Strictly Come Dancing Live - The Interviews

After three gruelling months on the television show, the seven stars of BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing have signed up to go through it all again as part of the Strictly Live Tour. The tour, which visits Leeds First Direct Arena on January 24th to the 26th will be hosted by 2012 Strictly star Lisa Riley and promises to be the most glittering tour yet over 31 shows nationally. 

We caught up with the stars of the show and tour ahead of final rehearsals.. 

Strictly Come Dancing 2013 runner-up and Coronation Street actress Natalie Gumede - who will be reunited with her dance partner Artem Chigvintsev, is looking forward to the show calling in Manchester.. “The city looked after me so warmly when I was in Coronation Street and I can’t wait to play to a north-west crowd. Also it will be the first time my mum has seen me dance live. During the series she wanted to stay at home so she could vote for me”  So after a short Christmas break does Natalie, 29, who famously suffered from a recurring back injury during her time on Strictly, think she is ready to don those famous costumes again? “The situation with my back was unusual. I have suffered with it before but you’re not normally working or dancing seven days a week. The treatment was exceptional and after a holiday over Christmas, I’m desperate to cling on to some sequins again. I’ve heard you can buy them so I might get one as a memento of my Strictly experience.” 

Strictly Come Dancing 2013 winner, footballer’s wife and TV presenter Abbey Clancy, 27, married to former England and Stoke striker Peter Crouch, is another star desperate not to hang up her dance shoes. “For me Strictly has been the most incredible experience and I wanted to carry on forever. So the tour is a brilliant opportunity to keep dancing. It will be amazing to go and perform at the Echo Arena in Liverpool in front of loads of Scousers. This is a chance for all my family and friends who couldn’t make it to the TV show, to come and see me dance. Peter loves dancing and so does our daughter Sophia. When I was on Strictly she wouldn’t watch the show unless she was wearing a tutu and little dance shoes. The costumes on the show are beautiful and I love the fact the tour means I can carry on getting made up, getting a fake tan, tons of glitter and millions of hair extensions. It’s every girl’s dream.” 

Abbey’s not the only one who’s itching to get back into her Strictly costume. Waterloo Road star Mark Benton, 48, was knocked out in week nine but was a firm favourite with fans for his off-the-wall routines and outlandish outfits with partner Iveta Lukosiute, including their version of MC Hammer’s You Can’t Touch This, complete with rap-star style gold costume. It’s a crowd-pleaser that looks certain to get another outing on the live tour. “I think we’re going to do You Can’t Touch This on the tour. So many people come up to me and say they love it, it would be rude not to do it. But I think we’d love to put more content into the dance on the live show. I’m looking forward to the dates in Glasgow. It’s where we film Waterloo Road and it’s a great city. I’m half Scottish, my mum’s from Ayrshire so I have strong ties to Scotland and it will be thrilling to be back. . 

Rugby player Ben Cohen’s topless Paso Doble with his partner Kristina Rihanoff was apparently one of the highlights of the series and one which Ben says he’s hoping to bring out again on the tour. The 35-year-old, who helped England win the Rugby World Cup in Australia 2003, said: “We put up a vote on Twitter asking fans which dance they wanted to see again on the tour and it was the Paso Doble that kept coming up. When you sign up for something like Strictly, you think afterwards: ‘Why on earth did I do that? But then you start training and see how hard it is and how hard the professionals work. And you get used to going out in front of a nation and you overcome challenges and it becomes a highlight. Although Strictly is a competition, the real competition is with yourself, and how far you can push yourself and shed your inhibitions about dancing. I can’t wait to get around the country and show people what a fantastic production this is.” 

Strictly Come Dancing 2013 runner-up and BBC Breakfast star Susanna Reid also built up a loyal following during her time on Strictly. The 42-year-old TV presenter was dubbed ‘Superwoman’ for her ability to fit in a demanding career on breakfast television, being a mum to three children and her training for the show. So performing in front of a crowd of 10,000 excited Strictly fans filing arenas should be a doddle, right? “I work on TV so am used to performing in front of cameras and not seeing the whites of people’s eyes looking up at you and hoping to be entertained,” But performing to such a big crowd, you get the instant feedback that you don’t get with TV. I got a taste of it during Strictly in front of the studio audience and more so at Blackpool and I am looking forward to it again on the tour.” So what does Susanna, who is based in Salford with BBC Breakfast, think she’ll bring to the Strictly live tour? “I think I have proved that as a woman over 40 with three children you can learn to dance with a gorgeous young teacher,” she said with a laugh. “I might not get every step right, but I do it with a smile on my face. And after the tour is over I will still be dancing in my local clubs every Friday night.” 

