Plymouth Pavilions, Wednesday and Thursday
If you had to sum up Lisa Riley in one word, it would probably be irrepressible. The star of Emmerdale and Fat Friends and the presenter of You've Been Framed might have been regarded as the comedy contestant when she signed up for last year's Strictly Come Dancing competition.
Lisa didn't have the theatrical experience of Denise van Outen or Kimberley Walsh, the youth of Dani Harmer or the athleticism of Victoria Pendleton. Lisa was, in short, a big girl of 36 taking part in a dancing competition.
But, undaunted, she blew the critics and the viewing public away with her energetic routines, boundless, cheery, enthusiasm and the ability to drop straight into the splits.
"I was dumbfounded with the way the public took to me on the series," says Lisa. "And Len Goodman called me the people's champion. Week after week I was just enjoying myself."
The personal story behind Lisa's Strictly journey is revealed on stage in Strictly Confidential when she rejoins professional dancers Artem Chigvintsev, Natalie Lowe and Ian Waite for a show which is written by Strictly judge Craig Revel Horwood.
Expect tears and laughter, plus a ballet based on Emmerdale and Lisa singing All That Jazz.
Similarly, we'll learn about Artem's tough time growing up in Russia; about Ian confronting his sexuality; and how Natalie had to beat the odds to follow her dream.
Lisa says she's comfortable with performing. "I went to drama school and I love musical theatre, it's a huge part of my life. Rhythm is something you're born with.
"I like to surprise people. They think you can't do anything if you're a big girl. I like to break the barriers down and I'm desperately proud of that in myself."
Strictly Confidential will reveal what it takes to be a professional dancer in the country's biggest dance show. Some of Strictly's glittery and glamorous costumes will be on display before the show.
