Vicky Pattison's Determined Stance on the Strictly Come Dancing Arena Tour
Television presenter and podcast host Vicky Pattison has declared she will not be holding anything back as she prepares for the highly anticipated Strictly Come Dancing live tour. The 2026 arena spectacle is set to commence this Friday at Birmingham's Utilita Arena, launching a marathon schedule of 30 performances across the United Kingdom.
A Cast of Familiar Faces Ready to Dance Again
Fresh promotional images have been released featuring all the participating celebrities and their professional partners. The lineup includes soap actor Lewis Cope, who confessed to feeling somewhat "rusty" despite diligently reviewing his past routines on YouTube daily. Other notable former Strictly competitors joining the tour are sprinter Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, architect and television presenter George Clarke, and former Chelsea footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.
The cast is further bolstered by model Ellie Goldstein, drag performer La Voix, and musical theatre star Layton Williams. Janette Manrara returns to host the proceedings, ensuring a familiar and energetic presence guiding the show.
Pattison's Personal Pursuit of the Glitterball Trophy
Discussing her involvement, Pattison expressed a fierce determination to win the coveted Glitterball trophy during the tour. "It's a moment, quite frankly, that I never, ever thought would be mine," she revealed. "And it probably never will be again. So I'm taking it very seriously, I'm gonna put on the absolute best show that I can." Her comments underscore a profound commitment to seizing this unique opportunity.
Mixed Emotions and Preparations Among the Cast
Lewis Cope, who was eliminated in the quarter-finals of the most recent BBC series, shared his enthusiasm for returning to dance. "I'm so happy because I've really missed dancing over these last few weeks," he said. "But I am feeling a bit rusty. I would be lying if I said I haven't been watching our dances on YouTube every single day to remind myself. We had so much fun on the TV show that now this tour feels like a celebration."
George Clarke, a social media sensation and Strictly finalist, echoed the celebratory mood while harbouring his own ambitions. "I'm looking forward to just having a lot of fun, it's a nice way to tie the bow on top of Strictly," he stated. "I'm hoping I can lift the Glitterball at least once during the tour."
Harry Aikines-Aryeetey mirrored this sentiment, describing the tour as a continuation of the Strictly celebration. "The fans, people that love it, get to come and celebrate it with us in a packed arena, which is the best thing," he remarked.
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Excitement
Drag artist La Voix, whose real name is Christopher Dennis, was forced to withdraw from last year's competition due to a foot injury. For the tour, she has had to adapt her iconic style. "I've been doing my rehab and they've given me a lower heel to make it easier," La Voix explained. "This is the only time you'll see La Voix in a frumpy heel, but it's what I've got to do."
Model Ellie Goldstein expressed sheer delight at reuniting with her professional partner Vito Coppola. "I'm so excited to be doing our couple's choice again," she said. "We were the Cheeky Team but I think we're Team Golden now. This tour is going to be amazing."
In contrast, Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink admitted to feeling significant nerves. "Football is something I've done that for years and years and years," he noted. "You just play because it's in your genes and you know what every situation is going to be like. But with the tour, I am so nervous."
Tour Structure and Inclusivity Features
The tour will visit major cities including Glasgow, Leeds, and Manchester, culminating at London's O2 Arena on February 15th. The judging panel will feature familiar faces Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and Craig Revel Horwood. The format is expected to closely resemble the television show, with audience voting determining the winning couple each night.
In a move towards greater accessibility, every performance will include a British Sign Language interpreter. The interpreter will be displayed on two large screens positioned on either side of the stage, ensuring the show is enjoyable for all attendees.
The previous series of Strictly Come Dancing was won by former England Lionesses footballer Karen Carney, setting a high standard for the tour participants. As the dancers finalise their preparations, the anticipation builds for what promises to be a spectacular celebration of dance, glitter, and entertainment across the UK.
