Published: 7 September 2024
Strictly Come Dancing returns to iPlayer and BBC One from 14 September 2024, with another spectacular series of glitz, glamour and unforgettable performances with the brand new series promising to be extra special as Strictly turns 20!
Ahead of the 20th anniversary series, we caught up with the professional dancers to find out how it feels to be marking Strictly’s major milestone, hear all about what they were doing when they were 20 and discover their vision for the future of the series.
Meet the Strictly 2024 Professional Dancers…
Aljaž Škorjanec
Describe Strictly in one word?
Happiness. I think it’s a glittery happiness, an escape for so many people. After a tough week of work or whatever they might be going through, they can sit down on a Saturday and just enjoy it. To be honest, it’s the only live TV show left where the whole family can sit together with a cup of tea and forget about the world for two hours.
How does it feel to be a part of Strictly’s 20th year?
Privilege. It’s been a privilege really. This is my 10th year so I’ve done half of them and the show has changed my life. Changed my life for the better. And it gets better every single year. And I think on the 20th anniversary it’s going to be even more special. I was there when Bruce was presenting. It’s a testament to how good it is that it’s been running for 20 years.
The show is 20 years old, what were you doing when you were 20?
I’d just stopped competing, and started doing a theatre show called Burn the Floor which I did for three years. A year after that, I started Strictly. At 20 I had no responsibilities, I was travelling the world, meeting some really cool people.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
I can’t wait for the show to start using things like holograms and AI. It’ll be tricky to know what’s real and what’s not, but that might be the next technical step. I wouldn’t change much, though, because I think what makes Strictly so successful is that it’s stuck to its original format – watching dances that people love and then learn to love themselves. Let’s be honest, most people watching Strictly haven’t been in a dance class or studio themselves, but even watching it feels the same. That’s why people get more invested each year. So, keep the format exactly the same, but just add even more to the production.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show?
I probably talk to my family more on a Saturday than at any other time, just to feel as calm as possible and take my mind somewhere else, like back home. Even if it’s just on Zoom, it helps me feel a bit more level-headed about everything. I’ve noticed that I always give my best performance when I’m tired. So if I’m yawning before a show, I know it’s going to be a good night. It used to drive my celebrity partners nuts – they’d ask, ‘How can you be tired and then pull off a great performance?’ I don’t know, but I’ve learned that being in a calm, almost sleepy state helps me stay zen, and it keeps them calm too.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out into the ballroom to perform?
I try to keep things calm, but there are definitely weeks where not everything has been rehearsed or perfected. I never worry about how I feel – my focus is always on how my celebrity partner feels. It’s not about me. If I can’t get myself calm, I have no business standing on that Ballroom floor. My only concern is them. The sooner you realise it’s not about you, the easier your job becomes.
Amy Dowden
Describe Strictly in one word.
Magical.
How does it feel to be a part of Strictly’s 20th Anniversary year?
It feels really surreal. I’ll never forget watching at home the first year when Natasha Kaplinsky won. I’d never seen anything like it before on TV. At the time I was dancing and going to Blackpool regularly but to see it on TV was special so to be part of the anniversary feels surreal. I think it’s going to be a real celebration of a series.
The show is 20 years old this year. What were you doing when you were 20?
I was competing, I was going between Wales and the Midlands to dance. Strictly was always on my radar but I didn’t think I’d be lucky enough to be someone that gets to be on it out of the millions of dancers who want to be on the show.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
I think it’s quite exciting to see how much it’s evolved. The costumes, the set, the dance, the dancers, the music and also the show keeps evolving by adding couple’s choice, Argentine Tango, Charleston. I think it will always keep its element of Ballroom and that’s the beauty of this show, and what makes it so iconic but it will continue to develop. I think it’ll still be the nation’s favourite show.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things that you do to prep for a live show?
I literally can’t keep still. I have to keep moving, I can’t sit down. I’m like a bottle of pop waiting to burst with nerves and energy.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out into the ballroom to perform?
My friend came to watch once and she said she could actually see my heart beating through my chest. I always say the day I’m not nervous is the day I hang up my dance shoes because I think it shows how much I care and it means to me. I just want my celebrity to do well. It’s still such a special moment. I always say, just produce what you did in the training room. This is your moment so go and try.
