The Cliftons are always in step
Strictly Come Dancing’s professional dancers, Kevin and Karen Clifton, are coming to Wales for two shows – in Cardiff and Llandudno. Here we quiz the duo
Q: What can we expect from this brand new tour?
A: After last year’s successful sellout tour, we have put all the engines to full throttle to make sure this year’s tour is as big of a success, and even more important as entertaining and fun, as it was last year.
There will be a new storyline, music, choreography, costumes and dancers that will make you want to get up off your seat and dance along with us.
We are both dedicated to constant improvement and development with our choreography, energy and style.
This year we feel we have made a big leap forward and are producing our best work yet.
That’s really what the show is about; it’s about years of influence and inspiration continuously shaping us as we evolve.
The title was almost going to be “35 years in the making”.
Plus we have searched the globe and really invested in getting the best possible talent on stage.
The standard and calibre of this cast could not be higher.
Q: What do you enjoy most about touring – and do you have any special memories in particular?
A: The best thing about being on tour is getting to see all the special cities around the UK and seeing all the support and love from all our fans.
Every city holds a special place in our hearts; the warmth of the people, the food and the pure excitement to be able to share our love of dance with everyone means a lot to us.
Q: Do you have a favourite city or venue to perform in, and why?
A: Of course, we look forward to every venue and each city brings its own energy.
If we had to choose, the Grimsby show is obviously ridiculously important to us as we see it as our home show.
Q: You’re both well-loved for your involvement with nation’s favourite Strictly Come Dancing, how do prepping for the show and a tour differ?
A: Being a part of Strictly Come Dancing has been a blessing for us. It has made it possible for us to do our tour and inspire people of all ages and backgrounds.
A lot of hard work and preparation goes into doing both shows. They are both huge parts of our lives and careers.
The dedication, professionalism and pure joy of being able to do what we have dreamed of since childhood is something we really cherish and will always continue to make our priority.
Q: Every Strictly fan has their favourite dance. Do you have a favourite style of dance you love to perform and why?
A: Our favourite dance is the Paso Doble as much of our make-up as dancers is centred around drama and storytelling.
The Paso is a dance in which the drama is so easily accessed and dialled up to the max. It’s passionate, energetic and full of character. Our signature dance is performed to the incredibly powerful Moulin Rouge version of Roxanne.
Kevin & Karen Dance Live Tour 2018 is at St David’s Hall in Cardiff on Sunday, July 8. Call 029 2087 8444. It will also visit Venue Cymru in Llandudno on Thursday, July 26