elegance of the Waltz to the seductive heat of the Rumba; from the cheeky charm of the Cha Cha to the explosive rhythm of the Samba. Every dance genre is masterfully represented, and the choreography is breathtaking, the transitions seamless, and the passion behind each movement utterly contagious. The show also understands the roots of dance, from its cultural heritage, its unpredictability, its power to express joy, sorrow, to even rebellion.

Thanks to the efforts of all 13 dancers originating from all over the world, we’re taken on a global journey: from dancing in the deserts of Nairobi, to the Northern lights, to Spanish bullrings complete with fluttering sombreros. There is strength in diversity; each setting is brought alive by stunning costumes and evocative lighting, and together, the ideas feel cohesive, creatively thought out, and dynamically brought to life onstage.

One of the most special moments was the transition to a more somber, expressive piece, highlighting the sorrow and beauty that dance can convey. Then, just as powerfully, they launch into “Thriller” with boots, buckles, and violin improvisation that made the familiar feel entirely fresh. The backstage crew deserves their own round of applause, all the outfit changes, set transitions, and the overall polish of the production were flawless. Every detail, from the stage’s professional dance flooring to the lighting design, was crafted for maximum impact. The entire ensemble of dancers performs with so much heart that their energy seems endless, their smiles ever-present.

This is an emotional, electric, immersive journey, a reminder that dance is a living, breathing art form. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer, Burn the Floor will leave you breathless, inspired, and maybe even ready to leap from your seat and join them on the dancefloor.

Photo Credit: Burn The Floor

Burn The Floor played from 4th to 6th July 2025 at the Singtel Waterfront Theatre.

Credits:

Dancers Jorja Freeman and Alberto Faccio Lily Cornish and Gustavo Viglio Marcella Solimeo and Dyllon Daniels  Ellie Beacock and Marco De Angelis  Nicole Wirt and Andrea De Angelis Jemma Armstrong and Leonardo Lini  Sophie Holloway Band and singers Percussion, Vocals and Musical Director- Tyler Azzopardi Guitar- Jamie Valente Drums- Martin Rivura  Vocals – Dion Holganza Vocals- Mark Stephanoff Percussion and Vocal and Musical Director- Tyler Azzapardi