Although the 2024 series of has wrapped up, with comedian and professional partner Dianne Buswell being crowned the champions, the favourite is still the topic of many conversations.
One thing that fans like to speculate about is exactly what goes on behind the scenes of the glitzy ballroom show, which is filmed at Elstree studios in . Of course, some ‘secrets’ aren’t really secrets at all – most fans are aware that the results show, aired on Sunday night, is actually filmed immediately after Saturday’s live show.
But there are many tricks, rules and secrets in the dance competition that fans aren’t usually aware of. One audience member, Joanna Berry, who was lucky enough to land tickets for one of the live shows, spilled the beans on what really happens.
Speaking to The Mirror, they shared: “If you’ve been fortunate enough to secure a ticket to watch Strictly live, you’ll know two crucial things about the show.
“Firstly, filming takes quite a while, as both the live show and results show are filmed together. The good news is that snacks and water are provided, and there’s a break between the two segments while votes are tallied, allowing fans to make a quick dash to the loo if necessary.”
An audience member spilled what happens behind the scenes of Strictly (Image: BBC)
They also noted that judge Shirley Ballas sits on a cushion to make her appear closer in height to her panel co-stars.
There are also some things put in place for some of the audience members, as Joanna explained: “Those in the balcony seats are banned from standing up due to health and safety concerns, which explains why that section of the audience is always seated, even during standing ovations.
“There is also a dress code of sorts – ‘glamorous – no jeans!’ according to a letter sent to all audience members. The letter also warns audience members to be on their best behaviour during the show.”
Members of the audience must also follow strict rules around their mobile phones.
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The fan shared: “Phones and any recording devices are confiscated.” They added: “This also means audience members can’t vote in the public poll.”
Another audience member, Megan Sutton, told Good Housekeeping back in 2019: “There is a warm up act who cracks jokes as soon as the audience files into the studio and generally oversees things when cameras aren’t rolling.
“They introduce Tess, Claudia and the judges and gives the audience housekeeping instructions, too, as well as playing games in quieter moments to keep everyone in high spirits.”