'Flashdance the Musical' comes to Sarasota

The movie's plot was far-fetched, and the reviews were nasty. Roger Ebert included it in his "most hated films" list. But "Flashdance" became one of the biggest movies of the early '80s. A lot of great songs, fast-paced cinematography and the undeniable screen charisma of Jennifer Beal helped turn the critically panned movie into a monster success.

The stage version, "Flashdance the Musical," has almost all the same songs (including "Maniac," "What a Feeling") plus a lot of others, but, of course, lacks the photographic tricks that helped make the film so appealing.

It's been touring the country off and on for several years, so it still appeals to audiences. But a long-promised Broadway run has never materialized.

A national non-Equity tour of "Flashdance: The Musical" will pass through Sarasota for three shows April 1 and 2 at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall.

The musical features a lot of the iconic scenes and images from the film, including the "splash dance" scene in which the lead character drenches herself in the midst of an erotic dance in a club.

The main story line, about a young part-time club dancer who yearns for a chance to join a major ballet company, remains.

Details: April 1-2, Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. Show times: 8 p.m. Wednesday, 2 and 8 p.m. Thursday. Tickets: $35-$80. Information: 941-953-3368, vanwezel.org.

-- Marty Clear

This story was originally published March 26, 2015 at 12:00 AM with the headline "'Flashdance the Musical' comes to Sarasota ."