✨ Anton Du Beke

Want to know more about Strictly Come Dancing Judge Anton Du Beke? Discover his journey, dance achievements, and how you can dance alongside the King of Ballroom himself on our luxurious 4-star and 5-star weekend experiences. Table of contents

Having danced together since 1997, Anton Du Beke and Erin Boag became one of Britain’s most recognisable and well-loved ballroom couples.

Their effortless partnership and passion for dance have seen them win championships, light up the BBC One Strictly Come Dancing stage, and share their expertise with dancers across the UK. Now, you have the unique chance to learn from the King of Ballroom himself on our luxurious 4-star and 5-star weekend experiences, adding a touch of sparkle to your own steps.

Meet Strictly Judge Anton Du Beke

Known as the King of Ballroom, Anton Du Beke is not only a cherished British icon but also one of the most recognisable faces on BBC One’s Strictly Come Dancing.

Since joining Strictly in 2004, Anton has danced with 18 celebrity partners, made it to the final, and in 2021 became a respected judge on the show.

His expertise and charm earned him the prestigious title of ‘Judge of the Year’ at the 2022 National Television Awards.

The 2026 series sees Anton return to the Strictly Come Dancing judging panel for the sixth year running – fab-u-lous.

Quick Facts About Anton Du Beke

How old is Anton Du Beke?

60 years old (born 20th July 1966)

What is Anton Du Beke’s height?

1.8m tall

Where is Anton Du Beke from?

Sevenoaks, Kent

Is Anton Du Beke married?

Hands off, ladies! Anton married his beautiful wife Hannah Summers in 2017 after meeting at Wentworth Golf Club in 2012. Together they have twins, George and Henrietta.

Has Anton Du Beke written any books?

Yes. Anton is a Sunday Times bestselling author and has written numerous novels including One Enchanted Evening, Moonlight Over Mayfair, A Christmas to Remember, We’ll Meet Again, The Ballroom Blitz, The Paris Affair, A Dance for the King and The Winter Ball.

What is Anton Du Beke’s new book?

Anton’s latest book is Steps in Time: The Music, Memories and Moments that Made Me, his first full memoir. The book explores his childhood, early life, journey into dance and the experiences that shaped his career.

Pre-order your copy today amazon.co.uk/AntonDuBekeAMemoir

See Anton Du Beke Live – Dance Lessons & Shows

Looking for tickets to see Anton Du Beke live? Join the King of Ballroom at one of Donaheys fabulous Dancing With The Stars Experiences in 2027, where you can enjoy a dance lesson with Anton, see him perform a fabulous live Ballroom Show and enjoy a weekend full of ballroom glitz and glamour.

Anton will be joining us at De Vere Beaumont Estate and Celtic Manor Resort in 2027. Donaheys weekend experiences include 7 hours of dance lessons with the stars, spectacular live performances, fabulous evening entertainment, fun Q&As, Black Tie Ball and a 4-star or 5-star Resort Hotel stay.

Please note, we do not sell individual Anton Du Beke tickets – Anton’s dance lessons and live performances at Donaheys are included as part of our Dancing With The Stars residential experiences.

Strictly’s Anton Du Beke & Erin Boag chat about Donaheys 5* Weekend Breaks…

Anton and Erin’s Reviews of Donaheys Weekend Breaks

Since 2004 Anton & Erin have attended Donahey’s Weekend Breaks, here’s what they say…

‘Paul, you organise the most wonderful events, thank you. We always look forward to Donahey’s events, well done.’ Erin Boag

‘Paul, you’re such a Superstar for organising such a fabulous event’ Anton Du Beke

Google Reviews of Donaheys Weekend Breaks

Top rated

Donaheys Dancing With The Stars Weekend5.0

Based on 265 reviews

Benn Chamberlain

3 months ago

We both had a fantastic time with Donahay's the organisation is brilliant and the hotel in newport is superb. Benn.

Suzanne Greenop

5 months ago

Amazing weekend! We were thoroughly entertained throughout. Highly recommend if you love dancing.

Teresa Doherty

5 months ago

Absolutely wonderful - can’t recommend enough!!

