SEQUINS, salsa and a worthy cause are set to take centre stage as tickets sell fast for Dr Kershaw’s Strictly 2026.
The popular event returns on Friday, March 13, when eight couples will step onto the dancefloor in a bid to be crowned glitterball champions and raise vital funds for the local hospice.
Taking its cue from the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing, the event will be held at Vermilion in Manchester, with guests promised a full night of entertainment.
Alongside the competitive routines, the evening includes live performances, canapes and a two-course meal – giving supporters plenty to enjoy between lifts, spins and two-step.
Last year’s event proved to be a success, raising more than £53,000 for the Royton-based hospice, which receives just a quarter of its funding from the NHS.
Previous contestants have included some familiar local faces, including Oldham Athletic chairman Frank Rothwell, who was awarded his OBE by Prince William earlier this year.
With a new venue and a new theme – ‘Dancing through the Decades’ – organisers say 2026 is shaping up to be even bigger. From flares to flappers, audiences can expect routines inspired by eras gone by, with costumes likely to be as eye-catching as the choreography.
Joanne Penketh, Income Development Manager at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said: “Events like this make such a huge difference for patients, carers and their families. Not only will it be a night to remember, but it will enable us to continue our vital work.
“An exciting new venue means our event will be bigger and better than ever. This year’s theme is ‘Dancing through the Decades’, and we can’t wait to see the choreography and outfits.
“Let’s just hope that our dancers can impress our judges too – only one couple can be crowned the Glitterball Champions!”
Tickets are priced at £55, with all proceeds supporting palliative and end-of-life care across the Oldham community. Each dancer is also fundraising individually via JustGiving.
The headline sponsor for the event is Landlord Furniture Co, with Grains Bar Hotel sponsoring the reception drinks and Monarch Metals and Diodes acting as gold sponsors. For tickets, sponsorship details or more information, visit www.drkh.org.uk/strictly.