Janette Manrara is a Cuban-American professional dancer, television presenter, and choreographer best known in the UK for her time on Strictly Come Dancing and for hosting Strictly: It Takes Two. Born on 16 November 1983 in Miami, Florida, she built her career from competitive ballroom dancer in the United States to one of British television’s most recognisable Latin dance experts. She joined Strictly Come Dancing as a professional in 2013, reached the final in 2020 with singer HRVY, and later became the presenter of It Takes Two in 2021. Married to fellow professional dancer Aljaž Škorjanec, Janette Manrara has combined performance, presenting, theatre tours, and family life while remaining a central figure in the Strictly brand. This in-depth guide explores her early life, dance training, television career, theatre work, personal milestones, and practical information about her live appearances and projects.
Early Life and Background
Janette Manrara was born and raised in Miami, Florida, to Cuban parents. Growing up in a culturally vibrant Latin community, she was surrounded by music and rhythm from an early age. Although she later became known for ballroom and Latin dance, her first formal training was in musical theatre and classical dance styles during her teenage years. She originally planned to pursue a career in finance and studied at Florida International University before making the decision to commit fully to dance.
Her Cuban heritage has played an important role in shaping her dance identity. Salsa, cha-cha, and other Latin rhythms were part of her upbringing, which later translated into a natural flair on the ballroom floor. This strong cultural foundation helped her stand out in competitive dance circuits in the United States before she moved into television work.
Dance Training and Competitive Career
Before entering mainstream television, Janette Manrara competed extensively in ballroom and Latin dance competitions across the United States. She trained rigorously in styles including salsa, rumba, samba, paso doble, and jive. Competitive ballroom requires years of disciplined coaching, strength conditioning, and choreography work, and she built her reputation through dedication and technical precision.
Her competitive career provided the experience necessary to transition into professional performance work. Unlike reality television fame that arrives overnight, her rise was built on structured training and competition exposure. By her mid-twenties, she had established herself as a respected dancer within American Latin dance circles, which opened doors in entertainment.
So You Think You Can Dance
Janette Manrara first gained major television exposure through the US dance competition series So You Think You Can Dance. She appeared as a contestant during Season 5 in 2009, where she showcased her Latin specialism. The show exposed her to a broad audience and allowed her to demonstrate versatility beyond ballroom styles.
Although she did not win the competition, the experience significantly boosted her profile. Appearing on a nationally televised platform introduced her to choreographers, casting directors, and producers. This period marked the beginning of her transition from competitive dancer to television personality.
The exposure from So You Think You Can Dance laid the groundwork for her eventual move to the UK entertainment industry. Television required adaptability, charisma, and camera confidence, all of which she developed during her time on the show.
Joining Strictly Come Dancing
Janette Manrara joined Strictly Come Dancing in 2013 as a professional dancer. The BBC series pairs celebrities with professional ballroom dancers to compete in weekly live shows judged by a panel. Her arrival marked the beginning of a long and influential chapter in her career.
During her years as a professional partner, she was paired with several celebrities from sport, music, and television. Her energetic choreography and expressive Latin routines quickly became audience favourites. Strictly’s format demands not only dance expertise but also teaching ability, patience, and emotional intelligence, as professionals must guide inexperienced celebrities through intensive weekly training.
Her most successful Strictly season came in 2020 when she partnered with singer HRVY. The pair reached the final, finishing as runners-up. Their performances were widely praised for technical quality and performance strength, cementing her reputation as one of the show’s standout professionals.
Strictly Highlights
Throughout her Strictly Come Dancing career, Janette Manrara delivered memorable routines that combined high energy with technical sharpness. Latin dances such as salsa and samba became signature styles for her partnerships. Her background in authentic Latin rhythm gave her choreography an edge that resonated with viewers.