Hereward Gas

5 months ago

Paul Smith

5 months ago

An Unforgettable, Starry-Eyed Strictly Experience at the Celtic Manor Resort Hotel. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ We came away completely starry-eyed as first-timers at the Donaheys Dancing With The Stars Weekend at the Celtic Manor Resort Hotel. An exceptional experience – incredibly well organised and it exceeded all expectations from start to finish. The hotel was fantastic – great staff, a lovely room with a view, and a delicious variety of vegetarian options which we really appreciated. As complete beginners, the 7 hours of dance tuition were inspiring and great fun. Learning from the Strictly professionals – Aljaž Škorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Anton Du Beke, and Gorka Márquez & Karen Hauer – was a real highlight. They were so supportive and made everything enjoyable. The evenings were pure glamour and glitz, with stunning professional performances. The Black Tie Ball with the Tony Greenwood 15-piece Big Band was brilliant – a perfect chance to practise what we’d learned. Being among 400 like-minded people created such a fun, friendly atmosphere. A truly memorable weekend – we would highly recommend it and will definitely be back! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

John Vaughan

6 months ago

My wife and I went to our 1st Donahey's Weekend in April @ Celtic Manor . We did have a preconceived idea as to how it would go but , honestly , we were simply blown away . The Hotel was magnificent . The quality of the food , service and facilities was top class . The 2 Ballrooms were superb . Getting to see the Strictly Stars up close was an incredible experience . They were each so kind , generous and patient and we had great fun learning 7 different Dances which we got to practice on the floor on Friday and Saturday evening . There are 4 levels so everyone can enjoy learning at their own standard . The people we met were fabulous and everyone mixed so well . The atmosphere was electric . Paul and his ' Dance Family ' were so lovely , approachable and helpful . Their organisation of the weekend was a fantastic ' 10 ' and the weekend flowed like an beautifully fluid Ballroom dance . We could go on and on but will finish by saying . If you love Strictly and enjoy dancing , a Donahey's Weekend MUST go on your Bucket List . You will not be disappointed . We are definately going back John & Olive Vaughan ( Cork - Ireland )

PAUL DOWNS

6 months ago

Our first time attending a weekend of dancing with the stars. What an incredible experience. The entire weekend was so professionally organised. The Donaheys Team are so friendly, helpful and attentive. We are complete novices with zero experience. The classes are structured into 4 categories, depending upon your experience. We were in the Red class for those learning steps for the very first time. This worked so well. Going in with zero expectations (other than to enjoy) and leaving each class with some basic steps was really fun and fulfilling. The entire weekend was organised by people who seriously know what they’re doing! To have your first classes ever being instructed by the likes of Aljaz and Janette, Anton, Giovanni and the wonderful Argentine Tango specialists Maria and Alejandro (who choreograph all the strictly Argentine Tango routines) was special. The British Showdance Champions, Rosie and David were a joy to watch and we really enjoyed their Foxtrot lesson. What lovely people they all are. So kind and warm. The evening shows on Friday and Saturday evening were amazing. Intimate performances from all of the teachers and stars and some special guests from the World of dance and song!. Great entertainment. The shows were worth the fee!! We have booked again for 2027 and we can’t wait. Would highly recommend, especially for those wanting a first dance experience or are looking to build on their basic skills and for those wanting a weekend of great entertainment. The Celtic Manor is an amazing venue too. Loved it! Thanks to the entire Donaheys Team Esther and Paul ❤️

Andrea Dobson

6 months ago

Huge congratulations to Paul and his fabulous team for delivering a fantastic weekend, absolutely jam packed with dance instruction, dance showcases and lots of fun. We were really looking forward to it anyway, but the whole experience completely surpassed are high expectations! Well done and thank you team Donaheys!

Martin Gerrard

6 months ago

I had been advised that I would enjoy the dance weekend but the experience exceeded any of my expectations... The hotel was wonderful, the Strictly dancers were as pleasant and helpful as they could possibly be, the organisation and timing of all the workshops was just perfect... I have already booked for next year and would recommend the dance weekends to anyone and everyone!! Well done Donaheys!!

