Totnes manager to shine on stage in Strictly Rowcroft 2025

Rowcroft worker Tracey Kennedy is swapping retail for rhythm.

The deputy manager of the hospice's Totnes charity shop is taking to the stage in this year’s Strictly Rowcroft event at The Princess Theatre on Saturday May 17. 

Combining her childhood love of dance with her passion for supporting the hospice, Tracey is one of 12 brave and brilliant local contestants who are taking on this courageous challenge. The contestants are learning two show-stopping routines – a fiery Latin number and an elegant ballroom dance – guided by their own experienced dance partners and the expert team at DanceWorks Devon. As Tracey prepares to gear up for the big night, she’s looking forward to inspiring her family and community to follow their dreams. 

“I did lots of dancing as a child and always dreamed of becoming a dancer,” said Tracey. “That’s one of the reasons I was so excited to take part in Strictly Rowcroft – it felt like a chance to tick that box. I’m also really proud to be raising money for Rowcroft, and I hope to shine a light on the amazing work of our retail team too.”

Above: Tracey Kennedy with experienced dance partner Simon Gilboy

Each participant will be paired with an experienced dancer to compete for the coveted title of Strictly Rowcroft 2025 Champion. The lineup includes many familiar faces from the local community, including Adele Hearne, Landlady at The Blue Anchor in Teignmouth, Andy Banner-Price, co-owner of The 25 Boutique B&B in Torquay, Barry Young, Managing Director of Brixham Fish Market, Cameron Mills, Professional Singer & Owner of Cameron Mills Group, Caroline Voaden, MP for South Devon, Cheryl Baxter, Head of Commercial Property at Kitson Boyce, Hannah Needham, Solicitor & member of Wiltshires Babbacombe, Jacqueline Hobson, Enterprise Coordinator at the Devon, Plymouth and Torbay Careers Hub, Maria Moloney-Alvey, Public Health Intelligence Team Lead at Devon County Council, Michael Westcott, Media & Events Mogul in Torbay and co-chairman of Torquay United Football Club, Robbie Savage, co-founder of Rev Comps and Tracey.

While Tracey’s training for Strictly Rowcroft is well underway, she knows that the performance will be an incredible challenge.

“I’m trying not to overthink the performance and instead just focus on learning the routine and practicing my steps,” she said. “I’ve got the basics down, and I’m lucky to be partnered with Simon Gilboy, who’s been so lovely – full of support, patience, and commitment. It’s fabulous to dust off my dancing shoes and get back into it. I’m having a lot of fun so far!”

Tracey is a much-loved face in the Totnes community, where she plays a key supporting role in running the town’s Rowcroft shop. She helps to create a warm and welcoming space while managing donations, pricing items, and serving customers: “No two days are the same,” she explained. “We receive lots of donated treasures, and I’m passionate about making sure the shop always looks its best. One of the things I love most is chatting with our customers. Often, when people bring in donations, they share their personal stories and connection to Rowcroft. It’s incredibly heartwarming to hear how the hospice has helped so many in our community.”

As part of her Strictly Rowcroft journey, Tracey is keen to shine a spotlight on Rowcroft’s shops across South Devon – from the unique character of each shop to the wide range of treasures to be found.

“I’m really passionate about raising as much as I can for the hospice through my fundraising in Strictly Rowcroft. In my experience, the hospice staff and volunteers are incredibly kind and caring – there’s such a strong sense of compassion and consideration for one another. It’s genuinely rewarding to be part of something so meaningful."

Don’t miss out on this spectacular night of entertainment. Tickets are available at £20 via: rowcrofthospice.org.uk/strictly