Carlos Gu
Describe Strictly in one word.
Family.
How does it feel to be a part of Strictly’s 20th year?
It’s genuinely an honour to be part of the 20th anniversary for such an incredible show, it’s a dream.
The show is 20 years old, what were you doing when you were 20?
When I was 20, I was in university back in Shanghai, China and competing, dedicating all my life to being a professional competitor. No holidays, nothing – just dancing, dancing, dancing.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
I genuinely think the show will go on for as long as possible. Every year, we have different new, fresh celebrities. It’s always a new experience for people who watch the show, so you never find it cliché and it never feels like, “Oh, I’ve seen this before.” Every year is a new experience for us Professional Dancers as well as for the celebrities.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show?
Meditation. I always find my own space and do a little like five to ten minutes of meditation.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out into the ballroom to perform?
In that moment before we step into the Ballroom, I feel like I’m as nervous as my celebrity partner. It never changes. You think, “Oh, I’ve been training for 20 years, I’m a Professional Dancer,” but every time before entering the ballroom, my heartbeat, my nerves – even meditation doesn’t work anymore in that moment, you know? Especially in those three seconds before you actually step into the ballroom!
Dianne Buswell
Describe Strictly in one word.
Magical.
How does it feel to be part of Strictly’s 20th Anniversary year?
It’s so cool to be a part of the 20th year. It shows how amazing this show is, for it to be going for 20 years, that says a lot about the success of the show so to be a small part of that is incredible.
The show is 20 years old. What were you doing when you were 20?
I was a hairdresser. I was still dancing and competing alongside that but I had just finished my hairdressing apprenticeship. Hairdresser by day, dancer by night.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for Strictly?
I honestly think it is still the best show and will continue to be the best show on TV for many years to come. I hope in 20 years’ time they’ll look back at stuff I’ve done with my partners and think that was cool. I hope that they look back with fond memories just as we look back on Strictly series one so fondly.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep before a live show?
I have a couple of little rings that my dad bought me. There’s a certain ring that I have on my finger that I’ll just touch and it makes me feel like I have good luck. Before I dance, I’ll look down at that ring and I know everything’s going to be okay because I have my rings.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform?
I’m definitely not calm but people would think I’m calm. Inside I’m shaking in my boots but I try and stay as calm as I can for my partner. I think nerves are really good and it’s natural. I’ve always had nerves no matter what I do. I think it just means that I really care about what I do so but on the exterior I’ll look calm.
Do you have any words of wisdom for your partner before you go out there?
Just to forget all your inhibitions and go for it. They think we expect them to be these amazing dancers, and sometimes they do end up being amazing dancers, but I want to see them enjoy and take in the moment. I’d rather them enjoy themselves 100% than worry that they’re going to get something wrong.
Gorka Márquez
Describe Strictly in one word.
Happiness.
How does it feel to be a part of Strictly’s 20th year?
A privilege. It’s the dreams of any professional dancer to be on the biggest TV show on telly but also to be celebrating 20 years doesn’t happen very often. It’s incredible to be celebrating a show that has been running successfully for 20 years with so many memorable moments. To be part of something that has touched so many lives is incredible. I’m very excited to celebrate it.
The show is 20 years old this year. What were you doing when you were 20?
I was living in Madrid, dancing lots of hours every day to become the best dancer I could and dreaming of doing something like this.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for Strictly?
I don’t know but I do hope I am still here in 20 years’ time. I will be 53 but hopefully I’ll still be here.
Did you have any favourite memories from the show?
One of my favourite memories is when I joined, it was a pinch myself moment. Another great memory is dancing in the Christmas special with Gemma and we had a picture of our daughter in the dance. Dancing with Helen Skelton in the final was also special because we got a standing ovation!
Do you have any weird or wonderful things you do to prep for a live show?
I always do the same thing that I do in week one. It’s different every year, but whatever I do on the first show I will repeat for the rest of the series. So if before week one I have a coffee and a biscuit I will have a coffee and a biscuit before every show. If it goes well, I will not change it. I like to keep the same routine every time.
Can you explain that feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom to perform?
