The rags and grime of Les Misérables have been cast aside at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Melbourne prepares for opening night of Strictly Ballroom the Musical.

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The auditorium is decorated in the style of a Dance Sports arena.

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Global Creatures CEO Carmen Pavlovic spoke of the exciting challenges of staging new work compared to re-mounting productions from Broadway and the West End.

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Strictly Ballroom creator Baz Luhrmann spoke about the background for the show and his love for Melbourne.

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The first number performed was the Samba, which is introduced by JJ Silvers, played by Mark Owen-Taylor.

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The talented cast includes Melbourne favourite Rohan Browne as Ken Railings.

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Shirley Hastings, played by Heather Mitchell, is proud of her students from Kendall Dance Studio.

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Luhrmann was joined on stage by wife and creative partner Catherine Martin.

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“Time After Time” dissolves from an intimate rooftop scene to a fantastical dance number.

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Thomas Lacey plays Strictly Ballroom’s hero, Scott Hastings.

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Phoebe Panaretos plays Fran, just Fran.

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Drew Forsythe plays downbeat dad Doug Hastings.

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The full cast in front of the signature red curtain.

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The company also performed “A Life Lived in Fear.” Fernando Mira plays Rico, and Natalie Gamsu plays Abuela.

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Luhrmann had nothing but praise and admiration for his hard working cast.

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Official opening night of Strictly Ballroom is this Saturday, 17 January 2015.

Click here to view Melbourne rehearsal photos of Strictly Ballroom.

Photos: Simon Parris