Kimberly Wyatt, John Partridge and Simeon Qsyea join CBBC series The Next Step

Kimberly Wyatt, John Partridge and Simeon Qsyea have been announced as judges of Taking The Next Step, a talent show for fans of CBBC reality-style drama series The Next Step.

“I’m so excited to be judging auditions for Taking The Next Step. I’ve had a fantastic journey as a professional dancer in the industry, and have seen some amazing young dancers coming out of the UK. I look forward to seeing what our young hopefuls have to offer – I just hope they’re ready to take The Next Step.” – Kimberly Wyatt

The series will be presented by Blue Peter Presenter Lindsey Russell and will see dancers audition in front of three industry experts – Kimberly Wyatt, dancer, former Pussycat Doll and newly crowned Celebrity Masterchef champion. John Partridge brings a performance pedigree to the judging panel that ranges from the West End to EastEnders and includes primetime Saturday night television such as BBC One’s Over the Rainbow and Tumble.

Joining Kimberly and John is trained dancer and choreographer Simeon Qsyea. Simeon choreographed on BBC One’s So You Think You Can Dance and has demonstrated his versatility by his work with artists such as will.i.am and Dizzee Rascal and at Sadler’s Wells with Stravinsksy’s Rite of Spring.

 “I’ve been a huge fan of the show The Next Step, so I am naturally excited to be taking part in a series that searches for young, fresh talent – and helps them in ‘taking the next step’ on their road to success.” – John Partridge

The CBBC series focuses on a group of dancers who attend The Next Step Dance Studio. Dance is at the heart of everything these talented teens do and so is the drama! The series follows the high and lows as they strive to win a series of dance competitions. Produced by Temple Street Productions and filmed on location in Toronto Canada, The Next Step is one of the most well- loved series on CBBC and has proved popular on BBC iPlayer with audiences of all ages.

This is the ultimate talent show for The Next Step fans. Over 1,300 dancers uploaded audition videos to CBBC for the chance to be selected for regional auditions. Viewers will be able to follow every step of the journey as cameras cover the audition process.

“It’s amazing to be part of this line up and I’m super excited to be involved. Dance to me is the true expression of man and I can’t wait to bring you something fresh, funky and fly.” – Simeon Qsyea