The Dream

6 months ago

Amazing weekend, it was our first time going and it was even better than expected, we have re booked to back next year. 💃💃💃

Wendy Rathbone

6 months ago

We had an amazing time at our first Donaheys weekend. We stayed at the Celtic Manor hotel in April 2026. The organisation beforehand was excellent, with timely emails asking for information or confirming details. A very comprehensive email came out about a month ahead of time which dealt with all the details you need to know. The weekend itself ran like clockwork. We had just the right amount of workshops, there was breathing space in-between, and we were never bored. There is a lot of dancing available, either in social sessions or the workshops. All abilities are catered for in 4 separate workshops: absolute beginners up to more experienced dancers. It was lovely to see so many dancers with such a wide range of experience enjoying their dancing. We never felt judged or out of place on the dance floor or at any time. All of the lessons were excellent and well structured. It was super exciting to be taught the cha cha by Aljaz and Janette, and the waltz by Anton. Every single Strictly star and all of the teachers were so kind, nice people and very helpful. We have already booked for next year and strongly recommend it if you are thinking about it. The weekends do sell out! All the Donaheys people were professional, kind and helpful and there was just a lovely vibe to the whole weekend.

Lorraine Dicker (Fred)

6 months ago

Wonderful weekend we just had at Celtic Manor with the Donaheys team Fabulous line up of stars. Brilliant workshop on how to do certain dances. Wonderful friendly staff and guests. Had. A couple of minor issues which I want to thank Jackie and Tracy for sorting these out efficiently. Enjoyed it so much have booked for next year. Keep Dancing. 💃💃🕺💃

Richard Thompson

6 months ago

Just back from Celtic Manor. Unfortunately due to some knee surgery i wasn't able to dance. As always Paul and his team were on hand to make me as comfortable as possible. The showcases were exceptional with the youngsters quickstep routines my favourite. All stars were approachable and clearly enjoyed being part of Donaheys family. The DSI behind the scenes a very interesting addition. All booked for next year. See you all there.

Martyn Reid

6 months ago

Another wonderful action packed fun Donaheys weekend at the Celtic Manor, Newport. Being tutored up close by the Strictly Stars and professionals in such a friendly environment was such a great experience. Hats off to the Donaheys team too for making the whole event run so smoothly, thanks for the memories, Martyn & Nyree

Trudy Walmsley

6 months ago

Fabulous weekend. My first time and, with no dancing experience, I was a bit apprehensive. The weekend was really well organised, I learned far more than I expected and the accommodation was lovely. Thank you to all involved.

Hereward Gas

6 months ago

What a fantastic time we had at the De Vere Beaumont Estate Windsor, at the Donaheys dancing with the stars weekend. We had a fabulous dance lessons with the stars and in the evenings we watched the professionals incredible showcase dances. The black tie ball with a 15 piece band was fantastic. We love it so much we have already booked to return for our 4th years next year.Thank you Paul.Amy and all the Donaheys Team for all your hard work and for making it another memorable weekend.Looking forward to nest year . Tony & Amanda

Nigel Skinner

6 months ago

Another fab-u-lous weekend of dance with Donaheys. This has been our 6th visit and it never fails to inspire us. Extremely well organised, fitting in so much in one weekend! We have already booked our 7th visit.

les williams

6 months ago

What an incredible weekend 👏 As a complete beginner (my only experience being classic Dad dancing at parties), I genuinely didn’t know what to expect but booking this was one of the best decisions we’ve made. My wife loves Strictly, I wanted to book something for a nice surprise, that she would enjoy. I found Donahey”s Online, so I booked. The professional line-up looked outstanding, and travelling from Lincolnshire to Berkshire turned out to be more than worth it. Huge thanks to @mrantondubeke, @rosie_rw, @ellingtonlance, @leandropalou1, @maria_tsiatsiani, @pernicegiovann1, @david_and_rosie_, @michelle_tsiak, @simonearena_official, @kaiwidd and @laurenmayoakley, the level of talent was matched by the encouragement, patience and energy you brought. You made complete beginners feel comfortable and capable from the first step. An unforgettable experience fun, welcoming, and brilliantly run. Paul, Shirley, Amy and the team should be incredibly proud of what they’ve created. Safe to say… we’ve already booked again for 2027.

