Our fab-u-lous round-up of 2021’s hottest Strictly inspired Christmas Gifts

Updated 6th December 2021

‘It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas…’ too early? Well, we hate to jolt you out of your happy place, but the festive season is fast approaching. Stress not, we’re about to make your Christmas shopping a whole lot easier with our Strictly inspired Top 10 Christmas Gift Guide.

1. Official Strictly Come Dancing Annual 2022

The perfect gift for the fan who likes to literally paw over images of the Strictly stars and absorb as many facts as possible about their favourite show.
Price: around £13

2. 4* Evening with the Stars of Strictly 2022

Score maximum brownie points for the most thoughtful present, book a Short Break with the Stars of Strictly.

Enjoy a fabulous evening as Strictly Judge Anton Du Beke & Erin Boag perform up close & personal for a truly intimate experience unlike any other.

Plus, learn to dance with the ‘King Of Ballroom’ himself in our fun dance lesson.

3. Strictly Come Dancing – The Glitter Ball Challenge Game

Whilst ardent Strictly fans may subscribe to the belief that nothing is as good as the real McCoy, they may just waver when they unwrap this Strictly inspired game. This hilarious family game has a revolving Glitter Ball that plays the Strictly theme tune and is perfect for 3-6 players and suitable for age 7+, sounds fab-u-lous darling.
Price: £18-£20

4. Official Strictly Come Dancing 2022 Calendar

The perfect stocking filler for any Strictly Fan looking to get organised next year. This official Strictly Come Dancing Slim Calendar features some of the famous Strictly sayings and includes ‘Amaz-ing,’ ‘Sparkling’ and ‘7’ to name a few!!! The Strictly Come Dancing Official Slim 2022 Calendar is a must for any Strictly fan, with each month having a Strictly Saying to brighten up your month and plenty of room to write your notes and appointments..
Price: Around £8

5. Strictly Come Dancing DVD: Motsi & Anton’s Strictly The Best [2021]

Join Strictly Come Dancing judges Motsi Mabuse and Anton du Beke, in this special feature-length DVD, as they revisit some of the show’s very best and most memorable dances.

Watch along as Motsi and Anton each choose their favourite routine from all the Strictly dance categories including; Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Foxtrot, Quickstep, Tango, Cha Cha, Jive, Paso, Samba, Rumba, American Smooth, Argentine Tango, Charleston, Salsa and Couple’s Choice, before ultimately deciding which one is Strictly the best!
Price: Around £9.99

6. Purple Strictly Come Dancing Drink Set

Pretty self explanatory this one and ideal for Strictly obsessives.
Price: around £15

8. Strictly Come Dancing CD

40 dance-inducing songs performed by Dave Arch and his wonderful Strictly Come Dancing Band that will have any Strictly obsessive up on their feet in no time. It’s a must for any serious fan.
Price: around £4.50

9. Anton Du Beke – Book Collection & CD

If your nearest and dearest is completely obsessed with Anton (who isn’t?), then they probably already own a smorgasbord of his merchandise. But do they have a copy of his debut CD, ‘From the Top’ his debut novel, ‘One Enchanted Evening’ or his brand new Novel ‘We’ll Meet Again’ The romantic new novel from Sunday Times bestselling author Anton Du Beker’?
Price: ‘From the Top’ CD around £5 and ‘One Enchanted Evening’ & ‘We’ll Meet Again’ hardback from £6.50-£12.99

10. Shirley Ballas – Behind the Sequins: My Life

Shirley Ballas has enjoyed a spectacular dance career spanning more than 40 years – she has Cha-Cha’d her way across the world’s dance floors to become a multi-award-winning Latin and Ballroom champion, and one of the most renowned dancers in the world. In 1996, Shirley retired from competitive dancing to become a highly acclaimed coach and teacher.

Speaking from the heart, Shirley leaves her dancing shoes at the door to tell you the story of a fiery, strong-willed grafter, who danced through everything life threw at her and was never afraid to leave it all on the floor.
Price: Around £10

Covid Secure Policy
– Updated 25th January 2022

As always, Donahey’s number one priority is our guests, performers & team safety.

Donahey’s continue to work in partnership with our venue management teams towards delivering you a safe & fabulous Dancing With The Stars Weekend – something we are all very much looking forward to right now.

We know some of you simply can’t wait to get back onto the dancefloor and take part in fabulous workshops and enjoy breathtaking showcases with the Stars.

Our Resort Hotels are all designated ‘Good to Go’, the industry issued standard that confirms a venue has COVID-safe policies in place. Over the past few months all our venues have returned to providing safe & successful indoor events, operating at normal capacity with dancing allowed.

Covid Pass

To provide reassurance to all our guests that we are providing a safe event for you to enjoy, at registration we will be asking guests to show;

• Proof they are fully vaccinated or have medical exemption.

AND;

• Proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test (LFT) taken on the day of arrival.

These measures are in place to help reassure you our valued guests, plus our performers and team, that you and the people around you are protected as best as possible. These measures form part of the government’s latest guidance regarding mixing in indoor spaces in England, and to comply with Welsh government legislation for indoor events.

Donahey’s continue to monitor all UK Government guidelines in relation to indoor seated events of 300-400 guests, please rest assured Donahey’s will always be following the latest UK government guidelines and regulations.

From 17th May 2021 onwards, Hotel chains such as Warner Breaks & TLH Leisure, plus UK Leisure Break providers such as GN Holiday’s are all resuming their ‘Entertainment Leisure Breaks’ in line with current UK government guidelines.

Covid Secure Measures

All guests have a shared responsibility in the safety of our break. As the situation evolves, so will our approach to keeping you safe. We thank you for your patience and flexibility as we manage this and ask that you check back here for updates.

Exact COVID-safe measures that will be in place will be announced prior to your attendance. Until then, here’s an idea of what it could look like based on current in resort COVID-safe measures:

FACE COVERINGS
In line with current government legislation; Face coverings must be worn, unless exempt, when moving through indoor public areas. Face masks may be removed when dancing in the ballrooms or when seated to eat or drink in restaurants, bars & ballrooms.

HAND SANITISER
Please regularly use the hand sanitisation stations that can be found in all public areas, entrances to ballrooms and on your ballroom tables.

SOCIAL DISTANCING
We ask that you still maintain a respectful distance when queuing and moving around resort.

VENUE CAPACITY
Our venues are now operating at normal capacity with table-sharing and dancing allowed. Those of you who have attended previously know, we keep numbers to a comfortable level with plenty of space to dance.

BALLROOM VENTILATION
Windows & doors opened for fresh air circulation in the ballrooms.

CLEANING MEASURES
Cleaning protocols in bedrooms and all public areas are strengthened to focus on High Impact Touchpoint (HIT) cleaning across the resorts.

SYMPTOMS & POSITIVE TESTS
Symptoms which won’t be accepted at the event include a high temperature, a new and continuous cough, and sudden loss of taste or smell. If you have symptoms or test positive for COVID-19, you should not travel. More information can be found here on the NHS website www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/symptoms/main-symptoms/

CASHLESS
Our venues no longer accept cash or cheque payments. Payments can be made contactless via card or room charge. Celtic Manor has a mobile app for payments also.

