Aussie maestro to judge celeb dancers
RENOWNED international choreographer Jason Gilkinson is to critique celebrities’ fancy footwork on MNet’s when it makes its debut next month.
The Australian professional ballroom dance champion is the first judge that has been revealed for the inaugural show.
The list of local celebrities who will be dusting off their dance shoes include award-winning TV presenter Thembisa Mdoda, acting icon Frank Opperman, actress Juanita du Plessis, former Miss SA and radio presenter Liesl Laurie, athlete Wayde van Niekerk’s super-fit mom Odessa Swarts, nimble film and TV star Zola Nombona, music star Connell Cruise, Bafana Bafana legend Delron Buckley, former Springbok rugby player Thando Manana, and netball player Vanes-Mari du Toit.
Apart from sharing his opinion about the competing couples’ interpretation of different dancing styles, Gilkinson will also function as creative director, overseeing the couples and group choreography and the creative execution thereof.
Gilkinson, whose creative skills have been seen around the globe on stage and screen, is probably best known for his work as judge and choreographer in the hugely successful TV series
both in Australia and the US. He personally choreographed more than 80 routines for the popular franchise.
Along with his team, Gilkinson’s creative vision and artistic direction have helped transform the show into a global success, earning him four Bafta nominations along the way.
“I can’t wait to come to South Africa and start working on some big, spectacular dance numbers for the show! This is going to be one fierce first season,” Gilkinson said.
“is a show for the whole family, something that everyone can watch and enjoy.”
M-Net is expected to reveal the identities of the last two celebrity dancers in the coming weeks, as well as which experts will be joining Gilkinson on the illustrious judging panel. will premiere on M-Net channel 101 on Sunday, February 4 at 5pm.
The series is produced by the multi-award winning Rapid Blue and is sponsored by Lottostar. —