One person who’s certainly not frightened of the judges is Dragons’ Den star Deborah Meaden, 54. The business guru is chomping at the bit to get back in front of Len, Craig and Bruno for another chance at dancing with her partner Robin Windsor. “I went out of the show quite early on so for me the tour will be an extension of my time on Strictly and a chance to perfect the routines. I loved Strictly, but with the tour I hope I can enjoy dancing without the pressure. I didn’t mind the judges’ comments one bit and I can’t wait to put my dancing shoes back on and get back on the dance floor for one more go" 

But it’s not only this year’s crop of celebrities limbering up for a return to the Strictly dance floor. Westlife star Nicky Byrne, who appeared in last year’s series, is also dry cleaning his tuxedo and polishing up his dance shoes for another shot at getting his hands on the glitter ball trophy. Nicky, 35, who made it to the last eight contestants in 2012, is back with his partner Karen Hauer, and says he can’t wait to get back on the road - despite his wife Georgina giving birth to the couple’s third child in October. “We toured so many of the arenas we’re visiting when I was with Westlife so it will bring back some great memories. Places like Wembley, The O2, but also Leeds arena, which wasn’t built when we last toured so I’m really excited about getting the chance to perform there. I really want to win. I wanted to win the series last year and I was gutted when I got knocked out and I’m looking forward to getting in front of the judges again. You always have good fun and banter with them and I’ve had a year to prepare my one-liners! 

Book now for Strictly Come Dancing Live at Leeds First Direct Arena Eventim Tickets

TV: Capaldi begins filming as Dr Who

The new Doctor, Peter Capaldi, stepped on set today for his first full day of filming as production begins on series eight of the hit BBC show.

Capaldi on set, we've been asked to point out
 this is not the DRs costume

10.2 million tuned in on Christmas Day to get their first glimpse of Capaldi in one of TV’s most iconic roles in the festive special The Time Of The Doctor, which saw Matt Smith hang up his bow tie after four years in the role.

Capaldi was revealed as the Doctor in a live BBC One show in August, after months of speculation about the next Doctor’s identity.

Arriving on set in Cardiff to begin filming, Peter Capaldi, said: “New job, first day, slightly nervous. Just like the Doctor, I'm emerging from the TARDIS into a whole other world.”

Steven Moffat, Lead Writer and Executive Producer, added: “First the eyebrows! Then, at Christmas, the face! Coming soon, the whole Doctor. In the Cardiff studios, the Capaldi era begins.”

Accompanying The Doctor on his adventures will be companion Clara Oswald, played by Jenna Coleman.

The first episode of series eight has been written by Steven Moffat, with the second episode penned by Phil Ford. These are the first episodes that Peter will shoot and they are directed by Ben Wheatley.

Ben Stephenson, Controller of Drama Commissioning, said: "Excitement and anticipation fills the air as Peter Capaldi’s Doctor takes control of the TARDIS for the very first time today. It’s going to be one hell of a ride and I can't wait for the journey to start."

Charlotte Moore, Controller BBC One, commented: "A new year, a new face, a new Doctor! 2014 has arrived and it's Peter Capaldi's time so let the adventures begin!"

Filming is taking place in Cardiff until August 2014.

Interview with Ricky Wilson on the set of The Voice UK

We talk to new judge Ricky Wilson as he joins The Voice UK

Ricky Wilson is the frontman of British band Kaiser Chiefs, who have topped the charts with “Ruby” and held Top 10 chart positions with songs including “I Predict A Riot”, “Every Day I Love You Less and Less” and “Oh My God”. Among their many achievements, Kaiser Chiefs have won three Brit Awards, been nominated for a Mercury Prize, an Ivor Novello Award and have had four Top 10 albums. In 2012 they performed at the Olympic Closing Ceremony in London.

What was your reaction when you were first offered the role of coach on The Voice UK?

It happened pretty late in the day, as it was only a few weeks before we went to film. But I threw myself into it all. I have spent the last ten years of my life not making any decisions at all. And then suddenly this thing came along and it felt like a big decision. I am really enjoying it.

So what are you enjoying?

It is incredible watching the contestants’ development. They make each other learn. It’s good to learn stuff and I didn’t think I wanted to learn more but Kylie, Will and Tom have all taught me loads. It has been really inspiring.

What have you learned from them then?

They work really hard. They are all really famous and massive stars but they work long hours. Tom has been great and he has really helped me a lot. He has given me a lot of advice. We went out for a Chinese the other night and it was lovely. It doesn’t feel like there is any competition (between us all). It feels like you want the best for the whole thing.

What kind of coach are you?

As head coach - Tom, Will and Kylie will all agree that I hold the team together. Without me, it would fall apart! I am just kidding!

Do the contestants pull at your heartstrings?

At the time, no they didn’t. It is only when I got back to the hotel and started thinking about everything that you realise it is tough. When you get to know them, learn about their story and you see stuff in them that you recognise in yourself, it can get tough. I had my big break 10 years ago but I still recognise their drive and determination.

Are you pleased with your team?

Of course - I think I can win! I know them now and I have a connection with them. Even if they weren’t any good, I would feel the same - but they are good.

Would you have done a show like this?

It is an impossible question to answer. I would have done everything. Times have changed and so I don’t know. There was nothing like this back then. But maybe I would have if there were.

