Published: 16 November 2024
Strictly Come Dancing is back at the iconic Blackpool Tower Ballroom for its dazzling 20th anniversary year!
For one unforgettable week, the show’s magic will be even bigger, brighter, and more glamorous, filling the Tower Ballroom with extra sparkle and energy. Blackpool – a legendary landmark in the ballroom dance world – awaits our celebrities and professional dancers, who are thrilled to perform on its legendary floor. With an expanded cast of professional dancers and the electric Northern atmosphere, this year’s Blackpool special promises to be an unmissable celebration.
We caught up with the judges and presenters to talk all things Blackpool – and get their go-to chippy orders!
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Tess Daly
What should the celebrities be most excited about for performing at Blackpool?
That iconic sprung floor in the Tower Ballroom is always a surprise for the celebrities when they step on it for the first time. You can literally feel the floor moving under your feet. The whole atmosphere in the ballroom is just incredible. It’s such a historic place and of course, the home of ballroom dancing.
What does the atmosphere feel like backstage in Blackpool compared to other weeks, and how does that energy contribute to the magic of Strictly’s 20th anniversary?
There’s always an extra surge of electricity in the air backstage at Blackpool. It feels pretty momentous, and all of our couples are desperate to make it to that stage. Our entire cast and crew have decamped to the Tower Ballroom for the occasion; logistics wise it’s no mean feat rigging up an entire live show in a different location and all credit to our production crew for making it happen.
Which iconic Blackpool performance from past series entertained you the most?
Gloria Estefan opening the show with a medley – that was so, so exciting.
Who is the most likely out of Tess and Claud to take a dip in the sea at Blackpool beach?
Ha, neither of us, we both hate being cold!
Sugar doughnuts or chips and gravy?
Can I have both please?
Ferris wheel or carousel?
Carousel, I hate heights!
Blackpool Pleasure Beach or Blackpool Illuminations?
Probably the Illuminations- it’s such a nostalgic trip down memory lane for me as we used to go every year as children with our parents.
What’s your go to order from the chippy?
Fish chips and mushy peas, please!
Claudia Winkleman
What should the celebrities be most excited about for performing at Blackpool?
The atmosphere in the whole town is just electric. From the moment we arrive, we love it. Everyone there is bonkers friendly and we’re incredibly lucky they have us every year.
What does the atmosphere feel like backstage in Blackpool compared to other weeks, and how does that energy contribute to the magic of Strictly’s 20th anniversary?
It’s just so exciting as the ballroom is beautiful. The audience is bigger and louder, and the floor is sprung so is bouncier.
Which iconic Blackpool performance from past series entertained you the most?
Fleur and Vito were outstanding. We were all screaming when they finished the dance.
Who is the most likely out of Tess and Claud to take a dip in the sea at Blackpool beach?
Neither. It’s November!
Sugar doughnuts or chips and gravy?
All of it. The fish and chips are the best in the world, and we eat them the second we get there.
Ferris wheel or carousel?
I am a total wuss and freak out on rollercoasters. A very gentle carousel with the three-year-olds please.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach or Blackpool Illuminations?
Impossible to pick but I really love the Illuminations.
What’s your go to order from the chippy?
Cod and chips and extra vinegar.
Shirley Ballas
With Blackpool’s rich dance history and the grandeur of the Tower Ballroom, how does it affect your expectations and critiques of the performances? How do you approach scoring performances on such a significant stage?
I’ll be judging without fear or favour and shall be looking for pure entertainment as well as those who can bring technique, leg action, synchronisation, flexibility, flow and fabulous posture. A good performance is key to light up the Blackpool Tower Ballroom.
What should the celebrities be most excited about for performing at Blackpool?
Well, the celebrities are dancing in what I feel is the most iconic ballroom in the world. It has the best sprung floor that industry legends have danced on. The building holds so much history – there has been more World Champions crowned in this ballroom than anywhere else in the world.
What does the atmosphere feel like backstage in Blackpool compared to other weeks, and how does that energy contribute to the magic of Strictly’s 20th anniversary?
It’s absolutely electrifying. The whole room is buzzing with excitement no matter where you go. It’s going to be so magical returning to Blackpool and I have no doubt that it’ll be an outstanding celebration of 20 years.
Which iconic Blackpool performance from past series entertained you the most?
There has been so many. I’ll never get Ann and Anton’s Samba out of my head for many reasons, Fleur and Vito’s Couple’s Choice was truly iconic and Ashley and Pasha’s dancing the Jive on top of tables in a chip shop will be remembered forever!
