Strictly Come Dancing week 5 - Halloween Special

Apologies for not blogging on last week's action, but unfortunately we just couldn't get the time.

Tonight is the Strictly Halloween Special, and I can already predict that the scariest thing is going to be Nancy!

First up is Russell Grant & Flavia Cacace with their Samba

If Russell has got a knee problem then Samba's probably the worst dance he could have been given.

It's so nice to see actual Samba steps that our students are going to recognise...such a shame that he obviously lost the steps early on and it's knocked his confidence throughout.  A great shame, though Emma and I both commented on his nice bottom!

A nice selection of basic steps up till the mistake but just a 6 from me after all the mistakes.

Craig: 4 "One wig away darling from being Mystic Meg...dancing sadly let you down"
Len: 6 "There were a few mistakes...you've got the feel good factor"
Alesha: 6 "Great bounce action...got the Halloween party started"
Bruno: 6 "Turned Hell into a camp Heaven...unfortunately you went wrong quite a few times"

Total Score: 22

Looking a little worried this week, think they're going to need the votes as it wasn't their most entertaining performance.

Second up, Chelsee Healey & Pasha Kovalev with the Tango.

I still felt that their Quickstep last week was very untidy and still too manic, but it's good to see her delivering on my pre-competition predictions.

Doesn't really have the Tango feel to the music, but you wouldn't know it from their dancing.

Chelsee has some nice sharp movements, but still looks a little bit like Pasha is throwing her around her at times.

A very good Tango but a shame that the ending was missed after her dress almost revealed too much, I feel so sorry for her but I hope they can show her a replay as soon as possible to let her know nothing was seen.

I'd still like to see a bit more control there so just an 8 from me at present.

Craig: 7 "I would have like to have seen it a little bit more grounded...feisty, fiery and everything we expect"
Len: 8 "Could have been a bit sharper towards the end...good dance"
Alesha: 9 "You have nothing to cry about, you covered that so well...you've raised your game"
Bruno: 8 "This wicked little witch, is a wicked little dancer...did a great dance"

Total Score: 32

Audley Harrison & Natalie Lowe Jive

I do worry about Audley's ability for the Jive, can he keep it looking light and bouncy and not run out of puff early on?

Flat footed from the off unfortunately, and living up to what I would have expected.  There's just no bounce though some of the lines look quite nice...unfortunately that's when he's standing still.

A very poor Jive but it was always going to be difficult for him, a 5 from me.

Craig: 3 "You did make a gallant effort...physically unsuited for this dance...lovely smile though"
Len: 6 "I don't know what these other two are talking about, it had rhythm, good timing...you never went wrong...I commend you"
Alesha: 6 "It needed to be more bouncy and light...kicks and flicks just weren't quite there"
Bruno: 5 "You really got into the spirit of things...[but] terrible footwork...very hard dance"

Total Score: 20

Alex Jones & James Jordan are next up with a Paso Doble (well suited dance for Halloween hopefully)

Alex needs to make sure she keeps her shoulders down when she lifts up her arms, otherwise her neck just disappears, and the 'cape' section with her skirt turns a little bit school playground when she speeds up.

I really like the dramaticism though and the 'fight' over the bed is quite well acted.  The chasse capes are quite messy and there are times when it looks good, but also times when it really doesn't.

A mixed bag Paso Doble but definitely developed into a passionate one.  I'm unsure on it but I think I'll give them a 7.

Craig: 7 "I think you played that extremely well...almost found it erotic...danced it well"
Len: 8 "I was expecting Hammer House of Horrors...had intensity, dramatic, attack...bit too much frock wafting"
Alesha: 8 "Absolutely loved the beginning...took a risk...atmospheric...breakthrough this week"
Bruno: 8 "Haunting, voluptuous, hint of madness...improved so much [on last week]"

Total Score:  31

Holly Valence & Artem Chigvintsev will be dancing an American Smooth to Swan Lake, explains the eye make-up!

Hmm...I just feel like there's always something lacking when Holly dances.  I just get a feeling of discomfort when she dances, maybe it's vulnerability of being herself and not a character.