Covid Secure Policies

Safety measures will be in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all our guests, performers and team. You can view each of our Resort Hotels current Covid-19 safety measures & policies here;

www.altontowers.com/plan-your-visit/coronavirus/
www.devere.co.uk/wellbeing/
www.celtic-manor.com/about-your-stay

We will keep in touch with all our guests to keep you fully informed and the enhanced safety measures that Donahey’s and our Resort Hotels will have in place.

Please bear with us as we try to balance and implement the ever changing guidance and regulations, with our desire to provide a warm and friendly welcome to all of you who have chosen to join us.

Booking Cancellation Policy

What if you wish to cancel or postpone your booking upto 10-weeks prior to your break

Upto 10-weeks prior to your confirmed break we are more than happy to offer you a transfer to any of our 2022 Dancing With The Stars Weekends.

There would be a small £25pp administration fee to cover the administration involved in your booking transfer.

If you did wish to fully cancel your booking, the cancellation fee would be the £100pp non-returnable deposit.

What if you wish to cancel or postpone your booking from 10-weeks prior to your break

100% package rate cancellation charge would apply.

What if your break can go ahead, but as a result of Self-Isolation or Local Government Restrictions you are unable to join us?

Donahey’s are organising a Weekend Leisure Break with limited places available, plus due to social distancing requirements we now have even fewer places available.

To maintain the commercial viability of running our Weekend Breaks with the Strictly Stars and the enormous costs associated with putting on these breaks, unfortunately we are unable to offer refunds or postponement if guests become unable to travel due to Covid-19 and the Weekend Break is still able to go ahead under national & local guidelines. This would become a matter for guests personal Travel Insurance.

If the government imposes restrictions that prevent you from travelling, and the Weekend Break is still able to go ahead under national & local guidelines, this would become a matter for your personal travel insurance.

At 10-weeks prior bedrooms are directly contracted with the Resort Hotel and paid for in full on your behalf, which is our contractual obligation to the Resort Hotels. Unfortunately we would be unable to replace your booking at such short notice.

Personal Travel Insurance policies which includes additional Covid Protection are now available at relatively low cost.

StaySure, LV, AA & CoverForYou offer extensive policies. Donahey’s recommends an online search or call to your preferred Travel Insurance provider to discuss your requirements and confirm you are happy with the inclusive Covid cover they offer.

Examples would include but are not limited too;

• A Positive Covid Test
• Feeling Unwell
• Covid Symptoms
• Local travel restrictions
• Quarantine restrictions
• Self Isolation requirements

If you already have an annual travel insurance policy, please confirm with your provider they have included Covid Protection cover.

In line with most UK holiday operators, Donahey’s requires guests take out appropriate UK Travel Insurance which covers cancellation due to Covid-19.

For such a low price and your added peace of mind, we strongly advise taking out this protection. Many holiday operators are offering this enhanced Covid Protection cover at an add-on price, unfortunately Donahey’s is not licenced to sell Insurance Policies, and are therefore unable to offer this additional paid for cover, our apologies.

What if your Dancing With The Stars Weekend cannot go ahead?

Should our Dancing With The Stars Weekend be postponed due to local or national Covid-19 restrictions affecting the resort hotels locality, we will offer you a no cost transfer to the following years Dancing With The Stars Weekend at the same venue, over the same weekend next year.

You may instead choose to switch to a different weekend or venue the following year – the choice is yours.

Alternatively, if the postponed dates don’t work for you we will offer you a full & immediate refund less a booking fee towards the direct costs incurred with your booking.

We would of course love you to continue to enjoy looking forward to spending a weekend with the Strictly Stars, so all 2022 supplier cost increases will be absorbed on postponed bookings.

Covid Secure Policy – Updated 4th January 2022

Please be assured Donahey’s number one priority is our pupils & teachers safety, and to this end we will always be following the latest UK government guidelines and regulations.

Donahey’s continue to work in partnership with our venue management teams towards delivering you safe & enjoyable dance lessons.

Our Plymouth & Kingsbridge weekly lessons are now open, lessons are restricted in numbers and pre-booking is essential.

Donahey’s Dance School – Covid-19 Secure Policy & Risk Assessment

Pre-opening
Hall inspected to ensure clean and ready for lesson
Windows & doors opened for fresh air ventilation during the lessons.
Contactless registration desk set-up

Pre-Attendance
All pupils must take a NHS Lateral Flow Test (LFT) on the day of arrival. This measure forms part of the government’s latest guidance regarding mixing in indoor spaces in England.
Symptoms which won’t be accepted at the lesson include a high temperature, a new and continuous cough, and sudden loss of taste or smell. More information can be found here on the NHS website www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/symptoms/main-symptoms/
If pupils have symptoms, test positive for COVID-19 or have been in direct contact with an infected person they should not attend.

Pupil Arrival
Face coverings must be worn, when entering and leaving the building and whilst using the stairwells, foyer and corridors – unless a pupil has exempt status.
Pupils should arrive through the main entrance and proceed one-way into the hall.
Pupils should enter the building on-time for their session and arrive no earlier to avoid congestion.
Pupils should arrive changed and ready to dance with minimal additional belongings. Any personal belongings should be placed in a bag.
Strictly no spectators
Strictly no food to be brought onto the premises, one drink per person.
All Pupils should observe current UK Government Respiratory guidelines ‘Catch It, Bin It, Kill It’

Check-In
All pupils must provide proof of a negative NHS Lateral Flow Test (LFT) taken on the day of arrival. Either as a text or email from NHS, a notification on the NHS app, or a date stamped photo of the test cartridge on your smart phone.
Pupils should be spaced apart for check-in.
Only pre-registered pupils with; Name, Telephone number and Email address admitted.
Pupils must pay in advance of attendance, or use contactless payment upon arrival.
Pupils should hand sanitiser at check-in.

Lessons
Our lesson planning has been reorganised to limit class size, offer increased distance based on the relevant range of movement and based on cubic meters of each hall (length x width x ceiling height)
A verbal safety warning & social distancing advisory by the teacher at the beginning of each class
No changing partners
Customers encouraged to use hand sanitisers during the lesson.
Toilet use should be kept to a minimum and strictly limited to one person at a time.

Pupil Departure
Pupils should leave one-way out of the hall, directly through the fire-exit door.
Pupils should not loiter in groups outside following the lesson

Teachers

All teachers issued & trained with Donahey’s Covid-19 Safe Policies
All teachers & Assistants take a Lateral Flow Test prior to the start of each shift.
Teachers to wear face coverings during check-in, unless exempt.
Teachers able to wear a face mask or face shield during tuition. Where teachers chose to wear a face mask when physically dancing, teachers should ensure they take regular & frequent breaks without face coverings to ensure they don’t start to feel faint due to lack of oxygen.
No teachers to dance with pupils.
Teachers must maintain a minimum 2m distance from pupils.
Teachers and Customers are to limit face to face working and physical contact work
Teachers should avoid raising their voices, where possible teachers to use Headset Mic to avoid shouting.
Music played at a lower level to prevent shouting.

