Strictly Come Dancing judge Anton Du Beke has landed a major role in the National Theatre's production of Ballet Shoes, which is coming to Liverpool Empire. He will play Great Uncle Matthew and Fidolia in the acclaimed adaptation of Noel Streatfeild's much-loved novel.
Career and role details
The 60-year-old dancer has enjoyed a successful career, earning numerous accolades and ranking among the top 20 professional ballroom dancers. His latest role will also give him the chance to further develop his acting career.
Ballet Shoes is a fresh reimagining of Streatfeild's classic story, following three adopted sisters named Pauline, Petrova and Posy. The girls discover their individual talents and ambitions while trying to keep their family together in a world that presents significant barriers to women.
Liverpool Empire dates and tickets
The production will run from Thursday, August 19, 2027, to Saturday, January 22, 2028, with its Liverpool Empire run taking place from Tuesday, January 11, to Saturday, January 15, 2028. Fans will have the opportunity to see Du Beke take on the theatrical role during the Liverpool dates.
Speaking about joining the production, Du Beke said he took his family to see Ballet Shoes at the National Theatre and "completely fell in love with the show." He described it as a "beautiful, joyful production" and said he jumped at the chance to become part of it.
Tour and accessibility
The show will also allow Du Beke to combine his passion for acting and dance, with the star saying both are among the most important things to him. He added that the production gives him an "exciting opportunity" to challenge himself further as an actor.
The tour will work with Frozen Light, an award-winning theatre company specialising in multi-sensory theatre for audiences with profound and multiple learning disabilities. Access performances and family ticket rates will also be available at venues throughout the tour.
Ballet Shoes previously enjoyed sold-out runs at the National Theatre's Olivier Theatre in 2024 and 2025, while director Katy Rudd is now taking the production to audiences across the UK. Tickets for the Liverpool Empire go on general sale at 10am on Thursday, September 24 and are priced at £20.
