Blackpool on the dancefloor.....from Elstree Studios. How Strictly Come Dancing plan to recreate Tower Ballroom magic in 2020 show special.

It’s the resort’s annual showcase where Blackpool is under the spotlight and glitterball, beamed into millions of homes nationwide.
Strictly Come Dancing Blackpool special will be recreated for 2020 in Elstree Studios in London.Strictly Come Dancing Blackpool special will be recreated for 2020 in Elstree Studios in London.
Strictly Come Dancing Blackpool special will be recreated for 2020 in Elstree Studios in London.

While there might not be a staycation booked in for the Strictly Come Dancing class of 2020, instead resort bosses and the Strictly production intend to bring to life the thrills of the dance capital of the world and the iconic Tower Ballroom in a ‘celebration show’ live at Elstree Studio.

Details of the ‘Blackpool’ show, a series favourite among the stars, their dance partners, judges, production team and loyal fans are yet to be revealed.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The weekend’s announcement from BBC bosses has been seen as inevitable, particularly among industry leaders in the resort, who while disappointed have backed the decision to pull the plug for this season’s Blackpool outing.

Coun Gillian Campbell, cabinet member for tourism and culture for Blackpool Council, said she shared in the disappointment the series 18 milestone would not go ahead but added: “We fully understand and appreciate why the BBC could not go ahead with its annual show in the Tower Ballroom given the enormous challenge of trying to stage an event on this scale with COVID restrictions in place.

“We are obviously disappointed because Strictly in Blackpool is a major highlight in the resort’s calendar, but the health and safety of the public and everyone involved in the show has to come first.

“And as Strictly can’t come here this year, we are thrilled that a little bit of Blackpool will be recreated and celebrated in the Elstree Studios for one of the shows.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The family entertainment programme has filmed at the venue since 2004, taking regular breaks. However, since 2013 there has been a Blackpool special annually.

Emma Barton and Anton Du Beke dancing in Blackpool Tower Ballroom in 2019.Emma Barton and Anton Du Beke dancing in Blackpool Tower Ballroom in 2019.
Emma Barton and Anton Du Beke dancing in Blackpool Tower Ballroom in 2019.

Claire Smith of StayBlackpool said: “It is hugely disappointing but not not unexpected. What the show has done every year its showcases our town at its’ absolute best but this year we have our extended Illuminations and our fabulous attractions opening longer which will hopefully counter act it. We need to keep talking about all the wonderful things to keep thriving.

“And as we all know with Strictly it will be back even bigger and better next year.”

Comment Guidelines

National World encourages reader discussion on our stories. User feedback, insights and back-and-forth exchanges add a rich layer of context to reporting. Please review our Community Guidelines before commenting.