The Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival is delighted to confirm that Shirley Ballas, a household name on Strictly Come Dancing, will open the Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival 2024.

Shirley Ballas is Queen of Latin Ballroom, an author, and head judge on BBC One’s prime time show Strictly Come Dancing. Originally from Wallasey, Shirley has been dancing since the age of seven. She is three time ‘British Open to the World’ Latin American Champion, ten-time US Latin American Champion, and multiple-times British National Champion. Shirley is one of the most renowned dancers in the world.

Her latest novel, Dance To The Death, is a ballroom dancing themed murder mystery set at Christmas-time.

In this interview-style event, Shirley will detail her life as a dancer, talking about her career to date, her novels and what it's like to be a Strictly judge. There will be an opportunity for audience questions and a book signing.

The Minister for Tourism and Culture, the Hon Christian Santos, said: ‘It is an honour to have Shirley Ballas open this year’s Gibunco Gibraltar Literary festival.  No doubt she will be sharing experiences of her long and accomplished career in the entertainment industry. We look forward to welcoming her to Gibraltar and kick-start what promises to be a wonderful week of events and literature.

Tickets for the Gibunco Gibraltar Literary Festival will be on sale next week. For more information, please visit the Festival’s website on www.gibraltarliteraryfestival.gi