Why is Strictly Come Dancing in Blackpool this weekend?
Everything you need to know about the Blackpool Tower Ballroom and Strictly's traditional trip to the seaside
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What is the connection with Strictly Come Dancing?
Original BBC series Come Dancing was televised from the Tower Ballroom for many years, though it also travelled around to different locations.
Strictly Come Dancing now usually returns to the ballroom once a year – either for the final, or for a special show in November.
The Strictly studio at Elstree is also reportedly built to mimic the Tower ballroom’s layout.
Why is Blackpool such a big deal for professional dancers?
Many high-profile competitions are hosted in the ballroom: the World Modern Jive Championships, for example. The Blackpool Tower Ballroom also features a special sprung floor, which absorbs shocks, reduces injuries and enhances performances.
More than this, there is the sense of connection with the history of ballroom in Britain: all those hundreds of thousands of people who have whirled around the dance floor over the last 120 years. When they say it’s an honour to dance there, they’re not exaggerating.
How do I get tickets for Strictly 2017 in Blackpool?
Unfortunately it’s too late for this year. If you want a ringside seat for all the Strictly action next year, take a look at our guide to how to get tickets to see Strictly.
When Strictly’s not on, visitors can pay to dance in the famous ballroom to the tune of the Wurlitzer organ, or have a traditional afternoon tea and watch the action from the sidelines.
Strictly Come Dancing continues at 6.50pm on Saturday 25th November on BBC1
