Strictly Come Dancing - Saturday 23rd October Leaderboard

12 dances down let's have a look at the leaderboard:

1. 35 points - Scott & Natalie
1. 35 points - Matt & Aliona
3. 34 points - Pamela & James
4. 32 points - Kara & Artem
5. 29 points - Tina & Jared
5. 29 points - Felicity & Vincent
7. 28 points - Patsy & Robin
8. 27 points - Jimi & Flavia
8. 27 points - Michelle & Ian
10. 23 points - Gavin & Katya
11. 21 points - Ann & Anton
12. 17 points - Peter & Erin

For me I think Gavin & Katya and Peter & Erin are going to be in trouble this week...I still think Gavin has more to give so Peter should probably go home.

Ann Widdecombe & Anton Du Beke - Tango

I'm hoping Ann isn't wearing a skirt this week if she's going to be flying through the studio!

Not sure about the arm waving Ann, not quite Tango...but I'm sure that's not what we were going for.  Ann is skipping at times, Anton probably should take slightly smaller steps to help her out.

Give her her dues though there is some relatively complicated steps in there.  Entertaining as always and I'm sure Ann will continue to win fans.  I can't bring myself to stretch higher than a 5 though.

Craig: 3 "More like the dancing hippos darling...beginning was gorgeous...and then you landed"
Len: 7 "Seeing Ann [flying down] was worth 50% of the TV Licence fee...nice placement of the feet"
Alisha: 6 "Taking Strictly Come Dancing to a whole new level"
Bruno: 5 "Truly out of this world...starship Widdecombe...did actually a Tango"

Ann: "I thought it was like Dumbo...even elephants fly!"

Total Score: 21 (Ann is truly excited with her 7 and it's great to see)

Kara Tointon & Artem Chigvintsev - Charleston

Another of the front-runners, I felt some of the others haven't performed quite as well this week so a chance for Kara to jump up the table.

Kara really isn't wearing a lot is she?! Needs just a little more swivel at times but a good performance, not sure whether the lifting of Artem from the floor went quite to plan though.

Not bad at all, still prefer my Charlestons with a bit more comedy and energy though. I'm going to give it an 8 though.

Craig: 8 "Would've liked to have seen a bit more quirk"
Len: 8 "Lacked a bit of impact...danced it very well"
Alisha: 8 "Bit more fire...bit more spirit...routine was amazing"
Bruno: 8 "Put a bit more welly to it...more fire...more sex"

Total Score: 32

Michelle Williams & Ian Waite (in place of Brendan) - Tango

Craig was quoted this week as saying that he thinks Ian may prove to be a better partner for Michelle than Brendan for the Tango.

Michelle is definitely looking miles better than she has so far in this competition, 10 seconds in it's already her best dance.  Still a little shaky and awkward at times but being in hold is doing her the world of good.  Appears to have been a slight error near the end there, can't work out whether it was Ian's fault or not...Ian's apology at the end answers that question!

Her best dance and I'm going to give it a 7.

Craig: 6 "Footwork went a little bit wrong...being in hold and this dance is definitely your thing"
Len: 7 "Very gallant to admit [to Ian about his mistake]...felt you were comfortable throughout the dance...sometimes good"
Alisha: 7 "I feel like you're getting into your stride now"
Bruno: 7 "Much stronger...more focus...much much better"

Total Score: 27

Matt Baker & Aliona Vilani - Charleston

Matt and Aliona were great at the International Championships at the Royal Albert Hall on Thursday night, even going onto the main dance floor and hanging around to sign autographs.  I think this could be the best dance of tonight given Matt's gymnastic abilities.

So Matt's going to start on a unicycle. 

Slight slip and I do feel to an extent that Matt isn't quite as comfortable in this dance, he looks like he's thinking about the routine a bit too much.  Some excellent lifts and a double cartwheel.

Felt there was something slightly lacking but I'm going to give it an 8.

Craig: 9 "Not perfect...little slip...timing issues...but I LOVED IT...love a man in a moustache"
Len: 9 "Best Charleston so far tonight...your best dance"
Alisha: 9 "Loved the routine...effortlessly done"
Bruno: 8 "Quite a few mistakes...most difficult Charleston we've seen"

Total Score: 35

Pamela Stephenson & James Jordan - Tango

So far the best dancer in the competition I'm really looking forward to their Tango.

Good arms from Pamela and good pivots, maybe a little more emotion in the face and needs to watch her shoulders.  A few slips in places but definitely a good connection between them.

