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Janette Manrara Opens Up About Work-Life Balance as a Working Mother
Janette Manrara, the beloved former ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ professional and current ‘It Takes Two’ presenter, has shared a heartfelt perspective on navigating the demands of a busy career while cherishing moments with her family, especially her daughter, whom she describes as a joy to parent. In a recent interview, the star offered a candid glimpse into the everyday challenges faced by many working mothers as they strive for work-life balance.
Balancing Work and Family Life
Manrara, married to fellow ‘Strictly’ professional Aljaz Skorjanec, acknowledged the difficulties, stating, “It’s challenging, requiring careful time management and a focus on family priorities.” She elaborated, emphasizing the importance of a supportive partner, revealing, “Having a partner with a similar outlook is crucial. Someone who values both professional pursuits and the role of a parent.”
She further detailed, “Effective communication and teamwork between partners are essential. Prioritizing the child and ensuring their well-being is at the forefront of every family decision is paramount.”
Facing Public Scrutiny
Manrara faced online criticism for returning to work shortly after childbirth. However, she disregarded the negativity, attributing her strong work ethic, instilled by her immigrant parents, as her driving force.
Skorjanec, her partner of nearly 15 years, played a crucial role, ensuring he could care for their daughter, Lyra, during her work engagements.

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Navigating “Mum Guilt” and Travel Challenges
Manrara has openly discussed her feelings of “mum guilt,” grappling with the challenges of her demanding schedule. She has shared emotional moments on social media, including tearful videos expressing her distress over travel disruptions that prevented her from being home for her daughter’s bedtime. She also recounted an incident where she was stranded overseas due to a recent fire at Heathrow Airport.
West End Debut in ‘Chicago The Musical’
These reflections come as Manrara embarks on a significant new chapter, securing a coveted role in ‘Chicago The Musical’, currently launching its UK tour. This venture marks her debut in a West End production. She revealed her emotional reaction upon landing the part of Roxie Hart, admitting she was overcome with tears of happiness.
‘Chicago The Musical’ UK Tour Schedule
The ‘Chicago The Musical’ UK tour commenced in Nottingham with a six-day run, followed by performances in:
- Birmingham
- Truro
- Llandudno
- Cardiff
- Canterbury
- Bristol
- Wimbledon
- Leicester
- Wolverhampton
- Hull
- Eastbourne
- Norwich
- Blackpool
- Woking (from July 28)
- Sunderland
- Crawley
- Glasgow
- Salford (Grand Finale)