Strictly Come Dancing Week 2 Rehearsals

So week 2 of Strictly is upon us, and there's a new round of training videos to pour over.  I've watched training videos on It Takes Two from Wednesday, Thursday and Friday as well as the above video for my comments.

This year they have removed the dance off (stupid idea if you ask me) so it's all down to audience votes to get someone off the bottom of the table, everyone's going to have to work hard to entertain this year.


Lulu & Brendan Cole - Foxtrot

Lulu and Brendan are doing Foxtrot this week, the first video (from Wednesday) looked a little loose but, as Ian Waite points out, she's managing her heel turns quite well.

I'm concerned that Brendan appears to be choreographing more parts of the routine out of hold - given Lulu's struggle last week with remembering the routine I would really recommend giving her the safety of hold.

The video above though shows a nice section in hold and hopefully Lulu will do much better this week.



Robbie Savage & Ola Jordan - Foxtrot

Robbie needs to be much smoother with his rise and fall, and needs to track his leg action better - also less stomping would be ideal.

Thursday's training starts to look a little softer but still a lot of work to do.  The kick action (with Ola kicking towards Robbie) looks pretty bad at the moment if I'm honest.

Should be an ok Foxtrot though, Robbie will be safe for a week at least.



Edwina Currie & Vincent Simone - Foxtrot

Nice arm extensions developing but does need to be aware of her free hand at all times.

There's a large gap between them during training and they really need to try and keep the body contact during hold.  

Final video above looks a lot better but it will come down to popularity and I'm not sure how hers is.



Alex Jones & James Jordan - Foxtrot

Alex looks a little uncomfortable in hold at the moment, she does need to give herself a bit more space in the frame.

A common problem for the ladies is the arms getting tired and then 'hanging' on the guy, let's hope James' workout routine for her starts to pay off.

Needs to make sure she doesn't lift the foot off the ground like she does at around 10 seconds on the video.  I still think Alex has a long way to go but should survive tonight.



Jason Donovan & Kristina Rihanoff - Foxtrot

Well after his great start to the weekend it's good to see a wonderful Foxtrot developing - just keep the bum in Jason when you step back!

Thursday's training video shows Jason is still struggling with keeping his bum in.

Looking very good in the above video though, could keep his position at the top if he keeps this up.



Dan Lobb & Katya Virshilas - Salsa

I think the trainers in their first training video are seriously hampering his movement - try to train in more appropriate gear Dan, it'll help tremendously.

I'm not sold on lifts in the Salsa, especially this early in the series, and I'm worried that the routine may be a little too complex for Dan at the moment - he'd look better spending more time in hold.

All a bit too big and Dan looks a little messy if I'm honest.



Chelsee Healey & Pasha Kovalev - Salsa

Chelsee straight away on Wednesday showing how great her hip action is, this could be special.

The Thursday training doesn't really show us too much, though you can start to see some nice sharp turns developing.

Friday's preview is looking really good, still a few bits that need tidying up, and I'm assuming she's supposed to do something different with her legs during the spin lift.  Should be another good week for Chelsee though, but I can't understand why they picked such a slow clip for the video above?!



Audley Harrison & Natalie Lowe - Salsa

Bit concerned from the Wednesday training video that it seems a little bit pop dance rather than salsa dance.

A very nice hip action but Audley needs to ensure he keeps them moving all the time, not just when he's standing still.

Routine seems to have a good turn of speed, but how much of that is just Natalie we will have to wait and see.



Anita Dobson & Robin Windsor - Salsa

Not seeing much in the hip department, another routine that initially seems a bit too pop dancey!

I feel that Anita is going to need to loosen up her body a bit otherwise she may just be a ballroom bunny. For me the routine just feels a little slow and not quite dynamic enough, but they could just be marking it out in rehearsals.



Rory Bremner & Erin Boag - Salsa

Rory is going to need to watch his free arm and his shoulders, as Ian says it just seems a bit too jerky.

Looking better on Thursdays training video but still needs to work more on keeping his shoulders down. 

