All the latest news from Dincwear Pro Dancewear.

October to November 2025

 

Diversity opens new studio in Birmingham.

Diversity, known as the UK’s most successful dance group, will open the doors to a new dance studio in Birmingham city centre.

Expanding beyond their original base in Essex, this new location aims to connect with local dance communities and support the next generation of talent.

It is set to offer word-class facilities with a space open to everyone.

Diversity’s Ashley Banjo said: “What I love about Diversity is that we’ve never held an audition. It’s always been about the community and everyone who comes to learn and train with us.

The new bespoke venue is based on Icknield Street in the city’s Jewellery Quarter, which will mark Diversity studio’s second location. They also have a studio in Southend, Essex.

There will be in-person dance classes from beginners aged four up to adult professionals.

A range of styles will be taught including street dance, commercial and contemporary, with weekly lessons taught by core Diversity members themselves.

Students in the Diversity community are also offered creative performance opportunities through yearly productions, and early access to special masterclasses.

Peaky Blinders Dance Show to Tour China in 2026.

   

The hit dance show Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby is heading to China in spring 2026, as world-famous dance company Rambert celebrates its 100th anniversary.

Produced by ROYO and its international arm RTS Entertainment, the show will mark Rambert’s return to China – and the latest in a string of British stage hits to reach Asian audiences, following Life of Pi and Murder on the Orient Express.
Peaky Blinders, but make it dance

Inspired by the smash hit TV series, Peaky Blinders: The Redemption of Thomas Shelby is a spectacular dramatisation told through breath-taking dance, written by the show’s creator Steven Knight and choreographed and directed by Benoit Swan Pouffer,.

Accompanied by a live on-stage band performing specially commissioned music by Roman GianArthur, the production also features iconic Peaky tracks from Nick Cave and The Bad Seeds, Radiohead, Anna Calvi, The Last Shadow Puppets, Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes, and Black Rebel Motorcycle Club.

This high-energy dance/theatre event digs deeper into the story of Thomas Shelby and the Peaky Blinders crew, taking you into the criminal underbelly of British society as Tommy, Arthur, Polly and the rest of the Shelby family gang are brought vividly to life on stage.

Rambert CEO Helen Shute said touring internationally is “part of Rambert’s DNA,” adding that the company is “honoured to return in our centenary year and meet audiences in China again.”

ROYO Group CEO Tom De Keyser, currently in Shanghai for Murder on the Orient Express, said the company is committed to expanding in Asia.

Amber Davies to Lead UK & Ireland Tour of Legally Blonde The Musical as Elle Woods.

Amber Davies is set to dazzle audiences across the UK and Ireland as she takes on the iconic role of Elle Woods in the upcoming 2026 tour of Legally Blonde The Musical. The production, co-produced by ROYO and Curve, will launch on 7 February 2026 at Leicester’s Curve Theatre and run until 7 January 2027, visiting major cities including Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, and Dublin.

Best known for winning Love Island in 2017, Davies has since carved out a successful career in musical theatre. Her stage credits include Vivian Ward in Pretty Woman, Jordan Baker in The Great Gatsby, and Lorraine Baines in Back to the Future The Musical. Her casting as Elle Woods marks another milestone in her transition from reality TV star to respected West End performer.
Legally Blonde The Musical, based on the beloved 2001 film starring Reese Witherspoon, follows Elle Woods’ journey from fashion-obsessed sorority queen to Harvard Law School standout. The show is celebrated for its empowering message, catchy songs, and high-energy choreography.

Davies expressed her excitement about the role, calling Elle Woods “a dream character” and promising to bring “heart, humour, and plenty of pink” to the stage. The tour’s creative team has hinted at a fresh, vibrant take on the production, with updated choreography and bold visuals designed to captivate a new generation of theatre-goers.

Tickets for the tour are expected to go on sale soon, with early demand already high. Fans of the musical and Davies alike can look forward to a feel-good theatrical experience that blends comedy, confidence, and charm.
For more information and tour dates, visit legallyblondeshow.com

General News & Sighting

• International actors, dancers, choreographers and writers are being protected from a crackdown in UK working visas after being identified by Labour as occupations suffering from “critical skills shortages”. (The Stage 10/10/25)
• Longtime Strictly hosts Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly have announced their departure from the show after the end of the current series.
• Ashley Wallen and Jenny Griffin have been nominated for the World Choreography Award for their work on “Better Man”.
• Rachel Zegler led the winners at the Stage Debut Awards 2025, claiming the prize for Best West End Debut Performer for her role in “Evita”.
• Choreographer Oona Doherty has become the second associate artist at Sadler’s Wells in less than 2 weeks to step down over the venue’s tie with Barclays.
• Amy Dowden and Carlos announced their “Reborn” tour for 2026.
• Nikita from Strictly announced that his new show “Supernova”, in conjunction with Burn The Floor, will tour the UK in June and July 2026. It will have choreography by Jason Gilkinson.
• The Super Weekender dance convention will take place at the Birmingham NEC on the 15th & 16th of November.
• Adam Garcia will star in the New York performances of “Quadrophenia” in November.
• Amber Davies will star in the new tour of “Legally Blonde” which will open in Leicester in 2026.
• “Britain’s Got Talent” winners Diversity plan to open a new dance studio in Birmingham.
• A new production of “Cats”, directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie, will play at the Open Air Theatre from the 25th of July until the 12th of September 2026. It will then embark on a UK tour.
• Todrick Hall’s new musical “Midnight” has revealed its cast. The dance captain is Jenni Thomasson and the assistant dance captains are India Thornton and Kamilla Fernandes. The show will play at Sadler’s Wells from the 11th to the 15th of November.
• “Sylvia” is to return for a new tour and a short run at the Royal Albert Hall from the 13th to the 15th of November 2026. It will star Beverley Knight and Sharon Rose and have choreography by Kate Prince.
• “Mean Girls The Musical” has revealed the lead casting for its upcoming UK tour. It will star Emily Lane, Vivian Parika, Sophie Pourret and Georgie Buckland and have choreography by Casey Nicholau. The tour will open in Manchester on the 23rd of February 2026.
• “The Karate Kid – The Musical” will have its UK premiere at Wimbledon on the 28th of April 2026. The show has choreography by Keone and Mari Madrid.
• Jodie Steele is joining “Heathers The Musical” in New York.

Future Dance Events News

• A new production of “Fame” will run from the 28th of July until the 15th of August 2026 at the Theatre Royal Plymouth. It will have choreography by Tom Jackson Greaves.
• “Dirty Dancing” will be touring the UK from the summer of 2026. The show will have choreography by Austin Wilkes and open in Milton Keynes on the 27th of August 2026.
• A new revival of “Sweeny Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” has been confirmed for next year as part of the new season from the Birmingham Rep.
• “Heathers The Musical” will tour the UK in the summer of 2026. It will have choreography by Gary Lloyd.
• The cast has been revealed for the revival of “Singin’ in the Rain”, at the Royal Exchange theatre in Manchester. It will star Louis Gaunt, Laura Baldwin and Danny Collins and have choreography by Alistair David. The show will run from the 29th of November until the 18th of January 2026.
• “Barnum” will be touring the UK from February 2026. The show has choreography by Oti Mabuse and Matt Nicholson and will star Lee Mead.
• “Mean Girls The Musical” will open on tour in Manchester on the 23rd of February 2026. The show has choreography by Casey Nicholaw.
• A musical version of “10 Things I Hate About You” is officially in the works. It will have choreography by Christopher Wheeldon.
• The National Theatre’s “Ballet Shoes” will return over Christmas. The choreography is by Ellen Kane.
• “Prescilla Queen of the Desert” will embark on an International tour from February 2026, opening at the Palace Theatre in Manchester. The choreography is by Matt Cole.
• “Young Frankenstein” will receive its regional premiere at the Hope Mill theatre in Manchester from the 10th of October until the 30th of November. It will be directed and choreographed by Nick Winston

Auditions & Vacancies

• Nathan Clarke is looking for an acrobatic salsa couple for a contract in February 2026. You can contact Nathan via his Instagram.
• JJ Dance Studios in Beckenham is looking for dance teachers. Contact: info@jjdancestudios.co.uk
• The LBC Gainsbury Award is a £10,000 choreographic award from the London Ballet Circle Charity to support classical ballet initiatives in the UK. The deadline for applications is the 30th of November. For more information visit: http://www.tlbc.org.uk
• Katie Ross is looking for dance teachers for her dance school in Luton. Email: katierossdance@outlook.com
• Stagecoach Performing Arts is looking for an experienced dance teacher for Saturdays. Email: richmond@stagecoach.co.uk
• The FiSteps Dance Company is looking for a performing arts teacher in Crawley for Tuesdays. For more details you can email: fiona@fisteps.com

Dance Classes

• Christopher Marney of the London City Ballet will lead a one-day workshop designed for pro dancers and current dance students who want to expand their experience of learning neo-classical choreography. See the LCB website for more details.
• Olivia Lock has an int/adv Theatre Jazz class at the Manor in London on the 9th of November at 3.30 pm. You can book via the website.
• London City Ballet has open Ballet classes on Tuesdays and Fridays from 11.00 am – 12.30 pm from the 25th of November until the 19th of December.
• Josie Lee has an Intensive Training Day at the Base dance studios in London on the 31st of October from 12.00 – 5.00 pm.
• Lauren Gore has a commercial Tap class at Pineapple on Fridays from 4.30 – 5.30 pm.
• Lizzie McConachie has a commercial class at Pineapple Studios on Mondays at 7.30 pm.
• Dollie Henry has her weekly BOP Jazz class every Friday from 12.30 – 3.30 pm. Sign up at: info@bop.org.uk
• Kira Malou, star of “Dirty Dancing” in the West End, has an adult ballet class at St Marks School in Southampton on Mondays from 8.15 – 9.15 pm. You can direct message Kira on her Instagram account to book.
• Laura Jane Fenney has a Jazz class at Pineapple every Saturday at 6.00 pm.
• Cora Jay has new dance classes at Dance City in Newcastle on Mondays and Thursdays. You can contact Cora on her Instagram account.
• Wallis Pipe has a Heels class at Pineapple on Mondays from 7.00 – 8.00 pm.
• Natalie Twist has a Sexy R n B class at Pineapple every Wednesday from 8.00 – 9.00 pm.
• David Anderson is teaching at the Base Dance Studios on Tuesdays from 5.30 – 6.55 pm.
• Lucy Jane Adcock is doing regular classes at the Manor in London at 11.00 am on Wednesdays and at the Base Studios on Sundays at 11.30 am.
• Amy Ireland has a Beginners Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios on Fridays from 10.00 am – 12.00pm.
• Christina Andrea has Commercial classes at Pineapple on Tuesdays from 5.00 – 6.00 pm and on Wednesdays from 7.30 – 8.30 pm. Christina also has a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 2.30 – 4.00 pm.

Film & TV

• “Wicked – For Good” has unveiled its final trailer.
• We spotted Emma Leigh Rose in the new Raye video for her single “Where The Hell Is My Husband”.
• We spotted Danielle Barker performing with Antigone at the O2.
• We spotted the following dancers performing with Dua Lipa in America: Alexandre Novelli, Ben Hukin, Ed Munro, Joy Duckrell, James Mulford, Remi Black, Robyn Rae Laud & Li Li Hodge. The dance captain was Sammi Lee Jayne and the choreography was by Charm La’Donna & Sharon June.

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3 Weeks To 26/5/25

 

Birmingham Royal Ballet names new chief executive.

Paul James has been named chief executive of Birmingham Royal Ballet. He replaces Caroline Miller, who died last year.

James has been acting chief executive since December last year and was previously the company’s chief commercial officer. He will work alongside BRB director Carlos Acosta.

Birmingham Royal Ballet chair David Normington said: “I am absolutely delighted with the appointment of Paul James as chief executive. I know he combines a passion for our mission to take great ballet everywhere, with the leadership and management skills to help us meet financial and other challenges that lie ahead.”

He added: “He and Carlos Acosta will be a great team and I am looking forward to working with them both to bring exciting and ambitious programming to the widest possible audiences.”

Acosta said he was “deeply grateful” to James for his “steadfast commitment in stabilising the company following the untimely death of our much-missed CEO Caroline Miller”.

“Paul’s contribution over the past seven years has been instrumental in laying the strong foundations we have already achieved as a company, and I welcome with enthusiasm the opportunity to build on these with Paul to achieve even greater things for the company in the future,” he said.

James described it as an “honour to be asked to stand alongside Carlos Acosta and lead this extraordinary company forward”.
“These are not easy days for the arts and cultural sector, but I know just what the team here can do, and together we will continue to transform the business of ballet,” he said.

Stereophonic starts performances in the West End.

   

David Adjmi’s Tony-winning Broadway drama Stereophonic has arrived at the Duke of York’s Theatre.

Set in a music studio in California, the drama follows a Fleetwood Mac-style rock band as they record their latest album, with romantic foibles and professional tensions leading the group to the brink of breaking up, right as they’re about to blow up. The three-act, three-hour drama features songs by Will Butler of Arcade Fire.

Making up the West End company are three of the show’s longtime cast members: Eli Gelb as Grover, Andrew R Butler as Charlie, and Chris Stack as Simon. They are joined by newcomers Zachary Hart as Reg, Lucy Karczewski as Diana, Jack Riddiford as Peter and Nia Towle as Holly.

Stereophonic’s understudies are Sam Denia, Rima Georges, Lucy Gray and Steve Shirley.

The West End production of Stereophonic will be produced by Sonia Friedman Productions, Sue Wagner, John Johnson, Seaview, Linden Productions and Ashley Melone and Nick Mills.

The show is currently booking until 11 October 2025.

After making its world premiere at Playwrights Horizons in 2023, Stereophonic made history by earning 13 Tony Award nominations in June 2024, the most of any play ever.

It went on to win five Tonys, including Best Play, Best Director (Aukin), Best Featured Actor (Will Brill), Best Scenic Design (David Zinn) and Best Sound Design (Ryan Rumery).

General News & Sighting

• Performers are “routinely” earning less than they need to live on because of commissioning fees taken by agents, Equity UK members have claimed. (The Stage)
• The Scottish Institute of Theatre, Dance, Film and Television has gone into liquidation amid reports of a fraud investigation. Bath Spa University has confirmed that final year students at the Institute will be able to graduate this summer.
• Dianne Buswell and her Strictly partner Chris won the BAFTA award for the most “Memorable Moment” on TV.
• Paul James has been named as the new Chief Executive of the Birmingham Royal Ballet.
• “Little Dancer” will make its UK premiere at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on the 27th of July. It will star Tiler Peck who is a Principle dancer with the New York City Ballet and have choreography by Susan Stroman.
• Lead casting for the upcoming tour of “The Bodyguard” has been revealed. Adam Garcia will star as Frank Farmer and Sidonie Smith as Rachel Marron. The tour will launch in Birmingham on the 20th of September.
• Birmingham Royal Ballet announced the return of “Black Sabbath – The Ballet”. The new tour will begin in Birmingham on the 18th of September.
• Lead casting has been revealed for the stage adaptation of “50 First Dates”. The show will be choreographed by Casey Nicholaw and star Georgina Castle and Josh St Clair. It will open at the Other Palace theatre on the 14th of September.
• The Curve theatre in Leicester announced the cast for its new production of “The Sound of Music”. The show will star Molly Lynch and David Seadon-Young and have choreography by Ebony Molina. It will run from the 22nd of November until the 11th of January 2026.

Future Dance Events News

• The cast for the new Steps musical “Here and Now” has been announced. It has choreography by Matt Cole and will tour the UK from August until May 2026.
• A musical version of “10 Things I Hate About You” is officially in the works. It will have choreography by Christopher Wheeldon.
• “Burlesque” will play in the West End this summer. It will open at the Savoy Theatre on the 10th of July.
• The National Theatre’s “Ballet Shoes” will return over Christmas. The choreography is by Ellen Kane.
• “Prescilla Queen of the Desert” will embark on an International tour from February 2026, opening at the Palace Theatre in Manchester. The choreography is by Matt Cole.
• “Young Frankenstein” will receive its regional premiere at the Hope Mill theatre in Manchester from the 10th of October until the 30th of November. It will be directed and choreographed by Nick Winston.
• “Hercules” will open at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on the 6th of June 2025. It will star Luke Brady and have choreography by Casey Nicholaw and Tanisha Scott.
• The world premiere of the new musical “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” will be staged in Bath in the Spring of 2025.
• “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is set to embark on a world tour in 2025. The new production will launch in the UK while its West End staging will continue its run at the Piccadilly theatre.
• A stage musical based on Prince’s film and album “Purple Rain” is in the works with producer Orin Wolf.
• “Some Like It Hot” is coming to the West End in 2025. It will be directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw.

