Dance enthusiasts and charity supporters across Essex have a spectacular event to mark in their diaries for 2026. Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Ian Waite has been confirmed as the host and special guest performer for the much-anticipated Strictly St. Luke's 2026.
A Night of Glittering Fundraising
The charity dance extravaganza is scheduled for Saturday, 21 March 2026 at 7pm at The Brentwood Centre on Doddinghurst Road. The event offers members of the public a unique chance to compete for a coveted Glitterball Trophy by performing with a professional dance partner. All proceeds from the night will fund the essential care and services provided by St. Luke's Hospice, which serves the Basildon and Thurrock community.
Ian Waite, who recently triumphed on Dancing with the Stars Australia 2024 and is familiar to BBC Two audiences for his show Waite's Warm Up, will be central to the evening's entertainment. He is set to perform two showcase dances and guide the proceedings as host.
How the Competition Works
Earlier this year, ten lucky local participants were paired with professional dancers. In the months leading up to the main event, each couple will rehearse two full routines to perform live before the audience at The Brentwood Centre.
The winners will be decided through a combination of audience votes and judges' scores. Supporters can cast their votes for their favourite couple on the night for £2 per vote, with every penny going directly to the hospice. An independent panel will also award points, with the final champions announced at the end of the evening.
Supporting a Vital Local Cause
Expressing his excitement about the role, Ian Waite said the power of dance to connect people and lift spirits made the event particularly special. "St. Luke’s Hospice makes a real difference in the community and I’m honoured to support their work," he stated. "I’ll be cheering on all our dancers and can’t wait to see what they’ve learned - it's going to be a dazzling night of entertainment!"
Tickets for the event are priced at £25 each, which includes a £2.10 administration fee. They are available for purchase directly through the hospice's website. The event is kindly supported by local business T. Cribb & Sons.