Sections where they're in hold do look good though so let's hope the majority of the routine is in hold.



Russell Grant & Flavia Cacace - Salsa

After their training video last week, which left me very worried, then their excellently entertaining Cha Cha I think Russell is one you just have to wait for the performance from.

I'm seeing a feather boa, could be risky given Nancy's problems last week, but Russell brings more camp than I thought possible in a Salsa.



Harry Judd & Aliona Vilani - Foxtrot

Harry needs to make sure he doesn't allow his elbows to go behind his shoulders when in hold and also needs to stretch away from her to give them both space.

Other than that he's looking quite good but I prefer my Foxtrots to more swing music than pop music.



Holly Valence & Artem Chigvintsev - Salsa

Holly really needs to work on keeping her eyes up. They haven't really shown a lot of her training but she needs to ensure that her arms are accentuating the movements of her body, not replacing them.



Nancy Dell'Olio & Anton Du Beke - Salsa

Only one thing's worse than the stomping around the floor, and that's the waddle in her Cucaracha, seriously Nancy would be better off not moving her hips than doing that!

Her movement is far too deliberate, I would have expected her to be able to move a lot more naturally than that.

Nancy is in very great danger of being the first home, especially after last week's fiasco.  Video footage above shows improvement in her Cucaracha hips, but still far too deliberate in her Mambo section.



For me I'd say that Nancy and Edwina could both be in trouble this week, I think Russell is too much entertainment to go out in the first few weeks.  There is still a lot of work required from quite a few of the celebrities though.

Strictly Come Dancing - Saturday 6th November

Yet another week where I've been (unfortunately?) too busy to watch and It Takes Two, so I'm going into last nights show with no idea of the dances they're covering, or how any of the training has gone.

First up is Kara Tointon & Artem Chigvintsev...

It Takes Two - Friday 29th October

On tonight's episode: Tina & Jared; Scott & Natalie; Halloween Special.

Tina & Jared,

Tina thinks Jared might have put her back out in the double cartwheel.  Also it seems she's quite partial to a bit of banana according to the VT.  Not really sure what the big deal with one banana a day is, I have 3 or 4 when I'm working on a Sunday!

They've relaxed into the intensity of the Argentine Tango, which took a bit of getting used to, though I still think they'll be too 'nice'.

Scott & Natalie,

Top of the leader board last Saturday can they continue to improve?  Scott continues to introduce characters to act out the dances that they have.  This week is Farquhar, an aloof character who should be well suited to the Viennese Waltz.

Craig Revel-Horwood, Lemar and Jenny Bond, talk costumes, choreography and music.

Kara & Artem Paso: [Craig] Very clean of line, bothers me, she needs to throw more passion into it...too precise and not enough passion. (Music - Phantom of the Opera)

Matt & Aliona Argentine Tango: [Craig] She's doing all the work but when he does get into hold it looks good. [Jenny] I think he's fantastic...I don't know if he's improved. (Music - Bat Out Of Hell).

Felicity & Vincent Viennese Waltz. [Craig] Very difficult to unwind (if you get dizzy)...bit too much rise and fall. (Music - Vito's Waltz)

Patsy & Robin Jive: [Craig] Bouncy, my eyes are slightly diverted towards that T-Shirt...of Robins! She looks confident. [Jenny] Seemed fairly slow [Craig] I think she was marking it. (Music - Monster Mash [Craig] First single I ever bought!).

Ann & Anton Paso: [Craig] Born to Paso...you can tell the way she's stomping around the room. (Music - Wild Thing).

Pamela & James Jive: [Craig] Fast and furious, that speed is going to be very tiring.

Michelle & Brendan Jive: [Craig] It's looking good, I think it's going to be her dance.  She's a spiky dancer and it's a spiky dance - at least the way he's choreographed it! (Music - Time Warp)

Halloween Special

Scary video effects - spider webs, skulls, Frankenstein, ultra-violet lighting.

Gavin shows us his 'Devils face' but he can't keep his embarrassment from showing.