Strictly is broadcast live from London, typically airing from September to December each year. Rehearsals often run for eight to ten hours per day during competition weeks. This intense schedule requires physical resilience and strong partnership chemistry. Her professionalism during live broadcasts and results shows strengthened her position within the Strictly family.
Reaching the 2020 final was a defining moment. That series, filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic with strict health protocols, required bubble isolation and limited audiences. Despite those challenges, her partnership with HRVY became one of the season’s most talked-about storylines.
Transition to Presenter
In 2021, Janette Manrara stepped down as a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing to become the co-host of Strictly: It Takes Two. The weekday companion show airs on BBC Two and provides behind-the-scenes coverage, interviews, and training insights.
This transition marked a significant career shift from dancer to broadcaster. Presenting requires different skills, including live interviewing, timing, script reading, and audience engagement. Her years on Strictly gave her insider knowledge, making her a natural fit for the role.
Hosting It Takes Two expanded her visibility beyond dance routines. She now engages directly with celebrity contestants, judges, and fellow professionals, offering analysis and backstage perspective. The move also allowed her to balance career progression with family life.
Theatre Tours and Live Shows
Beyond television, Janette Manrara has toured extensively across the UK with live dance productions. She and her husband Aljaž Škorjanec have headlined theatre tours that blend ballroom, Latin, and storytelling elements.
These tours typically run between spring and autumn, visiting major cities including London, Manchester, Birmingham, Glasgow, and Cardiff. Ticket prices often range from £35 to £75 depending on venue and seating tier. Performances feature ensemble dancers, costume changes, and choreographed narratives inspired by their personal journeys.
Live theatre allows audiences to see extended dance sequences that television time limits often restrict. It also offers fans an opportunity for meet-and-greet packages, professional photo opportunities, and Q&A sessions.
Personal Life
Janette Manrara married Aljaž Škorjanec, a Slovenian professional dancer, in 2017. The couple met through the Strictly Come Dancing circuit and have since become one of the show’s most recognisable partnerships.
In 2023, they welcomed their first child, Lyra Rose. Parenthood marked a new chapter in their lives and influenced Janette’s decision to focus more on presenting and structured touring schedules. Balancing rehearsal, live television, and family responsibilities requires careful planning and support networks.
The couple frequently share glimpses of family life on social media platforms, connecting with audiences beyond the dance floor. Their relationship has become part of the Strictly brand narrative, highlighting long-term bonds formed through the show.
Media and Public Image
Janette Manrara is known for her positive public image and approachable personality. Interviews often highlight her work ethic, gratitude for opportunities, and strong family values. Unlike some reality television figures, her reputation has remained largely free from controversy.
She has appeared on various UK daytime programmes and radio shows to discuss Strictly, parenting, and touring projects. Her bilingual background also allows her to connect with international audiences, particularly Spanish-speaking viewers.
Her social media presence supports her professional brand. Platforms such as Instagram and X are used to promote live tours, television appearances, and behind-the-scenes rehearsal clips.
Awards and Recognition
While Strictly Come Dancing does not formally award individual professional dancers each season, reaching the final is widely considered a major career achievement. Her 2020 final appearance significantly boosted her profile within UK entertainment.
The Strictly franchise itself has won multiple television awards over the years, contributing to the prestige associated with its professionals. Being part of such a long-running BBC series enhances credibility and long-term career stability.
Industry recognition also comes through theatre tour demand and audience loyalty. Repeat ticket sales and sold-out dates reflect continued public support.
Practical Information and Planning
If you want to see Janette Manrara live, the best opportunities are her UK theatre tours and Strictly-related events. Tour schedules are typically announced six to nine months in advance, with tickets available via major theatre booking platforms.
Ticket Prices
Standard tickets usually range from £35 to £75. VIP meet-and-greet packages can cost between £90 and £150 depending on venue.
Tour Locations
Major UK cities including London, Leeds, Liverpool, Newcastle, Edinburgh, and Belfast frequently appear on tour schedules.
