Craig Revel Horwood is widely known for his sharp critiques as a judge on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing. Yet those familiar with him beyond the show describe a very different character – a supportive and cheerful person who enjoys encouraging others.
Danella Mercati from Cheltenham has witnessed this side of Craig as part of her work with ChiChi Fit, a dance fitness programme she established. Launched in 2018, ChiChi Fit blends popular musical theatre songs with energetic dance routines designed to boost fitness while providing enjoyment. Danella began the idea in 2016, aiming to create an inclusive way for people to experience the joy of performance and exercise combined.
Craig Revel Horwood played a pivotal role in helping Danella get ChiChi Fit off the ground and continues to support the initiative by participating in dance classes and advocating the message that anyone can enhance their fitness and engage with the vibrant world of showbusiness.
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Contrary to his sometimes stern reputation on Strictly, Danella emphasises his warmth and enthusiasm in person. Since becoming ChiChi Fit’s official ambassador in 2023, Craig has shown a genuine passion for the programme’s ethos.
“He’s known on TV as the grumpy judge but his real persona is one in which he’s the kindest and loveliest man,” said Danella. “He’s very enthusiastic about ChiChi Fit. It opens doors for ordinary people to be part of the glamorous world of show business or to start careers as instructors. We’re transforming lives all over the place.”
Residing in Cheltenham’s Warden Hill area, Danella brings over 25 years of experience in musical theatre and performing arts fitness. She describes ChiChi Fit as a way to convert movement into confidence, and exercise into a fun, inclusive celebration of show tunes.
The 50-year-old mother of two explained, “It’s about the transformative power of show tunes. They’re filled with possibility.”
Craig Revel Horwood echoed this sentiment, stating, “I’m absolutely delighted to be an ambassador for ChiChi Fit. Their unique musical theatre-based exercise programme combines fitness, performance, and pure joy in the most uplifting way. It’s a fab-u-lous celebration of movement, confidence, and self-expression – all things I’m incredibly passionate about. ChiChi Fit makes exercise feel exciting, inclusive, and wonderfully theatrical and I’m thrilled to be supporting such an inspiring programme.”
Locally, Danella’s physical classes typically involve 25 to 30 participants, while the online community spans countries including the USA, Ireland, New Zealand, and Australia. The programme has particularly seen a surge in the United States, with membership more than doubling through the on-demand platform ‘The Stage is Yours.’
Danella credits a turning point years ago during her training at the Guildford School of Acting and a notable encounter with Sir Paul McCartney, who advised her to “create your own stage.” This encouragement inspired her to develop ChiChi Fit – an approach that goes beyond traditional exercise by incorporating dynamic choreography, iconic show tunes, and theatre-style performance to create an engaging full-body workout.
She added, “My vision is simple but powerful – to help people step into their own spotlight, rediscover their sparkle and prove that fitness can be joyful, inclusive, and unforgettable.”