Behind the Glitter: Highlights from the Strictly Come Dancing Wrap Party

The Strictly Come Dancing wrap party marks the end of a thrilling season filled with dazzling performances, emotional moments, and fierce competition. This event brings together the cast, crew, and special guests to celebrate the journey and achievements of the show. Beyond the sequins and spotlight, the wrap party offers a unique glimpse into the camaraderie and spirit that fuels Strictly Come Dancing. While I gather and edit all of my footage - lets take a look BEHIND THE GLITTER.

That's a wrap folks....

A Night of Celebration and Reflection at Strictly Come Dancing wrap party

The wrap party is more than just an end of season festive gathering. It serves as a moment for everyone involved to reflect on the hard work and dedication that made the season possible. Contestants, professional dancers, judges, and production staff come together to share stories, laugh over behind-the-scenes moments, and acknowledge the highs and lows of the competition. Celebrities dressed to the nines - even in a sparkly red blazer I felt underdressed, out of place, but not at all nervous. It's gigs like these where I turn up as my best self. Within 5 minutes the room was full of over 400 guests and the room rocking!

The atmosphere is electric yet relaxed. I am watching Karen Carney win the final backstage as what looks like 400 pizzas arrive. Food always signals a bad gig to me, you can't eat and dance, from a selfish point of view - I always want people on the dancefloor early. I speak to the bar staff as always - I gauge their energy, they play such an integral part in any event - this is no different, they are there to serve, quickly, with positive vibes! The quicker they pour the required drink, the quicker people can focus on formal and casual interactions. The bar staff want dancehall - the 900 tunes I have in my Strictly folder are a range of 80s/90s/R&B/Dancehall/Club Classics and a few special edits I have. As there is nobody in the building when I am given the queue to play my first tune, I opt for Justin Bieber - Yukon, I take a measured approach - on my 4 decks, I have Beyonce - Crazy In Love, Rihanna/Drake - Work & Mary Mary - Shackles, all of these get played within the first ten minutes and the room is full to the brim. It's going to be a great night. This event highlights the human side of the show, reminding fans that behind every glittering performance is a team of passionate individuals - I want to take this time to shout out to Raj, Mani, Ali, Stacey, Danielle, Fi, Chantai & all of the team at Soul Studios - I have worked with you all so many times and your dedicated energy and enthusiasm is inspiring. You dance with the patrons and nothings ever too much, keep smiling & working hard! I appreciate you. (thanks for keeping me hydrated too)

Stunning Outfits and Glamorous Style

One of the most talked-about aspects of the wrap party is the fashion. Contestants and professionals arrive dressed to impress, showcasing styles that range from classic elegance to bold, contemporary looks. The party is a runway of sequins, satin, and statement accessories, reflecting the show's flair for glamour.

While I can't see everybody as the party is jumping - I notice a few familiar faces.

Gladiator - Nitro, a physique of the true Hercules.

I don't think I have ever seen a person in real life as flawless as Tess Daly - and the fact she was jumping up and down to my mixing, I will never forget that. It was like seeing a peach & coral disco ball in human form. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and crew - effortlessly cool.

Karen Carney - the most heart warming smile. Even as I was packing up for the night, she was being hounded for photos, I wish I had been the guy to ask for one as that would have been a special moment, but I am just not like that. Congrats on your win.

Claudia Winkleman - the most thick, shiny and perfect hair in the world, no exaggeration.

The variety of styles mirrors the diversity of personalities on the show, making the event visually captivating. For the DJs reading - yes, catering to all of this is what makes it special. From Beenie Man, to Abba, Shakira to Sean Paul. It all landed!

Looking Ahead to the Next Season

While the wrap party celebrates the current season’s end, it also sparks excitement for what’s to come. Cast members and crew often hint at new ideas, challenges, and surprises planned for the future. This forward-looking spirit keeps the Strictly Come Dancing community engaged and eager for the next chapter.

Fans can expect fresh faces, innovative choreography, and even more spectacular moments when the show returns. The wrap party serves as a reminder that the magic of Strictly Come Dancing continues beyond the final dance. I am off to try my luck at getting the professionals gig.

I want to take this time to wish Tess Daly & Claudia Winkleman the very best in their post Strictly careers.