Jason Gilkison: The Choreographer Behind Strictly Come Dancing

Julia Wagner · 2026-02-24

You know that feeling when you watch Strictly Come Dancing and a routine just takes your breath away? The seamless flow, the emotional storytelling, the sheer technical brilliance that looks effortless? Well, chances are you're witnessing the work of Jason Gilkison. He's the creative force behind many of those unforgettable moments, the choreographer who helps translate ballroom magic for millions of viewers every week. It's not just about steps with Gilkison. It's about narrative. He approaches each dance like a short story, where every lift, turn, and gesture serves the plot. This philosophy transforms a simple waltz into a sweeping romance or a fiery paso doble into a dramatic confrontation. He understands that dance, at its core, is about connection—both between the partners on the floor and with the audience at home. ### From Champion Dancer to Visionary Choreographer Gilkison's journey to the Strictly ballroom is a story in itself. He didn't just study dance; he lived it as a world champion competitive dancer. That foundation gives him an unparalleled understanding of technique and partnership. He knows what it feels like to perform under pressure, to communicate without words, and to make complex patterns look fluid. This insider knowledge is pure gold when he's working with celebrities who might be starting from zero. He can break down the most intimidating moves into something achievable, all while preserving the dance's artistic soul. ### The Art of Collaboration on Strictly His role on Strictly is a fascinating dance of collaboration. He works hand-in-hand with the professional dancers, who know their celebrity partners' strengths and limits intimately. Gilkison brings the overarching vision—the theme, the musicality, the emotional arc. Then, together, they adapt and mold the choreography to fit the unique pairing. It's a delicate balance of ambition and practicality, of pushing boundaries while ensuring safety and confidence. He often says his job is to provide the framework and then let the dancers' personalities shine through it. What can dance studio owners and choreographers learn from his approach? Quite a lot, actually. - **Story First:** Don't just teach a sequence. Build a routine around a feeling or a story. It makes the dance more memorable and engaging for both performers and audiences. - **Adaptability is Key:** The perfect choreography is the one that works for *these* dancers, in *this* moment. Be willing to modify and adjust. - **Simplify to Amplify:** Sometimes the most powerful moment is a held pose or a simple walk. Not every second needs to be filled with turns and tricks. - **Foster Partnership:** Choreography should enhance the connection between dancers, not overshadow it. Focus on how they move as a unit. One of his former colleagues once remarked, "Jason has a gift for seeing the dance that's waiting inside the music—and then helping everyone else see it too." That's the mark of a great choreographer. It's not about imposing steps; it's about unlocking potential. For those of us teaching or running studios, Gilkison's work is a masterclass in making high-level dance accessible and emotionally resonant. He reminds us that our goal isn't just to create technically proficient dancers, but to create performers who can move people. Whether you're choreographing a competition piece for seasoned students or a simple routine for a beginner's recital, the principle is the same. Connect the steps to a heartbeat. Give the movement meaning. That's how you create magic in a studio, on a stage, or on a Saturday night television show watched by millions. It's about crafting moments that linger long after the music stops.