Auditions & Vacancies

• Megan Rolinson at D2 Studios is looking for a Contemporary dance teacher. Contact: d2studios.enquiries@gmail.com
• New English Ballet Theatre has an audition on the 2nd of July at the Royal Opera House in London. It is by invitation only. You can apply to: audition@nebt.co.uk
• Skin London has an agency audition on the 10th of June. Apply to: agency@skinlondon.com by the 30th of May.
• ATA has an agency audition on the 28th of May in London. Contact: info@artistictalentagency.com
• Headliners Theatre Company is holding open auditions from the 2nd until the 5th of June at the Pineapple Studios looking for dancers for P&O and Cunard. Visit the company’s Instagram page for further details.
• Crystal Hantig is looking for male dancers over 6 ft tall for a contract in Cannes this summer. You can DM Crystal on her Instagram.
• Variations Academy in Gloucestershire is looking for an Acro teacher. You can DM the academy on its Instagram account.
• ATA is looking for male dancers for cruise ship contracts. Contact: info@artistictalent.com
• Industry Warehouse is looking for a Musical Theatre teacher in SE London for Saturday mornings from 10.00am – 1.00 pm. Contact: info@theindustrywarehouse.com
• Dolce Riviera Parties are looking for dancers for 2/3 month contracts in St Tropez. Contact: casting.drparties@gmail.com

Dance Classes

• Josie Lee has an Intensive training day on the 29th of August at the Base Dance Studios from 12.00 – 5.00 pm. You can DM Josie to book.
• Monique Jonas has a 1 1/2 hour Contemporary technique class on the 5th and 6th of June from 10.00 – 11.30 am at Dance Works in London.
• Dollie Henry MBE has her BOP Jazz classes every Friday from the 9th of May from 12.30 – 3.30 pm. Contact Dollie on: info@bop.org.uk
• The Lukas McFarlane Intensive will take place from the 16th of September until the 25th of September. For more information visit: Lukas McFarlane | Choreographer & Creative
• Kira Malou, star of “Dirty Dancing” in the West End, has an adult ballet class at St Marks School in Southampton on Mondays from 8.15 – 9.15 pm. You can direct message Kira on her Instagram account to book.
• Gaz Davis is running his annual “The Programme” on the 4th, 5th & 6th of August. You can apply via Gaz’s Instagram account.
• Laura Jane Fenney has a Jazz class at Pineapple every Saturday at 6.00 pm.
• Cora Jay has new dance classes at Dance City in Newcastle on Mondays and Thursdays. You can contact Cora on her Instagram account.
• The TGS Summer Intensive will take place this year from the 28th of July until the 1st of August. Christina Andrea and Jordi Guitart are 2 of this years teachers.
• Lizzie McConachie has a Commercial class at Pineapple Dance Studios every Monday at 7.30 pm.
• Wallis Pipe has a Heels class at Pineapple on Mondays from 7.00 – 8.00 pm.
• Natalie Twist has a Sexy R n B class at Pineapple every Wednesday from 8.00 – 9.00 pm.
• Jenny Thomas is holding 2 workshops (Charleston and Salsa) at the Berkshire Ballroom on the 9th of July. You can book places via: http://www.berkshireballroom.co.uk
• David Anderson is teaching at the Base Dance Studios on Tuesdays from 5.30 – 6.55 pm.
• Lucy Jane Adcock is doing regular classes at the Manor in London at 11.00 am on Wednesdays and at the Base Studios on Sundays at 11.30 am.
• Amy Ireland has a Beginners Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios on Fridays from 10.00 am – 12.00pm.
• Christina Andrea has Commercial classes at Pineapple on Tuesdays from 5.00 – 6.00 pm and on Wednesdays from 7.30 – 8.30 pm. Christina also has a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 2.30 – 4.00 pm.

Film & TV

• A recording of the theatre show “Frozen” will be released on Disney Plus on the 20th of June. The show was recorded at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane last year.
• We spotted Nicole Alphonce, Charlotte Bazeley and Hannah Veerapen performing on the Inter Stellar Song Contest on BBC1’s “Doctor Who”.
• We spotted Lizzie McConachie and Victoria Mudima performing with Alexandra Burke at Birmingham Pride.
• We spotted the following dancers performing at the VE Day celebrations on BBC1: Ruby Hood, Louise Eagles, Danny Coburn, Emily Grimsey, Hannah Cowan, Mason Boyce, Hannah Levitt-Collins & Jo Dyce. The choreography was by Mark Jennings and Majella Fitzgerald. The contract was with Mass Movement.
• We spotted Jess Khan in the new “Mission Impossible” movie.
• We spotted the following dancers performing with Olly Murs at the Women’s FA Cup Final at Wembley: Renae Hughes, Ruby Hood, Oluwatosin, Austyn Farrell, Danny Coburn, Jorgie Vaughan & Martha Gimson. The choreography was by Mark Jennings and the contract was with Mass Movement.
• We spotted Ruby Rose Wilkinson performing on “Britain’s Got Talent” with Diversity.
• We spotted Emma Rowbotham-Hunt performing with Steps on “Britain’s Got Talent”.
• We spotted Grace Stevens performing with the resident dancers on Eurovision 2025. The contract was with AMCK.

Pro Dancer News Published by the Dincwear Pro Dancewear Team.

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Wicked movie wins two Oscars.

The movie adaptation of Wicked picked up two Academy Awards at the 2025 ceremony.

The Jon M Chu-directed film was nominated for a total of ten awards: Best Costume Design, Best Make-up and Hairstyling, Original Score, Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role for Ariana Grande, Production Design, Film Editing, Achievement in Sound, Visual Effects, Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role for Cynthia Erivo and Best Picture.

It reigned victorious in the following categories: Best Costume Design (for Paul Tazewell) and Production Design (for Nathan Crowley).

Based on the hit novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire, Wicked tells the story of two unlikely university friends in the land of Oz, one destined to become Glinda the Good and the other, the Wicked Witch of the West. Wicked writers Winnie Holzman (book) and Stephen Schwartz (score) collaborated on the screenplay with Dana Fox.

Part two is expected to bubble into cinemas this November.

Strictly Come Dancing’s Kai Widdrington shares ‘excited’ update as he’s ready to share ‘his story’.

     

Kai Widdrington has caused a stir among fans as the Strictly Come Dancing star shared an ‘excited’ update on his next project which will see him tell ‘his story’ for the first time.
The professional dancer previously announced his new headline show, titled EVOLUTION, which will soon see him travel the country, stopping at venues in Swansea, Doncaster, Leicester, Belfast and Dublin throughout May and June.

It was then in January that Kai revealed his former Strictly co-star Giovanni Pernice is one of the creative producers for the upcoming show.
Confirming the news, Kai was seen in a video posted to Instagram, speaking to the camera in a video filmed in a rehearsal studio as he said:: “Hello everyone, it’s Kai Widdrington here from Strictly Come Dancing.
“I’m here in London getting ready for my tour – Evolution – in 2025 and I would like to introduce you to one of the creative producers from my tour. He’s very shy but you may know who he is…”
Giovanni then joined his pal in front of the camera and said: “I am very shy. I can’t help myself. I can’t help myself.” He then added: “Ladies and gents, we’re back together and it feels good!”

Now, Kai has shared some more details about what’s to come. Alongside a new video, he said: “I’m so excited to finally start putting together my solo evolution tour with my brilliant director choreographer Scott.

“We’re creating something truly unique – a high-energy, engaging performance where I’ll be sharing my story through the power of dance. It’s going to be totally new, and I can’t wait for you to experience it. Grab your tickets at Kai-tour.com! #KaiTour #Evolution.”

And fans were quick to respond. @freddexmorgan said: “Oooh I can’t wait!” @maureenb1810 commented: “See you Leicester Kai. I’ll be there with my granddaughter. So excited.” @greenelephantvintage wrote: “Looking forward to it.”@elainewalsh98 replied: “Looking forward to seeing you in Doncaster. Can’t wait.” @karenjones60 posted: “Counting down the days @kaiwidd til we have a Kai hug. So excited to see you in Shrewsbury.” @debbie.lee01 added: “Love it – looking forward to seeing the show! you and @scottcoldwellcreative is a great combo!”

Six cinema release adds even more screening dates.

The filmed version of Six has added even more screening dates.

Captured at London’s Vaudeville Theatre, it stars the six original West End Queens.

Written by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss, the musical casts Henry VIII’s wives as contemporary figures reclaiming their narratives, presenting their stories through pop music and modern performances. Six the Musical has attracted over 3.5 million viewers globally since its debut at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017.

The filmed performance will be screened from 6 April 2025 in UK and Ireland cinemas, featuring the original West End cast: Jarnéia Richard-Noel as Catherine of Aragon, Millie O’Connell as Anne Boleyn, Natalie Paris as Jane Seymour, Alexia McIntosh as Anna of Cleves, Aimie Atkinson as Katherine Howard, and Maiya Quansah-Breed as Catherine Parr. Moss and Jamie Armitage directed the stage production, with Liz Clare directing the film version. The cast are accompanied by an onstage band known as the Ladies in Waiting.

The release comes as Universal Pictures Content Group (UPCG) secures the UK theatrical rights for the production. They have previously brought stage productions such as The Phantom of the Opera and Les Misérables: The Staged Concert to cinemas.

Tickets for the cinema release in the UK and Ireland are available to purchase at SIXTheMusicalLive.co.uk. Scrolling through the scheduled showing dates, audiences will now be able to see the show at screenings on 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 27 and 28 April.

Vue, Cineworld, Odeon, Everyman and independent venues will also be participating in what is quickly turning into a nationwide Six bonanza across the month of April.

The stage version of Six the Musical is produced by Kenny Wax, Wendy and Andy Barnes, George Stiles, and Dione Orrom. It continues to play in the West End and tour the nation.

Details around international releases are expected to follow.

Sunset Boulevard with Nicole Scherzinger sets final Broadway performance date.

The revival of Sunset Boulevard on Broadway has extended its run through to 13 July – its final performance date.

Originally set for a limited run through 6 July, the reimagined musical is directed by Jamie Lloyd and features a score by Andrew Lloyd Webber and book and lyrics by Don Black and Christopher Hampton.

It has been running at the St James Theatre since the autumn, after transferring from the Savoy Theatre in the West End.The production has choreography by Fabian Aloise and is designed by Soutra Gilmour (sets and costumes), Jack Knowles (lighting design), Adam Fisher (sound design), and Nathan Amzi and Joe Ransom (video design and cinematography). Alan Williams is the music supervisor and musical director. Sunset Boulevard is based on the film by Billy Wilder.

Nicole Scherzinger stars as Norma Desmond opposite Tom Francis as Joe Gillis, David Thaxton as Max, and Grace Hodgett Young as Betty.The show won several Awards, including Best Performer in a Musical for Scherzinger. Scherzinger and Francis will also be revealing the Olivier Awards nominations on Tuesday.

Mandy Gonzalez, who plays the role of Norma Desmond on Tuesday evenings, will play her final performance on 1 July.

General News & Sighting

• Strictly star Amy Dowden was made an MBE by King Charles at Buckingham Palace for Services to Fundraising.
• Sir Matt Bourne’s “The Midnight Bell” announced a stellar full tour cast. It will star Ashley Shaw, Cordelia Braithwaite and Dommy North.
• The movie adaptation of “Wicked” picked up 2 Academy awards at the Oscars: Best Costume design (Paul Tazewell) and Best Production Design (Nathan Crowley).
• The nominations for the Olivier Awards have been revealed.
• Musical Con will return to the Excel Centre in London on the 18th & 19th of October.
• Theatre Clwyd announced the cast for its production of “Tick, tick… Boom”. The show will star Christina Modestu and open on the 2nd of June.
• “The Hunger Games” will open at the new Troubadour Canary Wharf theatre in October. The choreographer is Charlotte Broom.
• The musical “The Mad Ones” will run at the Other Palace in London from the 7th of May until the 1st of June. The show will star Courtney Stapleton and Dora Gee and have choreography by Lauren Stroud.
• “The Greatest Showman” stage musical will premiere next Spring at the Bristol Hippodrome.
• “Heathers The Musical” has revealed plans for a run in New York, set to begin on the 22nd of June.

Future Dance Events News

• The National Theatre’s “Ballet Shoes” will return over Christmas. The choreography is by Ellen Kane.
• “Prescilla Queen of the Desert” will embark on an International tour from February 2026, opening at the Palace Theatre in Manchester. The choreography is by Matt Cole.
• “Young Frankenstein” will receive its regional premiere at the Hope Mill theatre in Manchester from the 10th of October until the 30th of November. It will be directed and choreographed by Nick Winston.
• “Hercules” will open at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on the 6th of June 2025. It will star Luke Brady and have choreography by Casey Nicholaw and Tanisha Scott.
• “The Great Gatsby” will open in the West End at the London Coliseum on the 11th of April 2025. It has choreography by Dominique Kelley.
• Lead casting has been announced for the UK premiere of “Muriel’s Wedding The Musical”. It will star Megan Ellis and Annabel Marlow. The choreography is by Andrew Hallsworth. The show will run from the 10th of April until the 10th of May 2025 at the Curve theatre in Leicester.
• The full cast has been announced for Sondheim’s final musical “Here We are”. It will star Tracie Bennett and Denis O’ Hare and have choreography by Sam Pinkleton. The show will run at the National Theatre in April 2025.
• The world premiere of the new musical “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” will be staged in Bath in the Spring of 2025.
• “Calamity Jane” will tour the UK and Ireland before a West End run in 2025. It has choreography by Nick Winston.
• The Leeds Playhouse will host the world premiere of “Coraline – A Musical” from the 11th of April to the 11th of May 2025 before the show embarks on a UK tour. The choreography is by EJ Boyle.
• “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is set to embark on a world tour in 2025. The new production will launch in the UK while its West End staging will continue its run at the Piccadilly theatre.
• A stage musical based on Prince’s film and album “Purple Rain” is in the works with producer Orin Wolf.
• “Some Like It Hot” is coming to the West End in 2025. It will be directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw.

Auditions & Vacancies

• “The Greatest Showman” is having open auditions for dancers at various places throughout the UK. You can register your interest on the Disney website.
• Celebrity Cruises have auditions for dancers in London on the 18th of March at the Pineapple Studios – by appointment only. You can book your appointment on: http://www.celebritycruisesentertainment.com/audition
• The Artistic Talent Agency is looking for male dancers local to Newcastle with a minimum height of 5ft,11ins for a job on the 24th -27th of April. Contact: artistictalentagency.com
• Lisa Welham is looking for a female house dancer for a music video shoot in Leeds on the 22nd of March. You can DM Lisa on her Instagram account.
• “Heathers The Musical” is having a virtual open audition for its new production in New York. You must be based in the USA. The deadline is the 17th of March. Contact: http://www.tinyurl.com/heathersopencall
• ATA is looking for male dancers for cruise ship contracts. Contact: info@artistictalent.com
• Industry Warehouse is looking for a Musical Theatre teacher in SE London for Saturday mornings from 10.00am – 1.00 pm. Contact: info@theindustrywarehouse.com
• Park Chinois in London is looking for dancers. Contact: auditions@parkchinois.com
• Cabaret Delicques is holding auditions in London in March. Contact: production@cabaretdelicques.com
• Nathan Clarke is looking for tall male dancers for a 6 month contract in Berlin. You can DM Nathan on his Instagram account.
• Dolce Riviera Parties are looking for dancers for 2/3 month contracts in St Tropez. Contact: casting.drparties@gmail.com
• Ruth Forbes is looking for dancers for the Glyndebourne Festival Opera. Contact ruthforbes@glyndebourne.com
• Ashleigh Montador Dance Company is looking for a dancer / acro gymnast teacher. Contact Ashleigh to apply.

Dance Classes

• Ashley Shaw, Principle dancer with Sir Matt Bourne’s New Adventures Company, has a masterclass on the 25th of May in Bath. Contact: http://www.intballetintensives.com
• Gaz Davis is running his annual “The Programme” on the 4th, 5th & 6th of August. You can apply via Gaz’s Instagram account.
• Bethany Kingsley Garner has a Ballet and Drama masterclass on the 24th of May from 10.00 am – 4.00 pm at Lupton House.
• Laura Jane Fenney has a Jazz class at Pineapple every Saturday at 6.00 pm.
• Cora Jay has new dance classes at Dance City in Newcastle on Mondays and Thursdays. You can contact Cora on her Instagram account.
• The TGS Summer Intensive will take place this year from the 28th of July until the 1st of August. Christina Andrea and Jordi Guitart are 2 of this years teachers.
• Josie Lee has an Intensive Training day on the 7th of April from 12.00 am – 5.00 pm at the Base Dance Studios in London.
• Victoria Martin has a Back to Basics Cha Cha Cha class on the 27th of March from 7.30 – 9.00 pm at Dance Addiction in Belfast.
• Synergy has an Easter Intensive with Gaz Davis at the Base Dance Studios in London on the 16th of April from 12.00 am – 5.00 pm.
• Lizzie McConachie has a Commercial class at Pineapple Dance Studios every Monday at 7.30 pm.
• Wallis Pipe has a Heels class at Pineapple on Mondays from 7.00 – 8.00 pm.
• Natalie Twist has a Sexy R n B class at Pineapple every Wednesday from 8.00 – 9.00 pm.
• Abbie Brown has a Lyrical masterclass on the 22nd of March at the Kinning Park Complex in Scotland. You can book via the link in Abbie’s Instagram bio.
• Jenny Thomas is holding 2 workshops (Charleston and Salsa) at the Berkshire Ballroom on the 9th of July. You can book places via: http://www.berkshireballroom.co.uk
• David Anderson is teaching at the Base Dance Studios on Tuesdays from 5.30 – 6.55 pm.
• Lucy Jane Adcock is doing regular classes at the Manor in London at 11.00 am on Wednesdays and at the Base Studios on Sundays at 11.30 am.
• Amy Ireland has a Beginners Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios on Fridays from 10.00 am – 12.00pm.
• Christina Andrea has Commercial classes at Pineapple on Tuesdays from 5.00 – 6.00 pm and on Wednesdays from 7.30 – 8.30 pm. Christina also has a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 2.30 – 4.00 pm.

Film & TV

• Broadway HD will stream the world premiere of the “Pippin 50th Anniversary Concert” from the 13th of March.
• We spotted Pfion Vince performing with Teddy Swims at the Brit Awards.
• We spotted Gabriel Goux and Josh Wharmby performing with Sabrina Carpenter at the Brits.
• We spotted Serena McCall and Paris Fitzpatrick premiering a dance number from the new “Quadrophenia” show at Move It.

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MOVE IT 2025 main-stage line-up details including Diversity’s headline performance.

MOVE IT, the world’s biggest dance event has announced more details on the Main Stage line-up ahead of its 20th anniversary event in March 2025 at the London’s Excel Centre.