The lift entrances and exits are all a bit messy, and the ending just looked uncomfortable as they were getting into it.

It was ok but she still doesn't 'wow' me like I would expect, good enough for a 7 but she should be getting so much more.

Craig: 8 "Very high risk and perilous concept...but you made it work"
Len: 9 "I thought it was terrific...could have done with a bit more in hold...I love it"
Alesha: 9 "You both look incredible...created some beautiful lines and shapes...you were magnificent"
Bruno: 9 "You produced a performance of great style, great artistry...top lines were exquisite"

Total Score: 35

Obviously the judges disagree with me!

Let the nightmares begin, it's time for Nancy Dell'Olio & Anton Du Beke to give us a Rumba.

I really thought Nancy would have been able to dance 'sexier' than that, and she turns her body too early in the drag so that Anton ends up holding her up by her chest!

A couple of nice movements but the opening outs are pretty awful.

Anton's included the same lift as last week which is going to knock some points off with the judges, a fairly awful Rumba with very little natural hip action, a 4 from me.

Craig: 2 "Dance horriblus darling...Anton I'm getting a little bit bored of that lift now...also it's illegal"
Len: 5 "Rumba, the dance of love...moments of Mills & Boon, and moments of Meals on Wheels"
Alesha: 3 "I think you're a sexy woman...but you're a walking disaster...legs are so far apart...very ploddy...lift so unflattering"
Bruno: 4 "Looking like the queen of the night, you dance like the walking dead...great big plonky number"

Total Score: 14

Love interests Harry Judd & Aliona Vilani vamp it up with a Tango

Looks like we've had our 5 seconds of actual Tango content from them...oh wait there's actually some more later on, still not enough for my liking but Harry's acting is impressive.

I'd would really like Aliona to sort out Harry's frame though as when he has his arms up the rolled over shoulders just make him look hunched - luckily for him there was very little actual Tango to highlight this.

Harry's a good dancer but I do think Aliona is avoiding putting too much actual dancing in which annoys me.  Fantastic drama and acting but Harry needs to get his posture sorted before he can really develop.  I wasn't a fan of the running drag either.

I'd like to give him more but I really don't think I can go above a 7.

Craig: 8 "Full of intent, purpose, aggression...would have liked to have seen a little more in hold however"
Len: 7 "I want to see more than 8 bars in hold...it was a terrific number, it was sharp...I want to see more than 8 bars in the Tango hold"
Alesha: 10 "I do agree with Len...but you played it so well"
Bruno: 9 "Intense, hypnotic, erotic...it was great"

Total Score: 34

I'm sorry Alesha but what on earth are you thinking?!

Next to scare us this evening will be Robbie Savage & Ola Jordan with the Paso Doble

Good cape work from Robbie but he's a little bit high when they get into hold, I'd like to see him use the floor a bit better.

A bit stompy in places and lacking any real drive or attack, should be a lot more aggression in a Paso.

I think they'll let them off the slight lift and a very brave ending, any slip or lack of elevation at the end and Robbie could have face planted straight into Craig.  Just a 6 for me, too much thrusting of the hips, and not enough Paso!

Craig: 4 "I could have done without all the hip thrusts...particularly the end one in my face...needed a lot more drive"
Len: 7 "It was a little bit disconcerting ...would have liked a bit more Savage...got to work on getting that Latin to the same standard [as your Ballroom]"
Alesha: 8 "I say keep thrusting...cape work at the beginning was brilliant...little bit erratic at times"
Bruno: 7 "Bad gone mental...lacked a bit of artistry"

Total Score: 26

Next couple is Anita Dobson & Robin Windsor with a Tango

Posture is better this week but could still do with a bit more of a stretch.

It feels a little soft and Anita looks unsure of her steps at times.  The Tango just lacks a feeling of attack and drama for me.

Not a bad dance but still a lot of improvement required, 7.

Craig: 7 "Acting 10, top line 3...loved the routine though"
Len: 8 "I like it...lot of Tango content...lost your timing...posture is your weakest thing"
Alesha: 8 "Fantastic actress, loved the drama...need to perfect your hold"
Bruno: 8 "You portray every aspect of your character...got to work on your frame"

Total Score: 31

Time for Lulu & Brendan Cole to fly onto the dance floor and Paso

A brave slide down the banister from Brendan, though not sure on the accessories!