Not her best dance but still a cut above some of the performances tonight.  I'm only going to give it a 7 this week.

Craig: 8 "Attack, style...did lose your neckline on occasion...but brilliant"
Len: 8 "All a really high level...just lost your posture here and there...consistently good"
Alisha: 9 "You're on fire"
Bruno: 9 "It was like Catwoman...it's great watching you...careful you get a bit tight in that area between your shoulders"

Total Score: 34

Peter Shilton & Erin Boag - Charleston

Peter's not his best when he's dancing on his own, so Charleston could be a disaster...

Oh dear, Peter does look like he's a bit of a puppet on a string at times, better in hold but unfortunately not much of that in this routine and he obviously isn't confident in the routine as he keeps looking at Erin for guidance.

Almost looks like he's walking through it by the end.  Only a 5 from me.

Craig: 2 "I'm glad you had a good time, I couldn't wait for it to finish...white gloves a BIG mistake"
Len: 5 "You have gone to town on this outfit...more comfortable in hold doing proper dancing"
Alisha: 6 "So sweet...massive timing issues...such a shame"
Bruno: 4 "Oh Peter...you look like a penguin stuck in the mud...timing has to be spot-on...didn't really gel"

Total Score: 17

Gavin Henson & Katya Virshilas - Tango

Time to see some emotion this week I hope Gavin.  Shame to start with the slip on the stairs - I swear his cheeks look red after that.

Lifting his feet up too much and a complete lack of emotion on his face and the same lifting action when they repeat the same section.

Gavin has ambitions of being top of the leaderboard and unfortunately he's nowhere near yet.  Only a 6 from me.

Craig: 5 "Facial expressions...when are we ever going to lose the botox advertisements...some sign of aggression...fell down the steps at the start"
Len: 6 "Great body contact...I don't know whether it's nerves...you've got to portray that character...wasn't your best"
Alisha: 6 "Not bad Gavin...looked vulnerable...got to believe in yourself"
Bruno: 6 "We actually like you...there are some moments when everything comes together...then it all crumbles"

Total Score: 23

Patsy Kensit & Robin Windsor - Charleston

Liking the Chicago look.  Nice swivel action at the start but I feel there's a slight lack of energy in the routine.  Patsy's smiling but doesn't appear to be exuding enjoyment.  I don't know whether it's just heavy or not, another finish with a kiss though. 

Overall I'm a little underwhelmed, only a 6 I'm afraid.

Craig: 6 "This dance is about stamina...started getting a little bit heavy and sluggish"
Len: 8 "You've come out a thoroughbred...[kiss from Patsy to Len]...full-on entertaining performance"
Alisha: 7 "I'm loving the look...certain moves slacked a little bit"
Bruno: 7 "You have to keep the stamina...but the performance was good"

Total Score: 28

Felicity Kendal & Vincent Simone - Tango

So Tango is Vincent's forte, but it appears Felicity can't tell her left from her right, always a problem in dancing!

Not liking Vincent's hat, so I'm glad they put it down.  Some great intensity at teh start, though they are doing Argentine rather than normal Tango.  Needs to keep her chin up when she's looking down the floor and I think there was a slight mistake just before the pivots, which themselves looked uncomfortable.  A finish with quite a passionate kiss to!!!

I'm going to give it an 8.

Craig: 7 "I did like the story very much...too much up on your toes...bit of a stumble"
Len: 7 "I like the story...Italian oils his way across...opening section beautifully choreographed...lacked a bit of fire"
Alisha: 7 "You were like a seductive temptress throughout"
Bruno: 8 "That's the way I like it"

Total Score: 29

Tina O'Brien & Jared Murillo - Charleston

Tina missed last week due to a case of chicken pox, let's hope it hasn't affected their training too much.

Tina needs to be careful about flinging her hands out a little too much, and not to "cowboy" walk too much.  Needs to also try and get more swivel from her feet.  Again not a great cartwheel but better than Jimi's.

A better routine this week, though Jared wouldn't have been the one to choreograph it you must remember.

I'm going to give them a 7.

Craig: 7 "Very character driven...great...footwork was a little bit on the sloppy side"
Len: 7 "Tight, you were together...sweet little couple...could've been a little bit stronger through the feet"
Alisha: 8 "Well done on lifting Jared [must have missed that one!]"
Bruno: 7 "At times it needed slightly more energy...could have been a bit stronger."

Total Score: 29

Scott Maslen & Natalie Lowe - Tango

Scott impressed with his Quickstep last week, though I didn't feel it was quite a 9 yet.  A Tango should fit in with Scott's acting ability though, and Natalie does choreograph good routines.