Kicking off the festival on Friday 7th March is the current Anne Boleyn from Six The Musical Thao Nguyen, who will perform a special K-pop number, and Birmingham Principal Dancer at the Birmingham Royal Ballet Tzu-Chao Chou. On Saturday, headliners Serena McCall, who is fresh from completing a North American/Canadian tour of Message in a Bottle with Zoonation: Kate Prince Company and appearing in the blockbuster film of the iconic musical Wicked will perform, and Diversity will take to the stage for a spectacular ten minute performance. Rounding up the headline appearances on Sunday is professional dancer and choreographer Randall Watson, who has danced with the likes of Little Mix as one of their Mix Men. These headline acts will be joined by the winners of Starpower’s Battle of the Stars competition and a host of dance and performing arts schools including the Addict Dance Academy from Leicester and BIRD College Conservatoire for Dance and Musical Theatre.

Alongside the headliners, special guest Strictly Come Dancing finalist and West End star Layton Williams returns to teach alongside other special guests Dance Moms’s Gianna Martello, who will also be a judge for the Starpower competition, and Love Island’s Molly Marsh who will be hosting. All three stars will be taking part in meet and greets across the weekend.

As well as the performances on the Main Stage, fans can look forward to three other stages, competitions, auditions and a meet and greet area. There’s also a shopping village with the best dance clothes, shoes, accessories and props, Acro sessions with AcroPAD and The Starlight Express Roller Rink in partnership with Andrew Lloyd Webber’s iconic musical, Starlight Express. 

Since 2005 MOVE IT has been celebrating the dance and performing arts industry, as well as providing a launchpad for those starting their careers and a weekend of exciting events and more for attendees. For the past two decades, over 400,000 dancers, teachers, spectators, and professionals of all ages and levels have taken part with 33,000 in 2024 alone. From spectators and hobbyists to students, graduates, teachers, professionals or families looking for a fun day out, there’s a mix of performances, classes, talks, auditions, competitions, exhibits and more. A highlight is always the iconic Main Stage, which has previously showcased over 150 performances featuring some of the biggest names in the business including Strictly Come Dancing’s professionals Neil and Katya Jones, Darcey Bussell, Company Wayne McGregor, Rambert, and Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt.

Sadler’s Wells East opens in Olympic Park.

     

London’s newest dance theatre – Sadler’s Wells East is being officially opened this February.

The venue – hailed as a “gamechanger for dance in the capital” by mayor Sir Sadiq Khan – will open in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park.

It forms part of the newly-developed East Bank cultural quarter – which also includes BBC Music Studios and V&A East.

The theatre comprises a 550-seat auditorium, six state-of-the-art dance studios and a public performance space for free shows. It will be home to the Rose Choreographic School and Academy Breakin’ Convention, a new school for talented 16-19 year olds, dedicated to hip hop theatre.

“Renowned across the world as the UK’s leading dance institution, this brand-new venue will be a gamechanger for dance in the capital.

“The school, studio spaces and electrifying programme will showcase and nurture talent not only from London but across the country and provide inspiration and opportunities for young people – a world class vision that’s accessible to all, helping us build a better London for everyone.”

The venue’s opening show is ‘Our Mighty Groove’, a club-night inspired mixture of house, waacking and vogue performance, created by choreographer Vicki Igbokwe-Ozoagu. Loosely based on her personal dance story, the show features a cast of professional dancers as well as 12 dancers aged 16 to 21, who live or study in east London.

A total of 27 different productions are already on sale from now until December, ranging from ballet to hip hop. Some 20,000 tickets will be available for £25 or under in the opening season, with £10 tickets for 16-30 year olds for every performance.

As well as the cultural institutions which have established themselves on the East Bank, two universities – the London College of Fashion, UAL, and University College London (UCL) – have also welcomed over 10,000 students to their own new buildings next door.

Liverpool Theatre School Partners with Middlesex University to Launch Dance Degree.

Liverpool Theatre School is joining forces with Middlesex University to deliver a dance degree, which will be taught by industry professionals in both Liverpool and London. The new BA Hons degree programme starts with Liverpool Theatre School’s Level 5 or Level 6 Diploma in Dance before students go to Middlesex University in London for a final year of training to gain the BA Hons degree.

As part of the collaboration, Liverpool Theatre School students who gain a Diploma in Dance Level 5, or Level 6, will automatically be accepted for degree study on the Dance programme at Middlesex University, with their professional training counting towards BA (hons). The dance degree is open to new students applying for Liverpool Theatre School, as well as those who are currently training at the centre of excellence.

The degree programme at Middlesex University, which is designed to improve opportunities for talented young performers to enter the industry, will complement the range of specialist dance and musical theatre training courses already provided at Liverpool Theatre School, with auditions taking place in the coming months.

“The unique delivery model of this new dance degree means young performers can begin full-time professional training at Liverpool Theatre School from the age of 16, and potentially graduate with BA (hons) in dance from Middlesex University by the time they are 19 years old. A head start like this could be a huge advantage for anyone who is serious about a career in dance,” said Maxine Ellis, Principal at Liverpool Theatre School.

She added: “We’re incredibly excited to be joining forces with Middlesex University as we work together to help make undergraduate dance programmes, as well as opportunities to train in London, more accessible to young performers with talent, particularly those facing barriers of cost and location. I’m confident our degree students will welcome the seamless transition from Liverpool Theatre School to Middlesex University as they reap the benefits of training in two thriving creative cities.”

Claire Farmer, Interim Director of Programmes – Dance, at Middlesex University, said: “We are excited to embark on this partnership with Liverpool Theatre School and welcome diploma students into our thriving creative industries community. With a strong focus on industry and collaboration, Middlesex aims to develop dance artists for a wide range of roles in the creative industries. We look forward to seeing where their training at Liverpool Theatre School will take them as they further develop their creative identity and exciting future prospects with us.”

Liverpool Theatre School, whose patrons include Wayne Sleep OBE and Anita Dobson, is committed to improving access to high level professional training for all talented young performers, including those from working class and marginalised backgrounds. The performing arts school offers a range of scholarships and bursaries, such as the Dance and Drama Awards (DaDAs) and the Sir Ken Dodd Scholarship, to help support students facing financial barriers. The Liverpool-based college became the first to axe audition fees in 2018 in a bid to encourage a more diverse range of students to apply, with many drama schools following suit.

Liverpool Theatre School’s former students and graduates have gone on to enjoy successful careers in the industry, whether dancing professionally, working as choreographers or performing in hit shows such as Mamma Mia!, Frozen, SIX, Starlight Express, Blood Brothers and Wicked. Middlesex Dance graduates have gone on to JV2, Boy Blue Entertainment, established their own dance companies, produce award winning dance films and to further postgraduate study in choreography, physiotherapy, dance science and creative practice.

Follow Liverpool Theatre School on Instagram and Facebook and Middlesex Dance on Instagram to keep up with the latest news. To find out more about the new degree course and for details on how to apply, please visit liverpooltheatreschool.co.uk.

General News & Sighting

• A former Royal Ballet School student has settled a legal claim against the organisation, after she accused it of serious body shaming. (The Stage)
• A lawyer representing dancers making body shaming claims against ballet schools has claimed that the abuse they allege is worse than anything he has seen in the elite sporting world. (The Stage)
• The WhatsOnStage Award for Best Choreographer went to Christopher Wheeldon for his work on “MJ The Musical”.
• The winners of the inaugural Rose and Bloom dance prizes went respectively to Christos Papadopolous for “Larsen C” and Stav Boutros for “Sepia”.
• Strictly star Vito Coppola had to leave the tour due to injury, with Nikita stepping in to partner Sarah Hedland. Wynne Evans left the tour after making an inappropriate comment.
• Sadler’s Wells East was officially opened. It has a 550 seat auditorium and 6 state of the art dance studios.
• Beverley Knight and Billy Porter will host the 2025 Olivier Awards at the Royal Albert Hall on the 6th of April. Anthony Van Laast will be the creative director for the show.
• The Secret Cinema will return to London this summer with “Grease”. The show will run at Evolution in Battersea Park from the 1st of August until the 7th of September with a cast of 30 performing across multi-screen platforms. The choreographer is Jennifer Weber.
• West End Live will take place in Trafalgar Square in central London on the 21st and 22nd of June.
• The cast has been announced for the world premiere of “Quadrophenia: A Mod Ballet”. It will star Serena McCall, Taela Yeomans-Brown and Paris Fitzpatrick. The choreography is by Paul Roberts. The show will open in Plymouth on the 28th of May.
• “Cabaret” in the West End has announced a new prologue company for the Kit Kat Club.
• Regent’s Park Open Air Festival will present a new production of “Brigadoon” this summer. It will be directed and choreographed by Drew McOnie and stars Danielle Fiamanya and Louis Gaunt. Ebony Molina is the Associate Choreographer.
• The lead casting has been revealed for “Shucked’s” UK premiere at the Regent’s Park Open Air Festival. It will star Monique Ashe-Palmer and have choreography by Drew McOnie and Myles Brown.
• The complete cast for “A Knight’s Tale” has been confirmed. The show will star Emily Benjamin and have choreography by Matt Cole. The production is set to open at the Manchester Opera House on the 11th of April.
• “Top Hat” will be revived at the Chichester Festival theatre this summer with direction and choreography by Kathleen Marshall. The show will run from the 14th of July until the 6th of September.
• The upcoming production of “The Great Gatsby” revealed its complete West End cast. The show will star Amber Davies, Jamie Muscato and Frances Mayli McCann and has choreography by Dominique Kelley. It will open at the London Coliseum on the 11th of April.
• The lead casting has been revealed for “Come Fall in Love”. The show will star Jena Pandya and Ashley Day and has choreography by Rob Ashford and Shruti Merchant. It will open at the Manchester Opera House on the 29th of May.
• Complete casting has been announced for the UK premiere of “Muriel’s Wedding The Musical”. Megan Ellis will play Muriel with Annabel Marlow as Rhonda and Daisy Twells as Cherry. The choreography is by Andrew Hallsworth.
• Welsh superstar Sophie Carmen-Jones has joined the Broadway production of “Chicago” as Velma Kelly.
• Burn The Floor will be performing at the Sydney Opera House from the 6th of August until the 10th of Augus.

Future Dance Events News

• “Young Frankenstein” will receive its regional premiere at the Hope Mill theatre in Manchester from the 10th of October until the 30th of November. It will be directed and choreographed by Nick Winston.
• The full cast has been announced for the UK tour of “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical”. The tour will open in Leicester on the 6th of March. The show has choreography by Anthony van Laast.
• “Hercules” will open at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on the 6th of June 2025. It will star Luke Brady and have choreography by Casey Nicholaw and Tanisha Scott.
• “The Great Gatsby” will open in the West End at the London Coliseum on the 11th of April 2025. It has choreography by Dominique Kelley.
• Lead casting has been announced for the UK premiere of “Muriel’s Wedding The Musical”. It will star Megan Ellis and Annabel Marlow. The choreography is by Andrew Hallsworth. The show will run from the 10th of April until the 10th of May 2025 at the Curve theatre in Leicester.
• The full cast has been announced for Sondheim’s final musical “Here We are”. It will star Tracie Bennett and Denis O’ Hare and have choreography by Sam Pinkleton. The show will run at the National Theatre in April 2025.
• The world premiere of the new musical “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” will be staged in Bath in the Spring of 2025.
• Disney’s animated classic “Hercules” is headed for the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in the Summer of 2025. It will have choreography by Casey Nicholaw and Tanisha Scott.
• The world premiere of “Wild Rose” will run from the 6th of March until the 5th of April 2025 at the Lyceum theatre in Scotland. It has choreography by Steven Hoggett.
• “Calamity Jane” will tour the UK and Ireland before a West End run in 2025. It has choreography by Nick Winston.
• The Leeds Playhouse will host the world premiere of “Coraline – A Musical” from the 11th of April to the 11th of May 2025 before the show embarks on a UK tour. The choreography is by EJ Boyle.
• “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is set to embark on a world tour in 2025. The new production will launch in the UK while its West End staging will continue its run at the Piccadilly theatre.
• A stage musical based on Prince’s film and album “Purple Rain” is in the works with producer Orin Wolf.
• “Some Like It Hot” is coming to the West End in 2025. It will be directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw.

Auditions & Vacancies

• ATA is looking for male dancers for cruise ship contracts. Contact: info@artistictalent.com
• Joss Arnott Dance is looking for a male dancer to join the company for the creation period and tour of their new dance production “Meet The Hatter”. The deadline to apply is the 21st of February. You can email: opportunities@jossarnottdance.com
• The Saudi Arabian theme park Six Flags has an audition for dancers in London on the 3rd – 7th of March. Details are on its website.
• Industry Warehouse is looking for a Musical Theatre teacher in SE London for Saturday mornings from 10.00am – 1.00 pm. Contact: info@theindustrywarehouse.com
• Park Chinois in London is looking for dancers. Contact: auditions@parkchinois.com
• Todrick Hall is looking for black ballet dancers who can sing for a London workshop from the 3rd of March until the 5th of April. You can DM Todrick on his Instagram page.
• The Rambert has auditions on the 28th of February at its premises in London. You can register and book via the link on it’s Instagram bio.
• BOR Productions is looking for dancers. Send your C.V and showreels to: casting@borproductions.com
• Jona Dance is looking for contemporary dancers for an upcoming R & D process in March. To apply, send your C.V, headshot and showreel to: jona.dancecompany@gmail.com
• Cabaret Delicques is holding auditions in London in March. Contact: production@cabaretdelicques.com
• Nathan Clarke is looking for tall male dancers for a 6 month contract in Berlin. You can DM Nathan on his Instagram account.
• Dolce Riviera Parties are looking for dancers for 2/3 month contracts in St Tropez. Contact: casting.drparties@gmail.com
• Ruth Forbes is looking for dancers for the Glyndebourne Festival Opera. Contact ruthforbes@glyndebourne.com
• Ashleigh Montador Dance Company is looking for a dancer / acro gymnast teacher. Contact Ashleigh to apply.

Dance Classes

• Abbie Brown has a Lyrical masterclass on the 22nd of March at the Kinning Park Complex in Scotland. You can book via the link in Abbie’s Instagram bio.
• Danielle Barton has a free commercial class on the 23rd of February from 12.00 am – 1.00 pm at Danceworks in London. You can book via the Danceworks website.
• Jenny Thomas is holding 2 workshops (Charleston and Salsa) at the Berkshire Ballroom on the 9th of July. You can book places via: http://www.berkshireballroom.co.uk
• David Anderson is teaching at the Base Dance Studios on Tuesdays from 5.30 – 6.55 pm.
• Paige Goulding has a Heels class at the Manor in London on the 19th of February from 5.30 – 7.00 pm.
• Crystal Hantig and Hannah Levitt Collins have a Heels workshop on the 21st of February at the Manor in London at 1.30 pm.
• Tracey Illife has a Parisian Showgirl Technique class at Pineapple on the 29th of February from 1.30 – 3.00 pm at the Pineapple Dance Studios.
• Lucy Jane Adcock is doing regular classes at the Manor in London at 11.00 am on Wednesdays and at the Base Studios on Sundays at 11.30 am.
• Esme Bowdler has a Mamma Mia! workshop on the 22nd of February from 2.00 – 5.00 pm at the Park Community School in Havant.
• Amy Ireland has a Beginners Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios on Fridays from 10.00 am – 12.00pm.
• Christina Andrea has Commercial classes at Pineapple on Tuesdays from 5.00 – 6.00 pm and on Wednesdays from 7.30 – 8.30 pm. Christina also has a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 2.30 – 4.00 pm.
• Jordi Guitart has a class at Move It on the 8th of March.

Film & TV

• We spotted the following dancers performing with Take That at the BAFTA’s last night: Philip Birchall, Charlie Goddard, Josie Peacock, Erin Dusek, Darcey Simmons, Erica Stubbs and Charlotte Bazeley. The choreography was by Adrian Gas.
• We spotted the following dancers performing with Kylie Minogue: Jenny Griffin, Yves Cueni, Theo Maddix and Ainsley Ricketts. The choreography was by Ashley Wallen and the contract was with the Kutes Agency.
• We spotted Ruby Hood performing with the cast of “Bat Out Of Hell” at the National Lottery’s Big Night Of Musicals.
• We spotted Pfion Vince in the new music video for Alice Chater.
• We spotted Jazz Peters, Chloe Simmons, Summer Villiers and Millie Lund performing with J Balvin.
• We spotted Louisa Fernando in the latest advert for Aesop.

Pro Dancer News Published by the Dincwear Pro Dancewear Team.

Who’s Wearing Dincwear Dancewear?

From all the news team at Dincwear Dancewear, See you all in the Next Edition!

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Janette Manrara has announced she will take on the iconic role of Roxie Hart in the musical Chicago.

Janette Manrara, who stepped back from performing on Strictly in 2021 to co-host It Takes Two, has announced she will take on the iconic role of Roxie Hart in the musical Chicago from March, marking her West End debut.

Janette’s West End debut also comes four years after she stepped away as a professional dancer on Strictly.

She revealed the exciting news on social media by sharing a tour poster, alongside the caption: “Extra extra! Big news for Foxy Roxie!

“The dazzling Janette Manrara will be joining the #ChicagoUKTour as Roxie Hart from 3rd March!”

Janette previously admitted she feared she’d have to put her career on hold to become a mum.

She married Aljaž Škorjanec married in 2017.

She admitted she was a “workaholic” and said: “I’m a dancer and my body is my tool, so the decision to have a child was a big one, as it meant putting me out of work for at least a year, maybe two, who knows?

“When I became a presenter on It Takes Two, I felt like a massive weight had been lifted off my shoulders. ‘Ok, now we can start a family and not stress because now I can work without needing my body physically as much as I used to’.”

British Youth Music Theatre announces 2025 season.

    

British Youth Music Theatre (BYMT) has provided details for its 2025 season, featuring 14 new musicals, 25 writers and composers and over 600 young performers.

BYMT is the largest commissioner of new musicals in the UK, offering opportunities and professional training for young creatives across the country.

Creative director Emily Gray commented: “It’s thrilling to be working with so many writers from such a range of backgrounds, brought together by a shared passion for creating musicals with and for young people, and the ideas that our Young Company Panel [a group of 11 to 21-year-olds] have interrogated and decided are the stories to be explored and celebrated this year. Through the programme, we can serve our young people who are dedicated to creating shows that have queer, neuro-diverse and disabled characters and who have advised that all of our casting be gender-fluid throughout the 2025 Season.”

