Strictly star praised by ex-teacher ahead of final

The former teacher of Strictly Come Dancing finalist Amber Davies described her as a “born performer” who showed promise even as a child.

Catherine Jones worked with the actress on school performances at Ysgol Glan Clwyd in St Asaph, Denbighshire, where Davies honed her skills before moving to London aged 16.

She said Davies’ background in the West End made her a “good choice” to enter the competition at such short notice after Dani Dyer broke her ankle during training.

Davies is set to go up against YouTuber George Clarke and football commentator Karen Carney in the finale on Saturday after 12 weeks of competition.

“She really enjoyed being on stage and being a part of everything,” Mrs Jones told Radio Wales Breakfast about Davies’ early start in theatre.

“She loved taking part in all types of singing and performing. I think she’s been a born performer since she was in primary school.”

Davies performed in the school choir and competed at the Llangollen Eisteddfodd before going to New York to perform in churches and chapels, as well as the famed LaGuardia High School which specialises in teaching performing arts.

Since then, she has had roles in musical theatre productions including Pretty Woman, 9 to 5: The Musical, The Great Gatsby, and is the lead in next year’s Legally Blonde musical tour.

Davies replaced Dyer just before the first show was televised and was later subject to online criticism that her background in performing arts gave her an advantage over other contestants.

Mrs Jones said the performer’s experience in the West End did not guarantee that she would be successful in the ballroom.

“She’s been a leading lady [in musical theatre], but leading ladies don’t usually do all that [choreography],” she said.

The teacher added that she felt some of the comments towards Davies had been unfair.

“People forget she’s missed all those weeks of basic ballroom skills.

“I take my hat off to her. Some of those moves [on Strictly] have been quite scary, when she’s thrown around the place, and I think she’s done amazing.”

Mrs Jones said she was excited for the finale and encouraged “everybody in Wales” to show their support for her.

“It’s all up to us now. I’d still say she is the best dancer there.”

No matter the result, she hoped her former student would “enjoy tomorrow” and be proud she had reached the final stage.

“She’s done her job. To me, she will always be a winner.”