It doesn’t matter how many times you do it always feels like the first time. You always have goosebumps, nerves and adrenaline because you want everything to go perfectly for your partner.
Johannes Radebe
Describe Strictly in one word.
Family.
How does it feel to be part of Strictly’s 20th year?
It honestly is incredible that the show has been going on for such a long time. And not only that, it still brings joy to people. I don’t know how, as a nation, we would ever get through winter without it. It feels like a full circle moment, not just for me, but for everybody that’s ever been involved since its inception, from 2004 until now. I think everybody should just be proud that it’s still going. It’s just amazing. It’s amazing that it’s happening.
As the show is 20 years old, what were you doing when you were 20?
I was aspiring to be a part of the show. I was manifesting at the age of 20 to come to the United Kingdom and be a part of the dancing. I think it was the first time, I sat back in Africa, and I was just like, “Ballroom and Latin American dancing is on mainstream television.” It blew my mind. I couldn’t believe it, but I was sitting in a township back home in South Africa, dreaming.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for the show?
The show has evolved so much since it started. But now, every year, the show keeps topping itself. How we do that, I don’t know. Honestly, at the end of every series, I think, “This was the best,” and then the next year comes, and I think, “No, this is the best one.” So, in 20 years, who knows?
Do you have any weird or wonderful things you do before a live show, like good luck mantras or lucky charms?
Whatever happens, I need to disappear. I hide with a can of fizzy pop, I need that sugar. Just before I go on stage, I always take a minute to ground myself and remind myself why I’m doing this. It’s important to take that time off, even if it’s just to take my partners with me and get in the zone.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform? Is your heart racing, or are you calm?
There’s anxiety. You want to vomit. It’s the weirdest thing. People say it’s butterflies in your stomach, but it doesn’t feel like that. If you could disappear, you would, and take your partner with you. But there’s a moment when you have to let go of that anxiety and just be in the moment. I think anybody who walks onto that stage and doesn’t feel nervous isn’t normal. And they’re probably not in the right thing if they’re not nervous. This is Strictly Come Dancing – everyone is nervous. I don’t care who you are or how prepared you are. It’s live television, and you never know what’s going to happen that day. It’s all up to chance, and that’s the exciting part about it. So, like I said, for lack of a better explanation, we all have butterflies in our stomach before we go on.
Jowita Przystal
Describe Strictly in one word.
Fun, fun, absolutely fun.
How does it feel to be part of Strictly’s 20th year?
It’s literally unreal because this shows how big the show is in this industry. It’s all around the world, and Strictly Come Dancing was the first serious edition of the show. To have 20 series is a huge achievement, I think.
The show is 20 years old. What were you doing when you were 20?
I was leaving Poland to go to America. Then I was just dancing around the Caribbean.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
More of the same magic, to be honest. I never thought we could get better and better each year because we use the same foundation of Ballroom dancing. We can’t change the rules; we can’t change the steps. But if you watch Strictly, year by year, it’s just getting better and better.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show? Other than stretching or eating, do you have anything weird and wacky that you do before you go out?
I think I’m just trying to breathe. And always, before I go on stage, I need to play my favourite song. It depends because sometimes it’s a different song; it’s never the same song. With each of my partners, I had one song, and if I go alone or do group dances with professionals, I have my own song. I always play it. Also, I’m sorry to say this, but I always feel like I need to use the bathroom just before getting on stage! It’s horrible because our costumes are sewn in, so it’s a challenge to go to the bathroom. It’s not like a two-minute job. If you wear tights, it’s really difficult, but I manage to sort that out.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform? Is your heart racing, or are you calm for your celebrity?
It depends. If I’m dancing with a celebrity, I’m just putting all my attention on them, focusing on how they’re feeling, and trying to make them feel comfortable and calm. If I perform by myself, I have that adrenaline, but I think it’s positive nerves. It’s not like I’m nervous; it’s just a nice feeling inside. Because if you don’t feel anything, then something is wrong.
Kai Widdrington
Describe Strictly in one word.
Fabulous.
How does it feel to be part of Strictly’s 20th year?
Very, very honoured. I remember watching the first episode as a youngster, so I feel very honoured to be a part of it.