Beverley Gough

7 months ago

The Amazing Donaheys Dancing with the Stars Weekend We have spent a fantastic weekend with Donaheys, Dancing with the Stars, at De Vere Estate Windsor I can't speak highly enough of the entire experience! The magnificent Donaheys Team are a highly professional Family run Team who deliver perfection every time. It's fantastic to get up close and personal with the Strictly Stars in the dance workshops and photocalls. Truly an experience not to be missed. And the Showcases are absolutely out of this world A-MAZ-ING! The organisation and precision of the entire weekend, coordinating the workshops for all abilities, from Beginners, and Intermediate to Advanced Dancers. This makes for an amazing experience. The Team are extremely helpful and whatever your question, they are always on hand to help and advise. The Donaheys Team work hard 52 weeks a year to bring Dancing with the Stars weekend to us. If you haven't been to one of these weekends, then you are in for a truly wonderful experience. The is a 5* plus weekend in any of their resorts. I highly recommend Donaheys dance weekends, you will fall in love with Dance, of that you can be sure! Keeeep Dancing! Beverley

Rosie Priestley

7 months ago

Great weekend

Jo Covey

7 months ago

THE BEST WEEKEND !! we had never attended one of these weekends before but we were not disappointed, the whole weekend exceeded our expectations. My husband and I are both in our 50’s and had never danced before ( apart from a taster at learn to dance in a day with donaheys) all the classes were amazing and such fun ( we were red band for beginners ) to be able to have classes with some of the strictly pros and other pro dancers was amazing. The showcases were brilliant and the black tie ball was fab to see everyone dressed up. All the donaheys team were fab and so helpful. Hotel was lovely just outside of Windsor and food was lovely a great choice. The whole weekend was so well organised and was great to meet other people who love dancing. We got home yesterday evening and I’m still buzzing from it. We have already booked to go again next year. I can definitely recommend this weekend and whatever your dance level you will love it !!

Roger N

7 months ago

An incredible experience. Brilliant performances from the stars. The Donahey planning and support throughout the booking and the weekend experience was exceptional. The hotel was great. Cannot thank Donaheys and their sparkling star performers enough.

Sharon Reed

7 months ago

Having joined the Donaheys team for our 3rd year at Alton Towers I can honestly say this is one of the best weekends of the year. Everyone is so happy and eager to learn and for us it is a joy to catch up with both the Donaheys team and all the other returning guests who have now become friends. My Mum and I want to thank everyone involved in creating these magical weekends. I am currently practicing at home with the fantastic online courses and can’t wait to use what I have learned on the dance floor next year!

Derek Bish

7 months ago

We had a fantastic weekend at Alton Towers hotel. From start to finish the weekend was superbly organised. All the Donaheys team are very friendly and helpful. We loved the lessons with the strictly stars, David and Rosie and Tony Bennett. The showcases were fab-u-lous! The location is great and the hotel staff are brilliant. We have booked again for 2027 and can't wait!

Joanne Clark

7 months ago

It is always a fantastic weekend. Great to see Strictly stars up close but David and Rosie are always a highlight for me. Looking forward to next year.

Anton Du Beke Frequently Asked Questions

What are Anton Du Beke’s greatest dance achievements?

Anton began dancing at 14, discovering his love for ballroom at 17. In 1997, he formed his legendary partnership with Erin Boag, leading to consecutive wins at the New Zealand Championships and the International Dance Championships at The Royal Albert Hall.

In 2002, they turned professional, catching the eye of the BBC and earning a place in Strictly Come Dancing history.

Beyond Strictly, Anton has presented shows like ‘Step Up to the Plate’ and ‘Hole in the Wall’, but his passion remains on the dance floor, sharing elegance and excellence with audiences.

Who is Anton’s professional dance partner?

Anton currently partners with reigning British Showdance Champion Rosie Ward

Which celebrities did Anton Du Beke dance with on Strictly?

In 2019, Anton and Emma Barton reached the Strictly Final with standout dances, including a Viennese Waltz, a high-energy Charleston, and a show-stopping Showdance.

What’s Anton’s favourite dance?

Anton loves the Foxtrot.

When did Anton Du Beke join Strictly?

Anton has been on the show since its conception in 2004.