Newly announced productions include the following:

Worn Out is a reimagining of The 12 Dancing Princesses with music and lyrics by Meg McGrady and book and lyrics by Zoe Morris, running in Manchester from 1 to 3 August.

Sense and Sensibility is a musical comedy adaptation of the beloved Jane Austen novel by Grace O’Keefe and Tom Arnold, playing in Exeter from 8 to 10 August.

Theo in Between explores non-binary identity in a small English town and will be staged in Leeds from 22 to 23 August. It has music and lyrics by Jordan Li-Smith and book and lyrics by Gareth Mattey.

The Glamification of Loki, Eden Tredwell’s NTMA-winning mythical musical comedy, will run in London from 29 to 30 August.

Choreomania, described as a “movement inspired exploration of the 1518 dancing plague”, featuring music and lyrics by Evie Atkin and book and lyrics by Evie Press, will play in Birmingham for 29 to 31 August.

Specific venues for the aforementioned productions are still to be confirmed.

These join the previously revealed new production of BYMT’s The Naughty Carriage on the Orphan Train, with music and lyrics by Luke Saydon and book and lyrics by Carl Miller, which will be staged at Birmingham Hippodrome from 25 to 27 April.

In addition, the season includes a range of BYMT development camps and BYMT projects across the nation, which provides writers an opportunity to develop their shows with other creative young people.

Wicked nominated for ten Oscars.

The Oscar nominations have been revealed, and Wicked has not gone home empty-handed.

The first part of the screen version of the iconic musical opened in November to record-busting box office numbers and audience praise.

In the Oscar nominations, announced today via live-stream by Bowen Yang (who stars in Wicked) and Rachel Sennott, the film picked up ten nominations, including Best Costume Design, Best Make-up and Hairstyling, Original Score, Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role for Ariana Grande, Production Design, Film Editing, Achievement in Sound, Visual Effects, Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role for Cynthia Erivo and Best Picture.

Based on the hit novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire, Wicked tells the story of two unlikely university friends in the land of Oz, one destined to become Glinda the Good and the other, the Wicked Witch of the West. Wicked writers Winnie Holzman (book) and Stephen Schwartz (score) collaborated on the screenplay with Dana Fox.

The Oscars ceremony will be held on 3 March 2025, while the second part of the Wicked adaptation is released in November.

General News & Sighting

• The Edinburgh Fringe Society’s “Keep It Fringe” fund will offer 180 bursaries of £2,500 to artists performing at the Festival in 2025.
• Dollie Henry MBE is offering a chance to 4 emerging Jazz Choreographers to realise their artistic idea and showcase their creative work as part of the Jazz Arts Rewired Festival taking place on the 20th September in London. The deadline for applications is the 21st of March. You can apply via the link in Dollie’s Instagram bio.
• London City Ballet has announced its programme for 2025.
• Strictly star Janette Manrara will join the UK tour of “Chicago” as Roxie Hart from the 3rd of March.
• Sir Matt Bourne announced that “The Red Shoes” will return for a tour beginning in December 2025.
• The pantomine “Robin Hood” at the London Palladium saw more than 132,000 people this Christmas, a new record.
• “Wicked” has unveiled new casting for its West End run. Zizi Strallen will star as Glinda and Emma Kingston will play Elphaba. The dance arrangements are by James Lynn Abbott.
• The cast has been announced for the tour of “Cruel Intentions”. It will star Abbie Budden and have choreography by Gary Lloyd and Emma Hunter.
• Complete casting has been confirmed for the West End premiere of “Hercules”. The show will open at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on the 6th of June. It stars Luke Brady and has choreography by Casey Nicholaw and Tanisha Scott.
• “Six” has announced the new cast members joining the West End production from the 18th of February. The choreography is by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille.
• “Mamma Mia! The Party” has extended its London run until the end of 2025. The show stars Ines Fernandez and Lucinda Lawrence and has choreography by Stacey Haynes.
• “Titanique” has extended its West End run until the 8th of June at the Criterion Theatre. The show stars Lauren Drew and Darren Bennett and has choreography by Ellenore Scott.
• STOP PRESS – Casting has been announced for the UK premiere of “White Rose: The Musical”. It will star Collette Guitart and Tobias Turley and will run at the Marylebone Theatre from the 27th of February until the 13th of April.

Future Dance Events News

• The full cast has been announced for the UK tour of “Tina – The Tina Turner Musical”. The tour will open in Leicester on the 6th of March. The show has choreography by Anthony van Laast.
• “Hercules” will open at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on the 6th of June 2025. It will star Luke Brady and have choreography by Casey Nicholaw and Tanisha Scott.
• “The Great Gatsby” will open in the West End at the London Coliseum on the 11th of April 2025. It has choreography by Dominique Kelley.
• Lead casting has been announced for the UK premiere of “Muriel’s Wedding The Musical”. It will star Megan Ellis and Annabel Marlow. The choreography is by Andrew Hallsworth. The show will run from the 10th of April until the 10th of May 2025 at the Curve theatre in Leicester.
• The full cast has been announced for Sondheim’s final musical “Here We are”. It will star Tracie Bennett and Denis O’ Hare and have choreography by Sam Pinkleton. The show will run at the National Theatre in April 2025.
• “Clueless” is coming to the West End. The show will have choreography by Kelly Devine and will open at the Trafalgar theatre on the 15th of February 2025.
• The world premiere of the new musical “Alfred Hitchcock Presents” will be staged in Bath in the Spring of 2025.
• Disney’s animated classic “Hercules” is headed for the Theatre Royal Drury Lane in the Summer of 2025. It will have choreography by Casey Nicholaw and Tanisha Scott.
• The world premiere of “Wild Rose” will run from the 6th of March until the 5th of April 2025 at the Lyceum theatre in Scotland. It has choreography by Steven Hoggett.
• “Calamity Jane” will tour the UK and Ireland before a West End run in 2025. It has choreography by Nick Winston.
• The Leeds Playhouse will host the world premiere of “Coraline – A Musical” from the 11th of April to the 11th of May 2025 before the show embarks on a UK tour. The choreography is by EJ Boyle.
• “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is set to embark on a world tour in 2025. The new production will launch in the UK while its West End staging will continue its run at the Piccadilly theatre.
• A stage musical based on Prince’s film and album “Purple Rain” is in the works with producer Orin Wolf.
• “Some Like It Hot” is coming to the West End in 2025. It will be directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw.

Auditions & Vacancies

• Adrian Gas is looking for tall female dancers (over 5ft, 9ins) for a job on the 1st of March. Contact: casting@adriangas.com
• Ballet Cymru has an invitation only audition in February. For more information contact: dariusjames@welshballet.co.uk
• “Mean Girls” has an audition for dancers on the 31st of January. Apply via the link on the show’s Instagram bio.
• The Rambert has auditions on the 28th of February at its premises in London. You can register and book via the link on it’s Instagram bio.
• BOR Productions is looking for dancers. Send your C.V and showreels to: casting@borproductions.com
• Jona Dance is looking for contemporary dancers for an upcoming R & D process in March. To apply, send your C.V, headshot and showreel to: jona.dancecompany@gmail.com
• Cabaret Delicques is holding auditions in London in March. Contact: production@cabaretdelicques.com
• Nathan Clarke is looking for tall male dancers for a 6 month contract in Berlin. You can DM Nathan on his Instagram account.
• Dolce Riviera Parties are looking for dancers for 2/3 month contracts in St Tropez. Contact: casting.drparties@gmail.com
• Adrian Gas is looking for tall male dancers (6ft minimum) for an event on the 1st of March. Contact: casting@adriangas.com
• Ruth Forbes is looking for dancers for the Glyndebourne Festival Opera. Contact ruthforbes@glyndebourne.com
• Ashleigh Montador Dance Company is looking for a dancer / acro gymnast teacher. Contact Ashleigh to apply.

Dance Classes

• Ashley Shaw, Principle dancer with New Adventures, has a Swan Lake Masterclass for 13 -17 year olds at Sadler’s Wells on the 2nd of February.
• Tracey Illife has a Parisian Showgirl Technique class at Pineapple on the 29th of February from 1.30 – 3.00 pm at the Pineapple Dance Studios.
• Lucy Jane Adcock is doing regular classes at the Manor in London at 11.00 am on Wednesdays and at the Base Studios on Sundays at 11.30 am.
• Esme Bowler has a Mamma Mia workshop on the 22nd of February from 2.00 – 5.00 pm at the Park Community School in Havant.
• Amy Ireland has a Beginners Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios on Fridays from 10.00 am – 12.00pm.
• Christina Andrea has Commercial classes at Pineapple on Tuesdays from 5.00 – 6.00 pm and on Wednesdays from 7.30 – 8.30 pm. Christina also has a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 2.30 – 4.00 pm.
• Jordi Guitart has a class at Move It on the 8th of March.
• Josie Lee has an Intensive training day at the Base studios on the 17th of February from 12.00 – 5.00 pm.

Film & TV

• The filmed version of “Six”, featuring the show’s original cast, will be released at the cinema on the 6th of April.
• We spotted Alana Rixon, Millie Lund, Jamie Bell and Victor Allen performing at the Joy Awards with Christina Aguilera. The choreography was by Jay Revell.
• We spotted Jenny Fitzpatrick in “Bank of Dave 2” on Netflix.
• We spotted Charlotte Adams dancing in episode 6 of the second series of “Rogue Heroe’s”.
• We spotted Sianad Gregory in the new advert for Sky Vegas.

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Strictly’s Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell recreate to the iconic Dirty Dancing lift.

 

Strictly Come Dancing’s Bobby Brazier and Dianne Buswell recreated an iconic scene from Dirty Dancing on Saturday’s live show (2 December).
As part of musicals week, the couple performed the scene from the hit film where Patrick Swayze lifts Jennifer Grey high into the air.
Speaking to Claudia Winkleman after scoring 34 out of 40, the EastEnders actor said he was “shocked” as he didn’t think it was one of his best performances.

Dianne said: “I have never trusted a professional to do that lift before.”

On Sunday, Buswell shared a photo of Brazier lifting her straight in the air in rehearsals. Captioning the post, the Australian dancer admitted that she was disappointed the routine hadn’t gone entirely to plan, as in rehearsals.

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Nigel Harman fights back tears while detailing injury that forced him to quit Strictly.

Nigel Harman has explained why he quit Strictly Come Dancing hours before the latest episode.
It was announced by the BBC that the Casualty actor, 50, had been forced to withdraw from the dancing competition due to an injury sustained in rehearsals.

In his first interview given following his shock exit from the show, just two weeks before the final, Harman revealed he has hurt his rib. He told host Claudia Winkleman: “I was leaping off a rostrum and was about to be caught by some very handsome men and, as I flew I was Peter Pan and as I landed, I was in A&E.

The actor added: “I’ve done something to my rib and it’s quite painful.”
He says he “loved” his experience, saying: “This really hasn’t sunk in. When I watched everyone come down the stairs, I was a bit like, ‘Oh, this is real, I’m not a part of this anymore’.”
Harman said he was unable to look at his professional dance partner Katya Jones and seeing her made him emotional about having to leave the competition at such a late stage.

Jones said: “It’s quite hard to talk about it, I’m not going to lie. I’ve absolutely loved every moment of us creating magic on a dancefloor. I hope you got something out of this that you’re going to cherish forever.”
Harman told Jones: “The only reason I’m standing here is ’cause of all the work you’ve put into me. You turn up everyday with hundreds of great ideas, you challenge me, you push me, you support me, you make me laugh. But, most of all, you’re just part of me now.”
The latest episode would have seen the remaining celebrities – EastEnders actor Bobby Brazier, ex-Coronation Street star Ellie Leach, former tennis player Annabel Croft and musical theatre performer Layton Williams – compete for a place in next week’s semi-final.

At the beginning of the show, hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman addressed Harman’s departure – and revealed what his exit means for this week’s results.

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Finalists revealed for Mamma Mia! I Have A Dream TV show.

The final four contestants set to compete in the grand finale of Mamma Mia! I Have a Dream have been set.

The TV talent show, which started out with 14 contestants vying for the role of Sophie and Sky in the 25th anniversary year of Mamma Mia! in the West End, will culminate next week with a grand finale in the West End.

Across the weeks, the contestants have been whittled down while facing workshops, live performances, fancing and more.

The four contestants in the finale are Stevie and Esme, up for the role of Sophie, with Tobias and Owen as Sky. They will now perform at a live finale at the Novello Theatre next Sunday (where we’ll be coming to you live!), with further footage also filmed in Corfu, where the show was taped earlier this year.

Find out more about the four finalists:

• Stevie Doc is a 2023 ArtsEd grad, and has yet to make her professional debut.
• 2021 ArtsEd graduate Esme Bowdler has yet to make her professional debut but tackled a whole range of shows at ArtsEd, and before that
• Owen Johnston recently graduated from Italia Conti with a BA in musical theatre. While training he played a very edgy Sweeney Todd, though this is a slightly different ask!
• Tobias Turley graduated from GSA in 2021 but has already made quite the name for himself, appearing in West Side Story in Ljubljana and, more recently, in the fan favourite Heathers the Musical as Kurt Kelly and the understudy JD.

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Disney confirms Jasmine casting for Aladdin tour.

Desmonda Cathabel will continue in the role
Following her time on the ITV musical talent show Mamma Mia! I Have a Dream, it has been confirmed that Desmonda Cathabel will continue in the role of Jasmine in the ongoing touring production of Disney’s Aladdin.

Cathabel, who got down to the final four contestants vying for the role of Sophie on the weekly show, has already appeared in the first tour stop, Edinburgh.

Adapted from Disney’s 1992 animated film and centuries-old folktales including “One Thousand and One Nights”, the stage musical was first seen on Broadway in March 2014, while nine subsequent productions have launched around the world. The piece also played over 1200 performances at the Prince Edward Theatre in London’s West End.

It has new music by Alan Menken (Beauty and the Beast, Newsies, Sister Act), lyrics by Howard Ashman (Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid), Tim Rice (The Lion King, Evita, Aida) and Chad Beguelin (The Prom, The Wedding Singer) with a book by Beguelin, and is directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw (The Book of Mormon).

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General News & Sighting

• The average top price ticket for theatre in the regions was £49, compared with £141 in the West End. (The Stage)
• There was no elimination on Strictly this week as Nigel and Katya had to withdraw due to an injury. The Pro dance was choreographed by Beth Honan. Dianne and Bobbie’s number was choreographed by Jenny Thomas and Sean Moon. Layton and Nikita scored the first 40 of the series.
• The Princess of Wales brought Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis to the Elstree Studios to watch Strictly rehearsals on Friday.
• We spotted Anders Nielsen proposing to girlfriend Renae Hughes while they were performing on stage with Anne Marie!
• The nominees for the 24th annual Whats On Stage awards have been announced. “Guys and Dolls” leads the way with 12 nominations.
• The National Lottery’s “Big Night of Musicals” will take place at the AO Arena in Manchester on the 22nd of January 2024.
• Leeds Playhouse announced that its new season will include the UK premiere of a Dolly Parton musical plus “My Fair Lady”.
• Casting has been revealed for the London premiere of the “Cruel Intentions” musical. Daniel Bravo will play Sebastian, with Abbie Budden playing Annette and Rhianne-Louise McCaulsky playing Kathryn. The choreography is by Gary Lloyd and Matt Nicholson. The show will run at the Other Palace from the 11th of January to the 14th of April 2024.
• “Bonnie and Clyde” has announced the full casting for its UK and Ireland tour in 2024. The Dance Captain is Olivia Lallo. The show will open in Leicester on the 22nd of February 2024.
• Full casting has been confirmed for the new Live Aid musical “Just For One Day”. It will star Julie Atherton and Collette Guitart and have choreography by Ebony Molina and Gemma Payne. The show will run from the 26th of January to the 30th March 2024 at the Old Vic theatre in London.

Future Dance Events News

• The European premiere of “Your Lie in April” will take place at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on the 8th & 9th of April 2024. It will be directed and choreographed by Nick Winston. The casting director is Harry Blumenau.
• Nick Winston will be directing the world premiere of the new musical “Wild About You” at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane on the 25th & 26th of March 2024. It will star Eric McCormack.
• “The Wizard of Oz” has confirmed the full cast for its tour of the UK and Ireland. The choreography is by Shay Barclay. The show will open in Liverpool on the 13th of December 2024.
• “Standing at the Sky’s Edge” has confirmed the initial casting for its 2024 West End transfer. It has choreography by Lynne Page and will run at the Gillian Lynne theatre from the 8th of February 2024.
• Nick Winston and Ryan Lee Seager will be directing and choreographing the world premiere of “Burlesque The Musical” – which has Christina Aguilera as an Executive Director. The show will open at the Manchester Opera House on the 13th of June 2024.
• “Clueless The Musical” will have a developmental run at the Churchill theatre in Bromley from the 12th – 24th of February 2024.
• “Mean Girls” is coming to the Savoy Theatre in June 2024.
• A touring musical version of “101 Dalmations” will open in Wimbledon on the 22nd of June 2024.
• “& Juliet” will embark on a UK tour from the 8th of July 2024. The choreographer is Jennifer Weber.
• “The Devil Wears Prada” has confirmed its West End run and UK premiere. It will be directed and choreographed by Jerry Mitchell and be cast by Jill Green. The show will open in Plymouth on the 9th of July 2024.
• “Bonnie and Clyde The Musical” has announced the initial cast and tour dates for 2024. Katie Tonkinson will star as Bonnie Parker.
• “Starlight Express” is to return to London in the Summer of 2024. It will be choreographed by Ashley Nottingham.
• The world premiere of the new British musical “Cable Street” is to open at the Southwark Playhouse on the 16th of February 2024. The choreography is by Melody Sinclair.
• “Some Like It Hot” is coming to the West End in 2025. It will be directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw.
• Full casting has been revealed for the first UK and Ireland tour of “Aladdin”. Gavin Adams will star with Desmonda Cathabel as Jasmine. Sarah Benbelaid is the Assistant Dance Captain. The show will open in Edinburgh in October.
• The 2024 Mighty Hoopla Big Weekender has announced its line up led by: Natalie Imbruglia, Cascada and Gabrielle.
• “Shucked” will open in the West End in 2024. The choreographer is Sarah O’Gleby.
• “Come From Away” announced a UK and Ireland tour beginning in Leicester on the 1st of March 2024. The production is being cast by Pippa Ailion and Natalie Gallacher. The choreography is by Tara Wilkinson and Kirsty Malpas with Richard Hinds. The Dance Captain is Angeline Bell.
• “Hadestown” will open at the Lyric Theatre in the West End on the 10th of February 2024. The choreographer is David Neumann.
• The new musical “Starter for Ten” will premiere in Bristol next year at the Old Vic theatre from the 29th of February until the 30th of March 2024.
• “The King And I” will return to the West End in early 2024 starring Helen George and Darren Lee.
• “Sister Act – The Musical” will return to the Dominion theatre in the West End on the 15th of March 2024. It will star Beverley Knight and Alexandra Burke. The choreography is by Alistair David.
• The lead cast has been unveiled for “We Will Rock You” opening in the West End. It will star Lee Mead and Brenda Edwards.
• “Jesus Christ Superstar” will tour the UK in 2023/4 opening in Manchester this September. The choreography is by Drew McOnie.

