18 November 2023 , 19:57
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Strictly’s glitzy Blackpool set has had the show’s production team in a spin after it had to be dismantled to fit inside the Tower Ballroom.
Creative director Jason Gilkison told how the crew had been working around the clock to rebuild the entire rig inside the venue for tonight’s show. He said: “Blackpool’s always an intense week – we’re all running on adrenaline. There’s a small double door into the ballroom so everything has to get dismantled and rebuilt on the other side.”
But Jason, 57, insisted the annual challenge was worth it. “The room reeks of majesty and beauty and by bringing in Strictly, we add a little more,” he said.
Inside the iconic Ballroom (Getty Images/Perspectives)World-renowned choreographer Jason told how this year’s cast were constantly messaging each other on WhatsApp – and said their friendships with the pro dancers, who he branded “the best ever”, were also special. He explained: “The cast have really come together this year. The celebs who have surprised me the most are Ellie Leach and Bobby Brazier.
“Ellie was very much in her shell, but there’s more light in her now. A lot of that is down to Vito [Coppola]. With Bobby, it’s like having a unicorn in the room. He’s the sweetest, funniest, kindest person I’ve ever met.”
TOWIE's Chloe Brockett makes cheeky dig at Saffron Lempriere during filming
West End favourite Layton Williams has been criticised by some fans for his previous dance experience. But Jason says that has been a disadvantage. He said: “Sometimes a clean slate is better than being trained in another field of dance. He’s almost battling himself. What I enjoy is that, as the weeks go by, he’s looking like a ballroom dancer rather than leaning on his other training.”
Strictly Come Dancing: The Results, Sunday night, BBC One, 7.20pm