Did Anton Du Beke ever win Strictly Come Dancing?

Anton came amazingly close several times, including reaching the final with Katie Derham in 2015 and finishing third with Lesley Garrett, but sadly never lifted the Glitterball Trophy.

Find out who has won BBC Strictly Come Dancing with our full list of past Strictly winners from 2004 here – Strictly Winners

What is the name of Giovanni & Anton’s television show

Giovanni & Anton star in a second series of BBC ONE TV Travel series Anton and Giovanni: Adventures in Spain.

Available on BBC iPlayer, this three-part entertainment travel series sees Giovanni and fellow dancer Anton tour Spain.

This series follows on from their first successful TV series together Anton and Giovanni: Adventures in Sicily

Did Anton ever have a wardrobe malfunction on Strictly?

Are you kidding? This man was born immaculately dressed. However, he did become entangled in Nancy Dell’Olio’s green feather boa during a Waltz in series 9.

Books By Author Anton Du Beke In Order

Since 2018 Anton has become a multiple Sunday Times Bestselling author, penning some fabulous dance-based fiction books.

Anton’s 2025 books include:

‘The Winter Ball’ – a page turning and epic wartime love story filled with drama, dance and romance;

‘Operation Tango’ – Anton’s action-packed children’s adventure follows two young heroes as they embark on a globe-trotting mission filled with mystery, excitement and unexpected twists.

‘The Paris Affair’ – A young dancer Ray Cohen arrives from London to compete at the Exhibition Paris. He is led astray by Hugo, a charismatic dancer born of the streets, who introduces him to the city’s nightlife and a beautiful stranger called Hannah Lindt. His life is forever changed.

‘Ballroom Blitz’ – The stunning novel from Sunday Times bestselling author Anton Du Beke. September 1940. As the skies split apart and bombs rain down on London, it’s all the staff at the famed Buckingham Hotel can do to keep their guests in the luxury they’re accustomed to, and evoke the magic of the Grand ballroom for them each night.

‘One Enchanted Evening’ – Anton’s Sunday Times bestselling debut novel, introducing readers to the glamorous world of the Buckingham Hotel and launching his hugely successful series of historical fiction novels

His forthcoming memoir Steps in Time: The Music, Memories and Moments that Made Me is one of the most anticipated dance books of the year.

Due to be released on 5 November 2026, Anton’s memoir takes readers on a personal journey through his childhood in the 1970s, his early dancing career, his rise to fame on Strictly Come Dancing and the people, music and moments that have shaped his remarkable life and career. https://www.amazon.co.uk/StepsInTime

Anton Du Beke’s books in order

• Anton’s Dance Class (2008)
• Ballroom Dance Class (2008)
• B Is For Ballroom (2012)
• One Enchanted Evening (2018)
• Moonlight Over Mayfair (2019)
• A Christmas to Remember (2020)
• We’ll Meet Again (2021)
• The Ballroom Blitz (2022)
• The Royal Show (2023)
• The Paris Affair (2023)
• A Dance for the King (2024)
• Code Name Foxtrot (2024)
• Monte Carlo by Moonlight (2025)
• Operation Tango: The New Mystery Adventure (2025)
• The Winter Ball (2025)
• Steps in Time: The Music, Memories and Moments that Made Me (Due to be released November 2026)
  

Learn more about Anton’s dancing profile on his official BBC Strictly Come Dancing profile page.

Erin Boag – Strictly Come Dancing Finalist 2005

Erin Boag, often called the Queen of Ballroom, partnered with Anton Du Beke to win the New Zealand Championships and became a Strictly Come Dancing favourite. She competed in the first 10 Strictly series, reaching the final in 2005 with Colin Jackson.

Erin began dancing at age three, studying ballet, jazz, tap, and ballroom. After partnering with Anton in 1997, they turned professional in 2002, achieving significant success before Erin stepped back from Strictly in 2013.

Speaking on her Strictly retirement Erin said;

‘After ten wonderful years, and with a truly heavy heart, I have decided to decline the BBC’s very kind offer to compete again in series eleven, and have withdrawn from being a competitive dancer on Strictly Come Dancing. It’s been a very hard decision to make, but it’s time for a change and to focus my attention on new challenges. That said, it’s not necessarily farewell to Strictly, as I do hope to continue being a part of the show.’ Erin Boag – June 2013

How old is Erin?

