Strictly Come Dancing star Oti Mabuse, the only pro to win the glitter ball trophy twice in a row, is bringing her electrifying new show “Viva Carnival” to Sheffield City Hall on June 12, 2025, featuring special guest and Strictly legend Flavia in a 90-minute celebration of the world’s most vibrant dance traditions.
Brazilian Samba Showcase
In Viva Carnival, Oti Mabuse will transport audiences to the vibrant streets of Rio de Janeiro with an authentic Brazilian Samba showcase. This electrifying segment celebrates one of the world’s most famous carnival traditions, featuring the rhythmic, hip-swaying movements that have made Brazilian Samba an international dance phenomenon. Drawing inspiration from the spectacular parades seen at Rio’s Sambadrome, where tens of thousands gather annually to witness top samba schools compete, Mabuse’s interpretation promises to capture the essence of this cultural celebration.
The Brazilian Samba portion of the show will likely incorporate the colorful costumes, infectious beats, and joyful energy that define this South American tradition. As Oti herself has expressed, “Dance has the power to bring people together,” and few dance styles accomplish this as effectively as the communal celebration of Samba, which invites audiences to “let your hair down, let loose” and join in the festive atmosphere that makes Brazilian Carnival world-famous.
Special Guest Flavia
Strictly Come Dancing legend Flavia Cacace, known as the “Queen of the Tango,” will join Oti Mabuse as a special guest star in the Viva Carnival tour. This powerhouse collaboration brings together two of Strictly’s most celebrated dancers for what promises to be an unforgettable performance across the UK in June 2025. Flavia’s Argentine Tango expertise perfectly complements Oti’s Samba mastery, creating a dynamic pairing described as “the Queen of the Tango joins the Queen of the Samba” in promotional materials.
The addition of Flavia elevates the show to new heights, offering audiences a rare opportunity to see these two dance icons share the stage in what’s being promoted as “this summer’s hottest party.” Venues hosting this spectacular collaboration include The Glasshouse in Gateshead on June 13, Sheffield City Hall on June 12, and Birmingham’s Symphony Hall, with tickets already available for purchase at various price points starting from £28.10.
Global Carnival Tour Dates
Oti Mabuse’s “Viva Carnival” will be touring across the UK throughout June 2025, bringing the celebration to multiple major venues. The tour kicks off at Sheffield City Hall on June 12, followed by performances at The Glasshouse in Gateshead (June 13), Norwich Theatre Royal (June 14), and Manchester Bridgewater (June 15). The carnival continues at Blackpool Opera House (June 16), Guildford G Live (June 17), Birmingham Symphony Hall (June 20), and Bath Forum (June 21), before concluding with a grand finale at London’s Adelphi Theatre on June 24.
Dance enthusiasts can take advantage of a special 2-for-1 ticket offer when booking by May 31, 2025, valid for select performances in Sheffield, Gateshead, Manchester, Blackpool, Guildford, Birmingham, and Bath (excluding the London show). Ticket prices vary by venue, ranging from approximately £30 to £104 for VIP packages, with all persons under 16 requiring adult accompaniment. This summer’s hottest dance party promises to be an unmissable event for fans of world dance and carnival culture.
Best Western Sheffield City Hotel
If you’re attending Viva Carnival at Sheffield City Hall, the Best Western Sheffield City Hotel is an excellent choice for accommodation. Conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from the venue, the hotel offers:
- Comfortable en-suite rooms with modern amenities
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs
- On-site dining and 24-hour reception
- Easy access to Sheffield’s cultural hotspots and nightlife
Whether you’re visiting from out of town or making a night of it, the Best Western Sheffield City Hotel provides a welcoming and convenient base to enjoy the show and explore the city.