Much more attack in this routine, more likely due to a better choice of song than Robbie's.

Faffing around at the end by Brendan so that they can get the harness back on...flying really is such a pointless gimmick.

Her best dance yet and a 7 from me.

Craig: 6 "Concept was absolutely great...felt like you were just trying to catch up with Brendan"
Len: 7 "Lots of tricks, and quite a few treats...you're a little bit soft in the body...too willowy"
Alesha: 8 "An amazing entrance, I love your determination...did a good job this week"
Bruno: 8 "You didn't go wrong tonight...you did it well, strong and powerful"

Total Score: 29

Last up tonight is Jason Donovan & Kristina Rihanoff with a Quickstep

This should be a much better performance from Jason as I think he's better suited to the Ballroom.

Very brave of Kristina to have Jason dancing on his own to start, and Jason's definitely back to his best.  His arms are a little bit low which is ruining his frame.

Lots of energy but a little bit unbalanced in the final spin.  Improve on the posture and he'll be unstoppable but still a 9 for me.

Craig: 9 "Stone the flaming crows mate...I thought that was absolutely Fab-u-lous...however there were a couple of mistakes"
Len: 9 "So what if he made a little tiny mistake...some of them have had a Tango and they haven't even done a Tango [nudge, nudge Aliona]"
Alesha: 10 "So cute...charming throughout...brilliant routine...well done Jason"
Bruno: 9 "Bewitchingly brilliant and slightly barmy...great concept, great choreography...back on track"

Total Score: 37

Biggest score of the series so far, and I think it deserved it.

Leader board for tonight is as follows (my scores in brackets):

1. 37 points - Jason & Kristina (9)
2. 35 points - Holly & Artem (7)
3. 34 points - Harry & Aliona (7)
4. 32 points - Chelsee & Pasha (8)
5. 31 points - Alex & James (7)
5. 31 points - Anita & Robin (7)
7. 29 points - Lulu & Brendan (7)
8. 26 points - Robbie & Ola (6)
9. 22 points - Russell & Flavia (6)
10. 20 points - Audley & Natalie (5)
11. 14 points - Nancy & Anton (4)

Thankfully I haven't lost my touch and I'm still fairly accurate in my scoring.  I'd have liked to see Holly giving it a little bit more presentation but maybe I'm not seeing what the judges are, and Harry needs to sort out his shoulders and Aliona give him more actual choroegraphy.

I think it will be an Audley & Nancy bottom two with Audley going home as I still think Anton's fans will save him.

Strictly Come Dancing Week 3

Ok due to our Bournemouth Dance Weekend this weekend I've had to save the blogging until today.  Rather than inundating everyone with posts I'm just going to do it in one long one instead.

This week is Broadway week, why? I don't know but I suppose they feel the need to have some form of gimmick to keep the public interested.

We missed the live show as we were having a masquerade ball, but the wonders of modern technology allowed us to hook my laptop up to the hotel's TV, fire up iplayer using the hotel's free wifi, and have all our students sit down with us to watch the show.

In between each dance we had a quick run round for scores, really wish we'd written them down as it would've been great to compare.

It did mean we were all up until gone 1am but it was fun to watch with them.

On to the show itself, up first were Holly Valence & Artem Chigvintsev with their Tango...or is it Argentine Tango?

In Chicago they perform more of an Argentine Tango so at first that's what I was expecting from this routine, however they have gone for a Ballroom Tango with Argentine flavour.

A good start from Holly, definitely getting the Chicago feel but seems a little messy once she actually gets into hold.

Manages to unhook her dress almost discreetly so that was well done but the actual Tango element of the dance was very uninspiring, just a 6 from me.

