THERE are not many 76-year-olds who can still dance like they used to. But proving that he's one of them, Lionel Blair will tap his way to the Malvern Theatres next month and energetically host the show Simply Ballroom.

Lionel has been a recognisable face in this country for more than five decades. Born in Canada, his family moved to England when he was a baby and grew up in Tottenham, London. At 14 he made his first appearance on the West End stage and after that his career blossomed. He is a dancer, choreographer, television presenter, director and actor.

He described his current job, as compere for the stage show, with just one word - wonderful.

"Everything about it is wonderful. I love it," he said. "I get someone up from the audience and we teach the crowd how to do a few steps. It's just the most wonderful show."

Choreographed by television dancers Erin Boag and Anton Du Beke, Simply Ballroom is a spectacular celebration of ballroom dance. The show combines the colour and magic of ballroom with live theatre and features a team of international dance champions, for whom Lionel is full of praise.

"These are the best dancers I've ever worked with," he said. "And they are so young; all between about 17 and 21. It's incredible."

The audience is taken on a whistlestop tour of ballroom dancing - from the waltz and the quick step, to the tango, the jive and the cha-cha.

Creator of the show, Jon Conway, said he was taken back by how many people showed an interested in live dance.

"I was amazed by how many people I knew were taking ballroom dance lessons and that the interest was for all ages, children to senior citizens - and both men and women," he said.

"I want this show to appeal to both those who love ballroom dance but also fun and exciting for those who, just like me, can't dance a step."

Simply Ballroom runs at Malvern Theatres from Monday, May 7, to Saturday, May 12.