Gavin & Katya then treat us to a bit of their Tango, which is a little too stompy and awkward but I'm liking their choice of music, Muse are my favourite band!

In just over an hour's time we can see whether the acting lessons were worth it Gavin!

It Takes Two - Thursday 28th October

On Wednesday's show: Patsy & Robin; Jimi & Flavia; Lisa Snowdon on costumes.

Doing the Viennese Waltz this week will be Felicity Kendal and Scott Maslen.  Felicity will be doing the splits again and Scott has the [man]flu.

Michelle Williams took a tumble in her Jive training but will compete on Saturday, joining her will be Pamela & James (I hope she has her hair in ponytails for the show) and Patsy & Robin (Robin's been working her hard to try and avoid the stamina loss we saw in the Charleston on Saturday).

Speaking of Patsy & Robin,

It was Robin's idea for Patsy to wear the wig, though she took a bit of convincing.  Patsy definitely felt the burn of the Charleston by the end of their performance and Robin's been working her so hard that she's had to start taking pillows to training so that she can snooze in the corner.

Robin made Patsy do their Jive 12 times in a row during training to really build her stamina up, let's hope it pays off.

Costume analysis from Lisa Snowdon and a designer called Jessica,

I was going to blog about their comments on the dresses, but aside from my witch halloween outfit (complete with tights!) I can't say any of it interests me, I recommend iPlayer if you want to know more.

Though Tina's outfit of pleather (a combination of plastic and synthetic leather) looks like it could be interesting.

Very Sandy & Danny!  Joining her with Argentine Tango this week is Matt & Aliona

Paso Doble will be performed by Gavin, Kara, Jimi & Ann.  Anton is flinging Ann...twice; Gavin looks like he's stretching in the gym rather than taunting a bull; Kara and Artem are starting to fight in training as the pressure of the training starts to get to them; Jimi & Flavia have been concentrating on technique.

Jimi & Flavia,

Flavia felt they were undermarked, but doesn't seem to want to talk about it.  She's been punishing Jimi with a cane, I must admit I've used similar tactics with some of my students!

They've worked hard on the technique and are both excited and looking forward to Saturday.

Now to watch Fridays before getting myself ready to watch the Halloween special.

It Takes Two - Wednesday 27th October

Coming up on tonight's show: Kara & Artem; Len Goodman's Dance Clinic; Ian Waite with the midweek report; Matt & Aliona

Kara & Artem,

They loved the dance, though Kara felt at the start of the week that the music was slow and boring.  She's scared by the fact that even with letting go it wasn't enough, so where can she go from here?

Kara isn't naturally very competitive but Artem (as any professional dancer would be) is very competitive (just ask any of my friends!!!)

I think they could perform a very good Paso Doble this weekend.

Karen Hardy on Paso Doble

Karen makes a slight error I think in saying that the Paso originated in Spain, although the music is Spanish the dance itself originated in France.

However the rest of her VT and tips are great.

Ian Waite and the midweek report.

Paso Doble

Jimi & Flava: Should be no hip action in Paso.  Needs to bring some shaping into his arm movements, curving the arms round above his head.

Gavin & Katya: Poor cape usage, looks like a dishcloth.  However could be a great dance for him.

Ann & Anton: All the steps are correct...though she looks like she's treading through mud.

Jive

Pamela & James: Looks like she's done some dancing previously, an inner sense of posture and finishes her hand movements.

Patsy & Robin: Similar character as the Charleston so should be good for Patsy.

Viennese Waltz

Felicity & Vincent: Their beginning is all about Felicity's acting skills.

Scott & Natalie: Brilliant, free-flowing movement.  However needs to keep himself upright rather than tilting his head towards Natalie.

Argentine Tango

Tina & Jared: Need to be closer in the top half of their hold.

Len's Dance Clinic

Where should I start learning to dance?  Latin - Salsa, as you can then move onto Rumba and Cha Cha Cha easily; Ballroom - Waltz.

Why do you keep knees flexed in Tango?  The Tango is characterised by the stalking of prey. I also think that it allowed the Gaucho to get closer to his Lady of the Night.