Craig: 7 "Liked the strong bold storytelling...[would like to see] cleaner and sharper finishing lines"
Len: 8 "Be still my beating heart, full of smouldering intensity...great start and great dance"
Alesha: 7 "One of my favourite musicals...definitely sexy...stunning lines...hoping it would be a little more feisty"
Bruno: 8 "You got me going, I want to be a criminal...there was an incident...lost a bit of balance"

Total Score: 30 - overmarked if you ask me I'm afraid, the Tango was very messy when in hold

Dan Lobb & Katya Virshilas Viennese Waltz

I didn't like their Salsa last week, there was too much concentrating on lifts and not enough actual dancing, let's hope it's more of a dance this week.

LOVE QUEEN!

Not a fan of the fingers Dan.  Nice start but the side-by-side section doesn't work for me, and the contra check is all bum.

A very nice frame at times, though he starts to lean further forward as the dance progresses and the pivots section was awful.

I'd have preferred more dancing and less attempts at storytelling, it was ok but again just going to give it a 6.

Craig: 5 "You have an awkward nature about you generally...you don't dance between steps"
Len: 7 "I thought your frame was good, your footwork overall was good...not the greatest 'actor' of a dance"
Alesha: 6 "Generally you move well around the floor...would have preferred more fluidity in your movement"
Bruno: 6 "You didn't really capture the spirit of the song for me"

Total Score: 24, about right for me but has potential

Anita Dobson & Robin Windsor Jive

Anita has a tendency to hunch over and this really ruins the look for me, there is a possibility that she may have been a bit of a Jiver when she was younger and that would explain the slightly hunched posture.

However she is flat footed which just removes any 'bounce' feeling from the dance.  Latin really isn't working for Anita at present, which is a shame as her actual performance of the character is excellent.

Has a tendency to dance Latin with permanently bent knees which will need looking at.

Disappointing but with plenty of energy so I'm going to give her a 6.

Craig: 6 "All too loose...technically I thought it was very messy
Len: 7 "Fun, energetic, entertaining"
Alesha: 7 "Came out and performed it...entertaining...lit up the room"
Bruno: 7 "Your performance level is always great...have to be a little bit sharper...bit more precise and cleaner"

Total Score: 27

Alex Jones & James Jordan Viennese Waltz

Lovely extensions to start and Alex is mirroring James perfectly, Alex can definitely do elegance.

It's a bit slow for my liking, I'd have preferred the tempo of the music to be just a little bit quicker, but the comparison of this Viennese to Dan's should show anyone where he was going wrong - the pivots alone are a vast improvement.

A wonderfully romantic and elegant routine and most definitely her best dance so far.

Definitely an 8 from me.

Craig: 8 "Simple, uncomplicated...would have liked to have seen it be a little bit more daring...but I loved it"
Len: 8 "It was simple, but it was simply beautiful...tonight you're a winner"
Alesha: 8 "Absolutely beautiful...most improved dancer...elegant and dreamy"
Bruno: 8 "Those opening figures, it was like watching a magical bird spreading its wings"

Total Score: 32
 
Rory Bremner & Erin Boag Quickstep

Rory was another celebrity who's Salsa left a lot to be desired last week, how will his Quickstep go?

If Rory could just stand up a little straighter it would make the beginning section look a lot better however the initial Quickstep is looking rather good...until he goes past the camera and then see his posture - all bum and crouched over with the shoulders.

A few stumbles it looks like in places but actually not too bad a Quickstep, just a 7 for me but he's definitely showing improvement.

Craig: 7 "Leaning over Erin...posture isn't great...BUT it's full of style...panache"
Len: 8 "The right song, the right style, the right routine, YOUR best dance"
Alesha: 8 "You held the character of the dance from beginning to end...Quickstep is your dance"
Bruno: 8 "All the razzle and all the dazzle...just be careful with the trout pout"

Total Score: 31

Lulu & Brendan Cole Rumba

I'd like to see straighter legs when Lulu's walking but it's a good start, the cape and smoke definitely give the dance some atmosphere.

A nice drag across the floor, but WHY THE LIFT Brendan, ok I understand there's a real highlight in the music but there must have been other options that wouldn't have broken the rules.

Still a few moments when Lulu looked unsure and shaky but the dance on the whole was actually quite good.

A definite improvement, I'd like to see straighter legs and more hip action, and I have to knock off points for the lift so just a 7.