There's definitely intensity from the start, and Scott definitely looks like he's losing weight.  I'm not a fan of the short jackets for the dancing and I think it shows up that he probably could have his knees a bit more flexed at times, and needs to be wary of his shoulder line.

A good performance, I'm thinking we'll probably see a few more 9's this week.

Craig: 8 "Strong, dynamic...great, excellent work"
Len: 9 "I think there was an incident in that corner...the best dance I've seen this series"
Alisha: 9 "Very very strong performance...full of passion...you mean business"
Bruno: 9 "You Tango Beast...slick and stealthy...from power and passion to romance"

Total Score: 35

Jimi Mistry & Flavia Cacace - Charleston

I'm liking the energy, though I'm not sure about Jimi's cartwheel and some of the moves I think Jimi is cutting short due to the speed of the routine.

An entertaining routine but I do feel the whole thing just felt a little clipped at times.  I'm going to give it a 7.

Judges comments and scores:

Craig: 6 "Straighten legs and point your feet when you do a cartwheel...arms and hands...didn't go well"
Len: 7 "You really went for it...great entertainment...try and swivel...not sure about the windows [stage props]"
Alisha: 7 "It wasn't technically perfect...great opener to the show"
Bruno: 7 "Once you got going you really went into character...lost timing...speed was such, you kinda lost sync"

Total Score: 27

Strictly Come Dancing - Saturday 23rd October

So this week will see the couples dancing either a Tango or a Charleston.  Tina O'Brien will return from her chicken pox whilst Ann Widdecombe will be flying through the air.

It promises to be an entertaining week and yet again I've not had a chance to watch the training videos so I have no idea what to expect, let's see how it goes.

First up, Jimi Mistry & Flavia Cacace.

First Flavia & Vincent, now Ann & Anton are going to fly in their Tango

To try and give their routine a bit more pizazz, Ann and Anton have decided to go all Peter Pan and hopefully sprinkle some magic fairy dust on the judges...especially Craig I imagine.

Anton felt that they needed to have something "outrageous" in their routine to try and win over the judges, and hopefully encourage Craig to triple their score another week in a row.

So are they going to soar over the competition, or will this just be a gimmick to hide a lack of content in their routine? 

One of the reputed origins of the Tango is of the Goucho making his way into town to find a lady to spend his time with (an money on).  Given Ann's unwillingness to do anything raunchy in her routines will she be able to give the Tango the atmosphere it requires?

24 hours and we'll have the answer I suppose so we'll just have to wait and see.

Original story here.

Michael Jackson The Experience game: Preview

Ubisoft appear to have gone dance crazy over the last couple of months, due to be released in a month's time (Friday 26th November) is Michael Jackson The Experience.

I'm going to apologise in advance for this but...

If you're looking for a "Thriller" of a game that hopefully isn't "Bad", and want to learn the skills that will make sure you don't leave "Blood On The Dance Floor", then "This Is It" it's time to "Beat It" to the competition.

Phew, hope you forgive me for that! More details once I get a review copy.

Strictly Get Dancing

There are a number of "Strictly Get Dancing" events taking place throughout the country in October and November.  Karen Hardy has choreographed a simple 20-step Cha Cha Cha routine for people to learn:



Personally it's not my cup of tea in a Cha Cha routine but if it gets people up and dancing who am I to complain.  I'd have thought Time Steps would have been easier rather though, that's how we start our under 10's off.

For something trying to encourage people with two left feet to get up and dance I think the music could have been quite a bit slower too.

Karen had the following to say though,

"Everybody can learn to dance, They can start at a young age and go right the way up to the other end of the scale. It doesn't matter, the great thing about dancing is that it's in everybody. We get those excuses I've got two left feet" - it's rubbish!. Some people take a little bit longer than others but it's easy, just get up and have a go and before you know it - you'll be dancing!. What encouragement or advice can i give you about learning to dance? it's quite simple, in every town, every city there is a community or church hall or places where you can learn to dance. The Strictly Get Dancing routine has been made so simple - 20 easy steps, most of them repeated and you can even dance them in a box! I've Imagined you in nightclubs, at school with your friends in a gym even out in a beautiful park. These steps are so simple I want the whole nation up and shaking their hips around - its so easy but unless you have a go, you'll never know!"

In case you want to see the steps and take your time with them you can see all 20 movements below

Details of where the events are being held, and how to apply for the London event can be found here.

