EASTENDERS star Rose Ayling-Ellis has continued to defy expectations as Strictly Come Dancing’s first ever deaf contestant.
But some fans have been left wondering how the hearing-impaired contestant has been able to hear the music. Here’s all you need to know.
Can Rose Ayling-Ellis hear the music on Strictly Come Dancing?
Rose previously explained how she is able to pick up the beat of the music, so that she can dance in time to the music on Strictly.
The actress told BBC News: “It is a common misconception that deaf people can’t enjoy music.
“I have a hearing aid, so I pick up some of the music and I can hear the beat. I can hear someone singing, but I can’t identify exact words. I also feel the vibrations.”
This means the vibrations from the live band led by Dave Arch can be felt through the large dancefloor at the show’s Elstree studios.
The EastEnders star also said that she is able to use her professional partner for guidance to stay in time with the rhythm.
“I will be focusing on reading my partner’s body language plus counting in my head, which will help me with timing,” she says. “So for me it’s a combination of everything.”
Rose added: “However not all deaf people are the same, every deaf person will have their own unique experience with music.
“I do love music and I can’t wait to be taught how to dance at a professional level for Strictly!”
The US version of the show, Dancing With The Stars, has already had a deaf contestant. Model, actor and deaf activist Nyle DiMarco won the 2016 series with his professional dance partner Peta Murgatroy.
What has Rose Ayling-Ellis said about being deaf?
Rose has previously spoken about the measures she has to take in order to communicate with others.
She previously told the National Deaf Children’s Society that she communicates using a mixture of oral English and British Sign Language (BSL) on the set of EastEnders- and often has to perform in Sign Supported English (SSE).
She said: When I use SSE, it’s like thinking of two languages at the same time while performing, so a BSL monitor checks my BSL is clear on-screen.
“I also have a BSL interpreter on set at all times, paid for by my Access to Work.”
However, the soap star has said that being deaf has never stopped her pursuing her dreams and she hopes that she can inspire other hearing-impaired individuals to take up performing arts such as acting and dancing.
“My ambition is to amplify deaf voices and to stop people assuming deaf people can’t achieve,” she told the organisation.
“The challenges of dealing with people’s lack of understanding made me more determined and want to work harder.
“It’s so important not to be ashamed of being deaf.”
When is Strictly Come Dancing 2021 on TV and how can I watch it?
Strictly Come Dancing, which runs for 13 weeks, is on every Saturday and Sunday.
You can catch the action tonight (November 14) at 7.20pm on BBC One.
The live final is due to take place on December 18, 2021.
