There was a live broadcast on the News Channel at 4.55 from the launch studio. They said they were running late, and just about to start. There was a huge audience there. They may be more live coverage on the News Channel.

Bump for tonight, 6:10pm

Me too! I'm off to get some drinks for tonight.

I shall be posting as Mum isn't here to tell me to "stop rattling" on the laptop

Ooh I'm thrilled that it looks like this thread is going to be used as the official launch night thread.

Change of plan in that I now don't have the house to myself. It won't stop me from enjoying Strictly of course!

Is the show live tonight?

No it is a pre-recorded show (recorded on Weds.)

I am so excited that SCD is about to start. Best thing on TV. I LOVE it

Hear, hear!

I have work tonight! I start at 6 and finish at 11 so I should be able to record it and watch it when I get back

never usually watch, but i am this year for Dan Lobb & Harry Judd

Almost had a heart attack earlier when my Mum announced we're going to my Sister's tonight.

Thankfully, we're not going anywhere until after Football, which doesn't finish until half 7, or something, so there's no need to miss any of Strictly. Phew.

grrr I thought tonight was the show starting proper. So when are they actually going to dance? I don't like this hype and overkill. Should be 10 couples and they all dance on the opening night.

My Mum said they have 3 weeks training! that's too long for my liking, I want it to start properly NOW!

I'm so impatient.

Will the promo be shown from tonight? Last years was really good!

Me too.

I'm so excited and I just can't hide it.

the celebs do dance tonight! As does Pasha fyi!

Only together where they perform a group dance at the end.

Not too long now

Oh, I'd forgotten about the new pro. Looking forward to seeing him dance. Do you think he'll get an intro VT like Artem, Robin & Jared last year?

Hey, does anyone know when they start the competition properly? Is it in a few weeks or next week or what?

30th September & 1st October.

Thanks Stig

Jesus that's AGES away though

Snap
I don't usually watch Either but i am this year
Hopefully he gets through to the final

I'm a little confused - is the whole show pre-recorded or only part of it? there are tons of good luck tweets to the celebs & pros on twitter...

It's all pre-recorded. It's because most people probably think it's live