BBC Strictly Come Dancing: The Best Of
Date: 2022-05-23 Category: Portfolio
Project
Strictly Come Dancing took a waltz down memory lane with its latest Strictly: The Best Of... four-part commission.
Hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman were joined from home by Strictly's judging panel: Craig Revel-Horwood, Motsi Mabuse, Shirley Ballas and (live from LA!) Bruno Tonioli.
Mission
So, how does a world-renowned primetime show produce high-end programming during lockdown and a global pandemic? BBC Studios approached Limitless for their expertise in remote production to help Strictly produce four specials in the run up to the live shows. Achieving a first in remote production, and a first in innovation for a high-end entertainment show.
Limitless enabled Strictly to remotely produce and film over 120 interviews and live-action scenes with locked-down contributors in 7 countries, across 3 continents, and within four weeks.
Challenge
A tight production schedule and integrating with the diaries of professional dancers, celebrities, VIPs and contestants meant that Limitless had to offer the utmost flexibility throughout the several weeks of shooting.
The Musical's Week episode contained a world first remotely choreographed and filmed pro group dance, replicating the magic of the group dances seen throughout the live series. This required expert directing and planning from the BBC team, and the technology proved integral to the recording and producing of this segment.
Impact
Strictly brought sparkle and joy to a nation reeling from COVID-19 in the midst of lockdown. Households up and down the UK, and across the world were treated to uplifting and heart-warming entertainment, and some much needed familiarity.