The show is 20 years old, what were you doing when you were 20 years old?
When I was 20, I was traveling around the world touring in South Africa, China, and doing all those sorts of shows, but I knew I’d have to come home eventually.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
I think it’s going to be bigger and better, probably with more glitter, and filled with weird and wonderful things.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show?
I always shake my hands before and blow through the gaps in my fingers. It’s really random, but I do it before every single dance.
What do you feel before you walk out onto the ballroom to perform?
I just pray that my partner gets their steps right. But other than that, it’s a feeling of joy, and I can’t wait to dance to the music because it’s such a privilege.
Karen Hauer
Describe Strictly in one word.
The first word that came to mind was home.
How does it feel to be part of Strictly’s 20th year?
I feel privileged, first of all, to be here on my 13th year. I feel extremely privileged, especially because people have grown up watching the show – kids and adults alike have gone through their lives with us. It just feels exciting. It’s love, it’s lovely. It’s just a really nice feeling to celebrate Strictly and the happiness it brings to people.
So, as this year the show is 20 years old, what were you doing when you were 20?
I was in New York, and I wasn’t working. It was one of those times when I was in a transition, trying to figure out what I wanted to do in my dance career. I didn’t know where I was going to be, but I was dancing, just unsure of what direction to take with my dance career. I started doing ballroom when I was 19, with my first partner. I was in a transition between deciding whether to continue with contemporary dance or to pursue Latin dancing. At the time, I was also competing. It was a big shift; I was in the world of dance but didn’t know which direction to take yet. And then I found Strictly.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
The show has been evolving over the past few years. We get different dancers, different choreographers. The public is so used to what we offer. The best thing about Strictly is that it keeps its magic. It doesn’t change too much, which is nice – people like that. It’s like the warm blanket you had growing up. I think that will always stay. Strictly is the beating heart of television; it keeps everyone coming back. It’s a nice feeling, and I think that’s what it’ll continue to do. It’ll keep bringing joy, continue to bring exciting new ideas, but it will always stay the same in essence. There’s a tradition we’ve never lost, and I think that will always remain. Of course, everything else changes as the world changes, and we keep up with the times, but I don’t think it needs to change very much because it’s already a beautiful show.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show?
No, but I like to hide. I need time because there’s so much going on – you’re doing makeup, hair, practicing with your celebrity, dealing with costumes. There’s a moment where I just need like ten minutes for myself. I usually just find a corner in the girls’ room – there’s always a little corner with a sofa, which is always my corner. We all pick our little corners, and I put my music on, or I watch something, and I just keep to myself for a bit. I think a lot of us are like that. I don’t have any good luck charms, but I think my celebrity is my lucky charm. If anything, it’s whoever I’m dancing with that I do something with to make them feel comfortable. For me, it’s just another day at work.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform? Is your heart racing, or are you calm?
I stay very calm. Obviously, everything is fluttering inside, but on the exterior, I’m very calm. Either way, I stay calm because I want to make sure they feel completely secure. I know they’re a ball of nerves, but if they know I’m calm, they’ll feel confident. I know they’ve got it, but as long as I stay relaxed, I can take charge of everything they do. If they go wrong, I’ll bring them back in. If I’m a mess, then it won’t work. So yes, I do get nervous, but I don’t show it. I just breathe through it, and whatever happens, happens. That’s actually the exciting part – you don’t know what’s going to happen, but as long as I keep it together, I know I’ll keep it together for them as well.
Katya Jones
Describe Strictly in one word.
Wholesome.
How does it feel to be part of Strictly’s 20th Anniversary year?
It’s an incredible privilege especially because I don’t come from this country. To see that it’s become part of the nation’s culture and to be a part of that. It feels very, very special. The fact that it’s been on for 20 years speaks for itself, it’s everything that people need.
The show is 20 years old. What were you doing when you were 20? Where were you living?
I was living between Hong Kong, China, and London, winning championships. I was living a real top athlete life out of the suitcase. It was an incredible lifestyle, to travel the world doing what you love the most. It seems like a very, very long time ago.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
I imagine that there’ll be more glitter and more glamour and more incredible dancing. We’re going to keep bringing entertainment to the nation and give everybody an opportunity to gather around the TV in their living rooms, all of the generations together, because that’s what we do best.
