Star-studded show to honour former Strictly dancer

Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor died in February at the age of 44

A new show has been choreographed to honour the life of former Strictly Come Dancing professional Robin Windsor.

The 44-year-old dancer, from Ipswich, died in February and his funeral took place in the town in March.

His friend and former co-star Pasha Kovalev has co-created a West End musical called Robin Windsor - The Final Act, which will include performances from other stars who were close to Windsor.

Kovalev told BBC Radio Suffolk that the show, which will take place in November at the Theatre Royal Drury Lane, would be an emotional event.

Pasha Kovalev (left) met Windsor (second from right) before they danced together on Strictly

"As soon as we heard that news about Robin, all of his friends wanted to do something more to celebrate his life and remind everyone what he was all about in life and his desires when he was with us," Kovalev explained.

Pasha Kovalev danced on Strictly from 2010 to 2018

"I had an idea to create a show that celebrates his life," he added.

"Robin loved the West End and he loved musicals, so it would have meant so much to him to have that show right there in a huge West End theatre.

"It's going to be a sad event but at the same time we want to make sure that it's a celebratory event in a way."

The show will be hosted by Strictly judge Anton Du Beke and Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley, who partnered with Windsor during the 2012 show before they became good friends.

Lisa Riley was paired with Windsor during series 10 of Strictly Come Dancing

Kovalev said Windsor was "always there if you needed him" and he was "always positive and happy to help".

'Doing what he loved'

Windsor was also an ambassador of the mental health charity SANE, which will receive all profits from the evening.

"He enjoyed tremendously being on screen, dancing and doing what he loved the most and creating something very special for everyone to watch at home," Kovalev said.

"One thing that me personally and most of the people I'm talking to said is, once you know the person is gone, is there one more thing I could have done?

"One extra time to meet him, see him, help him, talk to him, guide him in a way and every single person had that question in their mind, thinking that we hadn't done enough."

Windsor began dancing at the age of three when his parents enrolled him in classes in Ipswich.

He went onto to compete for England in numerous championships and also appeared on several stage shows, including Burn The Floor.