Strictly dancing sensation Johannes Radebe brings his first UK solo tour to Dorset TONIGHT
Freedom is a celebration of music and dance, from African to ballroom
TV dancing sensation and international champion Johannes Radebe brings his first UK tour, Johannes Radebe: Freedom, to Dorset tonight. (Thursday 7 April)
The show plays Lighthouse, Poole’s centre for the arts.
Johannes Radebe: Freedom is a celebration of music and dance, from African fusion to fiery Latin, classic dance arrangements and huge party anthems, with a company of exciting dancers, as Johannes takes the audience on his personal journey – from growing up in South Africa, to travelling the world, winning titles and starring in Strictly Come Dancing.
Born in the South African township os Zamdela Sasolburg, Johannes Radebe started dancing when he was seven, fascinated by the discipline and the glamour of Ballroom and Latin. Over the next 13 years, he competed in local competitions, climbing up the Latin ranks with top honours, and eventually added Ballroom and other dance styles, such as African Contemporary and Jazz. He became a finalist at national dance competitions and received an invitation to compete internationally.
Johannes told Greatest Hits Radio Dorset:
"I have got beautiful African influences and traditional dances. And I would just like to share that part of Jojo with people in the United Kingdom who have been supportive of my journey here for the last 4 years. And of course there will be a feather and a pair of heels making an appearance!"
At the age of 21, Johannes left South Africa to work on the renowned Italian cruise liner Costa. Persistence and experience saw this young, vibrant South African given more responsibilities including choreographing and teaching new dancers before eventually being promoted to Dance Captain. In 2018, he was invited to join the debut season of the international hit show, Dancing With The Stars, in South Africa.
Johannes toured the world in the international dance show Burn The Floor before being headhunted by Strictly Come Dancing. He moved to the UK to dance on the flagship BBC show and in his second series was partnered with Catherine Tyldesley and danced the first same-sex routine with fellow Strictly star Graziano Di Prima. In 2020, he danced with Caroline Quentin and reached week seven in a shorter BAFTA-nominated season.
Johannes and John Whaite became Strictly's first all-male partnership - he told us it's a moment he's proud of.
"To see representation on a Saturday night, with everyone sitting down and the whole country watching, having conversations that were sparked by a mere dance competition, I feel like we have won, I feel like we changed the world and it was beautiful."
Johannes Radebe: Freedom is created by Johannes Radebe, with Jess Ellen as associate choreographer, Andrew Exeter as set and lighting designer, Dan Samson as sound designer and music production by Gary Hickeson.