Come Dancing with Strictly: FAQ's

Where and when is the event taking place?

Date: November 7th 2009

Location: Winter Gardens, Blackpool, Lancashire FY1 1HL

Time:

Morning Session: 10am – 12.30pm

Afternoon Session: 2pm – 4.30pm

Evening Screening: 5.45pm

There is a live screening of the show after the event – everyone who attends one of the daytime dancing events is invited to the screening.

How do I register for tickets?

Please note - registration for the ticket draw is now closed.

Can I register by phone/textphone?

Please note - registration for the ticket draw is now closed.

Is there an age restriction?

Yes. You need to be 12 years or older to attend the events. Participants under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

My children are aged 12 years or older – can I leave them at the event?

No. Every child who attends must be accompanied by an adult who will be responsible for them at the event. The BBC cannot take responsibility for any children unaccompanied at the events.

When is the closing date for registration?

Please note - registration for the ticket draw is now closed.

The closing date for registering was 10am on Tuesday 27 October 2009.

Does my registration guarantee me a place?

No. By registering your details you are entering a ballot draw for tickets to the events. Registration does not guarantee that you will be allocated tickets as there is limited capacity and the event may be oversubscribed.

If you are successful you will be emailed after the registration closing date with a confirmation e-ticket. You will need to bring your confirmation e-ticket with you to the venue. If you do not bring your printed out e-ticket on the day you may be refused entry.

When will I find out if I’ve been allocated tickets?

Places will be allocated at random after the registration closing date. If you are successful you will be emailed with a confirmation e-ticket. Please make sure that you’ve given us your correct email address.

Will my ticket get me entry into the live TV show?

No. Places for the live TV show have already been allocated.

Your e-ticket will give you entry into a daytime dancing session. If you are allocated a place for one of the sessions you will automatically be allocated a place to watch Strictly Come Dancing on the big screen in the Opera House Theatre that evening.

What time should I arrive?

Morning session – registration opens at 9 am. Please arrive no later than 9.30 am.

Afternoon session – registration opens at 1 pm. Please arrive no later than 1.30 pm.

Evening screening - registration opens at 4.30pm. Please arrive no later than 5pm.

If you have been to a dancing session in the day you do not need to re-register for the evening screening.

Is there a charge to attend?

No, the events are free.

Does my ticket guarantee me a place?

Your ticket gives you priority entry. However, we anticipate that the events will be oversubscribed and as with any free BBC event we will over-issue tickets in case of cancellations. Please arrive at the venue a minimum of 30 minutes before the start time for a good chance of getting a place. If there are any empty places 15 minutes before the event, these places will be made available to people without e-tickets.

I don’t have a ticket – can I turn up on the day?

Priority will be given to people who have an e-ticket. However, 15 minutes before the events, any remaining seats will be opened up to people who don’t have an e-ticket.

Do I need to bring anything?

You need to bring your e-ticket to enter the events. You may also be asked to provide proof or age or photo identification. You don’t need to bring anything else. Free water will be available, and there are places where you can buy drinks and snacks.

How long will the events last?

The sessions will last for approximately two and a half hours with a short interval.

What do I need to wear?

You’ll be dancing and moving around so wear clothes that are comfortable and loose fitting. Wear comfortable shoes.

You may want to bring a change of clothes for the evening screening. Feather boas, high-heels and sequins optional!

Do I need to be physically fit to participate?

All levels of fitness are welcome, but please be aware that in the daytime dancing sessions you will be standing up and moving around. Free water will be provided and there will be an interval break.

If you have any access needs or any concerns please let us know in advance by calling 0370 901 1227.

During the evening screening you will be sitting down.

Will I have to dance on my own or be judged?

No. You'll only be dancing as part of a larger group. The event isn’t competitive and there won’t be judges.

I’ve got two left feet - can I come?

Of course! The sessions are designed for beginners and we're confident that we can get you dancing.

I don’t want to dance - can I watch? Can my friends/family come and watch?

The sessions are focussed on participating and everyone who attends the sessions will be encouraged to take part.

Do I need to rehearse in advance?

No. The sessions are aimed at beginners and everything you need to know will be covered.

I’m in a wheelchair – can I take part?

Yes. Please let us know in advance if you’ll be attending in a wheelchair by calling 0370 901 1227.

I have other access requirements – what should I do?

Please contact us in advance by calling 0370 901 1227 so that we can make sure that your requirements are met.

Will there be refreshments?

There will be free water available at the events. Other drinks will be available to buy.

Will the event be recorded or broadcast?

The event is not being broadcast, but we will be filming, recording and taking photographs at the event and may use this footage on air and online.

I’ve got another question. How can I contact you?

Call 0370 901 1227. Standard geographic charges apply and calls may be included in your telecom provider’s call package. Calls from mobiles may be higher.