Ian Waite and Natalie Lowe – Strictly Professional Dancers
Last Updated: April 27, 2026
Ian Waite & Natalie Lowe formed an amazing partnership when Natalie became one of the Strictly Come Dancing professional dancers in the seventh series.
Natalie Lowe – Strictly Come Dancing Finalist 2009
This exceptionally talented couple have become a massive hit with their involvement in all the professional group dances and superb solo numbers, dancing alongside such megastars as Dame Shirley Bassey.
Ian lifted the 2024 Dancing With The Stars glitterball trophy in Australia
In 2023 Ian & Natalie announced they were chosen to be professional dancers on Australia’s Dancing With The Stars
Ian Waite is a superb Latin American professional dancer and choreographer who has been involved with Strictly Come Dancing in some way or another since series 2. Whether it’s competing for 6 series, behind the scenes choreographing, dancing with Dame Darcey Bussell in the 2012 launch show when she joined as a new judge or waving his Strictly wand on ‘It Takes Two’.
Ian Waite – Strictly Come Dancing Finalist 2005
A lot has happened during Ian’s six years on Strictly including forming an amazing partnership with former Strictly professional dancer, Natalie Lowe, when she joined in series 7. Over the years they have performed in many of the Group Dances, choreographed superb solo numbers and danced alongside icons such as Dame Shirley Bassey.
Learn all about Natalie & Ian’s glittering dancing career, view photos & videos plus catch up on all their latest news below
5* Weekend Breaks with the Stars of TV
Who better to teach you to dance than professional dancer Ian Waite from Strictly Come Dancing? You can meet the stars, learn their steps and be captivated as they perform spectacular shows just for you.
📆 Friday 5th – Sunday 7th March 2027 📍 4* Alton Towers Resort Hotel, Staffordshire ⌛ Early Bird £659pp Dinner, Bed & Breakfast 💃 Strictly Stars confirmed – Kai Widdrington & Lauren Oakley, Julian Caillon, Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Leandro Palou & Maria Tsiatsiani, David Cockram & Rosie Ward 🛏️ Double, Twin, Triple & Themed Bedrooms available ✨ Over half the rooms already sold!
⭐ Join Strictly Come Dancing Stars Kai Widdrington & Lauren Oakley, Aljaz Skorjanec & Janette Manrara, Giovanni Pernice, Julian Caillon, British Showdance Champions David Cockram & Rosie Ward, Argentine Tango Stars Leandro Palou & Maria Tsiatsiani, plus the Tony Greenwood Big Band at the fabulous Alton Towers Resort Hotel ⭐
Ian Waite & Natalie Lowe chat about Donahey’s 5* Weekend Breaks
Natalie Lowe & Ian Waite’s reviews of Donahey’s 4* Weekend Breaks
‘Donahey’s events are always the BEST! We really look forward to Donahey’s dance weekends; they’re so well organised, great venues and a fabulous audience. Thank you so much Paul.’
Amazing weekend! We were thoroughly entertained throughout. Highly recommend if you love dancing.
Teresa Doherty
2 months ago
Absolutely wonderful - can’t recommend enough!!
Hereward Gas
2 months ago
Paul Smith
2 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
2 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
2 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
2 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
2 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
2 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
2 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)
2 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
2 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
2 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
2 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
3 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
3 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
3 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
3 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
3 months ago
Great weekend
Jo Covey
3 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
3 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
3 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
4 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
4 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.
Margaret Lloyd
4 months ago
10 of us had a FAB U LOUS weekend of dance and fun. Paul and the Donaheys Team are super friendly, kind and accomodating. They are all welcoming and helpful, both on the dance floor and off. The ballrooms are spacious and well planned, there is ample seating for the evenings entertainment. We learned new dances from the Stars, heard their personal stories and were blown away by their magnificent performances during their showtime.
Even thinking about them leaves me breathless!
David and Rosie were around at Practice sessions to help, their show was amazing. I love them ❤️
We ve booked for next year, choosing an alternative venue as it's nearer to travel.
Natalie Lowe
‘Congratulations to the Donahey’s for finding the most amazing venue. How brilliant is Alton Towers – a diamond in the country. We love working with the Donahey’s – you always know you’ll get such a professionally run event’ Ian Waite
Height 5′ 10″ Age 44 (Born 15 August 1980) Married to James Knibbs
Natalie Lowe is a professional ballroom dancer, choreographer, TV personality and star of four series’ of Strictly Come Dancing. She is also a four-time Australian Dance Champion.
In 2004, Natalie auditioned for the Australian version of Strictly Come Dancing and became one of the first female professional ballroom dancers to be a part of the highest rating entertainment show in the history of Australian Television, of which she ultimately became Dancing With The Stars Champion 2006.
Natalie’s 2016 Strictly celebrity partner was Olympic long jumper Greg Rutherford. Greg triumphed at the London 2012 Olympics, winning Gold. Greg represented Team GB in Rio over summer, achieving Bronze medal. Together Natalie & Greg were a fab partnership in 2016
Natalie’s first year performing on Strictly Come Dancing saw her partnered with Hollyoaks actor Ricky Whittle. They reached the final, narrowly missing out to Ola Jordan and Chris Hollins. Natalie felt this was a great result for her first year on Strictly Come Dancing back in 2009.