Accident or Emergency
In an emergency, for example, an accident, provision of first aid or fire, people do not have to stay appropriately distanced if it would be unsafe.
People involved in the provision of assistance to others should pay particular attention to sanitation measures immediately afterwards including washing hands & hand sanitisation.
PPE equipment available for designated first aiders.

Additional Information
All Pupils will receive notification of our health and safety procedures by Email prior to arrival.
This health and Safety document has been expanded from our usual Health and Safety plan and has been created in line with the UK governments guidance on the return of grassroots sport & Coronavirus guidance;

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/providers-of-grassroots-sport-and-gym-leisure-facilities

Donahey’s continue to monitor & follow all UK Government guidelines in relation to our dance lessons.

Prepared by: Paul Donaghey
Date of risk assessment: 9th September 2020
Risk Assessment Updated: 8th October 2020, 20th October 2020, 27th November 2020, 2nd December 2020, 11th May 2021, 8th June 2021, 5th August 2021, 21st September 2021, 25th November 2021, 11th January 2022
Next review due date: 31st January 2022 or sooner as new legislation or UK Government Guidance is issued.

Copyright © 2022 Donahey’s Dance School. All Rights Reserved

Refund Policy

Donahey’s are organising ‘Dance Lessons’ with limited places available, plus due to social distancing requirements we have even fewer places available.

To maintain the commercial viability of running those dance lessons, unfortunately we are unable to offer refunds or postponement if guests become unable to attend due to Covid-19, or any other reason, and the dance lesson is still able to go ahead under national & local guidelines.

Unfortunately we would be unable to replace your booking at such short notice.

Learn To Dance In A Day
Should one of our Learn To Dance In A Day’s be postponed due to local or national Covid-19 restrictions, we will offer you a no cost transfer to the postponed Dance In A Day at the same venue. Or you may choose to switch to a different weekend or venue the following year – the choice is yours.
Alternatively, if the postponed date doesn’t work for you we will offer you a full & immediate refund less a small booking fee.

Updated 1st October 2021

Strictly Come Dancing live studio audience is back

Strictly is back for another series and with it a live studio audience

The BBC show had to go ahead without the audience last year but for 2021 the audience is back – and you can be in it.

Packed full of glitz, glamour, show-stopping moves and more sequins than ever before, the fabulous 19th series of Strictly Come Dancing is putting the sparkle back into our Saturday nights;

The show will once again come live from Elstree Film and Television Studios, with a star-studded line-up including Olympian Adam Peaty, McFly’s Tom Fletcher and Dragon’s Den star Sara Davies.

The live studio audience will have a front row seat to the 19th series hosted by the very talented and glamorous Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman.

Join the Strictly Stars – 5* Weekend Break

Spend the weekend with your favourite stars of Strictly Come Dancing at the stunning 5* Celtic Manor Resort in South Wales.

Join Strictly Head Judge Shirley Ballas, Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Katya & Neil Jones, Amy Dowden & Ben Jones, British National & World Ballroom Champions Warren & Kristi Boyce, plus Argentine Tango stars Leandro Palou & Maria Tsiatsiani for an unforgettable weekend break.

How To Get Strictly Audience Tickets

As in previous year’s there is a random draw for tickets to make the allocation as fair as possible and you can apply now.

Due to Covid guidelines there will be limited space so tickets will be allocated to groups of four, allowing you to come along as a family bubble / household group. Seating will be at cabaret tables and in balcony seating.

The show will be filmed every Saturday at Elstree Studios from Saturday 11th September 2021 until the Grand Final on Saturday 18th December 2021.

Applications have now closed for the 2021 audience. Make a note in your diary for around the 3rd week in August in 2022 to apply for your 2022 tickets.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/showsandtours/shows/strictly-come-dancing-2021

5* Weekend Breaks with the Stars of BBC Strictly Come Dancing

If you can’t get hold of Strictly audience tickets, what’s the next best thing? If not a little better?

Donahey’s Dancing With The Stars Weekends – You too can watch all the Strictly stars perform up close and personal, plus you could learn to dance with these professional stars.

Fri 4th – Sun 6th March 2022
4* Alton Towers Hotel & Spa
Staffordshire

Join Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Gorka Marquez & Karen Hauer for an unforgettable weekend break.

Fri 22nd – Sun 24th April 2022
5* Celtic Manor Resort Hotel
Newport, South Wales

Join Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Anton Du Beke & Erin Boag, Ian Waite plus many more of your favourite stars of Strictly Come Dancing for an unforgettable weekend break.

Fri 13th – Sun 15th May 2022
5* Celtic Manor Resort Hotel
Newport, South Wales

Join Strictly Head Judge Shirley Ballas, Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice plus more Strictly Stars for an unforgettable weekend break.

Google Reviews & Recommendations

Donaheys Dancing With The Stars Weekend

5.0

Based on 31 reviews

See all reviews

The Donahey's Dancing With The Stars Weekends are Fab-U-Lous.The organisation is second to none, every little detail has been thought of and the Donahey's staff do everything to make your weekend enjoyable.Seven hours of dance workshops with Top Class teachers (including the Strictly Stars). Plenty of time to practise and then Dancing through the night in the Stateroom Ballroom.The Show Dances from The Strictly Stars and the other Professionals are worth it on their own.We've already booked next year and looking forward to itTrevor & Brenda

Trevor Cooke

12:58 12 Mar 20

The whole weekend was amazing from start to finish. The organisation is superb and the people are all so friendly. When you break down what you get it really is value for money. This is an event to look forward to year after year.

Kerry Garner (Oldfleet)

18:06 11 Mar 20

Just back from a stunning weekend at Alton Towers Dancing with the Stars! The whole experience was fabulous from start to finish. The communication from Donaheys before, during and after the event was good. The organisation of the workshops was superb...we were in the improvers group ...each one pitched perfectly for the ability level and the teaching was great. Obviously the Strictly stars were lovely as expected, but also the world champions and the Donaheys staff were terrific. We have fallen in love again with Argentine Tango particularly. The showcase dances were spectacular every time, breathtaking performances in a cabaret setting. The Donaheys team were always on hand to offer support and guidance both on and off the dance floor and the hotel staff were friendly and accommodating. We loved dancing to the band on Saturday night!By the end of the weekend we were exhausted....in a good way! Thank heavens for the on line workshop reminders, as we did so much our recollection of all the steps is a bit hazy! We needed no nudging to book again for next year before we left. Many thanks and best wishes to all the team.

