Shirley Ballas impressively showed off her moves and got her dancing shoes back out for the upcoming Strictly Come Dancing launch show.
The BBC dance competition will return to screens on Saturday night, pairing celebrities with their professional dance partners for the 2023 series.
The pros and judges always impress fans with a very extravagant opening dance number for the opening show and it looks like they won’t disappoint this year.
Judges Shirley, 63, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel-Horwood will do their best as they take off their dancing shoes in the packed show.
New images give a first look at Saturday’s launch, showing the judges joining Strictly professionals in a dramatic show using vintage props, including a red-curtain archway.
They are back! Shirley Ballas impressively showed off her moves and got her dancing shoes back out for the upcoming Strictly Come Dancing launch show
The group all stood next to each other on four completely different sets, while each judge took center stage and gave their best in their own unique dance routine.
In her stunning sequence, Shirley was seen lounging on a red and gold sofa while looking very glamorous in an incredible black dress.
The head judge stunned in a sheer dress with a corset-like bodice and flowing tiered skirt, which she paired with sparkling silver heels.
She then walked the dance floor with Giovanni Pernice and Carlos Gu on each arm while surrounded by the pros, who were dressed in black and white ensembles and waved to fans as part of the sequence.
Speaking about her return to the dance floor, Shirley said: “The crowd will be a real treat, my dancing shoes are out again and it feels great!”
“I was put through my paces, but dancing with my fellow judges and the professional dancers is a feeling like no other.”
During the group number, 42-year-old Motsi also cut a glamorous figure in a black mini dress with a feather skirt as she put on a dramatic show while flaunting her moves.
Anton, 57, also showed off his signature dance moves as he strutted around the dance floor with Lauren Oakley.
Amazing: The BBC dance competition will return to screens on Saturday evening with the judges, including Craig Revel-Horwood, once again presenting an amazing opening dance number
Opening number: The group stood next to each other on four completely different sets while each judge took center stage in their own unique dance performance and demonstrated their talent
He cut a dapper figure in sleek black trousers and a lace shirt, which he teamed with a black top hat, as he tackled the crowded group number.
Finally, Craig, 58, was seen carrying out an action in a French-style outfit – consisting of black trousers, a striped shirt and a red bandana.
He was joined by pros Dianne Buswell, Johannes Radebe and Karen Hauer, among others, who all wore similar striped ensembles for the routine.
Craig also teased that he even tried out some brand new dance moves, as this year’s opening number looks set to challenge even the seasoned judges.
He revealed: “I’m doing an assisted reverse over darling, which I’ve never done before. You let yourself fall into the arms of two boys, turn around and hopefully land on your feet. So this will be a lot of fun!”
Speaking about this year’s group act, Anton said: “It’s an incredibly brilliant number, I’m really pleased we’re doing something and my fellow judges are in great form too.”
“Everyone’s in great shape and everyone’s dancing well and it’s just a really fantastic number, it really is.” It felt a bit like being in a professional number again! I’m on the podium, it’s exciting!’
While Motsi added: “You think you’re retired and you’ll never dance again and you’ve done everything but then Strictly calls and then the shoes are on again!”
Stunning: For the group number, 42-year-old Motsi also cut a glamorous figure in a black mini dress with a feather skirt as she put on a dramatic show
Wow! The pros and judges always impress fans with a very extravagant opening dance number for the opening show and it looks like they won’t disappoint this year
“I think the audience loves watching the judges dance and it will be a big celebration.”
Celebrities this year include Amanda Abbington, Coronation Street star Ellie Leach, actor Layton Williams and journalist Angela Rippon.
Openly gay actor Layton recently confirmed he will be working with a male professional for the BBC show. The official pairings will be announced at the launch show on Saturday.
Last month it was revealed that the musical actor had asked show bosses for a male partner, but the Everybody’s Talking About Jamie star confirmed the new news earlier this month.
He wrote on Twitter: “I will 100% be with a man” along with a few dancing emojis (sic).
Although he knows it’s a man, the actor confirmed he has no idea which male professional he’ll be sharing the dance floor with.
He added: “Ps – I don’t know who my partner is lol and even if I did it would be a given.” [lips sealed emoji].
“Until that moment on screen, we really don’t know.” Wild, right?! X’
Pairings: Star Layton Williams recently confirmed he will be partnered with a male professional in the upcoming series of the BBC show
The show first introduced same-sex partners in 2020 when boxing champion Nicola Adams was paired with Kayta Jones.
