Amber Davies praised by former teacher ahead of Strictly final
Former teacher Catherine Jones hails Amber Davies as a natural performer, tracing her journey from Welsh school stages to the Strictly Come Dancing final, while stressing ballroom basics still matter.
Amber Davies, a finalist on BBC's Strictly Come Dancing, has received praise from a former teacher for her early talent and stage presence. The Welsh performer stepped in as a last-minute replacement and now heads to the final against YouTuber George Clarke and football commentator Karen Carney.
Teacher Catherine Jones of Ysgol Glan Clwyd in St Asaph, Denbighshire, recalls Davies shining in school productions and choirs long before her television debut. Her early love of performing led her to stages in Wales, then to New York to study performing arts, including LaGuardia High School, renowned for training in the performing arts.
Her West End background helped make her a strong choice to join the show on short notice after Dani Dyer's injury during training.
Davies is set to face YouTuber George Clarke and football commentator Karen Carney in the finale after 12 weeks of competition.
Mrs Jones told Radio Wales Breakfast that Davies loves being on stage and taking part in all kinds of singing and performing. She has been a natural performer since primary school, Jones said.
As a student, Davies sang in the school choir and took part in the Llangollen Eisteddfod. She later travelled to New York to perform in churches and venues, and attended the famed LaGuardia High School for the performing arts.
Since then, she has starred in musical productions such as Pretty Woman, 9 to 5: The Musical, The Great Gatsby, and is slated to lead the Legally Blonde musical tour next year.
Davies replaced Dyer just before the first show aired and faced online criticism that her theatre background gave her an edge over other contestants.
Jones noted that theatre experience does not guarantee success in ballroom, adding that leading ladies do not always handle the level of choreography seen on Strictly.
She also argued that some of the online comments were unfair and that Davies has missed several weeks of basic ballroom instruction. Jones added that the dances on Strictly can be daunting, but Davies has shown real progression.
Jones is excited for the finale and urged everyone in Wales to show their support. In her view, Davies is the best dancer on the show, and she hopes the moment is enjoyed and Davies feels proud to reach the final.
No matter the result, Jones believes Davies has already proven herself. She has done her job; to me she will always be a winner.
Expert view: A dance expert says a late entry can still perform well if the performer stays calm and adapts quickly. Davies' theatre background gives her confidence, but mastering ballroom basics remains essential for ongoing success.
Short summary: Amber Davies' journey spans Welsh school theatre to a professional West End-inspired career, culminating in a Strictly final. Her former teacher defends her against online criticism, highlighting the value of stage experience while acknowledging the need for ballroom technique. The finale pairs Davies with other notable contenders, and regardless of the outcome, she has already earned respect for perseverance and talent.
Key takeaway: A late-stage shift from theatre to ballroom can be challenging, but Davies' stage skills help her shine on Strictly. BBC News
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