Auditions & Vacancies

• Dollie Henry has her Jazz Congregation on the 10th of December at the Place in London from 4.00 – 5.30 pm.
• Josh Pilmore and Philip Birchall have a training day on the 14th of January at the Manor in London from 12.00 – 5.00 pm.
• Christopher Marney and Kate Lyons have a Ballet class on the 18th & 19th of December at Pineapple Studios from 10.00 – 12.00 pm.
• Jordi Guitart will be teaching at Move It on the 16th of March at 3.30 pm.
• Shelley Ann has an Intensive Day on the 6th of January 2024 from 12.00 – 4.30 pm at the Dance Studio in Shrewsbury.
• Sir Matt Bourne’s New Adventures Company is offering a 1 day masterclass with its leading dancers from “Edward Scissorhands” on the 16th of December – see the company website for further details.
• Lisa Welham, Magda Sobolewska, Katrin Lerner, Keoni Azra & Jennifer White have a Ladies Latin Intensive on the 9th of December from 10.00 am – 5.00 pm at the Somers Town Community Sports Centre in London.
• Weronika Wiktoria is starting a Street Jazz class every Monday at 5.30 pm at the Base dance studios with Ralitsa Chepisheva.
• Lil J is offering a sassy Commercial class at the Pineapple Dance Studios on Tuesdays at 4.15 pm. You can book on the Pineapple app.
• Amy Ireland is offering a Beginners Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios on Fridays at 10.15 am and a Commercial Tap class on Mondays at 8.30 pm.
• Dominique Marinho is teaching a Beginners Heels class on Tuesdays at Pineapple Studios from 3.45 – 4.45 pm.
• Olivia Rose Shouler is doing a beginners choreography class on Wednesday from 7.00 – 8.25 pm at the Base Studios in London.
• Gemma Hoddy is giving a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 5.30 – 6.55 pm.
• Nicolette Whitley is offering a dance class on Thursdays from 6.15 – 7.15 pm at the Inner Space in Nelwyn for £7. Reserve your space on: nicolettewhitley@outlook.com
• Emma Levene is offering a General Ballet Core and Stretch Contemporary class at Forest Gate Community School on Thursdays from 7.00 – 8.00 pm. Email to book: doubletwistdance@gmail.com
• Alexandre Novelli is offering a Beginners Commercial for Adults class every Tuesday at her Novelli Studios from 6.00 – 7.00 pm.

Dance Classes

• Dollie Henry has a Jazz workshop on the 10th of December at the Place in London from 4.00 – 5.30 pm.
• Constance Devernay-Laurence has a class on the 1st of December at the Lantern’s Studio theatre from 11.00 am – 12.30 pm.
• Jordi Guitart will be teaching at Move It on the 16th of March at 3.30 pm.
• Shelley Ann has an Intensive Day on the 6th of January 2024 from 12.00 – 4.30 pm at the Dance Studio in Shrewsbury.
• Monique Jonas has a 2 hour contemporary workshop on the 1st of December from 6.00 – 8.00 pm at the Place in London.
• Sir Matt Bourne’s New Adventures Company is offering a 1 day masterclass with its leading dancers from “Edward Scissorhands” on the 16th of December – see the company website for further details.
• Mica Bradbury, soloist with the Royal Ballet, has a Nutcracker workshop on the 3rd of December at the Royal Opera House from 10.30 am – 1.00 pm (for 8 – 11 year olds) and from 1.45 – 4.45 pm (for 12 -16 year olds). Contact Mica on: micabeau@gmail.com
• Christopher Tendai is teaching a Musical Theatre Jazz class on the 6th of December at Pineapple Studios in London from 2.00 – 3.30 pm.
• Lisa Welham, Magda Sobolewska, Katrin Lerner, Keoni Azra & Jennifer White have a Ladies Latin Intensive on the 9th of December from 10.00 am – 5.00 pm at the Somers Town Community Sports Centre in London.
• Weronika Wiktoria is starting a Street Jazz class every Monday at 5.30 pm at the Base dance studios with Ralitsa Chepisheva.Dance Forward has a 1 day Christmas Ballet course at the Royal Ballet Company Studios on the 3rd of December from 9.30 am – 1.30 pm with Darcey Bussell.
• Lil J is offering a sassy Commercial class at the Pineapple Dance Studios on Tuesdays at 4.15 pm. You can book on the Pineapple app.
• Amy Ireland is offering a Beginners Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios on Fridays at 10.15 am and a Commercial Tap class on Mondays at 8.30 pm.
• Dominique Marinho is teaching a Beginners Heels class on Tuesdays at Pineapple Studios from 3.45 – 4.45 pm.
• Olivia Rose Shouler is doing a beginners choreography class on Wednesday from 7.00 – 8.25 pm at the Base Studios in London.
• Gemma Hoddy is giving a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 5.30 – 6.55 pm.
• Nicolette Whitley is offering a dance class on Thursdays from 6.15 – 7.15 pm at the Inner Space in Nelwyn for £7. Reserve your space on: nicolettewhitley@outlook.com
• Emma Levene is offering a General Ballet Core and Stretch Contemporary class at Forest Gate Community School on Thursdays from 7.00 – 8.00 pm. Email to book: doubletwistdance@gmail.com
• Alexandre Novelli is offering a Beginners Commercial for Adults class every Tuesday at her Novelli Studios from 6.00 – 7.00 pm.

Film & TV

• Jennifer Lopez is attached to star in a movie adaptation of the Broadway musical “Kiss of the Spiderwoman”. (Variety Magazine)
• The Rambert’s “Peaky Blinders” is on BBC 4 on New Years Day.
• We spotted Evie Templeton in the new film “Soup”.
• We spotted India Hope, Amber Vertannes, Jenna Brandon, Charlie Waddell & Julia-Ruth Smith performing with 50 Cent. The contract was with AJK.
• We spotted Alison Eager performing in “The Reunion” at Heathrow Airport. The choreography was by Ruth Brill.
• We spotted Grace Swaby-Moore and Kayleigh Thadani performing at the Royal Variety Performance Show at the Royal Albert Hall.
• We spotted the following dancers performing at Crouch Fest 2023: James Lambert, Harvey Bass, Ria Hunte, Hetty Moss, Ella Chatterton & Sofia De Sousa. The choreography was by Philip Birchall and Josh Wharmby.
• We spotted Hannah Veerapen and Lashay Harvey performing on Strictly’s Musicals Week.
• We spotted the following dancers in the new “Wonka” movie: Yasmin Harrison, Sam Salter, Shay Barclay, Alex Bird, Chrissy Brooke, Katie Deacon, Bethany Huckle, Ebony Molina, Busola Peters, Hannah Veerapen & Kiera Brunton.

Pro Dancer News Published by the Dincwear Pro Dancewear Team.

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Strictly It Takes Two makes a dazzling return to BBC Two in autumn 2023.

The countdown to all the behind-the scenes glamour and gossip is on as Strictly It Takes Two returns to BBC Two at 6.30pm on 25 September. Fans can look forward to an exciting season, featuring dynamic duo Janette Manrara and Fleur East.

Fleur will bring her infectious energy to the It Takes Two stage. With her unique perspective as a Strictly finalist, Fleur is poised to offer insightful commentary and exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses alongside Janette, a former professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing.

Janette’s wealth of experience on the dance floor has made her a popular figure amongst contestants and viewers alike and she is ready once more to offer engaging interviews with this series’ celebrities and professional dancers.

Joanne Clifton will be back to front Choreography corner but this time she is tag-teaming with her brother Kevin Clifton. They will be breaking down how you can recreate some Fab-U-Lous dance moves at home and analysing the weekends dance moves.

Janette shares: “I’m home! I’m loving being back with the Strictly family, there’s really nothing like it! I am ready to get stuck into this year’s It Takes Two, especially with the addition of Fleur who I’m SO excited to work with. This year is sure to be an exceptional one, so I really can’t wait to get started.”

Fleur comments: “It’s finally here! I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly family once again and work with Janette on such an amazing show. I loved my experience on the show last year and so it’s a dream to now be presenting it. I can’t wait to get to work on showing everyone the behind-the-scenes world of Strictly, along with meeting all our amazing celebs and pros!”

Eve Winstanley, Executive Producer for BBC Studios and Strictly It Takes Two says “We’re ready for another fabulous year of Strictly It Takes Two! This year you can expect the usual behind-the-scenes exclusives, dance analysis and of course, interviews with our exceptional line up. Janette and Fleur will be a fantastic duo that I’m sure everyone at home will adore.”

The return of Strictly It Takes Two marks the beginning of an exciting journey filled with rhinestones, twirls, and surprises. Don’t miss a beat as Janette and Fleur guide viewers through the glitz and glamour of Strictly Come Dancing.

Strictly It Takes Two is a BBC Daytime Commission. The commissioning Editor is Alex McLeod, the Executive Producer for BBC Studios is Eve Winstanley and the Series Producers are Sonal Patel and Judith Hay.

Audiences can watch Strictly It Takes Two every weekday at 6.30pm on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer.

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Warner Hotels launches Strictly Come Dancing staycations – with live dance lessons from the professionals.

STRICTLY Come Dancing fans can wear their dancing shoes for a one-of-a-kind staycation next year.

BBC Studios has launched a new exclusive partnership with Warner Hotels, where you’ll get the chance to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most renowned professional dancers. A weekend packed with breathtaking dancing performances by Stricly’s professionals, accompanied by live musical performances by the show’s own stars. Think Tommy Blaize, Lance Ellington and Patrick Smyth with the beautiful backgrounds of the hotels.

The immersive breaks will get you moving to the beat of the legendary show, whether you’re a seasoned dancer or want to have fun on the dance floor. You’ll have the chance to dance with some of the show’s best dancers, such as Dianne Buswell, Amy Dowden, Graziano Di Prima, Nikita Kuzmin, and Neil Jones. From the secrets of ‘paso double’ and the ‘cha cha’, these professionals will teach a series of dance courses that will be open to dancers of all experience levels.

Check out the Strictly Come Dancing breaks at Warner Hotels here.

And then, you’ll dance the night away with the celebrations set to last until the early morning hours.

There will also be meet & greets to speak to some of your dance idols and take pictures of priceless moments.

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Protesters halt Romeo + Juliet at Sadler’s Wells.

Protesters halted a performance of Romeo + Juliet at Sadler’s Wells in London as they took to the stage holding a banner that read “drop Barclays sponsorship”

An audience member, who wished to remain anonymous, said five protesters on stage chanted the slogan while at least one more to the side of the stage held a light. The disruption took place during the evening performance of Matthew Bourne’s Romeo + Juliet on August 31, just before the beginning of the second half of the show. The protesters were on stage for about 10 minutes before they were removed by security personnel, the audience member said.

An organisation called Fossil Free London, which campaigns against fossil fuel corporations, has taken responsibility for the protest against Barclays, which funds oil pipelines. Barclays provides sponsorship to Sadler’s Wells that funds the venue’s Barclays Dance Pass, which provides £10 tickets to 16 to 30 year olds.

Fossil Free London said on Twitter/X: “We’ve just disrupted a performance of Romeo and Juliet at Sadler’s Wells theatre, telling them to drop @Barclays dirty oil sponsorship!

“It’s time to get #OilyMoneyOut of our arts, our city and our futures.”

The audience member at the performance told The Media: “I booked £15 tickets and would likely have not gone to the show at full price. So, while I have a very vague knowledge of the finances of arts venues, I assume without a Barclays subsidy it may not have been possible for me to see that show, or others who may not otherwise go to a ballet performance for various socio-economic reasons.

“Barclays wouldn’t be on my Christmas card list though, and I fully respect [the campaigners’] right to protest and raise awareness of it.”

Arts venues have come under increasing pressure in recent years to drop oil and gas sponsors, with the Royal Shakespeare Company severing ties with BP in 2019 after nine years.

A spokesperson for the venue said: “Sadler’s Wells Theatre was targeted by a protest during a performance of the sell-out season of Romeo + Juliet tonight. Protesters were promptly ejected and the performance successfully restarted to audience cheers.”

The spokesperson continued: “We respect the right of individuals to air views on these matters, but a disruption to dedicated young dancers and musicians at an eagerly awaited performance during this sell-out run is wholly unacceptable, and we are supporting police to investigate the matter.”

A Barclays spokesperson said: “We believe that Barclays can make the greatest difference as a bank by working with customers and clients as they transition to a low-carbon business model, focussing on facilitating the finance needed to change business practices and scale new green technologies.

“This includes many oil and gas companies that are critical to the transition, and have committed significant resources and expertise to renewable energy. Where companies are unwilling to reduce their emissions consistent with internationally accepted pathways, they may find it difficult to access financing, including from Barclays.”

The spokesperson added that it was one of the “first banks to set an ambition to become net zero by 2050” adding that “[it is] clear that addressing climate change is an urgent and complex challenge”.

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Aston Merrygold and The Vivienne to star in The Wizard of Oz at Liverpool Empire.

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The hit staging of The Wizard of Oz has revealed casting for its six-week first stop on its major tour – which comes following its summer season at The London Palladium.

Featuring numbers from the iconic original score by Harold Arlen and E Y Hardburg, including “Over The Rainbow”, “Follow The Yellow Brick Road” and “We’re Off To See the Wizard”, the musical also has additional songs from Andrew Lloyd Webber and Tim Rice.

It received a glowing review in Leicester from WhatsOnStage, being described as “sheer theatrical wizardry and far too good to miss.”

Directed by Nikolai Foster (Billy Elliot The Musical, A Chorus Line), The Wizard of Oz has choreography by Shay Barclay, set design by Colin Richmond, projection design by Douglas O’Connell, costume and puppet designer by Rachael Canning, lighting design by Ben Cracknell, sound design by Adam Fisher, creative consultancy by Mark Kaufman, musical direction and supervision by George Dyer, casting by Debbie O’Brien, props supervision by Marcus Hall Props, and wigs, hair and make-up design by Elizabeth Marini.

The show will open with a festive season at Liverpool Empire from 13 December 2023 to 7 January 2024, ahead of the tour visiting (with additional tour stops confirmed today) Oxford, Southampton, Hull, Sheffield, Canterbury, Edinburgh, Southend, Norwich, Llandudno, Bradford, Plymouth, Bristol, Nottingham, Newcastle, Manchester, Woking, Belfast, Aberdeen, Milton Keynes, Cardiff, Wolverhampton and Sunderland.

Appearing in the show in Liverpool will be JLS and Strictly star Aston Merrygold, taking on the role of the Tin Man, while original champion of the first season of RuPaul’s Drag Race UK The Vivienne will take on the role of the Wicked Witch of the West. Further casting for Liverpool, and for all roles for the remainder of the tour, will be revealed soon.

Merrygold said today: “Liverpool is such a special place to me and my family, it was only a year ago that I got married there! The Wizard of Oz is such an iconic story with such timeless characters and audiences of any age will delight in this new production full of laughter, excitement and a lot of colour. I can’t wait to return to the city for a fantastic festive season this Christmas as The Tin Man, it’s going to be incredible!”

The Vivienne added: “It is quite literally a dream come true to be asked to play the Wicked Witch of the West and to bring this amazing character to life this Christmas. The Wizard of Oz means everything to me, it’s the ultimate story of overcoming adversity. I first saw the movie aged five and I’ve probably seen it about one hundred times since. I played The Tin Man at primary school and got to skate to “Over The Rainbow: on Dancing on Ice so it’s fair to say I’ve had a life-long love affair with the story.

“Your favourite characters are all there, telling the story you know and love … but with SO much more added to this new production. Prepare to be whisked into an amazing new world of colour. Performing in Liverpool is always a complete joy, and this will actually be my first-time stepping foot on the Empire stage after years of seeing productions there, so it’s a complete honour!”

The Wizard of Oz on tour is presented Michael Harrison, Gavin Kalin Productions, David Mirvish, Crossroads Live, Tulchin Bartner Productions, Nick Thomas, Rupert Gavin and Mallory Factor, Jake Hine and Playing Field, by arrangement with the Really Useful Group Ltd.

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Frozen to extend its West End run into summer 2024.

Frozen continues its success at Theatre Royal Drury Lane, extending its run once more.