Dee Desgranges

14:48 11 Mar 20

Just back from a FAB-U-LOUS weekend at Alton Towers Resort Hotel.Is the first time we have ever been to an event like this, infact, its the first time my other half and I have ever danced!Everything was organised to a tee, the workshops, the showcases and the evening events.The Donaheys staff were on hand throughout the weekend to assist in anyway and they were so helpful and not at all judgemental as we had never danced a steep before!The only fault in the whole weekend, and it is NOT related to Donaheys. We the lighting in the bedrooms and bathrooms. It was so incredibly dim that it was a struggle to put make up on! Not sure how anyone would manage if they had to take medication. But, this was NOT a fault on Donaheys and it didn't stop us from having an amazing weekend.

Wendy McLaughlan

13:01 11 Mar 20

First time here, what an absolutely fantastic amazing weekend, Melanie & I loved it... and our first time having dance lessons!!! If you love dancing you will love these weekends!!!Everyone is so friendly & helpful. We have already booked for next year, fingers crossed as better dancers. Xx

lyndon holt

14:23 10 Mar 20

Carol McAllister

10:47 03 May 19

A huge Thank You to Paul and the whole Donaheys team. Just back from an amazing experience at Celtic Manor. The organisation, the workshops and the showcase evenings where truly spectacular. We enjoyed every minute. The hotel and staff are first class.All the strictly stars, professionals and experienced teachers made the workshops interesting, challenging and fun. we came away with new steps from each of them. Already booked for next year. The weekend is good value for money, and worth every penny. We enjoyed it so much we extended our stay. You have a fantastic team working with you. Well done to all of them and again THANK YOU.

Deborah Lisle

19:39 02 May 19

Brilliant weekend yet again. So good I had already booked to go back twice this year. Atmosphere, lessons and the show dances by Strictly stars are outstanding. Already booked again for next year.

David Wares

07:34 01 May 19

Another fabulous Donahey's Dancing with the Stars weekend. The Workshops led by the Strictly Stars and Championship dancers were entertaining and informative and the showcases were amazing. We attended Alton Towers last year, which we enjoyed tremendously, but this was our first time at the Celtic Manor and have to say that this venue, food and staff were all first rate. The hotel was easy to navigate and nothing was too much trouble. The Donahey's team are so friendly and helpful. Our weekend was superb and was well worth the outlay and journey. We would like to say a very big "thank you" to Paul and his team for all the hard work before and during the weekend to create a smooth running and enjoyable event. Just need to keep practicing all the new steps we have been taught. Congratulations on another excellent weekend. See you all next year!! Colin & Maureen Barker

Maureen Barker

15:34 30 Apr 19

This was a truly spectacular weekend.Donaheys and Alton Towers were extremely organised and everything ran smoothly.The dance classes were excellent (though we struggled with the Argentine Tango).Dancing with the Strictly Stars was amazing. All of the stars were so friendly and excellent teachers.However, a special shout out is required for Tony Bennett who took the Samba and Tango classes. What a fabulous teacher. I would pay for a weekend of lessons just with him.The three shows were breathtaking. The price paid for the weekend would be worth it for the shows alone.The weekend was a wonderful experience and I would highly recommend to dancers of any level.Thanks to Donaheys!

Sarah Brian

18:27 18 Mar 19

This was our 4th Donaheys weekend and the 3rd atthe Alton Towers resort.Over the years we have been fortunate to have been to some excellent workshops, but this has to be the best year yet.Equally, we’ve previously been able to provide some constructive feedback for the resort, but NOT THIS YEAR. Truly excellent all round.Alton Towers staff very professional on check in and in the restaurant. Check out was seamless, just dropping off the room keys.Car park better marked out.Food in the restaurant even better than previous years. ALWAYS had gluten free options available.7 dance classes over Friday, Saturday and Sunday, in 2 ballrooms with the large ballroom having a truly excellent floor.3 shows (2 evening and 1 on Sunday lunch). Friday night’ show was superb, as was Sunday’s, but Saturday night’s was worth the money alone. Truly outstanding.So hats off to all involved.Already booked for next year.

Tony Dyson

18:12 16 Mar 19

Another brilliant weekend. Well done all. Can't wait for next year, already looking at new dresses. What can I say - brilliant lessons, meeting the stars from Strictly, dancing the night away on the best dance floor ever - add to that a big band, friendly helpful staff and a nice venue - what else could you want from a weekend. Oh, to remember what you have learnt - that's covered too with videos. We appreciate all your hard work that goes into making these weekends so special. Thank you.

Susan Peacock

21:17 15 Mar 19

Our 11th time being part of Donaheys amazing dance weekends. We introduced 4 new people who all had a fab time & have already booked again for next year! We can’t recommend these weekends enough for anyone who loves dance, be it doing the workshops or simply watching the incredible shows. We shall be back in April at Celtic manor & are already counting the days. Thank you Paul, Amy, Shirley & all the team.Kay & Sean Escott

kay escott

13:29 15 Mar 19

Fantastic weekend and so much value for your money. Very high standard of workshops and feel so privileged to be taught by three wonderful Strictly couples and see their fabulous demonstration dances.

Colette Foan

13:09 15 Mar 19

As relative newcomers to ballroom dancing we weren't sure what to expect, but we shouldn't have worried. Donaheys gave us a fabulous weekend. The professionalism of the event was outstanding, from pre-information, joining instructions and weekend programme, super all round. All the lessons, and there's lots of them, were fun and within our ability and the showcase dances by the professionals made the evenings a "real night out". The hotel was everything that you would expect and were well looked after in terms of food and service. In fact it was all so good that we rebooked, before we left, to go to Celtic Manor next year.John and Caroline

John Spain

12:55 15 Mar 19

Fab-u-lous!We have just returned from the Dancing with the Stars weekend at Alton Towers Hotel. What an amazing weekend it was, and the organisation was just incredible! Everything runs like a well oiled machine, but at no time do you feel pressured to go to a dance workshop, you can take things at your own pace and attend as many or as few as you like! As avid Strictly fans, my husand and myself had never danced before, so we were in the beginners class. Excellent way to start a dance journey, and to also be taught by the Strictly Stars, Karen and Gorka on Friday, the Cha Cha Cha, Aljaz and Janette on Saturday, the Waltz, and Giovanni and Luba on Sunday, the Jive was truly great fun and they are excellent teachers. We were also taught the Quick Step on Saturday by Warren and Kristi Boyce, the most amazing dancers and teachers! The showcase dances performed by all of the Professionals left us in tears of joy, made us laugh, and we were in awe of their energy - if only! We also had the privelige of seeing some up and coming dancers of the future, Amy and Sasha, Mark and Ilenka, who were an absolute credit to the profession. What an amazing weekend it was, Donaheys you deserve 10 stars for one of the best events we've ever attended in the many years we have been going to entertainment events! Thank you and Keep Dancing!

Shaz M

09:25 11 Mar 19

Just had our first weekend at Alton Towers, we had a brilliant time, really well organised. The social dancing was great fun, and being up close with the dancers was amazing. There are two things I would change/review , 1) the food at dinner wasn’t great, and there is no excuse for a hotel to serve food on cold plates. This is not Donaheys fault, but worth mentioning. 2) The red carpet photo call is just a photo opportunity, due to time constraints etc, there isn’t the ability to have any individual photos. But make sure you get to the red carpet on the Saturday black tie ball as they look amazing.We’ve booked again for next year and can’t wait ! This weekend has encouraged us to join a Dance School, hopefully next year we may be wearing blue wristbands!

