BBC Strictly audience secrets revealed - banned items, long waits and VIP perks

For die-hard fans, there's nothing quite like sitting in the live studio audience, soaking up the thrill of the show as it happens.

Watching from home is one thing-where viewers get dazzled by the pro dancers, mesmerized by the sparkly costumes, and drawn into the drama-but being in the room adds an entirely new dimension to the show.

Seeing hosts and , along with the full cast, up close brings a sense of intimacy and excitement that the camera can't quite capture.

Getting tickets to Strictly isn't easy. With thousands of fans entering the public ballot and only a select few seats available, landing a spot in the audience is a feat in itself.

Those who make it inside, however, often uncover little-known secrets about the show that surprise even the most dedicated fans. From quirky behind-the-scenes routines to unexpected rules for the audience, attending Strictly live offers insights that rarely make it to the screen.

Here's a look at some of Strictly's best-kept audience secrets...

Phone Confiscation and free snacks

Attending Strictly Come Dancing as an audience member is an intense, all-day affair. Fans are required to arrive early, with many queuing for hours just to secure a good spot. Once they enter the studio, they must hand over their phones and recording devices, resulting in a complete disconnect from the outside world.

"Most of the audience arrive VERY early and have to queue. You have to give in any phones or recording devices for the full 10 hours," Nicola Adam told Lancashire Post.

This rule not only prevents spoilers but also leaves the audience feeling as if they've lost track of time entirely. Adam noted that, aside from the VIPs, the general audience is left out of the voting process entirely: "It also means the audience (apart from celebrities and close family who get to keep theirs) can't vote."

"The entire operation is fuelled by Custard Creams," added Nicola.

"Most of the audience are there for nine to 10 hours and the only food available is free biscuits and water which are dolled out in between show filming.

"The audience is heavily advised to eat a big meal beforehand."

VIP Perks and Celebrity Spotting

Long before the cameras start rolling, the excitement of Strictly Come Dancing begins.

Audience members arrive at Elstree Studios in Hertfordshire hours before filming to ensure they're part of the show's magic.

Outside the studio, they gather in an area equipped with refreshments, toilet facilities, and a bar. There's even a merchandise stand featuring Strictly hoodies, teddy bears, and water bottles.

As fans wait, some may even catch a glimpse of celebrities or contestants near the VIP section, where dancers meet loved ones before showtime.

A photo board is also set up, allowing fans to snap pre-show photos. VIP fans are also given free pizza and champagne.

Off-Camera Laughs and Stage Drama

The fun doesn't end when the show goes live. Inside the studio, the Strictly team ensures that every moment is entertaining, even when the cameras aren't rolling.

A warm-up act is crucial, keeping the crowd in high spirits and primed for applause.

Nicola highlighted the importance of this role: "Warm up guy Stuart Holdham, working closely with floor manager Alan Conley (yes, he's comedian Brian Conley's brother), actually hold the whole shebang together, keeping the audience laughing and behaving."

Stuart's job is to cue applause, laughter, and boos, ensuring the crowd's reactions stay consistent. Claudia Winkleman also steps in to entertain, joking about everything from her Spanx to her fashion choices, adding a layer of personal humour to the event.

Both Claudia and Tess like to chat with members of the audience, complimenting people on their sparkly Strictly outfits.

Strict Rules

Being in the Strictly audience means following strict protocols that ensure a safe and organized experience for everyone.

For example, those seated on the balconies are prohibited from standing up during ovations due to health and safety regulations. This little-known rule is one of many details audience members notice that viewers at home might miss.

Head judge Shirley Ballas, for instance, sits on a cushion to boost her height next to the tall Craig Revel Horwood. Audience members near the judges are rotated between shows to give the impression of fresh faces in each shot.

Between performances, the black-clad crew races against the clock, swapping sets and cleaning up glitter. As Adam noted: "The dozens of black-clad floor crew are incredible - they have just minutes to remove entire sets and build a new one."

Endless Re-Takes

Strictly is unique for its live band, which performs throughout, lending an authentic and vibrant touch to each dance.

However, the live band and dancers often need to perform multiple takes to capture all the required camera angles.

Nicola shared how meticulous the process is, stating: "The live act have had to play their song twice with the dancers so they can get all the camera angles."

For some musical guests, a large-print autocue is used to ensure every lyric and note is perfect.

Meanwhile, backstage teams are constantly on standby to handle quick repairs, from costume adjustments to makeup touch-ups. Between takes, Claudia Winkleman delivers commentary from her "Clauditorium" area, a small section at the side of the dance floor.

Every detail, from music to lighting, is precisely managed to ensure that each moment on Strictly looks flawless.