The current cast of the show is Jenna Lee-James as Elsa, who replaces Samantha Barks during her maternity leave, Emily Lane (Anna), Djavan van de Fliert (Kristoff), Craig Gallivan (Olaf), Oliver Ormson (Hans), Richard Frame (Duke of Weselton), and alternating the role of Sven, Mikayla Jade and Ashley Birchall(alternating the role of Sven), with Rhianne Alleyne, Marianne Bardgett, Jeremy Batt, Danny Becker, Rebecca Botterill, Char Burnett (Bulda), Collette Coleman, Laura Emmitt, Davide Fienauri, Jemal Felix, Jordan Fox, Molly Francis, Matt Gillett, Ben Irish (Pabbie), Justin-Lee Jones, Aoife Kenny, Jordan Livesey, Joshua Robinson, Harriet Samuels, Jacqui Sanchez (Queen Iduna), Isabella Glanznig Santos, Jak Skelly (Oaken/Bishop), Kerry Spark (King Agnarr), Caitlin Tipping, Rodney Vubya, Anna Woodside, and Luke Fraser Yates.

The cast from 27 September is Jenna Lee-James (Elsa), Laura Dawkes (Anna), Jammy Kasongo (Kristoff), Craig Gallivan (Olaf), Oliver Ormson (Hans), Richard Frame (Duke of Weselton); and alternating the role of Sven, Mikayla Jade and Ashley Birchall. Continuing as part of the ensemble are Rhianne Alleyne, Marianne Bardgett, Rebecca Botterill, Gabrielle Cocca, Laura Emmitt, Jemal Felix,Jordan Fox, Molly Francis, Matt Gillett, Dominic Adam Griffin, Jordan Livesey, Isabella Glanznig Santos, Ben Irish (Pabbie), Justin-Lee Jones, Aoife Kenny, Harriet Samuels, Jacqui Sanchez (Queen Iduna), Jak Skelly (Oaken/Bishop, Caitlin Tipping, Anna Woodside, and Rodney Vubya; who will be joined by Oliver Brenin, Ashley J Daniels (King Agnarr), Lizzy-Rose Esin-Kelly (Bulda), George Hinson, Jonathan Milton, and Ed Wade.

The show is said to have broken box office records for the venue across the months of November and December, as well as during the festive period last year. It is now booking until June 2024, with booking for new dates from Friday 15 September at 10am.

Based on the seminal Disney film (which celebrates its 10th anniversary this year), the piece follows two sisters grappling with the death of their parents and the presence of the elder’s ice powers. It has music and lyrics by Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez, book by Jennifer Lee, and is directed by Michael Grandage.

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Musical theatre star Zoe Birkett to host UK Theatre Awar

Musical theatre performer Zoe Birkett has been announced to host this year’s UK Theatre Awards, taking place on October 8 at London’s Guildhall.

The awards honour achievements in theatre throughout England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland by UK Theatre members.

Birkett, who is currently in rehearsals for The Witches at the National Theatre, has previously performed in West End shows The Great British Bake Off Musical, Moulin Rouge!, and Thriller Live.

Birkett, who came fourth in the first series of Pop Idol, has presented award shows before, including the Top of the Pops Awards, CD:UK, and Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway.

Claire Walker, co-chief executive of Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre, said: “We’re so pleased to announce Zoe Birkett as our host for the 2023 UK Theatre Awards. Her incredible career in the arts and experience in touring theatre productions make her the perfect presenter for this year’s ceremony.

“We are looking forward to celebrating another fantastic year of theatre across the UK. After challenging times in recent years, it’s never been more important to honour our national members for their incredible productions, and the contributions they make to their local communities.”

Full nominations for the 2023 UK Theatre Awards are to be announced on September 14.

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General News & Sighting

• Strictly won the NTV award for “Best Talent Show”.
• The touring production of “Shrek the Musical” had to cancel a tour stop in Carlisle after the venue found traces of RAAC.
• The BBC aired a Panorama special on “The Dark Side Of Ballet Schools” which spoke to more than 50 ex-students of the Royal Ballet School and Elmhurst Ballet.
• Zoe Birkett will host this year’s UK Theatre Awards on the 8th of October at London’s Guildhall.
• Oti Mabuse announced that she is expecting a baby.
• Olivia Beckford launched her new book “Dance your way to success: reach your dream as a professional dancer”. It is available on Amazon.
• London will host the Margot Fonteyn International Ballet Competition 2023 from the 21st to the 29th of October.
• “Moulin Rouge” revealed its new West End company. Tanisha Spring will play Satine and Don Simpson will play Christian. We spotted Erin Bell, Charlotte Gooch, Katie Deacon, Natorii Illidge, Melissa Nettleford & Sasha Woodward among the new cast members, who will start on the 16th of October. The Dance Captain is Catrin Thomas and the choreography is by Sonya Tayeh.
• Drew McOnie announced that his “Nutcracker” will open at the Southbank Centre in London on the 28th of October. It will star Rachel Muldoon.
• “Cake: The Marie Antoinette Playlist” has confirmed its full cast. It will star Zizi Strallen and Renee Lamb with Travis Kerry as Dance Captain. The show opens at the Lyric Theatre in London on the 20th of September. It has choreography by Drew McOnie.
• A new musical from “Six” creators Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss is to have ticketed workshops at Sadlers Wells from the 6th until the 10th of September. The choreography is by Ellen Kane, Sara Aniqah Malik and Michael Naylor.
• “Six” has announced a new West End cast: Nikki Bentley, Theo Therese Nguyen, Kayleigh McKnight, Reca Oakley, Inez Budd & Janiq Charles. The Dance Captain is Gabriella Stylianou. The choreography is by Carrie-Anne Ingrouille.
• A new cast has been announced for “Mamma Mia” in the West End, which will take over on the 9th of October.
• The “Madagascar the Musical” tour unveiled its new cast. It will star Karim Zeroual and Jarnelia Richard Noel. The choreography is by Fabian Aloise. The show will open in Plymouth on the 20th of October.
• Megan Hilty and Jennifer Simard will headline the world premiere of the new musical “Death Becomes Her” at the Cadillac Palace Theatre in Chicago on the 30th of April. The choreography is by Christopher Gattelli.

Future Dance Events News

• “Wicked” has announced the full cast for its tour of the UK and Ireland. We spotted Charlotte Coggin, Aine Curran, Jade Davies, Maddison Firth, Shoko Ito and Will Luckett among the cast members. The tour will open on the 7th of December at Edinburgh.
• Full casting has been revealed for the first UK and Ireland tour of “Aladdin”. Gavin Adams will star with Desmonda Cathabel as Jasmine. Sarah Benbelaid is the Assistant Dance Captain. The show will open in Edinburgh in October.
• The full cast has been announced for “The Witches” musical at the National Theatre in London. The choreography is by Stephen Mear and Ebony Molina. It will open on the 7th of November.
• The 2024 Mighty Hoopla Big Weekender has announced its line up led by: Natalie Imbruglia, Cascada and Gabrielle.
• “Treason The Musical” confirms its initial touring cast. It will star Nicole Raquel Dennis, Joe McFadden and Emilie Louise Israel and open at the Edinburgh Festival theatre on the 25th of October.
• New British musical “Kin” is to have a staged concert at Theatro Technis in London from the 1st to the 4th of November. It will star Joseph Peacock.
• The full company has been confirmed for the new International tour of “Hamilton” which will commence in Manila on the 17th of September. The cast is led by Jason Arrow as Alexander Hamilton.
• “An Officer and a Gentleman” is set to embark on a new tour in February 2024 starting in Birmingham. The choreographer is Joanna Goodwin.
• Leeds Playhouse will stage “Oliver” in the round from the 27th of November until the 27th of January 2024.
• “Diana the Musical” will open at the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith, London, on the 4th of December. It will star Kerry Ellis and Maiya Quansah-Breed.
• “Standing at the Sky’s Edge” will run at the Gillian Lynne theatre from the 8th of February 2024. The choreography is by Lynne Page.
• New musical “Lizzie” has confirmed its tour dates plus a London run. It will open at the Hope Mill theatre in Manchester on the 30th of September with Lauren Drewvill playing Lizzie Borden. The associate choreographer is Yandass Ndlovu.
• “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” will embark on a UK tour from April 2024, opening in Southampton on the 30th of April 2024. The choreography is by Karen Bruce.
• “Shucked” will open in the West End in 2024. The choreographer is Sarah O’Gleby.
• The musical “Bonnie & Clyde” will be heading off on a tour of UK and Ireland in 2024, opening in Manchester on the 19th of March. It is directed and choreographed by Nick Winston.
• “Come From Away” announced a UK and Ireland tour beginning in Leicester on the 1st of March 2024. The production is being cast by Pippa Ailion and Natalie Gallacher. The choreography is by Tara Wilkinson and Kirsty Malpas with Richard Hinds.
• Manchester’s Hope Mill theatre will stage the world premiere of “To Wong Foo – The Musical”, based on the 1995 film, on the 21st of October. The cast and creative team is to be announced. The casting is by Sarah Leung.
• “Hadestown” will open at the Lyric Theatre in the West End on the 10th of February 2024. The choreographer is David Neumann.
• The Chaka Khan musical “I’m Every Woman” announced plans to open in London. It will workshop in the West End in November. The director will be Racky Plews.
• The new musical “Starter for Ten” will premiere in Bristol next year at the Old Vic theatre from the 29th of February until the 30th of March 2024.
• “The King And I” will return to the West End in early 2024 starring Helen George and Darren Lee.
• “Sister Act – The Musical” will return to the Dominion theatre in the West End on the 15th of March 2024. It will star Beverley Knight and Alexandra Burke. The choreography is by Alistair David.
• The lead cast has been unveiled for “We Will Rock You” opening in the West End. It will star Lee Mead and Brenda Edwards.
• The upcoming “Wicked” tour has announced its lead casting. Laura Pick will play Elphaba. The show will open in Edinburgh on the 7th of December. The choreography is by Wayne Cilento.
• “Jesus Christ Superstar” will tour the UK in 2023/4 opening in Manchester this September. The choreography is by Drew McOnie.
• “The Wizard of Oz” will embark on a UK tour at Liverpool Empire on the 13th of December. The choreography is by Shay Barclay.

Auditions & Vacancies

• Morvell Dance is looking for 3 female dancers. The audition is at the Place in London on the 7th of October from 2.00 – 7.00pm. For more information, contact: http://www.amymorvelldance.com
• The London Cabaret Club have auditions for dancers on the 17th of September with registration at 11.00 am. See the website for more details: http://www.thelondoncabaretclub.com
• The Place in London is looking for dancers to become Trainee Dance Teachers in their Partners Schools Project. Have a look at the website for details.
• Ryan Jenkin’s iD is holding an audition on the 17th of September to become an iD company dancer. Visit the iD company website for more details: http://www.id-company.co.uk/auditions
• The Thea Barnes Legacy Fund has bursaries of up to £2,300 to support dancers looking to accelerate their careers in the UK. The deadline for applications is the 15th of October. For more information visit: http://www.theabarneslegacyfund.com
• “Beetlejuice” is looking for dancers in New York. Get more details on: http://www.pearsoncasting.com/beetlejuice
• Addict Dance Academy is hiring an Acting teacher. For more information, contact: gareth@addictdanceacademy.co.uk
• Rouge in Las Vegas is looking for male dancers. Contact: castofstrat@gmail.com
• Birmingham Royal Ballet is looking for a repetiteur. Have a look at the company website for details.

Dance Classes

• Renako McDonald has a workshop on the 17th of September at the Place in London from 11.00 am – 2.00 pm. Contact Renako on: Renakomc@hotmail.com for more details.
• Lil J is offering a sassy Commercial class at the Pineapple Dance Studios on Tuesdays at 4.15 pm. You can book on the Pineapple app.
• Ellie Fergusson and Jenni Inglis have a dance workshop on the 24th of September at Broughton High School. To book, email: hello@eda.scot
• Mica Bradbury, First Artist with the Royal Ballet, has a Don Quixote workshop on the 17th of September at the Royal Opera House from 10.30 – 1.00 pm (for 9 – 11 year olds) and 1.45 – 4.45 pm (for 12 – 17 year olds). For more details and to book, contact: micabeau@gmail.com
• Royal Ballet dancer Sophie Allnatt is doing a ballet workshop on the 24th of September at the Thorpe Hall School in Essex. Contact Sophie on: sophie.allnatt@hotmail.co.uk
• Amy Ireland is offering a Beginners Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios on Fridays at 10.15 am and a Commercial Tap class on Mondays at 8.30 pm.
• Dominique Marinho is teaching a Beginners Heels class on Tuesdays at Pineapple Studios from 3.45 – 4.45 pm from the 1st of August.
• Jaye Richard Noel is starting a Commercial Hip Hop class from 8.00 – 9.30 pm on Wednesdays at Gymbox in Holborn. You can book via: heelsandfeels.com
• Natalie Twist has a “Sexy R n B” class every Wednesday from 8.00 – 9.00 pm at the Pineapple Dance Studios.
• Olivia Rose Shouler is doing a beginners choreography class on Wednesday from 7.00 – 8.25 pm at the Base Studios in London.
• Daniela Fabbricatore is teaching at the CYD Super Convention on the Sunday: 9.00 am Jazz Fusion Advanced, 11.00 am Tap Intermediate & 2.00pm Jazz.
• Anna Maria Barber is doing a Choreography class at Flow Dance in Oval every Tuesday from 7.00 – 8.30 pm.
• Hannah O’Brian is giving a Heels class on Wednesdays from 7.00 – 8.00 pm in Chelmsford. DM Hannah on her Instagram for details.
• Gemma Hoddy is giving a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 5.30 – 6.55 pm.
• Nicolette Whitley is offering a dance class on Thursdays from 6.15 – 7.15 pm at the Inner Space in Nelwyn for £7. Reserve your space on: nicolettewhitley@outlook.com
• Anita Mannings has a Contemporary Jazz Class (Int) on Wednesdays from 8.30 – 9.55 pm at the Flow Dance Studios in Oval.
• Emma Levene is offering a General Ballet Core and Stretch Contemporary class at Forest Gate Community School on Thursdays from 7.00 – 8.00 pm. Email to book: doubletwistdance@gmail.com
• Michael Naylor is teaching a class on Thursdays at the Base Dance Studios from 2.30 – 4.00 pm. Book via the Base app.
• Alexandre Novelli is offering a Beginners Commercial for Adults class every Tuesday at her Novelli Studios from 6.00 – 7.00 pm.
• Nafisah Baba is teaching a weekly Lyrical Contemporary Intermediate / Advanced class at Danceworks in London every Tuesday from 8.00 – 9.30 pm.
• Lucy Jane Adcock is teaching a Show Tap class at Base Dance Studios on Wednesdays at 11.30 am.
• Poppy Tremlett is offering an Improvers Choreography class at Base Dance Studios on Tuesdays from 8.30 – 10.00 pm.
• Rachel Bolsworth is teaching an Absolute Beginners Heels class from 7.00 – 8.00 pm on Tuesdays and an Improvers Beginners Heels class on Monday from 8.30 – 9.30 pm at Pineapple Dance Studios.
• Hannah Cleeve is giving a Heels Technique class on Wednesdays from 1.00 – 2.30 pm each week at the Base Dance Studios.
• Kamila Zalewska is teaching at the Base Studios in London on Mondays from 4.00 – 5.25 pm for intermediate/advanced level. Book on the Base app.

Film & TV

• Short film “The Rose” won Best Animation at the Experimental Dance & Music Film Festival 2023. It starred and was choreographed by Chrissy Brooke.
• “Barbie” is officially Warner Bros’ highest grossing movie ever.
• We spotted Julia Zytho, Sophia Turner, Ashleigh Honeyghan & Charlotte Anderson performing with Shirin David at the Mercedes Benz Arena in Berlin.
• We spotted Julia Ruiz Fernandez in 2 new movie releases: “Fast & Furious X The Fast Saga” and “Red, White and Royal Blue” on Amazon. Julia ia also performing in “La Bamba” on tour.
• We spotted Shani Sweetnam performing in Sydney at the World Cup closing ceremony.
• We spotted Autumn Miller dancing with Beyonce on The Renaissance Tour in the States.

Pro Dancer News Published by the Dincwear Pro Dancewear Team.

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All the latest news from Dincwear Pro Dancewear.

Strictly Come Dancing’s Giovanni Pernice confirms he will miss group dances.

Strictly Come Dancing star Giovanni Pernice has confirmed he will miss some of the group dances for the upcoming series of the show.

Preparations for the 21st series of the BBC show are firmly underway, with the group routines often being filmed before the live episodes in order to give the professionals more time with their celebrity partners.

Pernice, however, will not be a part of all the group dances following an ankle injury, which he sustained during a performance on his current tour with Strictly judge Anton Du Beke.

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Strictly Come Dancing’s Janette Manrara gives birth to first child.

Strictly Come Dancing stars Janette Manrara and Aljaz Skorjanec have welcomed their first child together.

The married couple announced the news by sharing a photo on Instagram of Manrara, 39, in a hospital bed cradling the newborn baby while Skorjanec, 33, leaned over them with a beaming smile.

They said the baby had been born on Friday (29 July) and had been named Lyra Rose Skorjanec.
Friends and famous faces congratulated the couple, including Strictly Come Dancing professional Gorka Marquez who wrote: “So gorgeous!!!”

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‘New York, New York’ Will End Its Abbreviated Run on Broadway.

The big-budget musical that tried to position itself as a nostalgic love letter to the city will close after a summer of dropping sales.

“New York, New York,” a big-budget musical that tried to position itself as a nostalgic love letter to the city, will close on July 30 after underwhelming critics and failing to find a sufficient audience to sustain a Broadway run.

The musical was the costliest swing of the last theater season, with a $25 million capitalization, according to a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission; that money has not been recouped. The show’s budget was bigger than that of other musicals currently arriving Broadway, although costs have been rising, and the musicals with the largest companies and the most stage spectacle are increasingly costing more than $20 million.

“New York, New York” started off respectably at the box office, with weekly grosses initially hovering around $1 million. But the musical has been expensive to run, with a large cast and a sizable orchestra, and its sales have been dropping problematically this summer. During the week that ended July 16, “New York, New York” grossed $692,051 and played to houses that were only 68 percent full, according to the most recent figures released by the Broadway League.

At the time of its closing, “New York, New York” will have played 33 preview and 110 regular performances.