Mrs Mace

13:03 16 Mar 18

Whether you are into Latin or Ballroom dancing, attending a Donaheys Dancing With The Stars Weekend is an absolute must!During the course of each weekend, which runs from Friday evening to Sunday afternoon, you will get to see showcases performed by Stars from Strictly Come Dancing, attend classes delivered by the Stars themselves, and have great fun social dancing on an amazing dancefloor (which, on the Saturday night, will be to the live sounds of a big band).For the weekend's classes, each dancer is placed into one of three groups, depending on their dance experience. This allows instruction to be delivered at levels suited from beginner through to advanced. So, no-one will feel out-of-depth, but at the same time, all will be challenged.Throughout the weekend, the large contingent of friendly Donaheys staff are constantly on-hand to help, and always with a smile.Once the weekend comes to an end, and you start to depart the luxurious hotel that hosts the event, you will feel like you are leaving your (new) family.The Donaheys Dancing With The Start Weekends are a definite highlight to my year! I truly can not recommend them, nor the Donaheys staff and the regional regular dance lessons they run, highly enough.(In June of 2017 I attended the Chesford Grange weekend. In March of this year, 2018, I attended the Alton Towers weekend. I very much look forward to attending at least one of their weekends in each coming year)

Nigel Gotts

17:41 12 Mar 18

The Dancing with the Stars Weekend at Windsor organised by Shirley, Paul and Amy truly exceeded my expectations! It was a fantastic experience dancing with the Strictly Professionals and of course the talented Donahays team too! Wall to wall quality, very well organised, great fun and highly recommended. So much so that I have already booked for Celtic Manor in May 2018.

Suzy1952Q

05:53 25 Jul 17

We had the best weekend! We were complete beginners who were made to feel so welcome by all the team - fantastic sessions from all the pros and team of experts. The shows were amazing - everyone so personable. Thank you so much - cannot recommend highly enough!

Kathy Hardy

19:29 13 Jul 17

Its difficult to find enough superlatives to describe these amazing weekends. We have just attended our 8th, and it was as fabulous as ever. The Donaheys team are so welcoming & helpful, the workshops great fun & informative and the evening shows are breathtaking. We are once again already booked on 2 for next year & already looking forward to them both. We Cant recommend them highly enough. Thanks to all involved

Sean Escott

13:21 22 Jun 17

Another fantastic weekend with Donaheys at Chesford Grange.To see the showcase dances from the edge of the dance floor is amazing.The dance lessons from the Strictly Stars and Donaheys staff are really enjoyable.Well worth a visit for those who want to dance, and those who just want to watch...

Richard Mills

13:12 20 Jun 17

Best. Weekend. Ever. The organisation and staff are just superb. The work shops are so enjoyable and then the show cases in the evening round of a fantastic day. Highly recommended if you love dancing/Strictly!

J N

12:59 15 Jun 17

Many thanks for the last 6 years of fun filled Donaheys dancing with the stars weekends. Great work shops. Fabulous show cases. Well organised professional events. Already booked and looking forward to year 7 next year.thank you shirley paul amy and team. Enid and Brenda.

enid williams

08:54 11 Jun 17

Absolutely fantastic weekend on the Strictly weekend dance break in Manchester. So well organised.

Natalie Walker

18:07 16 May 17

Probably the Rolls Royce of weekend dance breaks. Intensive learning combined with a great ballroom experience alongside fellow minded intermediates and improvers. Whoever your particular Strictly Stars are, be in no doubt that Warren and Kristi are the real gems here. Scintillating !Can't thank Paul and the team enough. Top Marks

derek andrew

15:10 13 May 17

Thank you Donahey's for another fabulous, well-organised and fun weekend. First class, friendly tuition from the Strictly stars and Donahey's team encourages everyone, including beginners, to get up on the dance floor and give it a go. The professionals' show dances were truly amazing and seeing their skills at such close quarters was a real treat.Richard & Rosemary

Rosemary Pollard

20:28 10 May 17

We have been on at least 5 Dance Weekends and enjoyed them all. The workshops from the Strictly Pros and the Donahey's teachers are excellent and great fun. The showcases from the Pros in the evenings are spectacular. To be able to see them dance close up is a real treat. If you love your dancing then this is a weekend well worth the money.

Paul Penny

09:32 10 May 17

Dancing with the stars. Wow! What a Wonderful Weekend!This was our second time and seems even better. The organisation is brilliant. The professional dancers are amazing and make the workshops a joy.This is an experience not to be missed.

Clive Rowlands

09:45 07 May 17

Was bought this experience for Christmas and I can honestly say this has got too of been the best present EVER!!I was absolutely blown away by the whole weekend, the lessons, the staff and the professional dancers.The strictly dancers are just wonderful and put on an absolutely fantastic show.As a non dancer I was given time and help with the lessons and each teacher was lovely, I can't fault anything.The location was lovely and the Hotel was an extremely nice place to stay, the room was lovely and modern.I had a wonderful time and will be returning in 2018.Well done and thank you for an experience I will never forget and may quite possibly become a repeat returner!!!

Johanna Evans

19:52 04 May 17

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Locations of Donahey’s Dancing With The Stars Weekends

Exclusive 4* Weekend Breaks with the Stars of BBC Strictly Come Dancing

Donaheys organise exclusive 4* VIP Weekend Breaks where these sizzling stars will teach you how to dance and perform exceptional shows for you – you’ll also enjoy VIP access to meet them backstage after the show. And who better to teach you to dance than the Strictly Come Dancing Professional Dancers themselves; be captivated as they perform spectacular shows just for you.

Strictly audience members recent experience…

David Swan; Had the great pleasure of managing to get 2 tickets for last Saturdays show (29th October 2016 – Halloween show). All I can say is, it was Brilliant. There is no comparison to seeing it live than on the TV. Seeing how everything is recorded (the group dances, the Guest on the Sunday results show and then the dreaded end bit of the results show. So much more tense in the studio than watching on TV). And the biggest surprise, how much smaller the dance floor looks in real life, than on TV.

Long day though. We had to be at the studio for 3.15 and recording didn’t finally finish until 10.20 with only 1 real break between 8.15 and 9.00. Although we did get a free KitKat and a small carton of Juice from the BBC.

Registration for this years shows are now closed (they shut at the beginning of September). For those wanting to apply for next year. First you have to register on the BBC website (I think its on the Strictly section). In August, they send out a reminder to everyone who’s registered. Once registration is open, you then get the choice of which shows you want (put them all down). You will get confirmation of your registration. Then I’m afraid its pot luck.

I kept getting e-mails from the BBC to say my registration had been unsuccessful, then out of the blue (about 3 weeks beforehand), I got one to say, I had been successful and my tickets were attached. This year there was 5.5 million applications for tickets and they only allocate about 550/600 tickets per show. And it doesn’t end there. Even if you are lucky enough to get tickets, it doesn’t guarantee you will get in.