How can I make my dancing more flamboyant? Upper body - the lower body deals with the rhythm, the upper body is the affectation of the music.

 Matt & Aliona,

Over the moon to have upped their score from 31 in the first 3 weeks.  Previously Aliona felt Matt was not expressing the dances as well as he could, up until the Charleston and that's why they got such high scores.

We'll be seeing Argentine Tango from them on Saturday night.

It Takes Two - Tuesday 26th October

On today's show: Michelle, Ian & Brendan; Karen Hardy Choreography Corner; Pamela & James; Gavin & Katya.

So first up are Michelle & Ian, fresh from their bottom two finish on Saturday night, joined by Brendan Cole back from his father's funeral.  Brendan reveals that he felt a little jealous watching Michelle dancing with Ian on Saturday night.

Ian felt nervous about the responsibility of making sure that Michelle made it through to the next week so that she could go back to dancing with Brendan.

Michelle has the Jive this weekend, I'm guessing it's going to be a disaster and this could be the week Michelle goes, but I will have to wait to see the training videos to be sure.

I'm afraid I always skip past the "Out of the Glitterball" section so I can't tell you much about that.

Now onto Karen Hardy's Choreography Corner,

Karen reveals she likes the added extras and props, so long as it's not overboard and doesn't last too long. 

First for analysis is Felicity & Vincent: Looking at their floor spin with Felicity balanced on one leg.  Karen applauds the trust between them and also Felicity's flexibility.

Jimi & Flavia: Claudia felt they were undermarked.  Karen doesn't agree with Bruno that Jimi was out of time with his cane work and actually felt he was "masterful".

Matt & Aliona: a "brilliant" double cartwheel though Tina & Jared performed the same move slightly lighter.

Scott & Natalie: great "light and shade" in their dance, really using the music to express the dance.

Gavin & Katya: Gavin's strength in his legs allowed them to do a throwaway oversway all the way down to the ground, when they could've done a much easier movement.

Ann & Anton: Whilst everyone wants to talk about the "flying hippo" Karen concentrates on the outside swivels and her basics and body contact, something Ann is improving at.

Patsy & Robin: "Great Charleston, classic".  She doesn't need any gimmicks or gizmos.

Pamela & James

Pamela reveals she wasn't worried about the score itself, but rather James' reaction to it.  James wasn't disappointed by the scores as apparently in training they'd only managed to get through it once out of three attempts.

Also it appears that this was the first Tango that James has performed on Strictly.  This weekend they will be dancing the Jive and I look forward to seeing their training.

Gavin & Katya,

Gavin is a bit of a mixed bag for me, some weeks he seems to be really developing and then one thing, like the slip at the start on Saturday, throws him back into himself.

It looks like Gavin will be the first person this series to visit an acting coach and let's hope this increases his confidence.

Personally I don't tend to touch my hair after I first do it in the morning so I can't quite understand the fascination, though I must admit his hair is looking quite good today!

They have Paso Doble this weekend, which requires even more acting than the Tango so if Gavin doesn't start coming out of his shell this could be another poor performing week.

I'll update tomorrow with some of the training videos, and I might actually be able to do that one live this week!

It Takes Two - Monday 25th October

On tonight's episode: Peter & Erin; Alisha Dixon; Ann & Anton; Felicity & Vincent.

The show starts with Ola Jordan taking a video camera round behind the scenes and chatting the the dancers and celebs.  We see James jokingly telling Ola about what it's like to still be in the competition. Len and James share a kiss (so that Len can see if it 'prickles' when you kiss a man with a beard).

Then we're treated to another brief recap of some of the highlights from Saturday before it's time to talk to Peter & Erin.

Peter feels like he let himself down, but also that Charleston wasn't really his dance.  Erin points out that Charleston was around week 11 last year, not week 4, and considering there's acting as well as dancing involved that does make it much more difficult.

