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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Entertainment
Jessica Sansome

Strictly Come Dancing gives first glimpse at socially-distanced set as contestants set to be axed if they get positive coronavirus test

Strictly Come Dancing bosses have given the first glimpse at the brand new socially distanced set ahead of the 2020 series.

The BBC dance competition will be back in the coming weeks with an air date still not confirmed by the broadcaster.

The launch date has been pushed back due to the coronavirus pandemic with bosses now planning for several different audience scenarios when the show returns.

The newly released images will see the Strictly judges, Craig Revel Horwood, Motsi Mabuse and Shirley Ballas, all sit at individual, sparkly desks.

On the potential audience setting, Sarah Jones, executive producer said: "We've made plans for no audience, we've made plans for a distanced audience, and we've made plans for a full audience, and… whatever happens, we'll obviously just be following the government guidelines."

Actress Caroline Quentin, comedian Bill Bailey, reality star Jamie Laing and boxer Nicola Adams are among the celebrities taking part in the new series.

The judges will have individual desks this year (PA)

However, Jones has said the one positive coronavirus test means contestents will be out of the competition.

Speaking to the Metro, she explained: "Unfortunately, if you receive a positive test, that means that you wouldn't be able to continue in the competition. 

"Obviously, according to government guidelines, if you receive a positive test, they would have to isolate for two weeks, and that would unfortunately rule them out of the show."

Show bosses have prepared for all possible audience scenarios (PA)

One of the biggest parts of Strictly is also the live big band. So what will happen to Dave Arch and he orchestra?

"We won't be able to fit the whole of the band in the band pit so parts of the band will be pre-recorded earlier in the week," Jones said.

"But Dave (Arch) will be there, the singers will be there, and a few other key members of the band."

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