Real life of Strictly Come Dancing’s Layton Williams - from growing up in Bury and West End debut to being 'flung around' on dancefloor
13.08.2023 - 06:57
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Exactly two years ago to the day, Bad Education actor Layton Williams was prepping for the UK tour of hit musical Everybody’s Talking About Jamie.
Bury-born Layton starred in the titular role of the popular production as Jamie New, a teenage schoolboy who 'steps out of the darkness' to become a drag queen. But fast forward to later this year, the 28-year-old is getting ready for a different role altogether - although it will still involve plenty of glitter and sequins.
Alongside the likes of Angela Rippon, Krishnan Guru-Murthy, Zara McDermott and fellow Mancunian Adam Thomas, Layton was unveiled as one of the 15 stars competing in this year’s Strictly Come Dancing.
"Absolutely buzzing to confirm that I will be taking part in THE most iconic dance competition in the UK,” Layton said earlier this week. “It's time to bring it to the Ballroom. So excited to learn new skills from the best. Bring on the sequins… ALL the sequins!"
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In 2007, at the age of 12, Layton made his West End debut in the title role of Billy Elliot the Musical. Prior to his audition, the actor revealed he had no ballet or tap experience - despite the role requiring a seasoned pro in the role.
Convincing production with his audition, Layton underwent an intensive dance training programme at the Billy Elliot Academy in Leeds and Manchester’s Center Pointe to prepare him for the role. But while he also has street dance experience from Carol Godby's theatre workshop in Bury, Layton is convinced the Strictly ballroom will be unlike anything he’s done before.
After facing criticism that his major West End experience will give him an advantage over his fellow