Maybe Craig will be a bit nicer. Who knows? We’ll have to find out.
Do you have any weird and wonderful rituals to help prepare for the live shows?
No, I just literally breathe. I imagine that I grow roots into the ground and it grounds me. All I really worry about is my partner, that’s where most of my attention goes to make sure they’re okay. I love that moment when you hold hands and walk in and have a warm reception from the audience. I think that’s really wonderful and it boosts their confidence as well.
Can you explain that feeling just before you walk out? Are there any words of wisdom for your partner?
It’s beautiful and I want them to soak in that moment and get really comfortable in that environment. They spend so many hours in the rehearsal room and then suddenly have flashing lights and cameras as well as the audience who are excited to see them. I want them to take that moment and make that the norm for them for the next 90 seconds.
Lauren Oakley
Describe Strictly in one word?
Magical.
How does it feel to be a part of Strictly’s 20th year?
Really special. Being from Birmingham, I’ve watched the show growing up. I watched the first episode, so I can’t believe I’m now part of it, especially in such a monumental year. It’s the best show on telly, so I’m not surprised it’s lasted 20 years, and I just feel really lucky to be part of it. It’s amazing.
The show is 20 years old, what were you doing when you were 20? Where were you living, dance titles etc?
When I was 20, I was at university in Nottingham studying journalism. But I was still competing in Latin and ballroom at the same time. I was traveling up and down the country for lessons and was the under-21 UK ballroom and Latin champion.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
The beauty of Strictly is that we know what we’re getting. It’s always the same, and that’s comforting. You know what you’re getting on a Saturday night, but it gets bigger and better every year. It’s always about watching someone fall in love with dance and have their life transformed, and I think that’s what people love about it. Even in 20 years, I hope it stays the same, with new music and new fashions.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show? Other than stretching etc, do you eat certain foods for energy, any good luck mantras/charms you need to have with you?
I try not to indulge in superstitions because once you start relying on them, it can take control away from you. I believe everything you do is within your control. For a live show, it’s all about making sure your celebrity partner is comfortable, which can change every week, per person, and even every minute. It’s about figuring out what you can do for your celebrities and yourself. You don’t even think about it much because you’re focused on them.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform? Is your heart racing, are you calm for your celebrity?
It’s really strange because when you perform for yourself, you get really nervous. But it’s a different kind of nerves. They’re there underneath, but you have to be the rock of the partnership. So, the nerves are like a quiet, calm adrenaline. It’s live TV, so anything can happen, but it’s also exciting.
Luba Mushtuk
Describe Strictly in one word.
Love.
How does it feel to be a part of Strictly’s 20th year?
Exciting, grateful. I can’t wait.
The show is 20 years old. What were you doing when you were 20?
When I was 20, I was living in Italy and I was very focused on my dancing and competitive career.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for Strictly?
I think there will be more sparkles, more glamour and more wonderful people coming into the show.
Do you have any weird or wonderful things you need to prep for a live show?
I always go into my zone. I listen to specific music that I always listen to before any show. I have a very random collection there is some Marc Anthony in there, some songs from my childhood, Russian songs. I also speak to someone who was very, very close to me but passed away. Before I do any show I speak to him and tell him I’m doing it for him.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom to perform?
When I’m with a partner who has never done it before I’m always taking care of them. I concentrate on making them feel calm and sure that everything’s going to go well. I’m usually more excited that scared, it’s a beautiful feeling.
Michelle Tsiakkas
Describe Strictly in one word.
Joy.
How does it feel to be part of Strictly’s 20th year?
It feels amazing. It is honestly a blessing to be here. It was a dream ever since I was six years old and still feels very surreal, but I’m very grateful every year for being here. I think it’s really exciting. This show has been on for 20 years, and that just shows what an amazing show it is. I mean, it’s been successful for that long for a reason; it’s the nation’s favourite show. So, celebrating these 20 years is really special, and I feel lucky to be here for it.
The show is 20 years old. What were you doing when you were 20?
