Professional dancers from the fan-favourite show Strictly Come Dancing are set to visit Reading in the New Year.

BBC’s dancing reality show, which takes place annually from September to December, includes celebrities teaming up with professional dancers and choreographers to compete, show off their dance skills and impress the judges to win the grand prize.

Several of those professionals are set to visit the town next year.

Giovanni Pernice, an Italian dancer who is not on this year’s show due to complaints made to the BBC from former contestant Amanda Abbington, is set to perform at the Hexagon in Queens Walk on January 22 at 7.30pm.

(Image: Giovanni Pernice)

The event includes a VIP meet and greet option for ticket buyers. The show promises a ‘mesmerising production that transcends the boundaries of live performance’.

After Abbington’s complaints, which Pernice denied, the BBC revealed that steps were taken to address the issue.

In September, the BBC had issued an apology to Amanda Abbington and upheld her complaints of verbal bullying and harassment against Pernice, but rejected allegations of physical aggression.

Also set to perform is former Strictly professional and current judge Anton Du Beke. He has starred in the show since its inception before becoming a judge in 2021, replacing Bruno Tonioli.

He is also set to perform at the Hexagon on March 4 at 7.30pm.

The show is described as ‘a fab-u-lous evening of song, dance and laughter. 
Anton will be performing songs and dances from some of his favourite musicals’.

(Image: Anton Du Beke)

There will also be behind the scenes stories about Strictly along with ‘ stunning dance performances, soulful vocals, and live music that will transport audiences to a world of glamour, excitement, and pure entertainment.’.

The pair, Pernice and Du Beke, will return together on June 13 at the Hexagon for a joint show called ‘Together Again’.

It is described as ‘ an enthralling experience for all ages, showcasing the duo’s incredible talents and irresistible chemistry on stage’.

Strictly professional Kai Widdrington will also be performing in his one man show on May 19 at 7.30pm, named ‘Evolution’.

(Image: Kai Widdrington)

Kai - Evolution promises an ‘enthralling journey through various dance genres, showcasing Kai's versatility and passion for dance’.

The tour will feature ‘breathtaking choreography, stunning visuals, and an incredible cast of dancers’.

Audiences can expect a mix of classic Ballroom, Latin, and ‘innovative dance routines that highlight Kai's extraordinary skill and creativity’.

 "I'm thrilled to bring this tour to life and share my love for dance with fans across the UK and Ireland. This show is a celebration of dance and music, and I can't wait for everyone to experience it,” he said.