DARLINGTON’S own Billy Elliot will mark 25 years of dance with a spectacular show next week.

When Darrien Wright was growing up, he was one of very few boys in Darlington to display a passion for dancing – a passion that would go on to take him around the world and bring him national fame.

In 2006, Mr Wright was propelled into the limelight after winning the second series of BBC One show Strictly Dance Fever, going on to perform in the West End and on the international stage.

On Sunday, May 8, the talented performer will take to the stage at Darlington’s Civic Theatre in Strictly Dream.

The show will see Mr Wright perform with his Strictly dance partner Hollie Robertson for the first time in years.

The lively celebration of more than two decades in the industry will also feature reunions with many of those who have inspired Mr Wright throughout his career, from former teachers to students at his Dance Wright studio.

It will also include a tribute to Darlington teacher ‘Mr Mac’, who died last year – a man who had inspired and supported his former pupil Mr Wright.

Mr Wright said the show was important for him to say thank you to those who have shaped his life thus far.

Praising his mother and late aunt, he said they had supported him since he decided to emulate Kylie Minogue’s dancers.

He said: “I saw Kylie when I was six and asked if I could be one of her dancers so my mam took me to a local dance school and it went from there.

“I was the only boy, but I didn’t know anything different, I just loved music and dancing and was encouraged to do it.

“Being the only boy meant I got lots of attention and opportunities, I was really lucky as a kid and didn’t have to hide away.

“I’d get abuse at school when I first told people but they came back and apologised once they saw me on stage at our Christmas show.

“Since then, the people I’ve met through dancing have become my family and everyone in my show is important to me somehow.”

Strictly Dream will be hosted by TV and West End star Adam Booth and aims to showcase the talent of Darlington through music and dance.

Tickets are £17 and can be booked by calling 01325-486555.