This week we hear from HR Manager Lewis Simmington about his exciting weekend ahead. Watch out for Lewis on BBC1 this Sunday from 19.30 (UK time). Good luck Lewis!

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- How did you get the opportunity to be dancing in the Closing Ceremony?

Lewis: I actually heard it through the drama group that I’m in. We often get emails about free casting opportunities and when this came through I automatically submitted an application. I didn’t know what it entailed but the thought of being part of such a historical event was too amazing to pass up.

After the 2 auditions it was pretty nerve wracking because you had to wait a couple of months to find out if you had got through or not. I must admit that I did let out a small shout of excitement when I found out!

- When did you get into dancing?

Lewis: I first started performing when I was about 5. I used to do small plays with school and then my parents saw that I had a genuine passion and so put me into a small theatre school for kids, I’d do it along side regular school.

It was here that I started my dance training I’m actually trained in Tap, Ballet, Contemporary and Modern. I then also started doing some street dancing as well. It was amazing in terms of confidence building as well as good exercise. I’ve been in a number of productions ranging from musicals such as Footloose, The Wedding Singer and also cabaret review shows like ‘Too Darn Hot!’

(Lewis in Footloose as the character Willard)

(Rehearsal photo for the production ‘Too Darn Hot’)

(Lewis as the lead Robbie in the Wedding Singer)

- What can we expect to see from you this Sunday?

Lewis: Well I can’t go into too many details as I’m sworn to secrecy, all I can say is that it’s going to be an amazing show with some incredibly talented and well known artists involved. To be honest I wouldn’t mind if I was just swaying in the background-  I think that the atmosphere in the stadium will be pure electric! To be part of something that will probably never happen again in my lifetime is truly an honor.

- What is your favourite style of Dance?

Lewis: I like contemporary as a standard, it’s still technical but allows a real freedom of movement whilst telling a story. You can really lose yourself in the emotion which I love. I’ve also got a real connection with street dancing I think it’s the attitude that goes with it and sometimes a feel of empowerment. Plus it’s always a favourite to bring out on the dance floor!

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Good luck Lewis! Find out more about our staff and working for Radisson Blu Edwardian on our hospitality careers website >