The whole nation and its dog has cancelled all plans for tomorrow night so they can stay home and watch the first episode of Strictly Come Dancing 2018. The hit show is entering its 16th series and as if by chance, it’s happening at the same time the incredible Strictly Ballroom is playing in the West End. To celebrate this happy occasion, we’ve dug through the Strictly Come Dancing archives and found six brilliant dances performed to songs from the hit musical. We’ve even spotted some of our theatre faves including Strictly Ballroom’s previous star, Will Young.
Watch the videos below and get ready for tomorrow night… and the musical.
Lesley Joseph and Anton Du Beke Cha Cha to Perhaps Perhaps Perhaps in 2016
The Olivier Award nominee appeared in the reality TV show two years ago. Sadly, she was eliminated in the 4th week. But this cha cha shows Lesley’s energy and joy which she brought to the stage when she starred in Young Frankenstein last year.
Will Young and Karen Clifton Tango to Let’s Dance in 2016
In the same year as Lesley, the original Wally Strand appeared in the dance competition and performed this little number to possibly the most fitting song. Unfortunately, we didn’t get to see how talented Will truly was as he withdrew after the first week.
Debbie McGee and Giovanni Jive to I’m So Excited in 2017
Debbie’s absolutely magic footwork saw her finish as a runner-up in last year’s series. And we were so excited to see her boogie down to this epic number.
Jake Wood and Janette Manrara Salsa to Mambo No5 in 2014
A little bit of Jake Wood swinging his hips to Mambo No5 was enough for him to go through to the final weeks of the competition. And a little bit of Mambo No5 in Strictly Ballroom is all you need.
Strictly Group Dance to I Wanna Dance With Somebody 2015
Watching any form of Strictly will make you want to dance with somebody – whether it’s the entire professional team at Strictly Come Dancing or Zizi Strallen and Jonny Labey slow dancing.
Ashley Taylor Dawson and Ola dance the Samba to Love Is In The Air in 2013
Now, we don’t know if we’re being foolish. We don’t know if we’re being wise. But this iconic song gives us flutters. Just, imagine it sung live by Matt Cardle… well, you don’t have to! You can see it for real at Strictly Ballroom!
If you love Strictly Come Dancing but you’re yet to see Strictly Ballroom, what are you waiting for? Watch the story of Scott Hastings, a championship ballroom dancer who defies all the rules of the competition to follow his heart. Along the way, he not only finds his true calling but also his true love.