When Daniel Rowland, lead violinist and conductor of the Johann Strauss Orchestra, skips on stage with a flick of his hair and informal hop onto the conductors podium it's hard not to feel a pressing urge to groan. Any disappointment evaporates when the music begins, however, as favourites such as the Blue Danube Waltz, the overture to Die Fledermaus, the Radetzky March and the Thunder and Lightening Polka stun the audience with perfect execution.

The layout is an asset to the production; round tables and chairs with latticed divides brought the audience back in time to a traditional 19th century Viennese café. The orchestra itself, immaculate in dinner jackets, unfalteringly provides a technical standard to challenge the major British orchestras, and passion, expression and musical communication with the audience in spate. The comical conducting of Daniel Rowland teamed with the pleasant and light-hearted music itself is integral to the performance’s success, providing technical finesse in a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

A particular gem in the proceedings is the performance of guest soprano soloist Victoria Joyce, with stunning performances of the 'Audition Song' and 'Laughing Song' from Die Fledermaus alongside 'Voices of Spring' and Zeller's 'Don't Be Cross'. Resplendent in a red 19th century-style floor-length gown, her enchanting ability to scale the length of her astonishing range amazes the audience. With perfect intonation and charmingly portrayed storylines, her solos bring warmth and flavour to Strauss's and Zeller's compositions alike.

Deserving special mention is the leader's performance of Sarasate's 'Zigeunerweisen'. A seemingly-odd constituent of the programme, this piece has much more serious material and displays the astounding virtuosity of his talent. The passion and drive of his execution lead to an emotionally arresting performance; he leaps from one register of the violin to the other with ease, fiercely portraying the turmoil and angst in Sarasate's writing. The snapped hairs of Rowland's bow pay tribute to the vigour of his performance.

In retrospect, perhaps I was a little quick to judge Rowland's boyishly informal enthusiasm and flamboyance. After all, Strictly Strauss delivered a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon – undoubtedly one of the most enjoyable performances so far this year.