Natalie has reached four finals and two semi finals during her time on Strictly Come Dancing and Dancing With The Stars. In 2010 Natalie was partnered with EastEnders’ heartthrob Scott Maslen, in 2011 Audley Harrison and in 2012 Natalie partnered former England Cricket Captain Michael Vaughn. Due to injury Natalie was out of the 2013 series, however we’re delighted Natalie returned to Strictly for the 2014 series.
In 2015 Natalie partnered Celebrity chef Ainsley Harriott all the way to week 5. Celebrity chef Ainsley has presented on many of our favourite TV cooking shows including; Can’t Cook Won’t Cook, Ainsley’s Barbeque Bible, Ainsley’s Meals in Minutes, Good Morning and of course Ready Steady Cook.
Together, Ian, Natalie & Mark Foster created a fabulous dance fitness exercise company FitSteps.
In 2020 Natalie relocated to Sydney, Australia.
Is Natalie in a relationship?
Natalie is married to husband James Knibbs.
Natalie married husband James in 2018.
James is a Company Director, the couple met on a train to Leeds in 2013.
Ian Waite Facts – Age, Dance Partners, Relationships, Awards, Tours
Height 1.88m
Ian Waite is the superb Latin American professional dancer and choreographer who has been involved with Strictly Come Dancing from Series two.
Ian started winning dance competitions at a very early age, from the European Youth Latin American Champion to numerous international championships representing England. After turning professional in 1997, Ian and his partner; Latin American World Champion, Inga Haas, became runners up in the British Professional Rising Stars.
Furthering his career in Holland, he trained with the world renowned choreographer and dance coach; Ruud Vermay and went on to win the Dutch Championships with his partner; Natalia Panina. This couple also made the final of both the World Showdance Championship and the European Professional Latin American Championship, proving his professional career really had blossomed and developed.
Moving back to the UK in 2004, Ian started to dance with Camilla Dallerup and the couple became part of Strictly Come Dancing. Ian has been a key part of Strictly Come Dancing since series two, twice reaching the final with Denise Lewis and Zoë Ball and now devoting his Strictly time to choreography of the Strictly Showdancers routines and his regular appearances on Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two.
Following Ian’s hugely successful 6 years on Strictly, Ian appeared for many years on BBC2 It Takes Two as one of the shows resident Dance Specialists ‘Waite’s Wednesday Warm-Up’.
Ian’s celebrity partners over his six series’ include Jade Johnson, Jodie Kidd, Penny Lancaster Stewart and Mica Paris. Ian is featured on weekly show It Takes Two and is involved in choreographing for the main series – to the delight of audiences Ian was seen dancing on the 2012 launch show with the then new Strictly Judge Darcey Bussell.
In 2023 Ian was invited to be a Professional Dancer on Dancing With The Stars Australia
Ian made it through to the semi-finals with celebrity partner Virginia Gay.
In 2024 Ian lifted the glitterball trophy with actress Lisa McCune of Blue Heelers
How old is Ian?
Age 53 (Born 29 January 1971)
Where is Ian from?
Reading, Berkshire
Is Ian in a relationship?
In July 2017 Ian married Drew Merriman.
They announced their seperation in Summer 2024.
What are Ian’s greatest dance achievements?
Ian started dancing competitively at a very young age and represented England in many international championships, before becoming the European Youth Latin American Champion. After turning professional in 1997, he came second in the British Professional Rising Stars event, along with professional partner, Inga Haas. On relocating to Holland, he received expert tuition from highly-regarded choreographer and coach, Ruud Vermy, and went on to win the Dutch Championships with professional partner, Natalia Panina. Not only that, they were also finalists in the World Showdance Championship and the European Professional Latin American Championship. Ian partnered up with Camilla Dallerup professionally when he returned to the UK in 2004 and the couple joined Strictly. The rest as they say is history.
Ian won Dancing With The Stars Australia 2024
Who is Ian’s professional dance partner?
Most recently Ian partners with Natalie Lowe. This seasoned professional has had many pro partners including, Inga Haas, Natalia Panina, Camilla Dallerup and Natalie Lowe who retired from Strictly in 2017.
What’s Ian’s favourite dance?
Ian loves the Jive and Foxtrot.
When did Ian join Strictly?
Haven’t you been paying attention? Ian’s been part of Strictly since series 2.
No, he was robbed! Ian only ever reached the final, but he got there twice; Once with Denise Lewis and then with his ‘It Takes Two’ partner, Zoe Ball, in 2005.
In 2024 Ian did win Dancing With The stars Australia
Has Ian ever had a wardrobe malfunction on Strictly?
Not as such, but he has donned some fabulous Halloween costumes for his ‘Waite’s Wednesday Warm Up’ slot on ‘It Takes Two’ over the years. Our favourite being the giant pumpkin suit he wore in 2013.
Find out about the 2024 ‘Legends Of The Dance Floor’ tour starring Brendan Cole, James Jordan, Pasha Kovalev, Vincent Simone and Ian Waite here www.legendsofthedancefloor.com
Donahey’s Dance Lessons & 4* UK Weekend Breaks are not associated with the BBC.
Meet all the Strictly Come Dancing Professional Dancers
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