Unfortunately, the duo didn’t have a chance to shine for long as they had to cancel due to Covid-19.
In 2021, Great British Bake Off winners John Whaite and Johannes Radebe narrowly missed out on the glitterball trophy, but according to The Mirror, show producers are “desperate” for a same-sex couple to win the show.
Strictly Come Dancing returns to BBC1 on Saturday September 17th.
STRICTLY COME DANCING 2023: WHO ARE THE PARTICIPANTS?
Angela Rippon
Age: 78
Profession: journalist
Angela said: “I’ve been a fan of Strictly since day one and as a former Come Dancing presenter this will be quite an adventure for me.” “A scary proposition considering I’m about to turn 79. But I’m looking forward to the challenge and maybe learning to dance the Argentine tango.”
Amanda Abbington
Age: 49
Profession: actress
Amanda says: “I’m thrilled to have been asked to do Strictly. “I’m actually very shy and self-conscious, so this is a great opportunity for me to overcome those things.”
Layton Williams
Age: 28
Profession: actor
Layton says: “I’m absolutely delighted to confirm that I’ll be taking part in the UK’s most famous dance competition!” It’s time to take it to the ballroom. I really enjoy learning new skills from the best. Bring on the sequins… ALL the sequins!’
Krishnan Guru Murthy
Age: 53
Profession: journalist
Krishnan says: “I’m surprised, delighted and slightly confused to be taking part in Strictly on a ‘you only live once’ basis. “I can’t wait to start learning to dance, but I’m a little worried about my general weakness.”
Eddie Kady
Age: 40
Occupation: Comedian and radio presenter
Eddie says, “WOW. Anyone who knows me understands that music and dance are so important and central to me. I am so incredibly proud and honored that Strictly and the BBC have asked me to join the 2023 team. I promise you, I will give it everything I can. This will be a VIBE.
Angela Scanlon
Age: 39
Occupation: TV presenter
Angela says: “I’m not particularly fit, I have no idea how my pelvic floor will react to this dancing. “I’ve never done any other dances except drunken jiving at a wedding!”
Zara McDermott
Age: 26
Occupation: Documentary filmmaker and former Love Island star
Zara says: “I’m so excited to be joining the world of Strictly!” I grew up with my grandma watching the film every year and she was the biggest Strictly fan. We danced around the house and I have such fond memories of that time in my life.”
Adam Thomas
Age: 34
Occupation: Actor and presenter
Adam says: “I can’t dance to save my life, but I’m excited to learn and have a good laugh with my pro. ‘Get me on the dance floor… I can’t wait!’
Nikita Kanda
Age: 27
Occupation: Radio and television presenter
Nikita says: “I can’t believe I’m going to be on Strictly.” It’s a dream come true. I’m still pinching myself. I don’t think it’ll really sink in until I get on the dance floor. I can’t wait to get dressed up and go out. Throw the glitter at me!’
Ellie Leach
Age: 22
Occupation: Coronation Street star
Ellie says: “It still doesn’t feel real that I’m going to be doing Strictly!!” It’s always been a dream of mine so I guess dreams really do come true!!!!”
Jody Cundy
Age: 44
Occupation: Paralympic champion
Jody says: “I’m looking forward to the challenge and pushing myself out of my comfort zone, especially as I’m always the last one on the dance floor. “I can’t wait to get started and bring the glitter and sequins.”
Bobby Brazier
Age: 20
Occupation: EastEnders star and model
Bobby said: “I’m so excited to be part of the Strictly line-up that I can’t wait to start training like a professional dancer and add some moves to my repertoire.” “I’m excited “Looking forward to performing in front of everyone.”
Nigel Harman
Age: 49
Profession: actor
Nigel says: “I’m amazed, excited and scared to be doing Strictly.” As an armchair fan of the show, I watched in awe as people twisted and turned around the screen. And now it’s my turn…Gulp!’
Annabel Croft
Age: 57
Occupation: Broadcaster and former tennis player
Annabel said: “I’ve always loved watching Strictly and I can’t believe I’m going to be part of this magical show – swapping tennis balls for glitter balls and looking forward to finding some joy along the way.”
Les Dennis
Age: 69
Occupation: Actor and game show host
Les says: “I’m thrilled to be doing this iconic, wonderful show as I approach my 70th birthday!” Throughout my career I’ve always taken on challenges that are outside my comfort zone and this is the ultimate one! I can barely wait for it.’