Anton du Beke has shared how his journey in dancing has paved the way for him to become an author, fuelled by his lifelong passion for storytelling. The Strictly Come Dancing judge opened up about this transition during a talk at the Henley Literary Festival, where The Independent stands as the exclusive news partner for a second year.
In discussing his latest fictional novel, Anton revealed that he didn’t want his reputation as a dancer to overshadow his work as an author. He emphasized the importance of his books standing on their own merit, independent of his dancing career. Despite not harbouring a childhood ambition to become an author, Anton’s love for storytelling led him to pursue a career in dance, which he saw as a powerful medium for narrative expression.
During the festival event, Anton captivated the audience with tales that had inspired his seven novels, with his latest release titled “A Dance for the King” delving into a plot involving a British soldier in 1942 London. His preference for historical fiction was driven by a deep fascination with the everyday intricacies of historical periods. Anton highlighted the stark differences, such as communication methods, between the present day and historical eras, adding layers of depth to his storytelling.
Despite acknowledging that many attendees had not yet read his works, Anton was undeterred and put on a lively performance. He delighted the audience with dance tutorials, showcasing his favourite dance, the foxtrot. Drawing inspiration from fellow author Robert Harris, who also weaves historical contexts into his fictional narratives, Anton demonstrated his commitment to providing an engaging and entertaining session at the Henley Literary Festival.
As the festival continues until 6th October, Anton du Beke’s reflections on the intersection of dancing and storytelling offer a fresh perspective on the creative influences that shape his novels. His seamless blend of two artistic disciplines serves as a testament to the power of passion and dedication in pursuing one’s creative endeavours.