The glitterball is preparing to sparkle across the UK once more, as the first two celebrities for the highly anticipated Strictly Come Dancing 2026 live arena tour have been officially announced.
Meet the First Dancing Stars
In an exciting reveal, producers confirmed that drag performer La Voix and Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey will be taking to the dancefloor for the nationwide spectacle. This marks a triumphant return for La Voix, who was forced to withdraw from the current television series due to an injury. She will be partnered with the popular professional dancer Aljaz Skorjanec. Meanwhile, Harry Aikines-Aryeetey will reunite with his TV partner, the talented Karen Hauer.
The Full Tour Line-Up and Details
The tour will feature the full judging panel, including head judge Shirley Ballas, Anton Du Beke, and the notoriously critical Craig Revel Horwood. Adding to the hosting glamour, It Takes Two presenter Janette Manrara will be guiding the live audiences through the event.
The Strictly live tour is scheduled to commence on 23 January 2026 at the Utilita Arena in Birmingham. From there, the dancing extravaganza will travel to major cities across the country, including:
- Newcastle
- Leeds
- Manchester
Your Chance to Decide the Winner
The tour will reach its dazzling conclusion in mid-February with a series of five performances at the world-famous O2 Arena in London. A unique feature of the live shows is that the power is placed directly in the hands of the audience. At every single performance, the crowd will be able to cast their votes to decide which celebrity and professional pairing wins the coveted glitterball trophy for that night.
This interactive element promises to make each show a unique and unforgettable experience for fans, ensuring the competition is as fierce and exciting under the arena lights as it is on television.
