Brian Beacom

STRICTLY dancer Joanne Clifton is the new star of touring theatre show Flashdance.

The musical based on the 1983 film tells of welder Alex’s battle to become a dancer.

However, Grimsby-born Joanne’s own story reveals an even tougher determination to succeed than that of her stage character.

“I moved to Italy when I was sixteen,” the performer recalls.

“It was tough. Not only was it hard to be away from the family, the dance school was run on military lines.

“I had to be in the studio at 7.30am and didn’t leave until 11pm at night.”

Joanne adds; “We were only allowed four days off a year. The argument was that if you don’t dance all the time your muscle memory changes.”

The strictness meant partnerships could only be formed with other dancers.

“Yes,” she says grinning. “And all I will say about that is never again will I have an Italian boyfriend.”

Yet, she doesn’t regret her experience. Joanne went on to become a world and European Champion ballroom dancer.

“I’m doing what I want to do,” she maintains.

“I chose to go to dance school because I come from a family of dancers - my parents, my brother Kevin and my grandparents.”

The move onto Strictly allowed Joanne time to train as an actress, working in pub and fringe theatre.

“That’s where I was spotted by the producers of Thoroughly Modern Millie and I was cast in the lead,” she says in delighted voice.

Now, she is starring in Flashdance, alongside a1’s Ben Adams who plays Nick Hurley.

But she’s not sure about playing sexy.

“That’s so new to me,” she says, grinning. “On Strictly I was told I was the Relatable One, the girl ordinary teenagers could relate to.”

She adds, laughing; “I’m going to have to watch re-runs of Strictly and see how the likes of Orla and Kirstina do sexy.”

*Flashdance, the King’s Theatre, August 4-12.