Who is the most likely out of the judges to take a dip in the sea at Blackpool beach?
I think I’d have to say me. I love a good dip in the sea – especially if it’s nice and cold. I find it refreshing.
Sugar doughnuts or chips and gravy?
Chips and gravy.
Ferris wheel or carousel?
Carousel.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach or Blackpool Illuminations?
Blackpool Illuminations.
What’s your go to order from the chippy?
Fish and chips, mushy peas and a slice of bread, with lots of salt and vinegar.
Craig Revel Horwood
With Blackpool’s rich dance history and the grandeur of the Tower Ballroom, how does it affect your expectations and critiques of the performances? How do you approach scoring performances on such a significant stage?
Expectations are high. Critiques are also then based on how well the celebrities perform alongside extra professional dancers, and can they work together as a team or troupe.
What should the celebrities be most excited about for performing at Blackpool?
The sprung floor adds another challenge and the extra audience members add to the pressure and the excitement!
What does the atmosphere feel like backstage in Blackpool compared to other weeks, and how does that energy contribute to the magic of Strictly’s 20th anniversary?
The atmosphere is electric backstage and provides an extra lift in energy to the routines.
Which iconic Blackpool performance from past series entertained you the most?
Fleur and Vito’s Couple’s Choice in 2022. It was big, exciting and incredible.
Who is the most likely out of the judges to take a dip in the sea at Blackpool beach?
I would say me as I do love a cold dip.
Sugar doughnuts or chips and gravy?
Chips and gravy.
Ferris wheel or carousel?
Ferris wheel as carousels spin me out.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach or Blackpool Illuminations?
Illuminations as good lighting is everything!
What’s your go to order from the chippy?
Cod, chips and mushy peas.
Anton Du Beke
With Blackpool’s rich dance history and the grandeur of the Tower Ballroom, how does it affect your expectations and critiques of the performances? How do you approach scoring performances on such a significant stage?
When I was a dancer, I would usually save what I would consider to be a ‘big’ dance for Blackpool, something that was expansive and could fill the incredible stage. However, now that I’m a judge, the grandeur of the ballroom doesn’t tend to affect my scoring.
What should the celebrities be most excited about for performing at Blackpool?
The atmosphere! It’s just incredible, there’s nothing like it, it’s just the most wonderful place.
What does the atmosphere feel like backstage in Blackpool compared to other weeks, and how does that energy contribute to the magic of Strictly’s 20th anniversary?
There tends to be a heightened state of anticipation at Blackpool. Everybody is just eager and excited to put on their best performance.
Which iconic Blackpool performance from past series entertained you the most?
I personally loved performing Heaven Must be Missing an Angel with Ann Widdecombe in Blackpool where she was wearing that fantastic yellow dress. I haven’t been able to look at a yellow dress or a pair of gold sequin trousers in the same way ever since.
Who is the most likely out of the judges to take a dip in the sea at Blackpool beach?
I think the most likely person would be me but that’s not going to happen!
Sugar doughnuts or chips and gravy?
For me, it’s always chips and gravy.
Ferris wheel or carousel?
That’s a tricky one, I think the carousel!
Blackpool Pleasure Beach or Blackpool Illuminations?
Oh, Illuminations for me.
What’s your go to order from the chippy?
I like a classic cod and chips or a pie and chips if they have it!
Motsi Mabuse
With Blackpool’s rich dance history and the grandeur of the Tower Ballroom, how does it affect your expectations and critiques of the performances? How do you approach scoring performances on such a significant stage?
Blackpool is iconic—it has this incredible energy that is almost sacred to dancers! The Tower Ballroom has seen the best of the best, so stepping onto that floor elevates everything. My expectations are naturally higher because I know what that floor can bring out of a performer. I look for a little extra magic, that willingness to push boundaries, and for the couples to truly honour the legacy of Blackpool with passion and precision. Scoring at Blackpool isn’t just about the technical elements; it’s about rewarding those performances that rise to the occasion.
What should the celebrities be most excited about for performing at Blackpool?
They should be thrilled to experience the grandeur of the Tower Ballroom! Blackpool has this unique blend of history and glamour that you can feel as soon as you walk in. It’s like you’re stepping into the heart of British dance. The energy of the audience, the massive dancefloor, and the incredible atmosphere are all unmatched. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
What does the atmosphere feel like backstage in Blackpool compared to other weeks, and how does that energy contribute to the magic of Strictly’s 20th anniversary?
