For 20 years, Strictly Come Dancing has been the jewel in the BBC’s crown. Millions of us tune in year after year to savor the dance floor performances from celebrities and professionals.
Strictly has remained the shining star of the dark, gray days of autumn and winter, despite recent scandals, and it has brought sequins, sparkle, and joy to Saturday nights. When Chris McCausland and Diane Buswell, his amazing professional partner, took the Glitterball back in December, I’m sure there was hardly a look in the air. Week after week, we all cheer for our favorite star to get out of the dreaded dance off.
The series has been so popular that it hasn’t only kept viewers entertained in good o Blighty for 20 years, but it’s also been a popular show everywhere, with versions available now in 67 nations. After each final, the Strictly tour adds a little bit of joy because we’re all drying our eyes and wondering what we’ll do with Saturday nights now.
This year, I was lucky enough to be one of the fans there on the last ever night at London’s O2 Arena – and boy, it did not disappoint. It had everything – glitter, disco balls, sparkles, lights, fireworks, flames – and above all absolutely stunning dances. All four judges were present, and Janette Manrara did a fantastic job of putting everything together, and Craig Revel Horwood was as amazing as ever as ever. The first “throuple” of the show was created when Amy Dowden and Lauren Oakley joined JB Gill.
Six couples total, performed two dances, with one of the Strictly London Glitterball winners. A clearly emotional Jamie Borthwick and his professional partner Michelle Tsiakkas received the honor this time on his home turf. There was never a moment when the joy erupted on the stage before you, from the incredible group dances to the incredible show-stoppers from the stars.
Even the judges joined in for a remarkable number, and Craig completely stole the show, even though I may be biased. Even the harshest critics would be hard pressed to find anything negative about any of the celebrities’ routines because they have stepped up their game even more since their time on the show.
The stars and their partners frequently struggled to hold back tears when asked by Janette what their time on the dance floor had meant to them (given that woman’s own show, she’s wonderfully warm and also hilarious), which was clearly emotional.
But it was the night’s eventual winner, Jamie, who made a comment that would strike fear into the heart of any Strictly fan. He was asked what Strictly had meant to him after his first performance, which was a brilliant homage to his favorite food, chips, which saw Diane dress as a bottle of ketchup.
After appearing first in the Christmas special, then the main show, and now the tour, Jamie had plenty of experience to draw from. However, he reaffirmed that “Strictly needs to be protected at all costs.” I believe the O2 Arena crowd will do everything in their power to make sure it is a success tonight.
For a full list of all events appearing at London’s O2 Arena visit the website.
Source: Mirror
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