Silverstone Leasing accountant Sophie Norville is stepping out of the office and onto the dance floor as she takes part in Strictly Northampton 2025.
Sophie has begun intensive training for the popular ballroom and Latin competition, which raises funds for Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity and the Step by Step Dance School.
The event, now in its 14th year, pairs local contestants with students from the Northampton-based dance school for an evening of performances at Royal & Derngate on Friday 28th November.
Encouraged to take part by her husband Scott Norville, managing director at Silverstone Leasing, Sophie follows in the footsteps of her sisters-in-law who have both competed in previous years.
“My sister-in-laws have both done Strictly Northampton – one of them still competes across the country,” said Sophie. “Usually, I’m the one cheering everyone else on but this year I’m throwing myself into everything!”
Sophie will train for four hours each week to prepare for two routines – one ballroom and one Latin.
Having studied Performing Arts at Northumbria University, she’s no stranger to the stage, though ballroom is a new challenge. “I grew up watching Baz Luhrmann’s Strictly Ballroom and Strictly Come Dancing,” she said. “In my teenage years I did ballet, tap, modern and street dance but nothing like ballroom. I’m a bit nervous about the classic dances but I’m really looking forward to the Latin.”
Sophie added that the fundraising element is a big motivation. “We’ve supported Cynthia Spencer Hospice Charity for years – it’s a fantastic cause that touches so many hearts. Half of the money goes to them and half to Step by Step, which helps their own dancers too.”
Scott said: “I’m so pleased that I finally managed to convince Sophie to enter Strictly Northampton. She always gives her all to everything she does, and both our family and the Silverstone Leasing team can’t wait to cheer her on.”
Tickets for Strictly Northampton 2025 are available at royalandderngate.co.uk.