Backstage at Blackpool is electric—everyone feels the legacy and excitement of being in that special place. The dancers are nervous, but in the best way! There’s a real sense of camaraderie as everyone cheers each other on, wanting to give their best for such a historic milestone. This season is even more special because it’s the 20th anniversary, so there’s this beautiful blend of nostalgia and excitement for what’s next. It’s truly magical!
Which iconic Blackpool performance from past series entertained you the most?
Oti and Kelvin’s Jive. It was pure joy, total commitment! They captured the playful side of Blackpool while giving a memorable performance!
Who is the most likely out of the judges to take a dip in the sea at Blackpool beach?
Oh, that would be Craig! He might seem all cool and composed, but I can definitely see him getting a bit cheeky and taking a quick dip just for the fun of it!
Sugar doughnuts or chips and gravy?
Oh, definitely sugar doughnuts! It’s a classic treat, and the sweetness makes it just right for a special occasion like Blackpool.
Ferris wheel or carousel?
The Ferris wheel for sure! I love the views, and you get to see Blackpool from up high -it’s the perfect way to take in the excitement of the town.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach or Blackpool Illuminations?
Blackpool Illuminations! There’s something magical about the lights and the way they capture the energy and spirit of Blackpool.
What’s your go-to order from the chippy?
I can’t resist a classic fish and chips, with lots of salt and vinegar! It’s the perfect treat to enjoy after a long day in Blackpool.
Janette Manrara
What should the celebrities be most excited about for performing at Blackpool?
To have the opportunity to dance in the most iconic ballroom of the Ballroom and Latin dance world. The best of the best have won championships there, and not just champions, but all those who love to dance have been going there for many generations. It is a historical and very special building for the world of dance. Oh, and get ready for the bounciest dancefloor ever too!
What does the atmosphere feel like backstage in Blackpool compared to other weeks, and how does that energy contribute to the magic of Strictly’s 20th anniversary?
It’s like going on a field trip with your school mates. Everyone heads over a few days before, the actual ballroom is HUGE compared to Strictly at Elstree studios, so everything feels more grand! And to be going there once again for 20 years of Strictly feels like a perfect way to celebrate our show.
Which iconic Blackpool performance from past series entertained you the most?
We have to mention Anton and Ann Widdecombe, but there have been so many special group numbers that I cherish deeply! Gloria Estefan coming to sing and dance with us a few years back was one of the most memorable Blackpool experiences of my life!
Who is the most likely out of the judges/Tess and Claud to take a dip in the sea at Blackpool beach?
Shirley Ballas! She loves an ice bath these days anyway, and Blackpool is very close to her heart so I think she’d definitely be up for it!
Sugar doughnuts or chips and gravy?
Ooooo…. Can I have both please!?
Ferris wheel or carousel?
Carousel.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach or Blackpool Illuminations?
Blackpool Pleasure Beach! I love a good roller coaster!
What’s your go to order from the chippy?
Good ol’ order of cheeseburger, with chips and ketchup on the side, and a fizzy drink.
Fleur East
What should the celebrities be most excited about for performing at Blackpool?
The buzz in the room! It’s such an incredible atmosphere and it feels big! The Tower Ballroom is such a special place to perform as it’s filled with so much history.
What does the atmosphere feel like backstage in Blackpool compared to other weeks, and how does that energy contribute to the magic of Strictly’s 20th anniversary?
It’s always hectic backstage. There is so much going on and it feels like the team doubles in size! You can feel the excitement, you can feel the nerves, it’s such an adrenaline rush. It makes the show feel extra special and with it being 20 years of Strictly, it will only add to the spectacle.
Which iconic Blackpool performance from past series entertained you the most?
It has to be Ann Widdecombe and Anton Du Beke. That Samba will stay with me forever. I used to watch it in rehearsals when I was on the show to lift my spirits! So entertaining!
Who is the most likely out of the judges/Tess and Claud to take a dip in the sea at Blackpool beach?
Surprisingly, I’m going to say Craig! He loves to have fun and off camera he is the life and soul of the party, so it would definitely be Craig.
Sugar doughnuts or chips and gravy?
Chips and gravy!
Ferris wheel or carousel?
Ferris wheel.
Blackpool Pleasure Beach or Blackpool Illuminations?
The Pleasure Beach.
What’s your go to order from the chippy?
Battered cod, chips, mushy peas and tartar sauce.