It came as she admitted to entering a 'whole new world' as a performer and a doting mum
Oti Mabuse has been supported by her Strictly Come Dancing star sister after entering a 'whole new world' as a performer and a doting mum.
The professional dancer and TV star has kicked off her brand new tour, Viva Carnival, on Thursday night (June 12) after announcing her plans to hit the road earlier this year.
The show will see Oti putting back on her dancing shoes to celebrate the world’s most electrifying carnivals, from the Sambas of Brazilian Carnival to the Tangos of Argentina’s Fiesta Nacional de la Vendimia, the dance scene at England’s own Glastonbury Festival and the swing of the Jazz Fest in New Orleans.
The tour kicked off in Sheffield and will also see Oti perform at Manchester's Bridgewater Hall on June 15, 2025. In a statement shared at the time, Oti said: "I’m so excited to bring Viva Carnival to the stage!
"Performing on stage is something I feel so passionately about and have missed so much. Dance has the power to bring people together and I can’t wait to party with everyone."
Following her first night on stage, Oti took to Instagram on Friday (June 13) with a video in which she could be seen on the theatre stage with her young daughter alongside the caption: "Things I've learnt during opening night as a touring mum."
She also wrote alongside the post: "First thing I’ve learned on tour this year: touring as a mum is a whole new world… complex, emotional and really tough.
"We’re navigating a new schedule — naps, feeds, costume changes and quick checks during dances and intervals. Dad guilt and mum guilt? VERY real. I found myself texting my sister at 3am worried. She’s been there. She understood. And she reminded me that I can do this.
"But I’m also proud. Proud my daughter getting to experience new cities, hear new accents, see new faces. Last night we opened in @sheffieldcityhall and the audience was incredible. The theatre staff were warm, patient and kind even when I was coming off stage and straight into an ice bath!
"Some fans waited just to say hello after. They were so polite and friendly exactly the kind of energy I want my daughter to grow up around and learn from.
"I’m proud to be trying to do both. Touring. Motherhood. Showing up for myself, my dreams, and my family. I feel it deeply in my body and my heart.
"And last night? So many women and girls in the crowd. It reminded me exactly why I do this. Why I tour every year. Why there’s always a women’s empowerment section in the show. For them. For her. For us. Thanks @harrysmallmann for capturing this moment. Next stop Newcastle
Strictly judge Motsi Mabuse was quick to respond, as she cheered for her sister by writing: "You’ve got this I love you," while fellow professional dancer Nancy Xu added: "Gooooo girllll."