Peter's highlights do unfortunately include his Salsa, but there's a nice outfit of Erin's in the training vid ;-)

Next up a VT showing all the animal references the judges made on Saturday, leading up to Alisha being on the show.

I understand that she can relate directly to the celebs, having been through it herself, but she's still just not a viable judge for me.  However Emma and I both agree that she is improving...though I do wonder how much of her comments are scripted???

It is revealed that Patsy will be doing the Jive next week, given how soon she ran out of puff with the Charleston she does need to work on her stamina.

Our next couple are Ann & Anton,

Ann reveals she is afraid of heights but actually enjoyed the wire work by the time she was landing.  Anton reveals that he originally suggested the idea as a joke!  Their next dance will be the Paso Doble, I'm seeing shades of John Sargeant already...

Now onto Felicity & Vincent,

Apparently the kiss was Vincent's idea (surprise, surprise) and they weren't sure if it was going to be allowed.

A VT on Vincent's Magic Eyebrow (lots of twitching at camera).

Felicity & Vincent will have Viennese Waltz at the weekend, choreography-wise it will be a lot simpler but the constant rotation at speed makes it such a hard dance.

That's our lot for today.

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.

It Takes Two - Tuesday 5th October-Friday 8th October

Due to an unfortunate virus attack on my computer I've been unable to upload my analysis all week so I've decided to collate all 4 episodes into one post.

Tuesday 5th October

First up Goldie & Kristina Rihanoff to talk about their Cha-Disco-Cha.  Personally I think it was an awful choice for a first dance, though they seemed to enjoy it, it really didn't resemble a Cha Cha Cha.

Goldie then confirms that 'yes, it is easier to dance with a professional', something which I'm sure any number of our students would agree with.


A VT then follows of Goldie as various movie characters, including some rather [un-]charming burping.

Goldie has a Foxtrot this weekend, though it looks rather Paso-esque in the clip they show.

Choreography Corner
 
Karen Hardy then comes on for Choreography Corner.  She likes props, I think it's a cover-up to hide other problems.

First up a few basic tips, important for all.  Matt Baker is commended for his leading; Felicity Kendal for her flexibility; Patsy Kensit is kept basic to give her confidence; Paul Daniels safely starts with a magic trick; Scott Maslen for a strong and dominant 'raunchy' Waltz; Goldie entertains but shouldn't have been left on his own this early on; Pamela Stephenson stole the show with an elegant Waltz.  More from Karen later...

Pamela Stephenson & James Jordan

My favourite couple from the weekend they really performed a gorgeous Waltz.  James "Everything come together for a great dance", aside from his use of English I can't commend his routine enough.

I thought I had a big head from James definitely gives me a run for my money, though I might start utilising the press-ups penalties on some of my students.

Pamela looks like she's enjoying the Salsa training and she did a good job in the launch show so I'm expecting another good dance.

Choreography Corner (part 2)

Karen returns for part 2 of her choreography analysis.

Ann Widdecombe's kick in the air was Anton's way of using her inability to keep her feet on the floor; Jared makes Tina O'Brien's routine too simple and sweet; Kara Tointon has such a packed routine and pulls it off with aplomb; Gavin Henson surprised me with his Waltz and Karen commends the basic routine in showing off the technique; Michelle Williams started brightly on the bridge but strutted later on, and needs much more technique; Peter Shilton was nervous and petrified, "did well but nerves took over"; Jimi Mistry over-enthusiastic and on his own too much.

Felicity Kendal & Vincent Simone

Felicity didn't want to start the show and concentrated more on "not falling over" than remembering her technique.

Giggling appears to be a problem in training, but I'm sure they'll get more serious as the week's progress (if they survive tonight).

The judges may have been critical but Felicity agrees that they know what they are talking about.  Felicity tells how she has absolutely no dance training in her past.

Wednesday 6th October

Matt Baker and Gavin Henson were the top scoring boys from their respective days (though Scott scored higher than Gavin on the Friday).  I saw Countryfile for the first time the other day, an interesting program but I can't imagine how they fit all the training in around the country.