51 years old (born 17th March 1975)

Where is Erin Boag from?

Auckland, New Zealand

Is Erin in a relationship?

As hilarious as it might be, Erin is not married to Anton. Erin is married to Peter O’Dowd and they have a son called Ewan.

What are Erin’s greatest dance achievements?

The Queen of Ballroom started dancing at age three and studied Ballet, Jazz, Tap, Latin and of course, Ballroom. By age 18 she was the New Zealand 10 Dance Champion. Following her partnership with Anton in 1997, they went on to win the New Zealand Championship two years running and the prestigious International Dance Championships at The Royal Albert Hall in London. After turning professional in 2002, the couple accrued numerous accolades and wins.

Who is Erin’s professional dance partner?

The one and only Anton Du Beke.

What’s Erin’s favourite dance?

Erin loves the Quickstep.

When did Erin join Strictly?

Like Anton, Erin started her Strictly journey back in 2004 when the series began. In fact, she competed in 10 Strictly series. She was also fondly known as ‘Miss Whiplash’ due to her no-nonsense teaching style.

Who has Erin danced with on Strictly?

Did Erin Boag ever win Strictly?

No. Despite 10 successful years on Strictly, Erin didn’t win the glitter ball before leaving in 2013.

Has Erin ever had a wardrobe malfunction on Strictly?

Seriously? Always the consummate professional, Erin has never had a costume mishap on Strictly.

Learn more about Erin’s dancing profile on her official BBC Strictly Come Dancing profile page.

BBC Strictly Come Dancing

Find out more information about the BBC TV programme Strictly Come Dancing
by checking out the BBC Strictly Come Dancing website
www.bbc.co.uk/strictlycomedancing

Discover more about BBC Strictly Come Dancing professionals Anton and Erin, checkout their official website
www.antonanderin.com

Checkout Erin Boag’s official website
www.erinboag.com

Take a look at Anton Du Beke’s official website
www.antondubeke.tv

Check Anton and Giovanni’s official tour announcements
www.antonandgiovanni.com

Check current Anton Du Beke tour dates and venues
View Anton Du Beke tour dates and tickets

Donaheys Dancing With The Stars Weekends are not associated with BBC Studios

Anton Du Beke Tour Dates & Venues

Anton at Christmas is Anton’s December 2026 tour. A live theatre show featuring festive music, Ballroom dance, Lance Ellington and a live band. View dates, venues and ticket availability on ATG Tickets Anton Du Beke tour tickets.

Ballet Shoes features Anton as Great Uncle Matthew on selected dates during the 2027 tour. A stage adaptation of Noel Streatfeild’s story of three sisters following their dreams. The Sadler’s Wells run is 25 August–11 September 2027, with Anton currently listed for 25, 26, 27, 29 and 31 August. Check his performance dates and ticket availability on the theatre’s website Anton Du Beke Ballet Shoes theatre tickets.

Meet all the Strictly Come Dancing Professional Dancers

Learn more about all your favourite Strictly Pro’s here

– Aljaz Skorjanec
– Alexis Warr
– Amy Dowden MBE
– Carlos Gu
– Dianne Buswell
– Giovanni Pernice
– Gorka Marquez
– Jowita Przystal
– Julian Caillon
– Kai Widdrington
– Karen Hauer
– Katya Jones
– Lauren Oakley
– Luba Mushtuk
– Michelle Tsiakkas
– Nadiya Bychkova
– Nancy Xu
– Neil Jones
– Nikita Kuzmin
– Vito Coppola
– Aleksandra Isaeva
– Cristian Priori
– Lethabo Monametsi
– Maddie Ingoldsby
– Mark Karmalita

Meet the Strictly Come Dancing Presenters

Learn more about Strictly presenters Emma Willis, Josh Widdicombe and Johannes Radebe

Meet all the Strictly Come Dancing Judges

Learn more about all the Strictly Judges here;
– Anton du Beke
– Shirley Ballas
– Motsi Mabuse
– Craig Revel Horwood