Just Dance 2: Preview

So soon I'll be getting an actual copy to review but if you can't wait for our review Just Dance 2 was released last week and is available to buy now.

The original Just Dance sold over 3 million copies and Ubisoft are hoping the updated sequel will be even more popular.

Just Dance 2 will feature tracks from classic hits and legendary songs to today’s chart-toppers. Players will enjoy dancing to a wide selection of musical genres, including Pop, Country, R&B, Disco, Funk, Rock etc. Each track features its own choreography and dance enthusiasts will be moving for hours on end. From Rihanna’s SOS to Donna Summer’s Hot Stuff, from I Got You (I Feel Good) by James Brown to When I Grow Up by the Pussycat Dolls, Just Dance players will come across songs and routines that will make them want to move their feet. And if they still want more, they will be able to download tracks from an expanding catalogue of new hits.

There is also a new mode called 'Just Sweat' where you can keep an eye on you calories burned whilst dancing.

Above you can see a screenshot of I Got You (I Feel Good) by James Brown.

The game looks better visually than Dance on Broadway which I recently reviewed and I'm hoping the improvements have also been applied to the gameplay.

Will let you know more once I receive my review copy.

It Takes Two - Wednesday 20th October

On today's show: Gavin & Katya; Matt & Aliona; Patsy & Robin; Midweek report.

First though a look at Gavin & Katya's Rumba.  Gavin was shocked with being left till last to be called as safe in the show.

Gavin reveals he's a fan of Peter Andre...I wonder whether it's for the body or the music?

Katya thought the judges were overly harsh, especially Craig, something I actually agree on as I thought he performed a great Rumba compared to what I expected from him.  Gavin thinks their Tango could be special, I hope he means in a good way.

The training footage we were showed is apparently from the first 20 minutes, but I hope he's keeping his bum in more now they've done a bit more training.

To look at the Midweek Report is Michael Stylianos & Lorna Lee...legends!

Felicity & Vincent: Legs stiff, upon her toes, weight too far back, left side too high.
Scott & Natalie: Needs to get Natalie more on his right-hand side and needs to bend his knees more.
Michelle & Ian: Drops weight back - needs to elongate her spine.
Pamela & James: Good look on the top, needs to be sharp when she kicks her leg, not sharp enough for a Tango.
Ann & Anton: She has to learn to get down more into her knees, not look at Anton all the time.

All competitors should be aiming for more staccato and apparently bending is bending and flexing is flexing...no offence Michael but not the best explanation for those who maybe aren't professional dancers like us.

On to Matt & Aliona.

For Aliona it's most important for them to enjoy the dancing rather than worrying too much about what the judges have to say.  They've spent most of this week at Matt's parents farm and had a great time.

They have the Charleston this week, and with Matt's gymnastic abilities I think it's going to be quite a show.

Now a bit of info about the Charleston, from the "roaring 20s", originated from Charleston, North Carolina.

Needs to have lots of hip swivelling, underarm turns and facial expressions.  It's only it's second year in the competition, and was only danced by three competitors last year,so will be interesting to see how it goes this year.

Now for Charleston analysis:

Tina & Jared: Flat footed and a little too floppy
Jimi & Flavia: Energy is great, little flat-footed though but so fast and a few moves that the pro's don't recognise.
Kara & Artem: Kara has wonderful swivels, needs to give a little more.  I think Artem is definitely the best of the new pros.
Peter & Erin: Looks like he's catching a ball rather than throwing it away.  They think it's going to be his best dance.
Patsy & Robin: At the moment she's doing really well, great character.  Needs to work on her arm action.

Following the pro comments it's now Patsy & Robin's turn for a chat.

Patsy thought it was hilarious that she completely missed the start of the music on Saturday night.  Robin felt that Patsy needed the challenge of a faster routine, but will probably not let his celeb start on her own in future!

Apparently Patsy's mind goes blank just before the start of each performance. 

She's loving the Charleston rehearsals, as is Robin. 

Ok and I'm up to date!

It Takes Two - Tuesday 19th October

On Tuesdays It Takes Two: Michelle Williams; Karen Hardy in choreography corner; Scott & Natalie; Ann & Anton.

First up, Michelle and...Ian Waite (stepping in for Brendan due to returning to New Zealand for his father's funeral).

I imagine Ian is happy to know that he has Tango with Michelle rather than the Charleston as I think Charleston could've been a disaster.

Michelle thinks Ian is a little stricter than Brendan, which Ian finds surprising as he thought he was a big softy.  Ian is anticipating a dark tango from the two of them and considering I know he only choreographed it late Sunday it'll definitely put pressure on them both.

