If you are looking for a night filled with dancing, laughs, and a little bit of celebrity chaos, Dancing with the Stars: Live! is the perfect place to start. On February 15, 2026, I had the chance to see the tour at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, and it was everything I hoped it would be. With celebrities like social media star Alix Earle, actress Danielle Fishel, and comedian Andy Richter joining the cast, the night was full of unforgettable moments. Now, with the new season of Dancing with the Stars premiering on September 15, it feels like the perfect time to look back at what made the live show so much fun, and why the upcoming season is already worth watching.
There is something special about seeing a live show at Radio City Music Hall. The theater itself adds to the excitement before the performance even begins. Walking in, knowing that you are about to see professional dancers and familiar faces from television, social media, etc. creates an energy that is hard to match!
What made the night so enjoyable was how much more it felt like a celebration than simply watching a dance competition. On the television show, the focus is on scores, eliminations, and who will win the Mirrorball Trophy. At the live tour, the focus is on enjoying the performances and having a great time. There is no waiting to see who survives another week, instead it was just incredible dancing, fun personalities, and the chance to see the stars in person.
The Stars and their Specialties:
One of the biggest highlights of the tour for me was seeing Alix Earle, Danielle Fishel, and Andy Richter. Each celebrity brought something different to the show, which made the experience feel more personal and entertaining.
Alix Earle was a particularly exciting addition for younger fans like me who know her from social media. Seeing someone who is so recognizable online take part in a live dance performance made the show feel current and relatable. She brought the kind of fun, energetic presence that made it easy to get excited about the performance.
Danielle Fishel was another standout. Known for playing Topanga Lawrence on Boy Meets World, Fishel has been a familiar face for years. Watching her take part in the tour was a fun reminder that the show is not just about professional dancers! It is also about celebrities stepping outside their comfort zones and trying something new. Her participation added a nostalgic element to the night while still making it feel fresh.
Andy Richter brought a different kind of entertainment to the lineup. Known for his comedy, he added personality and humor to a show that already has plenty of energy. Having a comedian involved made the experience even more enjoyable because it gave the audience a chance to laugh while watching the dancing.
The combination of these three celebrities was one of the reasons the show felt so memorable. They each appealed to different audiences, and seeing them all together made the night feel like a special event rather than just another stop on a tour.
Why the Live Tour Is Worth Seeing!
Even if you are not the biggest Dancing with the Stars fan, the live tour is a great night out. The professional dancers bring the same talent and excitement that viewers love on television, but seeing them perform in person makes the experience feel completely different.
The energy of the audience also adds so much to the show. Everyone is there because they love dancing, entertainment, or one of the celebrities, so there is a shared excitement throughout the theater. It is the kind of experience that makes you want to dance in your seat and cheer for every performance.
For college students, it is also a fun way to spend a night in the city. Whether you go with friends, family, or someone who loves the show as much as you do, it is an entertaining escape from schoolwork and everyday stress. The combination of live performances, comedy, and celebrity appearances makes it a great option for anyone who wants to do something different.
Diving (or jiving!) into Season 35:
After seeing the live tour, I am even more excited for the upcoming season of Dancing with the Stars. Season 35 premieres on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+, with the second half of the premiere airing September 16. Episodes will also be available to stream on Hulu the following day.
The new season features an iconic cast, including Jenna Dewan, Julia Stiles, Harry Shum Jr., Tyler Cameron, Tatyana Ali, Giada De Laurentiis, and Olympic figure skater Amber Glenn. The cast includes actors, athletes, reality stars, and other familiar faces, which means there will be plenty of different personalities to watch throughout the competition!
One of the most exciting parts of the new season is the return of the familiar judging panel and hosts. Alfonso Ribeiro and Julianne Hough are returning as co-hosts, while Derek Hough, Carrie Ann Inaba, and Bruno Tonioli will once again judge the performances. Their personalities and chemistry are a huge part of what makes the show so entertaining.
There is also a major twist for the premiere: the show will feature a two-night format with a double elimination. One male celebrity and one female celebrity will be sent home after the premiere performances, making the competition more intense right from the beginning.
The Wrap Up
The Dancing with the Stars: Live! tour at Radio City Music Hall was such a fun experience, and seeing Alix Earle, Danielle Fishel, and Andy Richter made it even more memorable. The show was entertaining, energetic, and full of moments that made the night feel special.
If you have never watched Dancing with the Stars, the new season is a great time to start. If you are already a fan, the upcoming premiere is something to look forward to. After experiencing the live tour, I can confidently say that the excitement of Dancing with the Stars is just as enjoyable in person as it is on television!
So, text your friends, claim your floor’s lounge, and get ready for another season of dancing, drama, and the perfect excuse to procrastinate on your paper that’s due at 11:59pm!