Craig: 5 "Illegal lifts will not be tolerated...playing with fire"
Len: 7 "You have to break eggs to make an omelette, and sometimes you have to break rules to make a routine complete"
Alesha: 7 "It was romantic and you played it with sensitivity"
Bruno: 7 "You missed a few passes...choreography was very difficult...otherwise very well done"

Total Score: 26

Nancy Dell'Olio & Anton Du Beke Tango

Nancy performed the chair section much better in the training video, but some nice straight legs at times.

Unfortunately she's needs to keep control of her head to avoid looking like a rag doll, Nancy also still has an element of 'stompiness' about her dancing.

Her best dance yet, but the only way really was up!  I think I'm going to give her a 6.

Craig: 4 "I don't know what Bruno was watching...plodding mule...heavy, no accents"
Len: 5 "It was so terrible last week anything would have been an improvement...lots of style but no substance"
Alesha: 5 "I like the intro, I like the drama...do need to strengthen your body from head to toe"
Bruno: 6 "Tempestuous temptress...much more content...actually looked like you can dance"

Total Score: 20

Audley Harrison & Natalie Lowe Quickstep

Not a fan of the start on the stage, and isn't that a lift also?!

Frame not too bad but still needs improvement, but Audley is again showing that he can be light on his feet.

I'd like to see an improvement in his use of heels, and it feels a little pedestrian at times, and they very nearly trip over right in front of the judges.

Not a bad performance but still needs a little polish, just a 6 for me.

Craig: 5 "Timing got out at the beginning...lot more energy [required]...much lighter than I'd expected"
Len: 6 "Up the top you are joyful and full of verve...from the waist down we've got to get better in the footwork"
Alesha: 6 "Lot's of good content in the routine...right attitude for this competition...need to work on those feet"
Bruno: 7 "I think you did incredibly well...feet the size of surfboards!...I think you did very well"

Total Score: 24

Robbie Savage & Ola Jordan Tango

A really good Foxtrot last week so I'm looking forward to seeing his Tango.

Needs to work more on his posture and really don't agree with the chair dance but he's got good characterisation.  Lacks a little bit of drive for my liking, and needs to keep his chin up.

Almost stumbles with Ola at the end, which would have been a dangerous situation for her.

A good Tango, compared to the others we've seen tonight, so I think I'll give him a 7.

Craig: 7 "Full of aggression...well done"
Len: 7 "Robbie the Savage attacks the Tango...full of attack and aggression...no one said it's easy"
Alesha: 8 "You should be proud...bundles of attitude and passion"
Bruno: 8 "Stronger and stronger"

Total Score: 30

Russell Grant & Flavia Cacace Foxtrot

Russell looks like he's trying to entice the camera but he's really giving the dancing a go, which is great to see.

Really looks like he's enjoying himself and it really makes his performances so enjoyable to watch, I couldn't help smiling on Saturday night, and I can't help smiling now.

I have no idea what his footwork was like but he's brought back the enjoyment I felt from the first week.  Think I'm going to have to give him a 7!

Craig: 6 "I would advise a more masculine approach...a little less Barbara darling and a bit more Rambo"
Len: 7 "You were like a little white cloud drifting across the floor, and your little yellow dickie was the sun...put the 'show' in showbiz"
Alesha: 7 "You are my guilty pleasure"
Bruno: 8 "Uplifting quality of blazing sunshine...I've enjoyed it so much"

Total Score: 28

Jason Donovan & Kristina Rihanoff Tango

Well this looks a little camp for a Tango, and suddenly there's a roar on Jason's face...I don't know if I can take it seriously especially with the camp challenge section in front of the judges.

There was something I didn't like about this routine on Saturday night, but having watched it again I have no idea what it was.  Just watched a third time and it's his hunched over frame after the disco section.

Ignoring that though it's another fantastic performance and Jason's definitely coming out as the top contender at the moment.  Originally I gave this an 8 in front of the students but on second (and third) viewings I'm going to upgrade to a 9.

