Sadler's Wells role for Phillips

Former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips is to become a director of Sadler's Wells theatre, the choreographer has revealed.

Ms Phillips, whose dismissal from the show sparked accusations of ageism, has been working with the London venue as a judge on a dance competition.

She said she was "thrilled" to join the theatre, which specialises in dance.

More than 4,000 people complained after the 66-year-old was dropped from the Saturday night show.

The BBC denied the decision to replace her on the programme was on the basis of her age.

'Incredibly exciting'

Ms Phillips' career has flourished despite her exit from Strictly Come Dancing - she is an expert for The One Show on BBC one, a member of the government's Dance Champions Group is due to appear as a judge on the BBC's new talent show So You Think You Can Dance.

"The quality of work programmed by the theatre is exceptional"

Her duties on Sadler's Wells board of directors will include overseeing the theatre's governance and acting as an ambassador for it.

She said she was "delighted" by the move.

Ms Phillips added: "The quality of work programmed by the theatre is exceptional, and the range of work presented truly reflects the spectrum of what dance has to offer.

"I'm thrilled to be joining the team at Sadler's Wells to support their aims at this incredibly exciting time for dance."

She has been serving as one of the judges for Sadler's Wells online Global Dance Contest.

The judging panel shortlisted 10 finalists from more than 170 applicants from 34 countries across the world and the final winner will be announced on 18 November.

Her appointment takes effect with a board meeting on 25 November.

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