The glittering world of Strictly Come Dancing is set to explode onto arena stages across the UK in 2026, with the first two celebrity participants now officially confirmed.
Meet the First Dancing Stars
Leading the lineup for the highly anticipated Strictly Come Dancing 2026 live tour are drag sensation La Voix and former Gladiator and Team GB sprinter, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey. They will be joined by a full roster of Strictly Come Dancing stars, including judges Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood.
Janette Manrara, host of the companion show Strictly – It Takes Two, will return to present the live spectacle. For the dance routines, La Voix, 45, will be partnered with professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec, while Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, 37, will be reunited with his professional partner from the TV show, Karen Hauer.
Overcoming Setbacks for the Spotlight
Both celebrities expressed their excitement at getting a second chance to shine on the dance floor. La Voix, who was the runner-up on RuPaul's Drag Race UK in 2024, was forced to withdraw from the current BBC One series due to an injury sustained during the Blackpool special.
The vocalist shared, "I loved being part of Strictly and was devastated when my time on the show was cut short because of injury. But now I'm absolutely thrilled to have the chance to get back on an even bigger dance floor with the sparkling 2026 Strictly live tour. I can't wait to sashay my way around the country with my wonderful partner Aljaž by my side."
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, who was the sixth contestant eliminated from the competition, is equally enthusiastic. He commented, "I'm switching the Gladiators arena for the Strictly live tour arenas and can't wait to get back on the dance floor. It's amazing to be reunited with Karen again and we can't wait to show you what's in store. Expect more fun, more laughs, and even more energy."
Tour Details and How to Get Tickets
The live show will be an immersive experience, blending spectacular group and couple dance routines with live music. In a commitment to accessibility, a British Sign Language interpreter will be present at every performance.
A unique feature of the tour is that the live audience at each venue will have the power to vote for the winner, deciding which couple takes home the coveted glitterball trophy at the end of every show.
The 2026 Strictly live tour kicks off at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham on 23 January 2026. The extensive schedule includes dates in:
- Newcastle
- Leeds
- Manchester
- Sheffield
- Liverpool
- Glasgow
- Nottingham
The tour will culminate in a grand finale with five performances at London's O2 Arena in mid-February.
Tickets for the Strictly Come Dancing live tour are on sale now and can be purchased directly from the official website, strictlycomedancinglive.com. Fans are advised to book early to avoid disappointment, with further casting announcements expected in the near future.