Now for Choreography Corner with Karen Hardy.

Matt & Aliona: Good to repeat the same movement but out of hold as well as in hold.
Gavin & Katya: Using the US square Rumba is much easier for beginners as they can move on a one rather than two.
Scott & Natalie: Great contrast between the slows and quicks, rather than the frantic Quicksteps of some of the other competitors
Peter & Erin: Much lighter than in his Waltz, kept his elbows high
Kara & Artem: Fit and should be in the show for a long time. Used the strengths of the music.
Patsy & Robin: Building in her confidence, even with the mistakes at the start.
Felicity & Vincent: Her Rumba walks and basics need work and that's why Vincent concentrated on lines and backbends.

Next up Ann & Anton.

Ann enjoyed the Quickstep, though 24 hours before she thought it'd never work.  Rather than dancing the Quickstep slowly Ann decided the best option was just to hold on and try and keep up.

So they have the sultry Tango, where Ann will be playing the "lady of the night"...not sure how she's going to feel about that.  Ann thinks there Tango is excellent - they got two steps right in a row!

Now for Scott & Natalie

Scott had a great time dancing the Quickstep.  Scott had been singing the "I wanna be like you" song during training which is what gave Natalie the idea to use the song for their Quickstep.

I think Scott could perform a very impressive Tango and I can't wait to see some training videos.

Well that's Tuesday's It Takes Two, now to catch up with tonights!

It Takes Two - Monday 18th October

I never got a chance to watch any It Takes Two last week so I thought I better watch this week.

On Monday's episode will be Paul & Ola; Craig Revel-Horwood; Peter & Erin; Pamela & James.

First up a VT showing the celebs and pros arriving at the studio for rehearsals and talking to the cameras.  We meet Jared's family who have come all the way from Utah to see Jared & Tina, only for Tina to have chicken pox!

Then it's time for Paul & Ola...well Ola anyway as Paul is apparently in Manchester for a show so will be joining on the phone.  Ola discussed with Paul before she choreographed the Rumba and they agreed that not making it a sexy dance was probably the best route.  Ola performs a magic trick, which needs a little work in her performance and then it's time for Paul to join on the phone.  He reveals he's busy in the coming weeks so this was actually the best outcome for him and then he has to 'watch' his highlights over a phone line.

Len is then treated to a VT showing him as a little cranky from Saturday night before Craig is brought on (unshaven and not looking tip-top himself!)  Len also joins on the phone and justifies his scoring (only giving Pamela an 8 due to the floor spin that he felt detracted from the feel of the Rumba, and the same with Matt Baker in his Quickstep).

Craig talks about his 4 for Michelle "That's all I felt it was worth".  A major thing being her hip action and shoulders, and agrees with Len's comment on her heels being too high.  Jimi is in the firing line next, with Craig talking about him over-moving (especially his shoulders).  Craig likes Ann's progress and can see that she's applying herself to the dances even if "Technically it's abysmal".  He loved Scott's Quickstep, not as gifted as Matt but with a showbiz pizazz.

Now Claudia is going to talk to Pamela & James.

Pamela confesses that she pushed for the spin at the end after James felt they didn't need it.  Pamela just felt that she should keep up with the other big moves that other celebs were pulling off, now she thinks she'll just listen to James in the future.

It's revealed that their next dance will be the Tango and I look forward to seeing some training footage, Pamela is definitely the one to beat at the moment.

Finally we're going to see Peter & Erin.

Erin was so happy that her and Peter got through the routine.  Peter felt that Bruno wasn't quite as constructive, with comments the previous week, as he'd have liked.  Claudia shows, via VT, how much football analogy they use in their training...quite a bit it seems.  They have the Charleston on Saturday, similar to the Quickstep so could be another good one for Peter, though might struggle if they have a lot of time apart.

Erin reveals that she hasn't covered Charleston before herself, and with two lifts in it it could be an interesting performance!

The episode finishes with the training video of Tina & Jared so that we can see what was unfortunately missed...not too bad but does need to watch her hip action on forward walks - needs to straighten her legs.

Strictly Come Dancing - Sunday 17th October Results

Ok I know it's a bit late, and most of you already know the results of the show, but I'll blog about it anyway. 

From watching the show on Saturday night I predicted Michelle would have the lowest audience votes and would be going home, but I also suggested on our Facebook page that Paul Daniels would be the one joining her in the bottom two - I just think Ann will take the votes from Paul.