So I was at the University of Kent studying architecture when I was 20 years old. Yeah, very different now.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
Well, I’ve got great hopes for the show because, honestly, I just feel like it keeps getting better and better. Every year, we keep topping what we did the previous year. And that’s obviously thanks to the amazing team we have: the choreographers, people behind the scenes, cameras, costumes, dancers—just everybody. I think we’re all at the top of our game, which makes it such an amazing show. So, I’m quite certain that the show will just keep getting better and better every year.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show? Other than stretching or eating, do you have anything weird and wacky that you do before you go out?
I think there’s something that happens to your stomach before you go live. I always make sure that I go to the bathroom at least half an hour or an hour before, because when we’re in costumes, you can’t really go – it’s very difficult. As for weird and wonderful things, I like to – maybe it’s not that weird – but I like to listen to classical music. It just calms me down a bit and puts me in my zone.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform?
I would say I’m quite calm. The heart races maybe when you’re getting ready – it’s a bit hectic – but by the time you walk on the floor, you feel the energy of the audience around you, and you’re in your zone, ready. I’d say calm and ready.
Nadiya Bychkova
Describe Strictly in one word?
Magical.
How does it feel to be part of Strictly’s 20th year?
Amazing. In general, it’s incredible to be part of a show like Strictly because, I think obviously for me, not being from the UK, I didn’t know much about it. But then when I joined and saw what this show does for people and what it means to people, it became, through the years, something that people look forward to. It’s something that leads up to Christmas, something that brings families together. People cancel their Saturday night plans; no one’s going out. I think in general, the UK is big on tradition, and this is one of the biggest traditions for the nation.
I think every year, I fall in love with the show more and more because you just realize every year how incredible it is. The fact that it’s still going strong after 20 years is especially amazing nowadays, in this industry, in this world, in our lives, where everything is changing so quickly. Everything comes and goes. The fact that this show is still going strong, getting bigger and better every year, and surprising us with new things is incredible. Being part of something so huge that touches people’s hearts is absolutely incredible.
The show is 20 years old. What were you doing when you were 20? Where were you living? What were you doing in your dancing career?
When I was 20, I was living in Slovenia. I was competing every weekend. The plan was to win the World Championship in Ten Dance. When I was 20, I think I made the final of Worlds in Ten Dance, and then slowly, every year, I went higher – fourth, then second for a couple of years, and then I won it. So, yeah, I was a fully committed athlete, competing, not knowing anything else but dance.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for Strictly?
The next 20 years is a long time. I think the show is just growing in so many ways. With the way our lives and industry are developing, it’s more accessible to more people. We can probably reach an even bigger audience because of social media. I think all of us are working on ourselves, and people are working to make sure the whole show is better and really accessible to anyone. So, I think it will just keep on going, keep on growing. Who knows, maybe in 20 years, my daughter will be on the show dancing with another celeb! Maybe the next generation will take over.
Do you have any weird or wonderful things you do to prepare for a live show, other than stretching, warming up, etc.?
Oh, me, personally, not really. I think on Strictly, when you’re with a celebrity, you kind of find your own way. When I was competing, yes, I had my own routines and everything, but with this job, our role is to make sure it’s the best environment for our celebrity to learn. The most important thing is that Saturday night, when you go out and the red light is on, and you’re live.
So, you try and build and use whatever is important for them, or you create your own little routines. Usually, it depends on their schedule – whether you go on in the beginning, middle, or end. You decide beforehand what to do. But with every celebrity, as a pro, I try to adjust and adapt to them. Some people don’t need a warm-up rehearsal; they just want to go out and do it. Others want to rehearse hundreds of times before they go live. So, it’s just adjusting. I think we’re called pros because we can adapt to either way, just to suit them.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform? Is your heart racing? Are you calm for your celebrity?
Oh, it depends on the celebrity, honestly. For us, it’s such a rollercoaster, and the whole season depends on who you’ll get. Me, personally, I’m very calm. I’ve never been nervous when I was competing. I’m never nervous when we do our group routines or music acts with the professionals. I always prepare for whatever happens, and I try to do the same with my celeb because I think preparation is key. As long as you have good preparation, you can be as calm as you can be.
