Dame Arlene Phillips

A star of the stage and screen, Arlene Phillips is a choreographer, director and presenter, When booked for events, her recognisability and warm personality resonates with audiences, making Arlene a popular event host, charity fundraiser presenter and after dinner speaker. A common sight on the West End and broadway, she has honed a dazzling set of skills that she can now bring to events. As an after dinner speaker, Arlene's life story captivates audiences, as she takes them through the highs and lows of performing from 1976 onwards.

Since 2004, Arlene has been a fan-favourite on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing. From the Waltz to Latin, she uses her immense knowledge of dance to critique the celebrity contestants and educate audiences. Following her success on the show, she was later asked to join the cast of Dancing with the Stars, the American version of Strictly Come Dancing. In 2005, Arlene was also a member of the spin-off series, Strictly Dance Fever, which saw dancers join a West End chorus. Two years later, riding high off of her dance competition fame, Arlene started and starred in her own BBC show, DanceX.

Early in her career, Arlene gained traction as a West End and Broadway Director. With a penchant for American Modern Jazz, she developed her own style of dance inspired by her favourite genre. From Pineapple Dance Studios to Italia Conti Stage School, Arlene has taught in several high-profile dance studios, teaching her craft. Her choreography has been featured in multiple onscreen cult classics, including Annie in 1982 and Duran Duran's music video, The Wild Boys, which won Best British Video at the 1985 BRIT Awards. Arlene was also appointed Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in the Queen's 2021 Birthday Honours for services to dance and charity.When booked as an event host, audiences are enamoured by this instantly recognisable celebrity, who can command the attention of a room with her stories. 

In 2017, following the Grenfell Tower fire, Arlene raised funds via a dance gala that she organised. Several dancers took the stage, expressing themselves through their movements. All of the funds went to Kensington & Chelsea Foundation, an independent charity. As a charity fundraiser host, Arlene is ideal. Her charm, wit and dedication to encouraging donations can turn any event into a roaring success for a good cause. Arlene is no stranger to tragedy, including the Grenfell fire, so can eloquently navigate sensitive topics with ease.