Gavin loved the Waltz, but isn't feeling confident about the Salsa.  He must be happy now he gets the spray-tans included.  Katya says "If there's any person that can bring someone out of their shell, that's me"

A VT follows comparing the two girls hard training regimes for the boys though I think Matt seems to be having the harder time.

A clip of the Foxtrot starts well but I'm hoping Matt was just marking out.  Claudia struggles to compliment a clip of Gavin's Salsa.

Dance Psychology

Emma already thinks this guy's a little crazy.  Some interesting theories that are fairly standard if you are a dancer.

Pamela Stephenson clip is analysed but I can't hear what he's saying as their routine looks absolutely amazing!

Paul Daniels appears to be getting the steps but is really lacking in personality in the training video.

Goldie isn't looking particularly smooth in his Foxtrot and needs to keep his bum in.

Kara Tointon are described as the intense couple and really compatible.

Scott Maslen are keeping great eye contact, though I'm concerned that he doesn't look as good when he's on his own.

Tess Daly

Tess likes "her area" but wants an actual name to call it; Tess' Turret doesn't do the trick and I know (online at least) the old one was called the Tesspit!

This year's line-up is described as dynamite, and Matt was a massive surprise for Tess.  Jimi is the person that Tess feels is enjoying it the most.

Michelle Williams & Brendan Cole

A very poor performance from them I felt, now for some feedback.  I think Michelle had a bit of a reality check with the judges comments, and she does seem upset.  "I'm not expecting anyone to kiss my toosh" says Michelle, but a few positive comments would have been appreciated.

I thought my mum was bad with 4 sugars in her tea, but Michelle has 13 sugars in her coffee!!!  No wonder she's more than a little 'excitable' during training.

Thursday 7th October

Training Videos

Felicity is looking elegant in training, though is apparently struggling with remembering the correct foot to start with.

Tina talks about how she needs to hide her mistakes (rather than showing on her face) alternatively making no mistakes would be preferable!

Michelle should perform better in hold but Michelle is definitely looking like she's lost her confidence.



Matt is looking ok, nothing special just yet, but should give us a good dance.

Paul is looking incredibly tight and uncomfortable, I don't see him leaving the bottom of the table this week.

Goldie has a hat on, it doesn't suit him! Last week's Disco dance was a bad start but hopefully we'll see something better this time.

Jimi is looking like he's got the feeling of the Foxtrot in mind, I just hope they give him a better outfit this week.

Jimi & Flavia


Flavia feels that in her 5 years of Strictly, that was the best first dance that she's had.  We're also introduced to Flavia's teaching style (breaking the dances down into chunks).

Jimi found Foxtrot terrifying in the first two days, but I must admit the training is looking quite good.

Artem, Jared & Robin

Now a chat with the new boys of Strictly (The Sequin Team). 

Artem wants to bring speed, energy and exciting moves.
Jared hopes to bring edge - still seems too nice.
Robin is energetic and powerful, and is here to win.

Artem might be good looking, but I'm not sure what the hat is all about!!! 

Jared still isn't giving me any warm fuzzy feelings and I think he does need to come out of his shell more.

Salsa Training Videos

Pamela is looking as good, if not better, than her Waltz - not that James agrees.

Patsy needs to relax her shoulders, though she is looking much better this week.

Ann, the one I've definitely been waiting for, looks like her and Anton are going to perform a salsa to remember!

Gavin is hating the Salsa, though Katya wants to make it the sexiest Salsa Strictly's ever seen.

Scott needs to look like he's enjoying the dance more, there's not much emotion showing on his face.

Peter is hoping to save (see what I did there!) his place on the show this week.  Unfortunately it's really not looking good, should be entertaining though.

Peter Shilton & Erin Boag

Peter feels he showed his nervousness more than the other competitors last week.  He's looking forward to the Salsa this week, though his arms are a bit too free.

Friday 8th October

Scott Maslen & Natalie Lowe

Is it just me, or does Scott look like he's lost weight - that shirt looks a bit baggy on him.  Scott says he struggles with the dances at first, then something clicks and suddenly it makes sense.