Why do you think The Voice UK is a good show?

It is different. Each stage has got a part to play. I am learning as I go along. I have been a fan of Saturday night TV since I was a kid. You realise how important it all is. It’s a real launch pad for the contestants. At first it is all about the best voice, but then other things start to creep in once you get to the next stage.

Does image play a part?

Yes it does. Image and personality both do. Some people who don’t have as good voices as others can trounce them in their personality. They look scared and think ‘how can we beat them?’ but they light up the room with their personality. Barbara Streisand has got one of the greatest voices in the world but her personality is so important too.

You have had an incredible career...

I don’t think I have had yet. Ambition does not stop. You can’t turn it off. You just want to get bigger and bigger - there's no off switch as far as ambition is concerned.

What advice have you been giving your team?

To try to be in the right place at the right time. To do that, you have to be in as many places as many times as you can. You should never sit around waiting for it to bite you.

What has surprised you the most about doing The Voice UK?

How emotionally attached you get to the people. I thought it was just TV. But it’s real. You do care about them, you care about everybody else’s team and you care about all the coaches.

Summing up, it sounds like it is an interesting experience for you?

Yes definitely. I will look back on it and think it has been crazy and surreal. But that’s what life is about. Everything has to change. I don’t like staying still.

Many thanks to Ricky and the BBC

Interview with Kylie Minogue at rehearsals for The Voice UK

We talk to Kylie Minogue about her role as coach on the new series of BBC One's The Voice UK.

Grammy award-winner and undisputed pop icon Kylie exploded onto the music scene in 1987 and has not only become a chart-topping, multi-award-winning global artist, but also a fashion icon, designer, entrepreneur, actress and philanthropist. With over 68 million records sold worldwide, 10 world tours, successful albums and over 50 hit singles internationally, she is one of the world’s most loved artists.

What was your reaction when you were offered the role as coach on The Voice UK?

I watched the first two series and I really got into the show. I did think about it for a while, as it was such a big commitment for me. I have never done anything like this before – but it feels like the right time and now I am doing it, the overall experience has been amazing.

How did you find the blind auditions?

They were really nerve-wracking as to when you should press the button. So many things were going through my mind. Even though Tom has done the show before, he still said it was nerve-wracking, too, because you are still dealing with a fresh batch of people.

What have you enjoyed the most?

I have found it really amazing that the landscape changes all the time. You analyse it and think you have the right answers but then it changes again.

What have you been looking for in the talent?

I thought I would be looking for voices I could relate to but actually, I turned for voices that are nothing to do with me. I was a just a fan of that voice. It has been an amazing experience to hear some of their voices.

Did you find it strange not being able to see them sing?

Definitely - and I wish everyone could experience this. It is not as simple as watching it at home! You think it is a guy and then it is a girl. You just don’t know. You form a picture in your mind from your set of life experiences about what the voice says to you, and then you turn around and it is very different. The hardest thing I have found is saying no to people.

Are you pleased with your team?

Yes I am. Again, it is like a horse race. You think one is in front and then someone else overtakes them. Your decision is turned again.

What kind of coach are you?

I am strict if I have to be. I want them to feel they have the support from me. I have been advising them on things that I have learned as a performer like light and shade, delivering the song in a certain way or showing them how to use the stage in a certain way.

What do you expect in return?

I would be disappointed if they didn’t take it seriously. The public want to know they have got someone who is giving it their best shot. This is an amazing opportunity for them all.

Is image important?

Of course it is. You need the whole package. If it were just solely about the voice, then you would not need a stage, hair, make-up or lights. I could just sit in a dark room and I wouldn’t have to get ready!

Will has said it is warmer on the show now you have joined. What do you think?

I feel like I have struck gold with three great guys. It is nice to feel we are all in the same boat and I like having the three of them around with me. It feels like a great team.

Has the competitive spirit in you come out yet?

She has come out already! She has shown her face! I do care about it a lot and even when I go home, I find myself thinking about what is the best thing to do.

What would it mean to you if you won?

It would be the cherry on the top. I actually think, however, it is more about the experience of doing it. It has to be – that is what you are aiming for of course.

What has surprised you the most about doing this show?

How it keeps changing. The stuff happening behind the scenes is really interesting. Sometimes it is incredibly interesting and sometimes it feels close to painful when you have to say no!

Your career speaks for itself but would you have gone on a show like The Voice UK?

I get asked this all the time but I think as a teenager, I probably would have loved to have gone on it. I think I would have daydreamed about going on it. Would I have made it through? I have no idea. I did make a demo when I was 17. I was already acting by then but I did have the bravery and guts to do that.

And finally, do you feel like you are going on an exciting journey right now with The Voice UK?

Definitely. It is like a lot of life experience – there are ups and downs. I console myself by reminding myself that the contestants do know the rules of the show and so it can’t be a happy ending for everyone. But hopefully they will learn from it and come back another year.

Our thanks to Kylie and the BBC