On the day you have to go to the studios to validate your tickets. We arrived at 1145 to be told we had the very last 2 guaranteed seats (449/450). So if you are so very lucky to get tickets, you have to get there very early in the morning to get them validated. The first 100 get on the studio floor (which you never see as they are behind the cameras). The rest are allocated to the upstairs balconies (You can see most of the dance floor). The 1 thing I did want to try and get over was the thing about validating your tickets. Apparently they over subscribe by between 100 & 150 per show and its only the 1st 450 who turn up are guaranteed seats. We tried to imagine what it would have been like, driving 170 miles only to be told we had missed out by a few minutes. Just shows how some people think though. The person who got ticket 1 on Saturday was at the Studio at 1-30 in the Morning. Validation didn’t start till 9 oclock.

We were sat directly opposite the judges so had a brilliant view of them (including Craig, Darcy and Len arguing like hell after Craig gave Greg Rutherford a 4 and upset Natalie). All those seats directly behind the judges and the others opposite on the studio floor and all for invited guests/VIPs.

Hopefully, those who wish to apply, this has given you a bit more insight on how the process works. And if you do get them, it is so much worth it. Good Luck. Believe you me, if you enjoy it on the Tele, you’ll absolutely love it live.

Best of luck with your application for Strictly audience tickets..

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Here’s how you can have dance classes with the Strictly Stars…

“This weekend sounds like so much Strictly fun”
EMMY GRIFFITHS Hello Magazine – 11th Oct 2019

The stars of Strictly Come Dancing including Neil and Katya jones, Anton Du Beke and Amy Dowden have announced their upcoming plans to reunite in Spring 2020 for a series of special weekends – and you can be a part of it! The weekend will take place across the country, and Strictly fans will be able to stay in 4* and 5* hotels and have the chance to rub shoulders with the talented dancers, take part in Q&As and even have a go at learning some moves yourself.

The experiences will take place in spring 2020

This amazing events has been sold out every year since 2004, and have been described as “the highlight of the entertainment calendar for every Strictly fan”. Speaking about the exciting upcoming series of weekends, Anton said: “It’s the best weekend you’ll have, ever. You get all of the stars come along and the organisation is amazing.” Aljaz Skorjanec, who attended the 2018 events, added: “What an amazing weekend! Thank you so much for inviting us, we are so happy to be part of your beautiful event. A clear 10 from me!” Anton’s dance partner, Erin Boag, added: “Everything is amazing. The accommodation and the organisation. You get workshops every single day – everything you could think of. Everything you see on Strictly, you’ll probably learn here.”

The event organiser, Paul Donahey, added: “One of the things we love most about these weekends is that we see everyone from experienced dancers to beginners. No matter their skill level, they leave at the end of the weekend with a newfound confidence and plenty of fantastic memories of dancing with the Strictly stars.” Each weekend include range of showcase performances, Q&A sessions and all of the photo opportunities you need to meet your favourite performers!

To find out more about Donahey’s Dancing with the Stars Weekends, visit www.donaheys.co.uk/events/

We have exciting news to share with you! We’re launching our fabulous online Ballroom and Latin Dance Lessons today and we’d love you to join us and dance your way through lockdown!

Now that you’ve mastered Zoom and FaceTime, learnt a new language or two, exhausted all crafts imaginable, sorted every cupboard and spruced up your garden, why not expand your skill-set by learning to dance?!

World class dance tuition at home
From the comfort of your own home you’ll be able to enjoy the very best of our Dancing With The Stars Weekends thanks to our new fun and easy to follow online dance lessons.

They’ll be brought to you by some of the UK’s finest dance teachers who’ve taught at our Dancing With The Stars Weekends, including World Ballroom Champions Warren and Kristi Boyce, leading Argentine Tango teachers Leandro Palou and Maria Tsiatsiani, rising stars David Cockram and Rosie Ward, and internationally acclaimed instructor Andy Wong. And of course both Amy and I will be part of the incredible line up bringing exceptional dance tuition into your very own home!

Dance your way through lockdown
Whether you’re an absolute beginner, a regular social dancer or somewhere in between, we’ll be offering a variety of styles to suit all levels of dance ability. Every month you can enjoy 20 new online dance lessons covering new steps, dances, choreography and technique, including nine Beginner Lessons, nine Improver/Intermediate Lessons and some fun Latino In Line.

All of our Ballroom and Latin Dance Lessons are accompanied by a fabulous soundtrack courtesy of Ross Mitchell, his band and singers which will have you up on your feet in no time. During each 45 minute dance lesson we’ll teach both the lead and follow steps solo, before demonstrating and practicing in partners. Plus our brilliant Bonus Technique Lessons will help you perfect your hold, posture and style. And with unlimited access to the monthly dances you’ll be able to give them all a go or just the ones that appeal to you most.

Learn to dance whenever and wherever you want at home
Our monthly online dance lessons are available On Demand and can be viewed on a variety of devices which means you can stream them whenever you want and on whichever device you choose. So it could be on your Smart TV in the lounge, your iPad in the kitchen, your laptop in the bedroom or your mobile in the garden! It’s entirely up to you. Plus you can pause, rewind and play the lessons at half speed to really master those all important steps and techniques. All you need is 2 square metres of clear space and you’re good to go!

What dances can I learn this month?

This month our amazing dance teachers will transport you into the wonderful world of dance where you’ll be able to learn the Waltz with Warren and Kristi Boyce, the Argentine Tango with Leandro Palou and Maria Tsiatsiani, and perfect the Cha Cha, Waltz, Rock ‘n’ Roll and Latin Line with Paul and Amy Donahey. Plus master the Foxtrot with David Cockram and Rosie Ward, and learn the Rumba and Tango with Andy Wong. Sounds good, eh?

How much does it cost?
For just £29.00 a month you can experience the joy of dance and unlimited access to world class dance tuition all from the comfort of your own home. That works out at just £6.45 per week when paid monthly. Plus you can even sign up as a household and gently increase your fitness levels together and have loads of fun whilst doing it!

The good news is there’s no lengthy subscription, you just pay per month and enjoy the lessons at a time that suits you and as often as you like. You can cancel at anytime and you’ll still be able to access and enjoy the lessons for the remainder of that month’s subscription.

How do I sign up?
Dancing is a great form of exercise that hits the spot for both physical and mental wellbeing, so why not give it a whirl and learn a new skill that you can enjoy beyond lockdown?

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After all, we’ve got the know-how and you’ve got the time to learn, so let’s get dancing! Just click the link here to enrol via our website.

On Demand

Our monthly lessons are available On Demand – so you can enjoy them whenever’s convenient for you.

Quality Dance Lessons

Both lead & follow steps are taught solo, then we demonstrate and practice in partners – just like a fabulous Donahey’s class.

All Devices

You can enjoy all our dance lessons on your Laptop, iPad, iPhone, Android devices, plus stream to your Smart TV.