The show opens with the professionals dancing a Charleston, a high energy and entertaining routine and one which Jared actually starts to look at home performing.  The pattern seems to be that the celebs perform the featured dance the following week which brings the Charleston forward from last year's end of series.

There's a recap of Saturday night, along with judges backstage comments and celeb reactions.

I'm not keen on the stretching out of the eliminations, and the lack of a dance-off could seriously backfire as the series progresses, have the producers forgotten that they introduced the dance-off after DJ Spoony was unfortunate to receive an early dismissal belying his potential.

First four safe couples are: Ann & Anton; Pamela & James; Peter & Erin; Patsy & Robin (Patsy looks like she's about to faint!)

Craig gives Ann advice of literally "Dance, better".
Len is relieved that he won't have to show his bum in Tesco now that Peter is not in the bottom two.

Next is Tango Unleashed (choreographed by Flavia and receiving rave reviews on Twitter).  It starts with Flavia in the middle of the floor attached to four straps that are used to drag her round the floor before she's eventually unhooked and starts dancing with first Vincent, then James, Robin and finally Artem (after Robin throws her over his head into Artem's arms, impressive to say the least!)  James lifts Flavia up in his arms above his head and throws her into the other three dancer's arms.

It's an amazing performing, the furthest from a traditional Tango we've ever seen on Strictly, but as a performance it's great to watch.

A brief chat to the celebs who are safe so far then back to the lineup; next safe are: Jimi & Flavia; Matt & Aliona; Kara & Artem.  First in the bottom two is Paul & Ola.

Alisha offers all of them good luck
Bruno consults his crystal ball, and thinks Jimi overdid his performance, looking forced and preventing his talent coming through.

Claudia then talks to Paul & Ola, Paul agrees with the public's decision to put him in the bottom two.  He'd rather he went home rather than anyone else in the competition.

Peter Andre then pops up to perform his new single, not quite my thing so I skip through it and then it's back to find out who else is in the bottom two.  Safe and going forward to next week are: Scott & Natalie; Felicity & Vincent; Gavin & Katya - putting Michelle & Brendan into the bottom two.

A VT then from those in the bottom two as to how much they want to stay in.  Out of the two obviously Paul deserves to go and with a dance-off this would be elementary, but how has the public voted?

The couple leaving this week are Paul & Ola.  A shame for last year's champion but she wouldn't have lasted much longer with Paul as a partner.  No offence Paul but you were always going to struggle.

Paul tells Ola she's welcome round anytime (even if Debbie's not at home).

So that's week 2, better move onto my It Takes Two reviews!

Strictly Come Dancing - Saturday 16th October Leaderboard

It looks like James won the contest between him and Brendan as to who's Rumba was going to be better (there was just a bit of banter over Twitter this week!), and Brendan certainly doesn't look happy about it.

The leaderboard for this week is as follows:

1. 35 points - Pamela & James
2. 34 points - Scott & Natalie
3. 31 points - Kara & Artem
3. 31 points - Matt & Aliona
5. 29 points - Felicity & Vincent
6. 26 points - Peter & Erin
7. 25 points - Jimi & Flavia
8. 24 points - Patsy & Robin
8. 24 points - Michelle & Brendan
10. 22 points - Gavin & Katya
11. 18 points - Ann & Anton
12. 16 points - Paul & Ola

Only 12 couples this week as Tina O'Brien has chickenpox. 

I think Michelle Williams could be in trouble tonight.

Strictly Come Dancing - Saturday 16th October

 

Not having seen any of Strictly Come Dancing, It Takes Two this week I have no idea how anyone's training has gone.  I'm also watching the recording at 8am on a Sunday morning so give me some slack if the blogging's not up to the usual standard :-)

Up first Kara Tointon & Artem Chigvintsev - Quickstep,

From the training videos I'm guessing Quickstep, and having seen the [questionable] outfits I'd say that's a certainty.

First underarm turn was awkward which is a shame because the rest of the start was pretty amazing, especially with Kara's cartwheel.  It's a very high energy performance though sometimes Kara let's her core drop in hold.  Overall though a great performance.  

I'm going to give an 8 even with the slight core issues.

Judges comments and scores:

Craig: 8 "I've done a cartwheel in heels so I know how difficult that is!"

Len: 8 "Overall it was an excellent performance throughout...thought the beginning was too long"

Alisha: 8 "You haven't disappointed...very light footed...so confident"

Bruno: 7 "Very pacey and very lively...mistake as soon as you came in...arch in your back needs to be extended"

Total Score: 31

Felicity Kendal & Vincent Simone - Rumba

So two weeks ago I felt Felicity was being hampered in her hip action by her high heels, Rumba is likely to highlight this further if she hasn't adapted, let's see what happens.

