The live tour of 'Strictly Come Dancing' will feature a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter for the first time.
Strictly Come Dancing arena tour to feature BSL interpreter
After 'EastEnders' star Rose Ayling-Ellis, 27, made history as the first deaf contestant to compete on and win the BBC One Latin and ballroom show at the end of 2021, it has been announced that the upcoming live run will be the "biggest ever BSL accessible arena tour in the UK."
A statement on the official Instagram account for the tour read: "BREAKING NEWS! We are delighted to announce that a registered BSL Interpreter will be provided for every venue and performance of the tour, making this the biggest ever BSL accessible arena tour in the UK.
"The interpreter will be displayed on two very large screens either side of the stage area so attendees can book tickets and sit almost anywhere in the arena to enjoy the experience with family and friends. To apply for PA assistance please contact your local venue."
The tour kicks off in Birmingham on January 20, and wraps at The O2 arena in London on February 13.
Also joining Rose - who lifted the glitterball trophy with Giovanni Pernice - on the road are runners-up John Whaite and Johannes Rabede, and 'Dragon's Den' star Sara Davies, who will be performing with her professional partner Aljaz Skorjanec.
The interpreter news comes after 2021 star AJ Odudu was forced to pull out of the live tour due to injury.
Maisie Smith is stepping in for the 33-year-old TV presenter.
The 33-year-old TV presenter had to withdraw from the final last month after she suffered ankle ligament damage during training with her professional partner Kai Widdrington, and the injury put paid to her taking part in the run of live shows this year.
She wrote on Instagram last week: "Following medical advice, sadly I've had to withdraw from the @strictlycomedancinglive due to injury.
"I had hoped for one last dance with @kaiwidd & we were both so looking forward to finally showing you our (unseen) show dance, but it turns out I can't go straight from wearing a medical moonboot to performing in 37 shows in 3 inch heels. Who knew?! (sic)"
But AJ revealed Kai will still be taking part.
She added: "The good news is, Kai and the rest of my Strictly fam will be setting the stage on fire and and I can't wait to go cheer them all on. (sic)"
Former 'Strictly' finalist and ex-'EastEnders' actress Maisie, 20, will partner Kai on the tour after AJ pulled out.
She said: "I’m thrilled to be asked to restart my 'Strictly' journey on this year’s arena tour.
"Kai and I will be dancing the quickstep and the samba - I can’t wait for rehearsals to start next week. It will be a joy to dance with everyone and so great to see my 'EastEnders' friend Rose again. I wish AJ a speedy recovery."