Star takes centre stage after Strictly departure

One of the longest-serving female professional performers on Strictly Come Dancing has turned to theatre following her departure from the BBC programme.

Karen Hauer has joined Eastbourne Devonshire Park Theatre's new production of Richard Harris's comedy, Stepping Out.

The story follows a group of amateur dancers attending a weekly tap class and explores themes of friendship, confidence and belonging.

The Venezuelan-American told BBC Radio Sussex she had been "loving her time in Eastbourne", praising the town for its coffee shops and saunas.

The 44-year-old says she has been enjoying performing in Eastbourne, but added it had been "hot".

"I was sweating my socks off when rehearsing and performing at the theatre," she said.

Hauer plays dance teacher Mavis in Stepping Out, and it is her first appearance since leaving Strictly in 2025.

Hauer said she felt "connected" to the role and the opportunity "couldn't have come at a better time".

"I'd just finished Strictly when I got an email asking if I'd do a self-tape for the role," she said.

"I'd seen the film before, so I knew the story. It was something I really needed."

Hauer said playing Mavis reminded her of her own dance teacher whom she "greatly admired".

She says she loves Stepping Out as it features a story about ordinary people sharing their lives.

"There are lots of different characters and experiences that people can relate to," she says.

"A dance class brings people together. You share stories, build friendships and create a real sense of community."

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