45 Minute Lessons

Our lessons will last & feel just like a regular dance class.

Music Included

All our lessons use music courtesy of Ross Mitchell, His Band & Singers. Plus each lesson finishes with a practice demonstration for the full length of the music – just perfect for practicing & dancing along with.

Bonus Technique

We’ve included excellent Bonus Technique lessons covering Hold, Posture & Style – perfect for honing those dance-floor skills.

20 Dance Lessons

Every month we’ll present 20 new dance lessons for you to enjoy. You can expect 9 Beginner lessons and 9 Improver/Intermediate lessons, plus some fun Latino In Line for all. Each month we’ll try and cover most of the core Ballroom & Latin dances for you, plus you’ll have unlimited access to all 20 dance lessons so you can try as many or as few as you like – ideal!

Unlimited Pause, Play, Rewind

You can pause all the lessons, rewind & even play them half speed – just perfect for picking up the steps & technique.

Join Us Now – Just £29 per month

Who’s partnered with who in the Strictly Christmas Special?

The Strictly final is fast approaching and that means once this year’s champions have lifted the Glitterball trophy we’ll be treated to the Strictly Christmas Special. So who’s taking part?

1. Gorka fans will be over the moon to see him back for the Christmas special. He’ll be dancing with girlfriend, Gemma Atkinson, who made it all the way to the final in 2017 with partner Aljaz Skorjanec.

2. Joe Sugg will be partnered with his girlfriend, Dianne Buswell, who he danced with previously in 2018. As runners up, the couple just missed out on winning so perhaps they can snatch the Christmas title instead.

3. Chizzy Akudolu will be dancing with Graziano Di Prima, having previously competed with Pasha Kovalev in 2017.

4. Mark Wright, who partnered Karen Hauer in 2014 and made it all the way to the final coming fourth, will be dancing with Janette Manrara.

5. Funny man, Richard Arnold, will have another shot at the crown with Luba Mushtuk, having danced with Erin Boag in 2012.

6. Debbie McGee will partner up with Kevin Clifton, having made it all the way to the final in 2017 with Giovanni Pernice.

Can these former competitors bring the same calibre of dancing to their Christmas routines as we enjoyed before, or will Richard Arnold swoop in and take the coveted Christmas title from under their noses? We’ll just have to wait and see.

When’s the Strictly Christmas Special on?

The time has yet to be confirmed, but if you tune into BBC1 on Christmas Day in the early evening your festive celebrations will be complete with an ample helping of Strictly. Sticking with tradition, Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman will host and judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Bruno Tonioli will dish out lashings of constructive feedback.

Once the six couples have performed their dances the studio audience will vote and the champions will be crowned for another year. Past winners include Aston Merrygold, Katie Derham, Melvin Odoom, Harry Judd, Jill Halfpenny and John Barrowman.

The ultimate Christmas gift for Strictly fans

Looking for the perfect gift for a Strictly fan? Then why not make their Christmas truly memorable by treating them to this once in a lifetime opportunity to spend the weekend with Strictly pros Aljaz Skorjanec, Janette Manrara, Anton Du Beke, Erin Boag, Katya and Neil Jones, Karen Hauer, Gorka Marquez, Giovanni Pernice, Amy Dowden and Pasha Kovalev?

Our fabulous Weekend Breaks at Alton Towers Hotel & Spa, De Vere Beaumont Estate and Celtic Manor Resort in 2020 include workshops hosted by the pro dancers, as well as the chance to see them perform up close and personal. But that’s not all; you can also enjoy their fun Q&A sessions and Red Carpet Photo Calls, plus all the amazing facilities our 4* and 5* venues have to offer during your stay. So, that’s your Christmas present buying sorted!

With only a few weeks of Strictly left to satisfy our huge appetite for all things sparkly and dance orientated, we at least have the additional joy of Strictly Children in Need and the Strictly Christmas Special to look forward to.

Who’s taking part in Strictly Children in Need?

This year four members of the EastEnders’ cast will partner up with some of our favourite pro dancers and compete for the coveted Pudsey Glitterball trophy.

Gorka Marquez will make a much welcome return to our screens as he takes on the challenge with partner Louisa Lytton. Louisa first took to the Strictly dancefloor in series 4 when she was just 17. As the youngest ever celeb contestant to compete, she wowed us with her dance ability and made it all the way to fourth place with former Strictly pro, Vincent Simone.

Luba Mushtuk will also be back and hoping to nab the trophy with partner Ricky Champ. Her time in this year’s series was short lived when she and James Cracknel l became the first couple to be voted out of the competition.

New girl, Nancy Xu, will get to show us what she’s made of when she partners Rudolph Walker.

And Kevin Clifton may have just finished his stand in duties for an injured Neil Jones, but he’s already back in the training room with partner Maisie Smith.

When’s it on?

This year’s Children in Need is on Friday 15th November and will be hosted by Tess Daly, Ade Adepitan, Graham Norton, Mel Giedroyc, Tom Allen and Marvin and Rochelle Humes. Tune into BBC1 from 7.30pm for a fun-packed evening of fundraising and a sparkly slice of Strictly.
Do your thing for Children in Need

Amazing Fact

Did you know that to date the British public have raised over a £1billion for disadvantaged children? Visit the BBC Children in Need website for more information on how you can raise vital funds and support this worthy charity.

Well, Strictly Movie Week definitely didn’t disappoint with an inspired opening number featuring Anton, Katya, Janette and AJ in red spandex as The Incredibles and a fab Group Dance celebrating iconic moments from our favourite movies. And not forgetting the amazing Pixar tribute and Nadiya and Anton’s stunning routine to Harry Connick Jr’s performance.

The ‘Glam Squad’ and Vicky Gill’s team certainly transported us to the glitz and glamour of Hollywood with Red Carpet worthy outfits and exceptional hair and makeup. Plus the celebs and pro dancers really got into character and delivered some memorable routines.

And the Movie Week Award goes to…
There were many contenders for performance of the night, from Katya’s amazing stunt falls and Anton’s marvellous portrayal of Austin Powers, to Craig’s hilarious false teeth faux pas – oops. But the worthy winners were Kelvin and Oti who racked up the first 10s of the series with their Broadway-esque Charleston to Trip A Little Light Fantastic. Their incredible score of 38 points rocketed them straight to the top of the leaderboard.

Despite a nasty bump to the head, Dianne and Dev’s Couples’ Choice routine to Friend Like Me secured second place with a hugely impressive 36 points. Hot on their dancing heels were Michelle and Giovanni with a show-stopping Quickstep to Cabaret and Catherine and Johannes with a beautiful Rumba to Shallow.

If there was ever a Strictly Lifetime Achievement Award we’re pretty sure Anton deserves it, not just for his dazzling smile, but for his brave wardrobe choices and participation in 17 series of the show.

Who ended up on the cutting room floor?
She may have fallen in love with dancing, but Anneka’s lack-lustre Charleston only earned her and Kevin a score of 11 and a place in the dreaded dance-off. Unfortunately she went into battle with David and Nadiya and lost.

