Dance and romance mix

A smash-hit fusion of comedy, drama, romance and ballroom dancing is set to entice at the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre this weekend.

Set in New York City in 1912, Syncopation promises plenty of excitement.

Henry Ribolow is a Jewish meat packer crazy with a dream of becoming a ballroom dancer, and desperate for a dance partner.

Anna Bianchi, an Italian Catholic seamstress, is unsatisfied with her life until she spots a curious ad in the paper: ‘‘Give your life a lift. Wanted: A dance partner to dance for royalty’’.

From the moment Anna summons up the courage to answer the ad, sparks fly.

As Anna and Henry take their first steps together they embark on a journey that will transform their lives.

They dance, urged on by the jazzy rhythms and haunting melodies of Gershwin, Joplin and Berlin.

The beautiful story of Henry and Anna takes flight, soaring in amazing ballroom routines choreographed by Dancing with the Stars choreographer and dancer Mark Hodge.

Director Stephen Lloyd Helper said Syncopation’s beautiful story was paired with amazing dance.

‘‘Everyone searches for a true partnership and Syncopation explores how people can overcome differences to create that,’’ he said.

‘‘Anna’s coming of age story is a journey everyone will relate to.

‘‘It’s fun, it’s a fantastically entertaining night and the dancing is out of this world.’’

Hodge said passion filled the play.

‘‘This play is a roller coaster of joy, challenges, sadness, frustration and the need to escape the constraints of everyday life,’’ he said.

‘‘Henry and Anna’s desire to dance and be great is constantly challenged by the outside world which has us feeling for both of them.

‘‘Syncopation is about the need to find one’s passion above all else.’’

Syncopation is written by Allan Knee, the brains behind award winning film Finding Neverland.

It is presented by Critical Stages and The Follies Company as part of a 43-venue tour across Australia, and follows rave reviews from its Melbourne audiences.

It will show at 8pm on Saturday.

Tickets cost $55 adults, $52 concessions, $50 FOMPAC members and $25 people under 25 years.

To book visit www.manpac.com.au or call the box office on 9550 3900.