Imagine being a 71-year-old ballroom dancer, and then, out of the blue, you're whisked away to a top-secret filming location, only to discover you're about to star in a Taylor Swift music video! That's the incredible story of Denise Sides, a dance teacher from Wrexham, who found herself in a whirlwind of excitement and surprise.
Denise had no idea she was about to meet her idol until moments before filming began for "Opalite," a 90s-inspired romantic comedy music video. She had auditioned for an "unknown artist," and little did she know, it was the global megastar herself who had chosen her for this special role.
"Then this young girl walks in, all dressed up, and she introduces herself as Taylor. I was in complete shock!" Denise recalled.
With over 60 years of dancing experience and a passion for teaching ballroom, Denise had signed up for TV extra work and responded to a call for senior dancers. She had no clue that her application would lead her to this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
"I was shortlisted and then received a call confirming I was specifically chosen by the artist. But I had no idea it was Taylor Swift!" she exclaimed.
The entire experience was kept under wraps, and Denise only found out the video was for Swift's latest album, "The Life of a Showgirl," just before filming.
"I'm a Swiftie myself, so when she walked in, I was in complete awe. I still get excited thinking about it!" Denise shared.
During the shoot, Taylor Swift, who also directed the video, made everyone feel at ease and thanked the dancers for their time. Denise praised Swift's professionalism and kindness, saying, "She knew exactly what she wanted and was so nice about it. Some artists can be abrupt, but she was lovely and incredibly talented."
In the video, Denise can be seen wearing her royal blue ballroom dancing outfit, a piece she's owned since becoming a professional dancer in 1988. Swift even complimented her dress, saying it perfectly fit the set.
"When I saw the video, I was gobsmacked! You just can't believe it's you up there," Denise said, reflecting on the release of the video, which was filmed in November but only recently dropped.
Keeping this exciting experience a secret was a challenge for Denise, who only confided in a few people in her dance class and her family.
"Opalite" features an all-star cast, including Domhnall Gleeson, Lewis Capaldi, Greta Lee, and a cameo voiceover from Cillian Murphy, all of whom appeared on the Graham Norton show with Swift in October. The video tells a charming story of a lonely woman who finds love after using a magical spray to improve her life.
Despite her extensive dancing and acting experience, Denise considers the shoot with Swift as the most important of her career. She hopes her story will inspire others to embrace dancing, saying, "Maybe people will think, 'If Taylor chose her, why not me?' You're never too old to pursue your passions. It was an experience I'll cherish forever."
In addition to running her dance studio and hosting inclusive workshops for people with disabilities, Denise continues to dance and teach, finding her happy place and passion in movement.
