Strictly Come Dancing fans in tears over ‘inclusive and diverse’ opening number

Strictly Come Dancing’s opening number was a celebration of diversity and inclusivity as the performers danced in same sex pairs and alongside a diabled performer.

The performance, choreographed by former Strictly judge Arlene Phillips, saw the ballroom pros dance alongisde the Candoco Dance Company, which is formed of both disabled and non-disabled dancers.

The dancers, all dressed in black lace, red velvet and other plush looks, were surrounded by smoke as they did a thoroughly modern performance to David Bowie’s Life On Mars.

After the performers took to the floor, Claudia Winkleman thanked them for their work, saying: "Thank you to the dancers from Candoco dance company and choreographer from Arlene Phillips for that fantastic collaborative opener."

And fans were in tears as they saw the performance, with one tweeting: "Incredible opening dance on # Strictly there – same sex couples, dancers with disabilities, inclusive as all get out and a bit of Bowie to boot. Absolutely here for this. # scd"

Another said: "Wow Im in tears watching that all-embracing opening dance @ StrictlyPros Amazing choreography by @ arlenephillips #Strictly # scd"

Arlene admitted the return to the show was "really hard," telling The Sun: "I did this because this is where my heart lies. I didn’t do this about resolving anything with Strictly. Was it hard for me to say yes? I’ve got to tell you, it was really hard."

She said it would be emotional to return and has not yet decided if she will stay and watch the main event on Saturday evening.

At the time, Phillips’ dismissal caused a national controversy, with the then Labour deputy leader and equalities minister Harriet Harman standing up in the Commons and demanding she be reinstated.

Strictly Come Dancing continues on Saturday at 6.50pm on BBC1.

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Strictly Come Dancing 2018

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