Encore Theatre Company announced on Wednesday the “exciting” Tasmanian premiere of the renown production, Strictly Ballroom.

Created by award-winning director Baz Luhrmann, Strictly Ballroom tells the tale of Scott Hastings, a ballroom dancer who “defies the rules and follows his heart”.

Encore Theatre Company president Belinda King said only a “handful” of places in Australia had put on the production.

“It’s a bit of a treat, a bit special, to put on something Australian,” she said.

City of Launceston alderman Danny Gibson was chosen to direct the show on Tuesday.

“I love Strictly Ballroom. I love all of the colour, all of the fun,” he said.

“I am honoured at the invitation to direct Encore Theatre Company’s Tasmanian premiere production and promise an extravagant kaleidoscope of colour and fun.

“I’m thrilled to know the production values that Encore productions have, and the large audiences we attract.

“I’m really excited to be presenting an Australian work, and a piece of musical theatre that is relatively new – when it hits the stage next year it will be five years old.

“I saw the show twice during its Australian premiere season in 2014/2015 and ironically, performed a monologue from the stage play when I was at college.

“I just love the show and I cannot wait to share it with Northern Tasmanian audiences,” Gibson said.

Gibson said it will take about a year to get the production ready for viewing.

“We’ll be on the lookout for a huge cast later on this year of not only dancers, but performers.

“Contrary to the title, you don’t have to be a ballroom dancer to audition for this production.

“So, we’re looking forward to amazing talent coming out of the woodwork, ready to audition for this production.”

Ms King said this was just one several exciting productions that Encore had lined up.

Encore Theatre Company’s production of Strictly Ballroom will run from March 15 to 30 in 2019.  The ticket waitlist is now open through the Princess Theatre.

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