Three Strictly stars will swap their dancing shoes for hard hats as they join the DIY SOS team on a build in North Tyneside next month.
The BBC prime time renovations show announced it will be coming to Wallsend in July to transform a derelict building for the True Colours Theatre. The charity is an inclusive theatre school for children and young people in the North East of England, many of whom have additional needs such as autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders, physical and life limiting conditions and various mental health issues.
It was founded by Alisar-Jane Taylor in 2014 after she was diagnosed with ADHD and autism as an adult, and when her niece Emily-Kate was diagnosed with a life-limiting condition as a toddler. Desperate to take Emily-Kate to dance classes, but finding a lack of fun and accessible groups, True Colours was born.
Read more: DIY SOS call for help to convert derelict Wallsend building into performing arts school
Last month, DIY SOS called out to tradespeople and suppliers to get involved and the build will take place from July 5-11.
Nick Knowles said: "We’re back, and what a way to kick off the Big Build with a brilliant group of Strictly stars that will inspire and delight the children, young adults and staff from True Colours. This Performing Arts School really needs a transformation, they do an excellent job in Wallsend and if we can help them grow so they can accept more students, then we’re going to go above and beyond.”
Anton Du Beke said: "What Alisar-Jane and her team is doing is very special. Myself, Katya and Graziano understand the power of dance and how it brings people together.
"This could really transform not just the building but the community too. We are thrilled to help out and bring some Strictly magic to the proceedings. And who knows, we may see a future Strictly star in our midst!"
In a post on Facebook, True Colours Theatre wrote of their excitement for the collaboration, saying: "And the secret is out! Not only are we so grateful and thrilled to be chosen for DIY SOS Big Build but we are thrilled to be supported by BBC Strictly Come Dancing!
The post continued: "Thank you so much to BBC, all of the DIY SOS team and everyone who is helping us to make such a difference to our families and members and the amazing local community. Dreams do come true!"
DIY SOS last came to the North East in May 2022, when it transformed the home of the Owen family in Longframlington, Northumberland. They converted the cramped home to make it suitable for four generations of the family, who wanted to stay together and support each other after being beset by health problems during the Covid pandemic.