Felicity shows how flexible she is with the intial backbend, and near splits!!! A nice hip action at times though she does lose it occasionally.  The pick up from the floot is awkward, and there's quite a lot posturing and lines (I think to hide lack of hip action).  Looks very uncomfortable at times.

Emotion is definitely there but I'm only going to give it a 6 I'm afraid as it looked very uncomfortable at times.

Craig: 7 "Forward and back basic very very good...neck is a bit stiff in places...but impressive"
Len: 7 "Definitely for me your best dance"
Alisha: 8 "I asked you to come out and blow me away and you have"
Bruno: 7 "I didn't know you could be so bendy...you've gotta watch transitions...underarm turns are a bit laboured"

Total Score: 29 (seems I was a bit harsh with that one then!)

Patsy Kensit & Robin Windsor - Quickstep
 
Patsy is getting more confident as the competition progresses and training is looking good.

Unfortunately starts out of time but does recover, however Patsy looks to be struggling with the speed.  Again jumps the gun once they're in hold, she's looking down and her top half needs a lot more composure - her head and body aren't quite together.  She kept going, and looks knackered by the end, but not a great performance.

For me another 6

Craig: 5 "It was all a bit Yee-Hah and Ho Downish...I felt the whole thing was too fast for your body"
Len: 6 "When you get very quick music the chasse (side, close, side) can tend to look a bit gallup'y"
Alisha: 7 "I thought it was a very good effort"
Bruno: 6 "Keep your confidence...you went wrong straight immediately...your footwork was a bit like a pony at full gallup"

Total Score: 24

Paul Daniels & Ola Jordan - Rumba

Paul didn't moved from the bottom of the table in the first two weeks but he does appear to have been working harder this week.

Rumbas this week so far feature music from Glee...wonder if it's a theme?  Hip action looks very forced when it is there but I think it's a good move from Ola to make sure there's humour in the routines as Paul is really going to need the public vote to stay in.

A 5 I'm afraid Paul.

Craig: 2 "Armography was very blocky and wooden...spin turn in the centre was infantile...I felt you spent most of the time ogling Ola"
Len: 5 "Parts were magical, parts were comical, parts were diabolical but the whole thing was entertaining."
Alisha: 5 "I love that you're really really trying...I want to see more dancing [from you]"
Bruno: 4 "It was like watching 'Ola & the giant pepper pot'...it didn't flow Paul"

Total Score: 16

Next up, Matt Baker & Aliona Vilani - Quickstep,

So far Matt's been the best guy in the competition.  I felt their Foxtrot was too Tango-esque last week but I'm really looking forward to seeing their Quickstep.

A great song from the Coral!  Matt's feet look a little stiff at the start but he soon get's into his stride and he's coping with the speed well though he's a bit too sharp in his rise at the end of the running spin in the centre.

Very good performance and I'm going to give it an 8.

Craig: 8 "I can't agree with Alisha - you don't have a timing issue...point your feet...maintained your frame throughout"
Len: 7 "I admire you Matt...however I did feel a little bit this week that the whole thing was a little bit manic"
Alisha: 8 "It was such a fast-paced routine and you didn't always look comfortable."
Bruno: 8 "Brilliant timing...you never lost timing...you're a great dancer relax a bit more"

Total Score: 31

Gavin Henson & Katya Virshilas - Rumba,

Gavin has struggled with his nerves and ability to open us so far, and the Rumba isn't a dance to be shy in!

I must say Gavin is developing some very nice hip action, though I feel he's a little 'high' at times with his footwork, he could dance in the floor a little bit more.  Needs just a tad more shaping in his hands for my liking but Gavin is developing into a bit of a dark horse.

Yet again Gavin is surprising me with his dancing ability and I'm giving him a 7.

Craig: 3 "My floorboards at home have more movement than that...emotionless, cold at times...you do have to get your mind, body and soul into the dance"
Len: 6 "I appreciate that you really give it a good shot...overall you gave it a really good shot...more like walking than dancing"
Alisha: 7 "I think there's been a big improvement since last week...you are holding back a little bit...bum looks great in those trousers"
Bruno: 6 "You drive me crazy...actually I think you can do it...no emotion going through"

Total Score: 22

Scott Maslen & Natalie Lowe - Quickstep,

Sorry Scott but you do look a bit like a gorilla up on the steps!  A very fast paced start though and looking good, loses it slightly in front of the judges, both times round.  Needs to ensure he keeps his toes pointed but another great Quickstep tonight.

