Rousing cheers and shouts from fans in the crowd greeted the former rugby star as he made his first appearance on the Brighton Centre ice for a duet on the theme of the film Titanic.

Marking the first time a celebrity contestant in a TV talent show took part in the professional show, Kyran was teamed up with Russian and Junior World Champion skater Nina Ulanova.

In a romantic piece choreographed by skating Olympic champion and Dancing on Ice judge Robin Cousins, he showed his newfound skills as he span Nina around the ice, impressing the audience.

He returned in the second half of the show for some body popping – a technique he included in his Dancing on Ice performances and proved popular with the judges.

He might have benefited from the applause as the recognisable face in the show but the audience couldn't fail to be impressed by the rest of the show and the talent of the 46 international skaters.

Russian skater Igor Lyutikov, in particular, skated his way through the lion's share of the sets as a prinicipal character in his own madcap and skilful style.

Romanza is a romantic trip through history, telling both happy and tragic tales from through the ages, starting with Adam and Eve in Paradise.

Along the way you meet Samson as he is seduced by the beautiful Delilah and head east for the sad story of Madam Butterfly and her betrayal by Pinkerton.

Characters from Grease, Dirty Dancing, fairytales and cartoons join up with Barbie and Ken to show how love affects all kinds of people in different ways.

A highlight with spectators was a scene with Superman and Lois Lane and there was a spectacular finish to the first half with the love triangle between Cleopatra, Caesar and Mark Anthony, complete with stunning Egyptian backdrops, costumes and impressive skating.

Dracula takes flight to open the second half in dramatic style, followed by the tragedy of Romeo and Juliet, before you meet the seven sins through the illuminated humorous femme fatale, the toreador, the larger than life Passion for Chocolate and the interesting and clever variation of the wheel in Passion for the Casino, leading on to the sparkling finale.

With the skillful skating, fantastic sets, including the use of film, music, lighting and costumes, there's everything audiences have come to expect from Holiday on Ice during its 30 years of shows at the Brighton Centre.

See for yourself, as Romanza is on until January 27. Tickets range from £12 to £27, £10 for children, with a booking fee, from the box office on 0844 847 1538 or for groups from 01273 292695.

Nikki Jeffery