Behind the Sequins

My Life

By: Shirley Ballas

Narrated by: Shirley Ballas

Leave it all on the floor....

Queen of Latin ballroom Shirley Ballas has a spectacular dance career spanning over 40 years - she has cha-cha'd her way across the world's dance floors to become a multi-award-winning ballroom champion and one of the most renowned dancers in the world. In 1996, Shirley retired from competitive dancing to become a highly acclaimed coach and now holds the enviable position of head judge on BBC One's prime-time show Strictly Come Dancing.

In Behind the Sequins, she leads us through her dramatic and determined life, from growing up in a rough estate on the Wirral and leaving home at 14 years old to conquering the high-octane world of ballroom and coping with betrayal, bullying, two broken marriages and a personal tragedy that left Shirley and her family devastated.

Speaking from the heart, Shirley leaves her dancing shoes at the door to tell you the story of a fiery, strong-willed grafter who could make the brat pack blush.

©2020 Shirley Ballas (P)2020 Penguin Audio

Great book!

I have deep respect for Shirley. Had a great pleasure to train with her in a Professional Latin division in London and later in the US. Shirley told a great story about her life, lots to learn . In a dance world we only knew bits and pieces (gossip) , so it was really great of her to share her real story. Shirley was/is always a great example for me as a woman, always someone to look up to as a dance teacher and just as a person.. Some of the things I can really relate to her from my own life. Thank you Shirley for being so vulnerable and telling your story!