Across the series, Oti meets acclaimed performers from the stage and screen, including Destiny’s Child singer Michelle Williams, ballet dancer Wayne Sleep, Strictly judge and Oti’s sister, Motsi Mabuse, and more.
Oti asks her guests to nominate the dancer or choreographer who inspired them and shaped their dancing careers. The legends revered in this series range from the man who created his unique signature jazz style, Bob Fosse, to the versatile dancer who incorporated styles from around the world in her movement, Debbie Allen.
Oti Mabuse says: “It’s great to come back with a new series of Dancing Legends. I love exploring the history of dance and learning about the visionary figures who have come before me. Also, this series is a little bit more special for me, as I talk to people who I’ve personally been inspired by and together we delve into the past to celebrate the icons who have shaped the world of dance.”
In the first episode, actress and musical theatre star Ruthie Henshall joins Oti to talk about her own career and nominate her dancing legend, the director and choreographer Bob Fosse. Fosse won an Oscar, Tony and Emmy award in the same year and created a body of work – including Cabaret, Chicago and Pippin – which is still celebrated decades after his death. Ruthie and Oti explore his dazzling career with archive clips and the expert help of author, Sam Wasson.
Series two of Oti Mabuse’s Dancing Legends is broadcast on Wednesdays at 11.30am on Radio 4 and available on BBC Sounds straight after. Series one is available now as a box set on BBC Sounds.