The musical, directed and choreographed by Susan Stroman, opened on April 26 and faced mixed to negative reviews. In The New York Times, the critic Elisabeth Vincentelli called it “sprawling, unwieldy, surprisingly dull.”

The show was nominated for nine Tony Awards, and it won one, for Beowulf Boritt’s scenic design.

Sonia Friedman and Tom Kirdahy are the musical’s lead producers. In May they announced plans for a national tour of the musical starting in January 2025, but on Sunday evening, when they announced the closing date, they said only that “discussions are underway for a North American tour.”

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Ain’t Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations to end West End run early.

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Producers of the West End premiere of Ain’t Too Proud have today confirmed that the show will end its run at the Prince Edward Theatre on Sunday, 17 September 2023. It was previously scheduled to close on 7 January 2024.

The musical tells the story of legendary Motown group, The Temptations, tracing their extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Numbers include “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Papa Was a Rollin’ Stone,” “Get Ready,” and “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg,” among many others.

It received a glowing review from WhatsOnStage, being described as “a couple of hours of unalloyed pleasure, and that deserves to be a great big fat popular hit.”

The West End cast is led by Cameron Bernard Jones as Melvin Franklin, Kyle Cox as Paul Williams, Sifiso Mazibuko as Otis Williams, Mitchell Zhangazha as Eddie Kendricks, and Tosh Wanogho-Maud as David Ruffin.

The ensemble includes Evonnee Bentley-Holder, Natalia Brown, Ryan Carter, Hannah Fairclough, Christopher Gopaul, Daniel Haswell, Naomi Katiyo, Akmed Junior Khemalai, Holly Liburd, Darnell Mathew-James, Simeon Montague, Posi Morakinyo, Sadie-Jean Shirley, Michael James Stewart, Toyan Thomas-Browne, Dylan Turner and Kevin Yates.

Ain’t Too Proud is written by Dominique Morisseau, a recipient of the prestigious Kennedy Prize. The musical reunites director Des McAnuff, a two-time Tony Award winner, with Sergio Trujilio, the Tony and Olivier Award-winning choreographer, known for their work on the hit show Jersey Boys.

The production features scenic design by Tony Award nominee Robert Brill, costume design by Tony Award winner Paul Tazewell, lighting design by Tony Award winner Howell Binkley, sound design by Tony Award winner Steve Canyon Kennedy, and projection design by Drama Desk Award winner Peter Nigrini. Charles G LaPointe handles hair and wig design, while music supervision and arrangements are by Kenny Seymour, orchestrations by Drama Desk Award winner Harold Wheeler, and music direction by Matt Smith. Pippa Ailion CDG and Natalie Gallacher CDG are responsible for casting.

The show is now set to play its final performance this September.

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General News & Sighting

• Lizzo and her production company is being sued by 3 former dancers over allegations of sexual harassment and the creation of a hostile work environment. The complaint was filed in L.A.
• Amy Dowden will not compete in Strictly this year due to undergoing chemotherapy. We wish Amy the very best of luck.
• Janette & Aljaz announced the birth of baby Lyra Rose. Many congratulations.
• Carlos Acosta is to open a dance centre in South East London in September. This will offer dance classes, courses and performances.
• Ash-Leigh Hunter and partner Phil Burton won “Dancing With The Stars” in Australia.
• The Ballet Icons Gala will take place at the London Coliseum on the 17th of March 2024.
• Complete casting has been revealed for “Flowers For Mrs Harris”. Jenna Russell will star as Ada Harris. Anjali Mehra is the movement director and the assistant director is Teenie Macleod. Casting was by Jane Deitch.
• The final cast has been announced for “Death Note – The Musical”. We spotted the following dancers in the ensemble: Charlotte Coggin, Jade Copas and Janine Somcio. The production is directed and choreographed by Nick Winston and takes place at the London Palladium on the 21st & 22nd of August and the Lyric Theatre from the 7th to the 10th of September.
• Frankie Bridge will join the cast of “2.22 A Ghost Story” in August until the 17th of September.
• New cast members have been announced for the UK & Ireland tour of “The Lion King”. They will join the production on the 5th of September.
• The producers of the West End show “Ain’t Too Proud” have confirmed that it will close on the 17th of September.
• In America, Jeremy Jordan and Eva Noblezada will star in the “Great Gatsby” musical at the Paper Mill Playhouse in New Jersey opening on the 12th of October. It has choreography by Dominique Kelley.

Future Dance Events News

• “Treason The Musical” confirms its initial touring cast. It will star Nicole Raquel Dennis, Joe McFadden and Emilie Louise Israel and open at the Edinburgh Festival theatre on the 25th of October.
• New British musical “Kin” is to have a staged concert at Theatro Technis in London from the 1st to the 4th of November. It will star Joseph Peacock.
• The full company has been confirmed for the new International tour of “Hamilton” which will commence in Manila on the 17th of September. The cast is led by Jason Arrow as Alexander Hamilton.
• “An Officer and a Gentleman” is set to embark on a new tour in February 2024 starting in Birmingham. The choreographer is Joanna Goodwin.
• Leeds Playhouse will stage “Oliver” in the round from the 27th of November until the 27th of January 2024.
• “Diana the Musical” will open at the Eventim Apollo in Hammersmith, London, on the 4th of December. It will star Kerry Ellis and Maiya Quansah-Breed.
• “Standing at the Sky’s Edge” will run at the Gillian Lynne theatre from the 8th of February 2024. The choreography is by Lynne Page.
• New musical “Lizzie” has confirmed its tour dates plus a London run. It will open at the Hope Mill theatre in Manchester on the 30th of September with Lauren Drewvill playing Lizzie Borden. The associate choreographer is Yandass Ndlovu.
• “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang” will embark on a UK tour from April 2024, opening in Southampton on the 30th of April 2024. The choreography is by Karen Bruce.
• “Shucked” will open in the West End in 2024. The choreographer is Sarah O’Gleby.
• The musical “Bonnie & Clyde” will be heading off on a tour of UK and Ireland in 2024, opening in Manchester on the 19th of March. It is directed and choreographed by Nick Winston.
• “Come From Away” announced a UK and Ireland tour beginning in Leicester on the 1st of March 2024. The production is being cast by Pippa Ailion and Natalie Gallacher. The choreography is by Tara Wilkinson and Kirsty Malpas with Richard Hinds.
• Manchester’s Hope Mill theatre will stage the world premiere of “To Wong Foo – The Musical”, based on the 1995 film, on the 21st of October. The cast and creative team is to be announced. The casting is by Sarah Leung.
• “Hadestown” will open at the Lyric Theatre in the West End on the 10th of February 2024. The choreographer is David Neumann.
• The Chaka Khan musical “I’m Every Woman” announced plans to open in London. It will workshop in the West End in November. The director will be Racky Plews.
• The new musical “Starter for Ten” will premiere in Bristol next year at the Old Vic theatre from the 29th of February until the 30th of March 2024.
• “The King And I” will return to the West End in early 2024 starring Helen George and Darren Lee.
• “Sister Act – The Musical” will return to the Dominion theatre in the West End on the 15th of March 2024. It will star Beverley Knight and Alexandra Burke. The choreography is by Alistair David.
• The lead cast has been unveiled for “We Will Rock You” opening in the West End. It will star Lee Mead and Brenda Edwards.
• The upcoming “Wicked” tour has announced its lead casting. Laura Pick will play Elphaba. The show will open in Edinburgh on the 7th of December. The choreography is by Wayne Cilento.
• “Jesus Christ Superstar” will tour the UK in 2023/4 opening in Manchester this September. The choreography is by Drew McOnie.
• “The Wizard of Oz” will embark on a UK tour at Liverpool Empire on the 13th of December. The choreography is by Shay Barclay.

Auditions & Vacancies

• Addict Dance Academy is hiring an Acting teacher. For more information, contact: gareth@addictdanceacademy.co.uk
• Nathan Clarke is looking for strong commercial dancers for a project in Madrid. You can DM Nathan on his Instagram account.
• LaDuca Shoes is looking for a Manager based at its store in Covent Garden. For more information, contact: siobhan@laduca.co.uk by the 25th of August.
• Aerowaves and The Place, London, is looking for 20 emerging choreographers based in Europe. Apply by the 10th of August.
• Rouge in Las Vegas is looking for male dancers. Contact: castofstrat@gmail.com
• Birmingham Royal Ballet is looking for a repetiteur. Have a look at the company website for details.
• Ballet Black is auditioning in America for new dancers for the 2023/4 season. For more information, contact: admin@balletblack.co.uk with “US Audition” in the heading.
• Bird College is looking for a Tap tutor, with a focus on Musical Theatre, to begin in September. Have a look at the website for more details.
• Emil Dale Academy is looking for freelance Ballet teachers. There is more information at: info@emildale.co.uk

Dance Classes

• Ryan Lee Seager and Sam Fleet are holding a “Finesse Your Craft” workshop on the 9th of August from 12.00 – 3.30 pm at the Hub Studios in London. Contact: ryanleeseager@hotmail.com
• Royal Ballet dancer Sophie Allnatt is doing a ballet workshop on the 24th of September at the Thorpe Hall School in Essex. Contact Sophie on: sophie.allnatt@hotmail.co.uk
• Amy Ireland is offering a Beginners Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios on Fridays at 10.15 am and a Commercial Tap class on Mondays at 8.30 pm.
• Sophie Ferrero has a workshop series on the 2nd of September at the Hub Studios in London from 11.30 am – 3.30 pm.
• Dominique Marinho is teaching a Beginners Heels class on Tuesdays at Pineapple Studios from 3.45 – 4.45 pm from the 1st of August.
• Jaye Richard Noel is starting a Commercial Hip Hop class from 8.00 – 9.30 pm on Wednesdays at Gymbox in Holborn. You can book via: heelsandfeels.com
• Natalie Twist has a “Sexy R n B” class every Wednesday from 8.00 – 9.00 pm at the Pineapple Dance Studios.
• Olivia Rose Shouler is doing a beginners choreography class on Wednesday from 7.00 – 8.25 pm at the Base Studios in London.
• Daniela Fabbricatore is teaching at the CYD Super Convention on the Sunday: 9.00 am Jazz Fusion Advanced, 11.00 am Tap Intermediate & 2.00pm Jazz.
• Lowri Amelia Jackson has a Commercial workshop on the 13th of August at Pas De Deux Studios. Contact Freedom Dance to book.
• Anna Maria Barber is doing a Choreography class at Flow Dance in Oval every Tuesday from 7.00 – 8.30 pm.
• Hannah O’Brian is giving a Heels class on Wednesdays from 7.00 – 8.00 pm in Chelmsford. DM Hannah on her Instagram for details.
• Gemma Hoddy is giving a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 5.30 – 6.55 pm.
• Nicolette Whitley is offering a dance class on Thursdays from 6.15 – 7.15 pm at the Inner Space in Nelwyn for £7. Reserve your space on: nicolettewhitley@outlook.com
• Anita Mannings has a Contemporary Jazz Class (Int) on Wednesdays from 8.30 – 9.55 pm at the Flow Dance Studios in Oval.
• Emma Levene is offering a General Ballet Core and Stretch Contemporary class at Forest Gate Community School on Thursdays from 7.00 – 8.00 pm. Email to book: doubletwistdance@gmail.com
• Michael Naylor is teaching a class on Thursdays at the Base Dance Studios from 2.30 – 4.00 pm. Book via the Base app.
• Alexandre Novelli is offering a Beginners Commercial for Adults class every Tuesday at her Novelli Studios from 6.00 – 7.00 pm.
• Nafisah Baba is teaching a weekly Lyrical Contemporary Intermediate / Advanced class at Danceworks in London every Tuesday from 8.00 – 9.30 pm.
• Lucy Jane Adcock is teaching a Show Tap class at Base Dance Studios on Wednesdays at 11.30 am.
• Poppy Tremlett is offering an Improvers Choreography class at Base Dance Studios on Tuesdays from 8.30 – 10.00 pm.
• Rachel Bolsworth is teaching an Absolute Beginners Heels class from 7.00 – 8.00 pm on Tuesdays and an Improvers Beginners Heels class on Monday from 8.30 – 9.30 pm at Pineapple Dance Studios.
• Hannah Cleeve is giving a Heels Technique class on Wednesdays from 1.00 – 2.30 pm each week at the Base Dance Studios.
• Kamila Zalewska is teaching at the Base Studios in London on Mondays from 4.00 – 5.25 pm for intermediate/advanced level. Book on the Base app.

Film & TV

• We spotted Shakira Robinson in “Heartstopper” on Netflix.
• We spotted the following dancers performing with Big Wiz at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London: Mari Macleod, Zhane Samuels, Nadia Robinson, Mina Neighbour & Becky Wong. The choreography was by Gina Eigbe and the contract was with Kutes.
• We spotted Hannah Nazareth performing at the BBC Proms tribute to Lata Mangeshkar at the Royal Albert Hall.
• We spotted Summer Villiers, Julia Zytko, Ines Galnares & Alice Dickens performing at the Kallis Moet & Chandon Pink and White party in Sweden. The contract was with Mass Movement and the choreography was by Kamila Zalewska.
• We spotted the following dancers in Disney’s “The Little Mermaid”: Erica Stubbs, Busola Peters, Charlotte Bazeley, Austyn Farrell, Demi Mensah & Chanel Mian. The contract was with Mass Talent.
• We spotted Cassidy Cannonier in the music video for “The Weekend” by Stormzy & Raye.
• We spotted Emma Nielsen, Becky Wong, Yves Cueni & Michele Zan performing with Rita Ora on BBC1’s “The One Show”. The choreography was by Becky Hicks and the contract was with Kutes.

During August 2023, Dincwear Pro Dancewear will be publishing the Pro Dancer News every second week.

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All the latest news from Dincwear Pro Dancewear.

Strictly’s Aljaž Škorjanec explains why he left BBC One dance show after nine years.

Ex Strictly Professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec worked on the hit BBC show for nine years before hanging up his Strictly dancing shoes in 2021 – revealing that series 19 was his last.

After last appearing on Strictly Come Dancing back in 2021, pro dancer Aljaž Škorjanec has finally opened up about why he made the decision to leave.
Shortly after taking part in series 19 – his last ever season – the 33 year old confirmed he wouldn’t be returning the following year – which would have been his 10th time dancing on the show.

However, it seems that his reasons for calling it a day were completely unrelated to the programme. In reality, Aljaž just wanted to take a break from dancing and focus on other aspects of his career.
According to the 19-time Slovenian champion in Ballroom, Latin and Ten Dance, he was having a “midlife crisis” when he made the choice to quit.

When speaking to the Media Press, he said: “I found I fell in love with dancing again when I did theatre, people came to see me and I found an appreciation for someone clapping after I finished dancing. I fell in love with that concept.”
“I did theatre for three years and then Strictly came around and I did that for nine years,” he added.
“A year and a half ago I hit an early midlife crisis and now I don’t know what I want to do in my life. I love talking now, so I love doing Q&As, birthdays, calls – don’t make me dance but I can talk for ages.”

It seems Aljaž’s love for the spoken word hasn’t been lost on his wife, fellow Strictly star Janette Manrara, either, who teased that her husband would be a great presenter.

Chatting to the publication, the It Takes Two host revealed that she’d love for him to land a presenting role on the show’s spin-off series, following the recent news of her co-star, Rylan Clark’s departure. Of course, this is all just speculation, as a replacement for Rylan has not actually been confirmed yet.
When announcing his exit, Rylan shared with his fans that he was ready to “pass the baton on.” He wrote: “After 4 fantastic years it’s time for me to hang up my glittery jacket and say goodbye to It Takes Two.
“I’ve had the best time hosting the show alongside Janette and Zoe and I can’t thank the amazing team enough for always putting on a great show. I’ve been welcomed into the Strictly family and will firmly hold that title dear to me.”

Rylan added: “The time has come for me to pass on the baton to someone else and explore what else life has for me. Thank you Strictly, you will always have my heart… and dancing feet.”

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Line-up for West End Live revealed.

The initial line-up of shows for West End Live has been revealed.

Taking place on 17 and 18 June, the free event runs in Trafalgar Square and sees thousands of theatre enthusiasts flock to central London for a chance to watch their favourites for free.

Ain’t Too Proud, Aspects Of Love, Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!, and The Time Travellers Wife: The Musical are among the shows appearing for the first time. The event will be BSL interpreted by Omoyele Davey, Marco Nardi and Caroline Richardson.

Set to take part are:
42nd Street
Ain’t Too Proud – The Life And Times Of The Temptations
Aspects Of Love
Back To The Future The Musical
La Bamba!
The Barricade Boys
The Book Of Mormon
Cabaret
The Choir Of Man
Crazy For You
Death Note: The Musical
Disney’s Frozen
Glory Ride
Grease The Musical
Hamilton
Heathers The Musical
I Wish My Life Were Like A Musical
Jersey Boys
Disney’s The Lion King
Magic Mike Live
Mamma Mia!
RSC’s Matilda The Musical
Les Misérables
Moulin Rouge! The Musical
Rodgers & Hammerstein’s Oklahoma!
Operation Mincemeat
The Phantom Of The Opera
Queenz: The Show With Balls!
Roles We’ll Never Play
Six
Idiots Assemble: Spitting Image The Musical
The SpongeBob Musical
A Strange Loop
Tarantino Live
Then, Now & Next
The Time Traveller’s Wife: The Musical
Tina – The Tina Turner Musical
We Will Rock You
Wicked
The Wizard Of Oz

More shows and acts will be announced in the coming weeks.

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Simon Cowell ‘breaks the rules’ on Britain’s Got Talent for ‘astonishing’ dance act.

Britain’s Got Talent judge Simon Cowell ‘broke the rules’ of the show for an ‘astonishing’ dance act as he gave them the golden buzzer despite there not being any left
The judge, 63, stunned viewers as he hit the buzzer at the end of Unity’s performance on Sunday night show.