Yes, the excitement is there, obviously, when you hear that voice announcing, “Dancing the Foxtrot,” it gives you a rush of excitement. If the celebrity is worried, you need to be even more stable to balance that and give them support. If they’re confident, you just enjoy that lift-up feeling and everything. Our role depends so much on our celebrity, but the excitement and the joy are wonderful. It’s amazing to have the audience there. We have no idea that millions are watching, but even the people there who absolutely love the show, who’ve waited for years to get tickets, it’s just exciting and joyful to create some magic for them.
Nancy Xu
Describe Strictly in one word?
Wow.
How does it feel to be a part of Strictly’s 20th year?
I just feel extremely lucky and grateful. I say this pretty much every time people ask me, but I still mean it. The feeling hasn’t lessened. I’m not taking it for granted. Every day, when I think about what I’m doing, I feel grateful every single second. Being part of the 20th anniversary, I want to thank those who came before us, who’ve allowed us to continue on this platform, make our dreams come true, and create something magical. Here’s to another 20 years, yay!
The show is 20 years old, what were you doing when you were 20? Where were you living, dance titles etc?
When I was 20, I had already won all my dance titles. I was a champion in China and the first to make it to the final in an international competition before turning 20. My 20s were a period of immense change in my career and personal life, and I wasn’t even sure I wanted to continue as a competitor. It was a huge shift – my partnership ended, I moved to a new place, and tried to build my dream with someone else. It didn’t bring me success or happiness, but I’m still grateful for that experience in my early 20s. It allowed me to achieve my dream and brought me to Strictly. At that time, I was living between Hong Kong and Beijing.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
It might be completely different from what we’re doing now. The show is based on Latin and Ballroom dance at the moment. This is my sixth year, and when I look back at what I’ve seen in terms of video aspects, group dances, and wardrobe, everything has gone up a level and taken different directions. Who knows what the future holds, but I’m very excited. The people working behind the scenes love what they do, which is so important. When you bring your passion and love to your work, it’s like breathing – people can feel it. And they’ll continue to do that.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show? Other than stretching etc, do you eat certain foods for energy, any good luck mantras/charms you need to have with you etc?
For me, what’s important is being with my dance partner – eye to eye, hand in hand, breathing in and out. No panic. No rush. All my dance partners will be nervous, but I want to make sure we’re in the same bubble, and I think that’s really important. We need to have a moment, 30 seconds or a minute, to be alone. Then everything kicks in, and boom.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform? Is your heart racing, are you calm for your celebrity?
Every nervous feeling will come over me. I think people assume that once we’re ready, we can go straight away, but sometimes we have to go to hair and makeup or make a quick change, so we don’t always have much time to prepare. But when we do get that time, we feel warm, the adrenaline kicks in, and with that live audience, it’s just like, wow.
Neil Jones
Describe Strictly in one word.
Glitter.
How does it feel to be part of Strictly’s 20th Anniversary year?
It’s brilliant. I’ve been around the show for about 10 years so it’s incredible to be a part of this for that long.
The show is 20 years old. What were you doing when you were 20?
I was living and dancing in Holland. I must have just started winning championships in Holland and around the world.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
I honestly think it’s still going to be here. It’s going to keep growing and developing. I can’t imagine myself still dancing on the show in 20 years’ time, as much as I would love to, I don’t know if my body will handle that. That would make me 62, you never know! Maybe I’ll be a judge by then…
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for the live show?
I’m always focusing on the steps, so I’ll be having fun with everyone but mainly thinking about the steps.
Can you explain that feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor?
I wouldn’t say it’s nerves, it’s excitement. At that point if you’re going out there to do a group dance you know this is the last time we’re doing it. If it’s with a partner, I just want to make sure they’re okay and comfortable. I’ll let them know it’s not the end of the world so go out and have fun.
Nikita Kuzmin
Describe Strictly in one word.
Euphoric.
How does it feel to be a part of Strictly’s 20th year?
It’s such a privilege. To be back doing what we love most, being with the guys, reuniting with the crew, and creating these amazing numbers – it’s truly the dream job for all of us. We feel incredibly grateful. I’m in a very fortunate position, and I’m really happy to be back.