Another Quickstep, another 8.

Craig: 8 "I feel at ease when you take to the floor...you've got swing and sway in there...well done."
Len: 8 "You are very close to being a very good dancer"
Alisha: 9 "Great song, great outfit...Quickstep is your dance"
Bruno: 9 "That was an action packed adventure of a Quickstep...technique was very very good"

Total Score: 34

Michelle Williams & Brendan Cole - Rumba,

Brendan's been confident all week on Twitter about their Rumba training so this should be interesting.

Not sure about the all-brown outfit Brendan!  Michelle still looks a little fragile when she dances, though actually it improves as the dance progresses.  I think she needs to watch her shoulders as she almost looks like she's shrugging at times, could be that she needs to extend her neck.

Her best performance so far I would say, still room for improvement but I'm going to give it a 7.

Craig: 4 "You did hit some really nice lines actually...little bit stilted and stiff."
Len: 6 "Lines are very good...chemistry between you is very good...may be worth trying a lower heel size"
Alisha: 7 "Right amount of sensitivity...little bit more strengthening within your legs."
Bruno: 7 "Turns have improved very much...you've got to work on the legs now"

Total score: 24

Peter Shilton & Erin Boag - Quickstep,

Bottom two last week but Quickstep should be better in hold, if he can watch that right shoulder!

Embarassing that I think Peter has more hair than I do!!! Come on Peter, give us a smile, please. It's a little flat at times, and a slight mistake in the running finish.  His arms are flung a little too high at the end.

Better than his Salsa but only a 6 from me.

Craig: 6 "Erin you have been drilling...tentative leading...lacked swing and sway...thought you did very very well."
Len: 7 "It was a proper Quickstep...if you're in the bottom two I'll show my bum in Tesco"
Alisha: 7 "Massive improvement from last week...best dance yet."
Bruno: 6 "Definitely improved...still some timing issues...Erin was pushing you round."

Total Score: 26

Jimi Mistry & Flavia Cacace - Rumba,

Jimi's bruised tendons in his foot during training, that could affect his hip action if he can't push through the floor as effectively.

Great intensity at the starts but Jimi's hips are too sharp and forced during his forward and back basics.  Hips improve when he's not thinking about them as much and just lets the movement come naturally.  Needs to watch his hands the 'peace' look is a bit strange.

Not a bad performance but not smooth enough in his hip action for my liking.  A 7 though.

Craig: 6 "Very queer and curious nature to your hip and shoulder movement...less is more"
Len: 7 "To be honest Jimi I don't quite know what to make of it...I don't know whether you're trying too hard"
Alisha:  6 "Sometimes Jimi your body looks a little awkward...keep at it"
Bruno: 6 "I don't know what happened there...it looked neurotic...trying too hard it becomes jagged"

Total Score: 25

Ann Widdecombe & Anton Du Beke - Quickstep,

How Ann is going to cope with the speed of the Quickstep remains to be seen.

Anton asked for a vote on a top hat this week, and it looks like he listened to the replies.  Ann's left shoulder is a little high and she's out of sync at times.  Needs to pick her head up and try and smile through the dance.

Uninspiring but not the worst dance of the night.  A 5 I'm afraid though Ann.

Craig: 3 "Free arm has a mind of it's own...timing was a nightmare...looked like you were chasing him...did at least dance."
Len: 5 "Last week you got swung to the right...in ballroom you need to lean to the left...can tell you've worked very hard"
Alisha: 5 "Can see you worked really hard this week...definitely an improvement"
Bruno: 5 "The look on your face...driven through it by Anton...it looked like a Quickstep"

Total Score: 18

Pamela Stephenson & James Jordan - Rumba,

I did see a brief bit of their training on Friday and their Rumba was looking excellent, let's hope they pull it off tonight.

Pamela has some very good hip action, though I'm not a fan of the silver dress.  Her walks look a little bit stiff near the start, before the leg lift.  There's great interaction betweeen them and another excellent dance from Pamela.

James is really bringing something to the competition this year and I'm verging...actually I'm going to give it...a 9!

Craig: 9 "That was absolutely Fab-u-lous"
Len: 8 "Good technique, chemistry, great musicality...I didn't think [grabbing her ankle and throwing her round] added to it"
Alisha: 9 "It was so romantic...everyone here was mesmorised"
Bruno: 9 "You actually sang with your body...that we never see...you were on it completely satisfying at every level"

Total Score: 35