DIY SOS and Strictly Come Dancing clashed tonight on BBC, with heartbreaking consequences.
Strictly Come Dancing stars Katya Jones, Luba Mushtuck, and Graziano Di Prima switched their tassels for hi-vis in an effort to turn a failing performing arts school into a fresh accessible environment.
True Colours, a disability-inclusive performing arts organisation, transformed a dingy cobwebbed old boys’ club in Wallsend, North Tyneside, into a sanctuary.
During the show, Katya met Charis, a passionate dancer with Down syndrome who had recently lost her father.
Charis mentioned that she will be singing a tribute to her late father in a future event, explaining how much True Colours meant to her.
Katya can be seen wiping away a tear while watching the solo performance, which was performed to Stand By Me by Ben E King, while Nick Knowles seems genuinely affected.
But it wasn’t only the celebs on TV who were moved to tears by the great philanthropy; fans at home also admitted to crying throughout tonight’s programme.
‘Charis. You have made me a sobbing mess,’ commented one fan after her performance.
‘I’m only 20 minutes into the Wallsend build and am already in bits. Amazing people helping more amazing people!’ said another.
‘I’ve never watched #DIYSOS before and it seems I’ve chosen the motherload of emotional episodes with this strictly special. It’s joyful and simultaneously gruelling,’ commented another.
True Colours is clearly important to the young dancers, as many have stated that it is their only safe area.
Ali founded the organisation after trying to take her niece, who was born with complicated needs, to a performing arts organisation and quickly realising none were inclusive enough to accommodate her. As a result, True Colours was born.
After viewing their new accessible, sparkly dancing venue, Lily, who is in a wheelchair, gave a really moving statement at the close of the show.
Overwhelmed with emotion, she said: ‘I’ve just got a place now, so thank you.’
Fans continued to show their support for the show, as one said: ‘This disabled arts school on #DIYSOS is positively inspirational. All getting a bit emotional here.
‘So pleased Nick, the guys and volunteers doing all this work to make their dance space work for them. Lovely to see #Strictly stars come on board and get involved. Great episode.’
‘OK….. who’s cutting onions #diysos,’ said another.
‘Watching @DIYSOS and wondering if I can get a major tissue manufacturer involved in my experience,’ joked someone else.
The finished product included a lift for Lily, as well as a lush chill-out space and a lovely sensory chamber that provided the most tranquil location in town.
‘It’s a dream, it really is,’ said Ali as she looked on at the new space.