The dance act, which is made up of college friends, have now secured a place in the live shows thanks to Simon.
Unity performed a powerful dance, which highlighted what makes people unique.
They were met with a standing ovation from the crowd, who were cheering on for the judges to press the golden buzzer.
Bruno Tonioli said: “You can be anything you want and anyone you want to be.
“The message is loud and clear. The execution, artistically, your choreography was superb.

Amanda was cut off by the amount of cheers from the audience as Dec said: “The audience want a gold but there aren’t any golds left.”
“Bruno will push it anyway,” quipped Ant. Bruno told Unity, “I have already done it twice, I can’t do anymore.”

Whilst Amanda gave her opinion: “For me it was such a beautiful and passionate piece, the message was so strong. “Everything that you stand for, all your personalities and the love that you have for each other, all the characters involved in this group. “All of that made this such an amazing and special piece. It was beautiful.”

Simon added: “I actually thought that was astonishing, the way that you got your message across was so strong. “It was an audition I will never forget. What you have done, you have done it your way. Look, we don’t have any golden buzzers left.”

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Shrek The Musical announces complete casting for UK and Ireland tour.

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Casting is now complete for the upcoming UK and Ireland tour of Shrek The Musical.

Joining previously announced cast members Antony Lawrence (as Shrek), Joanne Clifton (as Princess Fiona), James Gillan (as Lord Farquaad) and Brandon Lee Sears (as Donkey) will be Cherece Richards (Once on This Island) as the Dragon, alongside Leo Abad, Scotty Armstrong, Imogen Bailey, Jabari Braham, Georgie Buckland, Natasha Cayabyab, Mark Darcy, Jonathan David Dudley, Remi Ferdinand, Sonny Grieveson, Edward Leigh, Bethany Kate, Jessica Lim, Andile Mabhena, Bronte MacMillan, India Thornton. Talia Duff, Gabby Gregorian, Roy Shafford and Jamie Jonathan.

Opening this summer in Plymouth, the show is based on the William Steig’s children’s book and the Oscar-winning DreamWorks film of the same name and is penned by David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori. It follows a curmudgeonly ogre who is roped into a quest to save a princess, only for true love to get in the way.

The show was first seen on Broadway in 2008, with a West End premiere following in 2011.

This new revival of Shrek will feature a different producing team to the musical’s original UK production, with Sam Holmes (who played Lord Farquaad in a previous tour) co-directing with Nick Winston (Bonnie and Clyde), who also choreographs.

The creative team also includes set and costume designer Philip Witcomb, lighting designer Ben Cracknell, sound designer Ben Harrison, projection designer Nina Dunn, puppet designer Jimmy Grimes and casting director Jim Arnold.

The show will open at Plymouth Theatre Royal on 21 July 2023 and then visit Manchester, Dublin, Bristol, Southend, Carlisle, Aberdeen, Oxford, Wimbledon, Dartford, Northampton, Leicester, Bradford, Woking, Eastbourne, Cardiff, York, Blackpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Coventry, Sunderland, Liverpool, Southampton, Milton Keynes, Hull, Cheltenham, Nottingham, Norwich, Belfast, Birmingham and Derry. A selection of dates are now on sale.

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Tony Award winner Myles Frost to reprise his role as Michael Jackson in West End transfer of MJ.

Producers of MJ have announced that Myles Frost, who originated the role of Michael Jackson in New York and ultimately won a Tony Award, will reprise his performance to London.

The show will run at the Prince Edward Theatre from 6 March 2024, with a press night on 27 March. Tickets will go on general sale later this week (24 May).

The piece is penned by Lynn Nottage (Sweat) and directed and choreographed by Royal Ballet associate artist Christopher Wheeldon.

Frost said: “Working with Chris has always been amazing. He is a visionary and knowing that we’re now going into his stomping ground, I’m ready for that ride! I’m super excited to bring this show to the West End and to make this a magical experience for everybody.”

Wheeldon added: “I am naturally thrilled to have Myles opening the London company with his knockout award-winning performance. Myles embodies the artistic spirit of MJ but allows his own glorious talent to shine through his portrayal. Working closely with Myles to achieve this is in part what has made this show such a success on Broadway.”

Centred around the making of his 1992 Dangerous World Tour, MJ includes Jackson hits such as “Billie Jean”, “Beat It”, “Man in the Mirror”, “Thriller” and “Smooth Criminal”.

The creative team for also includes scenic design by Derek McLane, lighting design by Natasha Katz, costume design by Paul Tazewell, sound design by Gareth Owen, projection design by Peter Nigrini, and hair and wig design by Charles LaPointe. Musical supervision is by David Holcenberg, and the orchestrations and arrangements are by Holcenberg and Jason Michael Webb.

Further casting for the London production of MJ is still to be confirmed.

}—–{

Bonnie and Clyde announces first UK and Ireland tour.

Award-winner Bonnie and Clyde The Musical will embark on its first UK and Ireland tour next year.

The show has previously played two seasons in the West End, at the Arts Theatre and Garrick Theatre. The tour opens at Leicester Curve on 22 February 2024.

The Tony-nominated piece, which is penned by Ivan Menchell, Frank Wildhorn and Don Black, follows the true story of two outlaws who go on a murderous spree across the nation – gaining fame in the process.

It’s directed by Nick Winston, with set and costume design by Philip Witcomb, musical supervision from Katy Richardson, original arrangements and orchestrations by John McDaniel, additional arrangements and orchestrations by Jen Green, lighting design by Zoe Spurr, sound design by Tom Marshall, video design by Nina Dunn, wig design by Darren Ware and casting director Jim Arnold CDG.

The tour will visit: Leicester Curve (22 to 24 February 2024), Dartford Orchard Theatre (27 February to 2 March), Wolverhampton Grand Theatre (5 to 9 March) Norwich Theatre Royal (12 to 16 March), Manchester Opera House (19 to 23 March), Wales Millennium Centre (26 to 30 March), Southampton Mayflower (2 to 6 April), His Majesty’s Theatre Aberdeen (9 to 13 April), Glasgow King’s Theatre (16 to 20 April), New Victoria Theatre, Woking (23 to 27 April), Nottingham Theatre Royal (14 to 18 May), Southend Cliffs Pavilion (21 to 25 May), Grand Theatre Belfast (28 May to 1 June), Bath Theatre Royal (3 to 8 June), Milton Keynes Theatre (18 to 22 June), Blackpool Opera House (25 to 29 June), Edinburgh Festival Theatre (2 to 6 July), Cheltenham Everyman (9 to 13 July), Dublin Bord Gais (16 to 20 July) and Eastbourne Congress Theatre (23 to 27 July).

It’s produced by DLAP Group. Casting will be announced in due course.

}—–{

General News & Sighting

• Equity members in the West End have won a 16.7% pay rise over the next 24 months. There is a 33% increase in the Swing fee and a 43% increase to the Principle Role Cover fee.
• Strictly star Amy Dowden announced that she has stage 3 breast cancer. We wish Amy all the best and a speedy recovery.
• The line-up for this years West End live has been revealed. It will feature most of the current West End shows and take place at Trafalgar Square in London on the 17th & 18th of June.
• The National Dance Awards will be held at the Coronet Theatre in London on the 5th of June. It will be hosted by Jose Alves and Mariana Gomes.
• Casting has been announced for the revival of Sir Matt Bourne’s “Romeo and Juliet”. Juliet will be played by Cordelia Braithwaite and Monique Jonas. Paris Fitzpatrick and Andrew Monaghan will play Romeo. The UK tour will open in Leicester on the 3rd of July.
• Nicole Scherzinger is to star in “Sunset Boulevard” in the West End. It will open at the Savoy theatre in September.
• Tony award winner Myles Frost is to reprise his role as Michael Jackson in the West End transfer of “MJ”. The show will run at the Prince Edward theatre from the 6th of March 2024. It is directed and choreographed by Christopher Wheeldon.
• The full company for the revival of “The Sound of Music” at Chichester from the 10th of July until the 3rd of September has been announced. It will star Gina Beck and have choreography from Lizzie Gee. The casting is by Natalie Gallacher at Pippa Ailion Casting.
• “House of Flamenka” will make a return to London’s Peacock theatre from the 17th to the 28th of October. The show has been created and choreographed by Dame Arlene Phillips and stars Karen Ruimy. There is additional choreography from James Cousins and Francisco Hidalgo.
• “Shrek The Musical” announced complete casting for the UK and Ireland tour. Among those Joining the leads of Joanne Clifton and Antony Lawrence are: Imogen Bailey, India Thornton, Remi Ferdinand & Gabriela Gregorian. The choreography is by Nick Winston. The show will open in Plymouth on the 21st of July.
• “Death Note: The Musical” will play two concerts at the London Palladium on the 21st & 22nd of August. It will be directed and choreographed by Nick Winston and Alex Sarmiento and star Frances Mayli, Dean John-Wilson & Joaquin Pedro Valdes.
• The full cast has been announced for “La Bamba” starring Pascha Kovalev. Siva Kaneswaran will star as Mateo alongside Ine’s Fernandez as Sofia. The ensemble includes Bethan Mitchell, Julia Ruiz Fernandez, Nicolle Matheu and Gabriella Rose Marchant. The choreography is by Graziano Di Prima, Giada Lini and Erica Da Silva. The tour will begin in Leicester on the 1st of August.
• “Ain’t Too Proud” has extended its run at the Prince Edward theatre until the 7th of January. The choreography is by Sergio Trujilio.
• Lord Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Love Never Dies” will return to the Theatre Royal Drury Lane for two concerts on the 21st & 22nd of August. It will star Norm Lewis and Celinde Schoenmaker.
• “Back To The Future” has extended its West End run until the 11th of February 2024. The choreography is by Chris Bailey.
• Choreographer Dougie Squires has passed away aged 91.

Future Dance Events News

• The musical “Bonnie & Clyde” will be heading off on a tour of UK and Ireland in 2024, opening in Manchester on the 19th of March. It is directed and choreographed by Nick Winston.
• “Come From Away” announced a UK and Ireland tour beginning in Leicester on the 1st of March 2024. The production is being cast by Pippa Ailion and Natalie Gallacher. The choreography is by Tara Wilkinson and Kirsty Malpas with Richard Hinds.
• Manchester’s Hope Mill theatre will stage the world premiere of “To Wong Foo – The Musical”, based on the 1995 film, on the 21st of October. The cast and creative team is to be announced. The casting is by Sarah Leung.
• “Hadestown” will open at the Lyric Theatre in the West End on the 10th of February 2024. The choreographer is David Neumann.
• The Chaka Khan musical “I’m Every Woman” announced plans to open in London. It will workshop in the West End in November. The director will be Racky Plews.
• The new musical “Starter for Ten” will premiere in Bristol next year at the Old Vic theatre from the 29th of February until the 30th of March 2024.
• “The King And I” will return to the West End in early 2024 starring Helen George and Darren Lee.
• “Sister Act – The Musical” will return to the Dominion theatre in the West End on the 15th of March 2024. It will star Beverley Knight and Alexandra Burke. The choreography is by Alistair David.
• A musical based on the songs produced by Stock, Aitken and Waterman called “I Should Be So Lucky” will open in Manchester on the 1st of November.
• A new musical based on the life and work of Frank Sinatra will open at the Birmingham Rep on the 23rd of September. The director and choreographer is Kathleen Marshall.
• The lead cast has been unveiled for “We Will Rock You” opening in the West End. It will star Lee Mead and Brenda Edwards.
• The upcoming “Wicked” tour has announced its lead casting. Laura Pick will play Elphaba. The show will open in Edinburgh on the 7th of December. The choreography is by Wayne Cilento.
• “Jesus Christ Superstar” will tour the UK in 2023/4 opening in Manchester this September. The choreography is by Drew McOnie.
• “The Wizard of Oz” will embark on a UK tour at Liverpool Empire on the 13th of December. The choreography is by Shay Barclay.
• “Grease” will return to the Dominion Theatre in the West End from the 2nd of June. The choreography is by Arlene Phillips.
• The musical version of “Rebecca” will play at the Charing Cross theatre in London on the 4th of September.

Auditions & Vacancies

• Ballet Black is auditioning in America for new dancers for the 2023/4 season. For more information, contact: admin@balletblack.co.uk with “US Audition” in the heading.
  Bird College is looking for a Tap tutor, with a focus on Musical Theatre, to begin in September. Have a look at the website for more details.
• Emil Dale Academy is looking for freelance Ballet teachers. There is more information at: info@emildale.co.uk
• Birmingham Hippodrome is inviting applications for the new role as Head of New Musical Theatre. The deadline for applications is the 9th of June.
• Sonia Sabri is looking for Indian dancers for a touring production. For more information, contact: info@ssco.org.uk
• Bird College is looking for a Musical Theatre tutor to work 3 days a week in September. Contact the College for further details.
• Thursford Christmas Spectacular is auditioning for dancers on the 19th & 20th of June at the Pineapple Dance Studios in London. To register your interest, go to: www.thursfordjobs.com

Dance Classes

• Prabhleen Oberoi is doing a commercial Bollywood class on the 4th of June from 1.00 – 2.30pm at Base Studios in London.
• Nicolette Whitley has an adult contemporary class for beginners and improvers on Mondays (from the 5th – 26th of June) at 11.30am – 12.30pm at Inner Space in Nelwyn. Contact Nicolette on: nicolettewhitley@outlook.com
• Sian Murphy, dancer with the Royal Ballet, is doing a company masterclass on the 18th of June at the Royal Opera House from 11.00am – 2.00pm. Contact: sianmurf@hotmail.com
• Mica Bradbury of the Royal Ballet is doing a Sleeping Beauty workshop on the 4th of June at the Royal Opera House from 11.00am – 1.30pm (for ages 9 – 11) and from 2.30 – 5.30pm (for ages 12 -16). For more details, email: micabeau@gmail.com
• Sophie Allnatt of the Royal Ballet has 2 classes on the 11th of June at Thorpe Hall school in Essex. The first class is from 11.00am – 1.00pm (for ages 9 – 11) and the second is from 1.30 – 4.00pm (for ages 13 – 16). Contact: sophie.allnatt@hotmail.co.uk
• Gaz Davis (Jazz & Commercial) and Josie Lee (Lyrical) are holding their first Synergy Dance Championship Intensive on the 2nd of June at the Base Dance Studios in London. To book, email: synergydancechampionships@outlook.com
• Hannah O’Brian is giving a Heels class on Wednesdays from 7.00 – 8.00pm in Chelmsford. DM Hannah on her Instagram for details.
• Gemma Hoddy is giving a class at Base Studios on Thursdays from 5.30 – 6.55pm.
• Alice Crawford is teaching a Floor Barre class at Danceworks on the 6th of June from 10.00 – 11.30am.
• The TGS Summer Intensive 2023 will take place from the 24th until the 28th of July at Hemingford Pavilion. Guest teachers include: Ebony Clarke, Michael Naylor, Isaac Edwards, Travis Kerry & Jordi Guitart. You can book on: jordiguitart1962@gmail.com
• Leonie Sian is offering a Contemporary class on the 2nd of July from 1.00 – 2.30pm at the Base Dance Studios in London.
• Nicolette Whitley is offering a dance class on Thursdays from 6.15 – 7.15pm at the Inner Space in Nelwyn for £7. Reserve your space on: nicolettewhitley@outlook.com
• Strictly star Johannes Radebe is offering a Heels class at Heaven Nightclub in London on the 7th of June.
• Anita Mannings has a Contemporary Jazz Class (Int) on Wednesdays from 8.30 – 9.55pm at the Flow Dance Studios in Oval.
• Emma Levene is offering a General Ballet Core and Stretch Contemporary class at Forest Gate Community School on Thursdays from 7.00 – 8.00pm. Email to book: doubletwistdance@gmail.com
• Michael Naylor is teaching a class on Thursdays at the Base Dance Studios from 2.30 – 4.00pm. Book via the Base app.
• Alexandre Novelli is offering a Beginners Commercial for Adults class every Tuesday at her Novelli Studios from 6.00 – 7.00pm.
• Amy Ireland has a Commercial Tap class at Pineapple Dance Studios in London on Thursdays at 12.15pm and a Contemporary Jazz class at 1.15pm. On Fridays Amy teaches Beginners Tap at 10.15am.
• Nafisah Baba is teaching a weekly Lyrical Contemporary Intermediate / Advanced class at Danceworks in London every Tuesday from 8.00 – 9.30pm.
• Lucy Jane Adcock is teaching a Show Tap class at Base Dance Studios on Wednesdays at 11.30am.
• Poppy Tremlett is offering an Improvers Choreography class at Base Dance Studios on Tuesdays from 8.30 – 10.00pm.
• Rachel Bolsworth is teaching an Absolute Beginners Heels class from 7.00 – 8.00pm on Tuesdays and an Improvers Beginners Heels class on Monday from 8.30 – 9.30pm at Pineapple Dance Studios.
• Hannah Cleeve is giving a Heels Technique class on Wednesdays from 1.00 – 2.30pm each week at the Base Dance Studios.
• Jazz Dance Rewired will present a 2 day programme of jazz dance theatre at the Place in London on the 27th of May and the 3rd of June.
• Kamila Zalewska is teaching at the Base Studios in London on Mondays from 4.00 – 5.25pm for intermediate/advanced level. Book on the Base app.

 Film & TV

• “Barbie The Movie” released a full length trailer. It will open in cinemas on the 21st of July.
• Warner Brothers released the official trailer for it’s forthcoming film version of “The Color Purple” musical, starring Fantasia Barrino and Danielle Brooks.
• We spotted Naomi Wingfield in the latest Pepsi UEFA advert. The choreography was by Mikey Boats.
• We spotted Alexandre Novelli, Lashay Harvey, Mari Macleod & Natasha May Thomas in Bianca Ingrosso’s new music video. The choreography was by Sammi Lee Jayne and the contract was with AMCK.
• We spotted Diversity on the “Britain’s Got Talent” semi-final.

View All The Strictly Stars Wearing Dincwear Dancewear

From all the news team at Dincwear Dancewear, See you all next week!

This post has been created by the Dincwear Dancewear Team.