The celebrities of Strictly Come Dancing have made their way to the rehearsal studios to kick off preparations for the upcoming 2026 tour. The tour is set to begin in Birmingham on January 23, followed by stops in Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester, Sheffield, Liverpool, Glasgow, and Nottingham before concluding at London’s O2 on February 15.
Famous faces like George Clarke and Vicky Pattison appeared eager and enthusiastic as they arrived for their first day back, ready to put on their dancing shoes. The judging panel will feature familiar names such as Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood, with Janette Manrara returning as the tour host.
The 2026 tour promises a spectacular two-hour show filled with captivating dance routines, including group performances and live music by the BBC Strictly band. While the judges will provide their feedback at each show, the audience will have the final say by voting for their favorite dancers each night.
Expressing her excitement for the upcoming tour, Shirley commented, “The Strictly live tour is always the best way to start the new year. I can’t wait for 2026 to be back on the road with Anton and Craig and bring the magic of Strictly to fans across the country. Roll on January.”
Du Beke, who is returning for his fourth Strictly tour, shared his anticipation, saying, “I’m back for my fourth Strictly tour and it honestly just keeps getting better and better. Sitting behind the judges’ desk and watching the excitement from the audience night after night is just magical. I’m very excited to see what Craig has planned for next year.”
Among the returning contestants, Ellie Goldstein, the first contestant with Down Syndrome to appear on the show, posed for photos at the dance studio. George Clarke, who finished as the runner-up in the 2025 season, also showed his excitement to be back dancing.
Aljaz Škorjanec, married to Janette Manrara, exuded enthusiasm as he arrived for rehearsals. Layton Williams expressed his gratitude for being invited back, calling it an honor to participate in the tour for the second time.
Former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Gladiator and Olympian Harry Aikines-Aryeetey were also spotted at the rehearsals, ready to dive into the dance routines. Vicky Pattison, who competed in the previous season, is back and eager to hit the dance floor once again.
La Voix, who had to withdraw from the main show due to injury, is excited to make a return for the upcoming tour. Pro dancer Luba Mushtuk, though without a celebrity partner, will showcase her talent in group performances alongside other professionals like Neil Jones and Nancy Xu.
Furthermore, Vito Coppola will be dancing in the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2026 alongside partner Ellie Goldstein, much to the delight of fans who have embraced the couple as favorites.