“I couldn’t wait to begin the tour!” exclaims Strictly star Johannes Radebe, in talking about hitting the road recently with his brand-new show, Freedom!. 

“I have danced in groups, on ships, in bars, on the street - I have always wanted to be a performer. But since a young age, I have aspired to perform in theatre. That’s where my roots are. The desire to have my own show, to tell my own story through dance, is wonderful. 

“Freedom! is a story about where I come from. I’m hoping people find it beautiful and inspiring. It tells people that you can dare to dream big. It’s going to be a journey.”

It really is - both literally and emotionally. Bringing together African fusion, fiery Latin, classic dance arrangements and huge party anthems, Freedom! travels from Johannes’ early dance life in South Africa - where he stormed the competition circuit and was scouted for Dancing With The Stars - to competing internationally, winning titles and performing in Burn The Floor and Strictly. 

“Freedom is my story, and it is full of love and passion. I wanted to incorporate everything I know and everything I am, using my world to showcase some of those stories of South Africa. There, they have their own way of dancing, but there are also party anthems. It’s a show for everyone to be a part of if they want to. 

“And I definitely want a party at the end! I want people who are passionate to come and enjoy it. It’s an extravaganza that I have created using my mind, body and soul. I want everyone up on their feet and in the aisles. It’s the freedom to do what you want and to be who you want in the world.”

A QUICK CHAT AND A TWO-STEP WITH JOHANNES...

What’s your favourite dance to perform? 
I love contemporary. But when I dance, I just do me!

What’s your top tip to a Strictly partner?
Lose your inhibitions and dance like nobody is watching.

Who inspires you most?
My auntie. She was the iron we all sharpened ourselves against. She was so wise, and she held our family together. I lost her recently. Always celebrate and treasure the people who inspire you.

What’s your philosophy for life?
Always have faith.

What’s been your most magical moment?
Getting the phone call to say I was finally relocating to the United Kingdom. I left South Africa to go and pursue my dream on 27 April 2018, which is my birthday! 
In the movie Billy Elliot, Billy is asked what he feels when he dances. What do you feel when you dance? 
It’s an inexpressible feeling. You can’t explain it. You are present in the moment; you live for it.

What do you love most about Strictly Come Dancing? 
It’s a sparkling world! But seriously, it is the army that makes that show; the people you don’t see when you watch - they are just fantastic. The work that goes into it is incredible. There is someone in charge of absolutely every detail. The appreciation that the British public has for the show makes our job so easy.

Johannes Radebe: Freedom plays The Alexandra, Birmingham on Sun 10 April, tickets are now on sale at atgtickets.com