The show is 20 years old, what were you doing when you were 20?
Well to be fair, I’m only 26 now. I was living in Germany at the time and I was competing and then the year after that I joined the German version of Strictly.
What do you think the next 20 years will look like for this iconic show?
I hope it always preserves its core essence and stays true to what it means to people. The show is joyful, it’s family. It’s the people’s show. In my mind, Strictly is like a warm blanket, or a comforting hug. I hope it remains that way for everyone. Our job is to distract people or cheer them up I think and I hope that feeling will still be there in 20 years.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show? Other than stretching etc, do you eat certain foods for energy, any good luck mantras/charms you need to have with you etc?
Yes, I’m probably the most superstitious out of everyone. I make sure to claim double drains throughout the week and will go out of my way, even in big circles, to collect points by walking over two drains while avoiding three drains at all costs. I go everywhere to collect drain points. I also stick to the same jewellery and wear particular socks because I need to be lucky. My ten minutes of meditation are a must, without them, I won’t feel lucky on the night. I also have to do nine jumps – three small, three big, then three small again. And right before a dance, when I’m already on the ballroom floor, I have to say, ‘let’s go.’ Five seconds before the show starts, you’ll always see me with eyes closed, palms up, thinking of my happy place in India.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform? Is your heart racing, are you calm for your celebrity etc?
I am actually really calm. The first time I performed on Strictly I was definitely nervous! But I remember crying afterwards from just how happy I was. It was such a cool feeling before we started dancing. It was with Tilly Ramsay, a slow song, just two kids dancing. It is a really sweet memory but that was a really nervous moment for me. I think nerves are good though as they drive us and if you don’t live it then what’s the point?
Vito Coppola
Describe Strictly in one word?
Family.
How does it feel to be a part of Strictly’s 20th year?
I’m so excited. I’m really looking forward to it because every year is special, but this year is even more so. I remind myself all the time how lucky I am. We’re all lucky to be here, celebrating the 20th anniversary of Strictly. Every single week, every single thing we do this year will be special and magical. We’re always trying to find what’s original, unique, and authentic, and with Strictly, nothing is predictable.
The show is 20 years old, what were you doing when you were 20?
When I was 20, I wasn’t living at home because I’d left when I was 14. I was living, dancing, and competing somewhere around the world, in the most active period of my athletic career. I remember being so full of joy at that time. I was probably somewhere like Russia, near the Black Sea. I used to practice 12 to 13 hours a day. By then, I’d already been a finalist in the World Championships three times and had won another Italian championship. I also remember going to Denmark for the Under-21 World Championships, my first in the adult class. It was an exciting year.
Did you watch Strictly when you were training to be dancer? Any fond/favourite memories?
I watched the Italian version of Strictly, and I was so fascinated by this show about our world that whenever I travelled to other countries, I would ask if they had something similar. I remember when I arrived in the UK, people told me Strictly was the original format and the main version. It opened a big window into a completely different world, another culture. The UK has always been huge on dancing and ballroom, so I used every opportunity to learn more about Strictly. It’s always been a background dream for every dancer.
Do you have any weird and wonderful things you do to prep for a live show? Other than stretching etc, do you eat certain foods for energy, any good luck mantras/charms you need to have with you etc?
I usually touch my shoulders in a cross pattern, which is my way of expressing gratitude. The first shoulder represents my appreciation for life, my experiences, and what’s coming next. The second shoulder is for my family, as I always want to feel their presence with me. Another thing, which might sound a bit odd but I’m not ashamed of, is that before the show I like to eat very simply, like just white rice and chicken.
Can you explain the feeling just before you walk out onto the ballroom floor to perform? Is your heart racing, are you calm for your celebrity etc?
If I’m on my own, I like to close my eyes, take a deep breath, and centre myself. When I’m with a celebrity partner, I prefer to look them straight in the eyes, hold hands, and synchronise our breathing three times together. After we open our eyes, we’re ready to go. Here’s a little secret the other pros don’t know: for group numbers, to keep things smooth, I go around and make sure I get eye contact with everyone. I find reasons to interact, like asking Gorka for the time or Dianne to pass me the water. Once I’ve made eye contact with all of them, I feel ready to go.