Kai Widdrington, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas, Neil Jones, Carlos Gu and Amy Dowden were flooded with praise and support
A number of Strictly Come Dancing stars have been flooded with praise as they expressed their pride as they joined together for an incredible moment away from the ballroom.
Kai Widdrington, Lauren Oakley, Michelle Tsiakkas, Neil Jones, Carlos Gu and Amy Dowden were among the performers at a star-studded concert to mark VE Day on Thursday (May 8).
The professional dancers took to the stage at the VE Day 80: A Celebration To Remember concert. which was held at the Horse Guards Parade in London and came as the country marked 80 years since the end of World War II was declared in Europe.
Hosted by Zoe Ball, the concert aired on BBC One and iPlayer, and was attended by veterans and the royal family, with King Charles III dellivering a speech at 9pm to echo his grandfather King George VI’s historic victory speech eight decades earlier, on 8 May 1945.
The concert tried to replicate the jubilant scenes from VE Day, with plenty of performances from familiar faces. Things kicked off with Fleur East performing alongside some of the Strictly professionals while Tom Walker, The Darkness, and Keala Settle all took to the stage.
Following their appearance on stage, the Strictly stars took to social media to reflect on being part of the momentous occasion. Lauren, who made it to the final of the BBC One dance contest last year with JB Gill, shared a number of pictures on Instagram in which she could be seen posing behind the scenes – both solo and with her co-stars – in a vibrant blue dress.
She also included a clip in which she filmed Kai moments after their performance in which she could be heard declaring she was “so proud” before she gushed: “It was amazing!”
Alongside the post, she wrote: “When I was a little girl at school, I was completely fascinated by the UK’s history in war time. The amount of sadness, respect & pride I feel for those that endured such a horrific moment in history always left me captivated, but also confused at how I could feel such a different mix of emotions.
“I felt so close to all of those that served, survived, suffered, and those who didn’t come home. Because if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be able to lead the life I do. Being able to use something that I love to pay respect, say thank you and celebrate VE Day is something so special for me. And I couldn’t be more proud.”
Fans were quick to respond. @two_jays_2 said: “Fantastic to see you all performing tonight!” @laurenxstrictly commented: “Such a special performance! proud of you.” @sara_dixon25 wrote: “You all did amazing.”
@wendywoo_1409 echoed: “You were all amazing. Pure perfection.” @trahoney replied: “Well done Lauren, a beautiful dance to watch.” @clairelharman shared: “Loved it. What an achievement.” @maureenb1810 added: “So proud of you all. Amazing performance.”
Meanwhile, Kai shared his own post in which he revealed his mum and girlfriend were there to support him. He said: “Forever grateful for the honour of performing in front of His Majesty the King on the 80th anniversary of VE Day. Feeling very proud to be British on such a historic day.”