This weekend on Strictly
So, what will Week 4 bring? Well, the pros and celebs will definitely be upping the ante in the hope of taking the top spot on the leaderboard. And despite there not being a theme to get our teeth stuck into (sorry, Anton), we’re hoping for more surprising dance routines to impress us. So, here are the songs and dances we can look forward to:

Alex and Neil: Tango to Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac
Catherine and Johannes: Charleston to Single Ladies by Beyoncé
Emma and Anton: Viennese Waltz to Send In The Clowns by Barbara Streisand
Emma and Aljaz: Jive to Kids In America by Kim Wilde
Michelle and Giovanni: Salsa to Quimbara by Johnny Pacheco & Celia Cruz
Saffron and AJ: Couples’ Choice to Because You Loved Me by Celine Dion

Chris and Karen: Jive to Saturday Night’s Alright by Elton John
David and Nadiya: Quickstep to From Now On by Hugh Jackman
Dev and Dianne: Cha Cha Cha to Dancing With A Stranger by Sam Smith feat. Normani
Karim and Amy: Tango to Paradise by George Ezra
Kelvin and Oti: Rumba to Ain’t No Sunshine by Bill Withers
Mike and Katya: Quickstep to Come On Eileen by Dexys Midnight Runners
Will and Janette: Foxtrot to Señorita by Shawn Mendes & Camila Cabello

Coming to a luxury venue near you!
Did you know that every Donahey’s Dancing with the Stars Weekend is a star-studded affair? When you book your places at either our fantastic Weekend Breaks or Short Breaks in 2020 you’ll be rubbing shoulders and polishing your dance moves with the real stars of BBC Strictly Come Dancing.

That’s right; the A-list Strictly pro dancers will be there in all their magnificent glory, from attending our Red Carpet Photo Calls, hosting dance workshops and Q&A sessions to performing sensational dance showcases, all for your enjoyment. But that’s not all, you’ll also be pampered in style as you enjoy all of the luxury facilities on offer at our 4* and 5* venues.

More exciting news!
If a whole weekend is simply out of the question, why not treat yourself to one of our new Short Breaks with your favourite pro dancers instead?

Our new Short Breaks mean you can now spend ‘One Night with Aljaz and Jannette’ at the luxurious 5* Celtic Manor Resort on Sunday 26th April 2020 or ‘One Night with Anton and Erin’ at the swanky 4* De Vere Beaumont Estate on Sunday 29th March 2020. You’ll be able to enjoy fab up close and personal performances and learn to dance with them – all in one night!

Well, that was a phenomenal show for week one of Strictly!

We think Bruno summed it up perfectly when he said, ‘Tonight was one of the most exciting, surprising premieres of Strictly Come Dancing…everybody came out with something I wasn’t expecting!’ We couldn’t agree more. If the calibre of dancing on Saturday night’s show is anything to go by, we’re in for a fantastic season of entertainment.

Which couples look promising?
Now that we’ve finally seen all of the couples dance, a few stood out for all the right reasons. Kelvin and Oti topped the leaderboard with an impressive score of 32 for their amazing Samba to La Vida Es Un Carnaval by Celia Cruz. Karim and Amy were just one point behind with their energetic Cha Cha Cha to If I Can’t Have You by Shawn Mendes. Hitting the highs with a score of 30, Michelle and Giovanni wowed us with their Cha Cha Cha to So Emotional by Whitney Houston and Dev and Dianne graced us with an elegant Foxtrot to Build Me Up Buttercup by The Foundations.

As if that wasn’t enough, there were plenty of firsts too. For starters, Craig got out his 8 paddle more times in one night than we usually see during the whole season. And Bruno not only used his to score, but also to swat a pesky fly! Plus Kelvin and Oti’s score of 32 was the highest for a Samba in any first week of the show in five years and Will and Janette’s score of 26 was the highest for a Quickstep in any first week of the show ever.

Even more surprisingly Anton managed to stay off the bottom of the leaderboard! Thanks to a slick Jive to Honey Honey by ABBA with partner Emma, they found themselves nestled amongst the high scorers. Neil’s four-year wait to dance with his own celeb partner on the show finally paid off with a pretty decent score of 21 for his Quickstep with Alex to I Get a Kick Out of You by Frank Sinatra. And new kids on the block, Catherine and Johannes, were close behind with a score of 20 for their Viennese Waltz to I Got You Babe by Sonny and Cher. That’s pretty good going for their premiere performances with a celeb partner, don’t you think?

Which couples underwhelmed the judges?
With the highs came the lows, but fortunately none of the couples felt the sharp edge of Craig’s tongue this week. However, Emma and Aljaz, David and Nadiya, Anneka and Kevin, Chris and Karen, and James and Luba all found themselves on the bottom half of the leaderboard. Still, at least they had plenty of encouragement and constructive criticism from Shirley and Motsi – wasn’t she great?

Week two’s songs and dances
It’s a new week so that means there’s a new playlist and dances to master. So just what are the Strictly Celeb’s and their Professional partners dancing this week?

Anneka and Kevin: Waltz to Run to You by Whitney Houston
Alex and Neil: Cha Cha to What I Did For Love by David Guetta feat. Emeli Sande
Catherine and Johannes: Samba to Let the Groove Get In by Justin Timberlake
Emma and Anton: Foxtrot to Sunshine of Your Love by Ella Fitzgerald, Ernie Heckscher Big Band and Tommy Flanagan
Emma and Aljaz: Tango to Sucker by Jonas Brothers
Michelle and Giovanni: Viennese Waltz to That’s Amore by Dean Martin
Saffron and AJ: Cha Cha to One Touch by Jess Glynne and Jax Jones

Chris and Karen: Charleston to Out of Our Heads by Take That
David and Nadiya: Paso Doble to Espana cani
Dev and Dianne: Jive to Dance With Me Tonight by Olly Murs
James and Luba: Jive to Tutti Frutti by Little Richard
Karim and Amy: Foxtrot to The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra
Kelvin and Oti: Waltz to What the World Needs Now by Burt Bacharach
Mike and Katya: American Smooth to Rhinestone Cowboy by Glen Campbell
Will and Janette: Salsa to 1-2-3 by Gloria Estefan

Missing Gorka and Pasha?
Of course we all missed Pasha and only got a fleeting glance of Gorka in the opening number and in the ‘Clauditorium’. But not to worry, if you book our Dancing with the Stars Weekend at 5* Celtic Manor Resort you can see them both up close and personal in April 2020. Gorka will be performing with Karen Hauer and hosting brilliant dance workshops, whilst Pasha will dazzle you with his talent and even teach you to dance.

If you book your places now you can benefit from our great Early Bird Discount safe in the knowledge that our Weekend Beak Transfer Flexibility allows you to switch weekends should another engagement pop up. How’s that for accommodating?!

100% peace of mind
And just so you know, when you book one of our Dancing with the Stars Weekends we provide full financial protection for all your deposits and payments through the Association of Bonded Travel Organisers Trust Limited (ABTOT).