Natalie seems a little down, wonder if training isn't going well?

Tina O'Brien & Jared Murillo

Tina is enjoying it but again talks about how she needs to not show mistakes on her face.

Jared says that Foxtrot was originally like Chinese to Tina, now it's getting more like English.  Come on Jared bring some personality out on screen please!!!

Superfans

Louise Redknapp, Chris De Burgh and Craig Revel-Horwood are on to analyse the training.

Gavin: Craig thinks he's looking a bit stuck in the mud; their music is a bit too 'pumpy' for my liking; Louise and Chris like it.

Kara: "I don't want to be known in this competition as the girl that falls over"; Craig - she's looking great as long as she doesn't fall over; their song almost sounds like a Waltz, such a strange choice I'm assuming they'll have a better arrangement.

Ann: Performing behind a curtain doesn't react well to Anton's joking.  No Salsa training in site though.  Craig doesn't look impressed - he doesn't pre-mark and wants them to dance; The music 'Hey Mambo' is a bit too slow I'm concerned.

Matt: Sounds like they're going to have a few more gimmicks this week, unfortunately; Craig - they're gorgeous to watch, he has great feet; music could be great.

Pamela: Looking A-MAZ-ING.  Craig describes it as knockout, with Pamela looking like a 20-year-old; the song should work well, though I'd have preferred something with a more recognised beat.

Michelle: Looking better but needs to watch her left shoulder.  Craig - it's O K,  doesn't think it's perfect and her body shape is probably better suited to Latin; great choice of music (It Had To Be You, one of my favourites!)

Peter: Looking very flat-footed with minimal 'natural' hip action.  Craig thinks he needs a hip replacement and a lot more energy.

Sneak Peak

Claudia takes us onto the set.  James and Artem having a push-up contest, Artem lifting his leg just to make it more difficult.  Claudia does need to learn how to walk up stairs quietly!

Vincent is wearing a nice pair of Tango Duo shoes, one of my favourite pairs.  Felicity and Vincent talk about the pressure of knowing someone goes home this weekend.

Not sure on their song choice but it does look quite good.

Anyway that's the week's summary, I need to get on with watching the actual show now!

It Takes Two - Monday 4th October

 

So the new series of Strictly Come Dancing is in full swing and we have our first episode of It Takes Two with Claudia Winkleman.

A funny video clip of Kara before the show saying "I just don't want to fall over" and then Erin Boag trying to sabotage Gavin Henson.  Finishing with Kara falling over in her now infamous dominatrix outfit.

First up is Paul Daniels & Ola Jordan.  Paul said on his blog recently that he'd never seen Strictly before going on and thought that the show was about learning to dance Ballroom and Latin American, rather than learning to "Showdance".  That's why he was so surprised with the backlash of critiques from the judges.

Add to that the controversy surrounding Paul's 'sausage-gate' comment (those who follow the judges/pro's/celebs on twitter will have known in advance that Craig is King of the Sizzle for British Sausage Week); and Paul didn't exactly have a great weekend.

I think Paul will cope much better with the Foxtrot than his Cha Cha Cha and I'll let you know my thoughts once I've seen some training videos.

Next up is Craig Revel-Horwood, the archetypal panto judge.  Craig agrees that this year is a a great year for potential, and is looking forward to a lot more 'armography'.  For me Pamela Stephenson's Waltz was better than Matt Baker's Cha Cha Cha but both definitely deserved to be at the top.

Goldie's dance lacked a lot in the Cha Cha Cha department but there should be room for improvement, Ann's biggest downfall is going to be Salsa this weekend...but seeing as they're on the show later I'll talk more about them then.

Craig then analyses Michelle Williams, someone for me who looks far too thin, and coupled with her (as Craig puts it) 'stick insect' look she really underperformed at the weekend with a lack of hip action and control.  I would have expected something a lot sexier and rythmical from her.

Peter Shilton gave a good performance, that did seem a bit timid, but overall Erin did a really good job with him.