Show Duration
Live dance shows typically run for approximately two hours, including a 20-minute interval.
What to Expect
Expect high-energy Latin numbers, ballroom classics, storytelling segments, and professional lighting production. Audiences often include families, Strictly fans, and dance enthusiasts.
Travel Tips
Book early for popular weekend dates. City-centre theatres are usually accessible via train and local public transport. Arrive at least 30 minutes before curtain time.
Seasonal Projects
Strictly Come Dancing runs annually from late summer rehearsals through December live finals. During this period, Janette Manrara’s presenting schedule on It Takes Two aligns with weekday broadcasts.
Theatre tours often avoid peak Strictly months and instead take place in spring or early autumn. Holiday specials and Christmas editions of Strictly may also feature her in presenting roles.
Festive live dance specials occasionally include limited-run performances in major UK venues during December, offering seasonal choreography themes.
Career Evolution
Janette Manrara’s career reflects strategic evolution rather than sudden reinvention. Beginning as a competitive Latin dancer in the United States, she transitioned into reality television exposure, then into a long-term BBC professional role, and finally into mainstream presenting. Each phase built upon previous experience, demonstrating adaptability in an industry that often demands reinvention.
Her move into presenting aligns with a broader trend among Strictly professionals who diversify beyond competitive dancing. Television hosting offers career longevity beyond peak athletic years, while maintaining connection to dance culture.
This progression positions her as both performer and broadcaster within the UK entertainment landscape.
Influence in Dance Community
Within the ballroom community, Janette Manrara represents international crossover success. Few American Latin dancers establish long-term careers in British prime-time television. Her journey illustrates how global talent mobility shapes modern dance entertainment.
Dance schools across the UK frequently reference Strictly professionals as inspirational examples. Her routines are often recreated in amateur competitions and studio showcases. The visibility of her performances has contributed to renewed interest in Latin dance styles among younger audiences.
FAQs
Who is Janette Manrara?
Janette Manrara is a Cuban-American professional dancer and television presenter best known for her role on Strictly Come Dancing and for hosting Strictly: It Takes Two. She joined Strictly as a professional dancer in 2013 and became a presenter in 2021. She is married to dancer Aljaž Škorjanec.
When was Janette Manrara born?
She was born on 16 November 1983 in Miami, Florida, United States. Her Cuban heritage strongly influences her Latin dance style.
Is Janette Manrara still on Strictly?
Yes, she remains part of the Strictly franchise as a presenter on Strictly: It Takes Two. She stepped down as a competing professional dancer in 2021.
Who is Janette Manrara married to?
She is married to Aljaž Škorjanec, a Slovenian professional dancer who also appeared on Strictly Come Dancing. They married in 2017.
Does Janette Manrara have children?
Yes, she and Aljaž Škorjanec welcomed their daughter, Lyra Rose, in 2023.
What is Janette Manrara famous for?
She is famous for her Latin dance performances on Strictly Come Dancing and for hosting Strictly: It Takes Two on BBC Two.
Did Janette Manrara win Strictly?
She reached the final in 2020 with singer HRVY but did not win the series. Finishing as runner-up remains her highest placement.
Where can I see Janette Manrara live?
She regularly tours the UK with live theatre dance productions alongside Aljaž Škorjanec. Tour dates are announced annually, typically in spring or autumn.
How much are Janette Manrara tickets?
Ticket prices usually range between £35 and £75, with VIP packages costing more depending on venue and inclusions.
What dance styles does she specialise in?
She specialises in Latin ballroom styles including salsa, samba, cha-cha, rumba, and jive. Her Cuban background strongly influences her performance quality.
When did she join Strictly?
She joined Strictly Come Dancing as a professional dancer in 2013 and remained in that role until 2021 before moving into presenting.
What show does she host?
She co-hosts Strictly: It Takes Two, the weekday companion show to Strictly Come Dancing, broadcast on BBC Two.
Read More on Manchesterindependent