Craig thought that Kara Tointon was a little bit 'tame'...was he expecting whips and a paddle???  He's desperate to see Ann's Salsa, as we all are I'm sure.

Last year's winner Chris Hollins comes on and gives us a football style analysis of this year's competitors...which mainly consists of a brief intro and a few VT's that we didn't see on the live show...other than that it seems a fairly pointless section of the show.

Now for Ann Widdecombe and Anton Du Beke, Ann describing herself as 'Dumbo the elephant' raises a titter.  Anton is his usual on-screen charming self, pointing out that they had to remove the gymnastics from their routine so that they didn't appear to be copying Matt Baker.

It's Ann's birthday today and she gets some special birthday messages from Kenneth Clarke MP, a few other MP's who I've never heard off, Edwina Currie and David Blunkett.  Sweet but surely BBC could've have stretched to a cake and a rendition of Happy Birthday from Anton & Craig...

Salsa from Ann is apparently going to feature things that shouldn't even be in a salsa; "Waltz" quips Anton.

Now that I've got my daily dose of It Takes Two out of the way, and the trailer for So You Think You Can Dance has not inspired me to apply, I best go get ready for our classes tonight...Viennese Waltz and Salsa (ironic really) coming up.

See you tomorrow!

Training updates

So the night of the new celebrity competitors is almost upon us, and last night's It Takes Two had training updates, how is their training coming along?

Phil Tufnell & Katya Virshilas
Waltz - Needs to relax the shoulders, just holding his arms a little high (arms should be a slight incline down from the shoulder). Overall doesn't look too bad, if nerves don't get the better this could be a 6-7.

Cha Cha - Could potentially give Ricky Groves a run for his money...? If i'm honest I think Phil will only manage a 6 at best.

Zoe Lucker & James Jordan
Waltz - Looks elegant (when not falling over!). Definitely going to give Ali's Waltz a run for her money.  Could be a 7-8.

Rumba - Looks quite good, so long as Zoe can ignore her nerves surrounding the sensual side of the dance.  Another 7-8.

Jo Wood & Brendan Cole
Tango -  Needs to keep chin up, still closing up and looking at the floor.  Brendan always dances with passion so let's hope Jo can keep up.  Think the nerves might get the better of her though and predicting a 6.

Rumba -  A couple of nice moments but haven't seen enough of the dance to truly judge, think another 6.

Richard Dunwoody & Lilia Kopylova
Waltz - Needs to relax the shoulders, the frame is just there for show and should be kept uniform and relaxed. 5-6.

Cha Cha -  Oh dear, I don't think the Cha Cha is going to be Richards thing, looks uncomfortable and again another 5-6.

Craig Kelly & Flavia Cacace
Tango - Flavia's speciality is the Argentine Tango and Ballroom Tango is a close cousin so hopefully something good can be created here.  Right shoulder should not be raised during lines, needs to watch this. Predicting a 6.

Rumba - Hips look a little forced at times, probably going to be a 6.

Natalie Cassidy & Vincent Simone

Tango - Flavia's partner Vincent is also a specialist in Tango, coupled with Natalie's passion for dancing and her acting abilities, this should be good.  Haven't seen enough of the dancing but i'm predicting a 6-7.

Cha Cha - Natalie definitely doesn't appear to be shy about moving around in the Cha Cha but does need to make her chasse a little softer.  Should be a lively 7.

Ricky Whittle & Natalie Lowe

Waltz - Looking really good, though still needs to watch those shoulders and try and keep level. Going to say a 7-8.

Rumba - Has natural rhythm and looks quite good, a 7 easily if he pulls it off on the night.

Laila Rouass & Anton du Beke
Tango -  So finally Anton get's a younger celebrity and ,some might say, his actual real chance to win.  Can't see the feet but this could be the best dance of the night, 8.

Cha Cha - Nice hip action and looking good, think that'll be a 7.

Don't forget that our blog will be a little late tonight due to our regular Friday night practice session, but don't worry i'll be watching it, and commenting, as soon as I get home so check back after midnight!