Craig: 9 "Stu-pen-dous"
Len: 9 "I'm going to call you the midwife because you keep delivering"
Alesha: 9 "Incredible Tango with a twist"
Bruno: 9 "Strong, powerful, aggressive...then camp as Christmas...Fan-tast-ic"

Total Score: 36

Chelsee Healey & Pasha Kovalev Cha Cha Cha

Chelsee's hip action was a little bit lacking in the Salsa last week so I'm hoping they've worked on it some more for this Cha Cha.

We use Beggin' as one of the tracks in our Cha Cha playlist, it's a great track to dance to.

I feel Chelsee's hip action is a little bit forced, it should come more from what the feet are doing.  The whole routine just seems to be a little bit too frantic and complicated, something that I think Pasha needs to take into consideration, I know she's talented but you have to help her into the competition before she can shine.

Disappointing as I still think she's got a lot to offer but just a 7 from me.

Craig: 6 "Timing, energy and spirit absolutely fantastic...very hit and miss...too disco"
Len: 8 "Need to take more attention to detail...come out and give it some wellie!...Pasha you know what I'm saying"
Alesha: 8 "So close to being a great Cha Cha Cha...just need to tighten up on a few little things"
Bruno: 8 "Cha Cha is defined as cheeky, saucy, playful...you have all of that"

Total Score: 30

Harry Judd & Aliona Vilani Jive

Not really seeing a lot of Jive here, a lot of Grease disco dancing though Harry is performing the dance really well.

I'm never that happy with Aliona's routines, I think she's goes far too much for gimmicks when she could instead be really showing off what Harry is capable of.

He's a good dancer, but this wasn't a good Jive as there really wasn't any Jive there really to mark on.

Not sure how to mark it so I'm going to abstain on this one and see what the judges thought.

Craig: 8 "You have FINALLY arrived"
Len: 8 "Sharp kicks and flicks, great musicality...would have liked a little less messing about"
Alesha: 9 "A lot of messing about, but I liked it...so good to see you having fun and letting go"
Bruno: 8 "Action packed expression of youth...a very good performance"

Total Score: 33, I'd like the judges to be a little harsher with routines that don't actually feature enough of the choreography of the dance!

Scoreboard

1. 36 points - Jason & Kristina (9)
2. 33 points - Harry & Aliona (-)
3. 32 points - Alex & James (8)
4. 31 points - Rory & Erin (7)
5. 30 points - Holly & Artem (6)
5. 30 points - Robbie & Ola (7)
5. 30 points - Chelsee & Pasha (7)
8. 28 points - Russell & Flavia (7)
9. 27 points - Anita & Robin (6)
10. 26 points - Lulu & Brendan (7)
11. 24 points - Dan & Katya (6)
11. 24 points - Audley & Natalie (6)
13. 20 points - Nancy & Anton (6)

So table is again fairly accurate, on Saturday night I predicted that Audley & Nancy could be in trouble.

Result

First group safe are as follows:

Audley & Natalie
Alex & James
Rory & Erin
Holly & Artem
Anita & Robin
Robbie & Ola


Whilst first in the bottom two are Dan & Katya.


Second group safe:


Lulu & Brendan
Harry & Aliona
Jason & Kristina
Russell & Flavia
Chelsee & Pasha


Meaning that Nancy & Anton join Dan & Katya in the bottom two.

If there was a dance off then I think Nancy would be going home but unfortunately that's not the case this series.

Going home then, if you haven't worked it out by the greyed out photo above, are Dan & Katya! 

Reflecting back on his highlight of being part of Strictly, Dan stated “Oh, dancing with Katya – it’s a wonderful opportunity to dance with somebody who works at the top of their profession, who is so talented.”

And Katya added, “I have loved every single moment of it. I loved my tennis lesson”. I shall cherish that. I didn’t get a chance to get up with you at 3:30am though!”

Kara Tointon & Artem Chigvintsev - Rumba

Kara struggles to get through her opening VT discussing Artem, so it's fitting that they have the Rumba to perform tonight, a beautiful dance we got to watch first hand last week.

Kara's looking a bit emotional at the start, most likely as she's just had to watch that whole first VT on a massive screen above the band.

There's a few wobbles but it's another excellent performance.  Can't be less than a 10!

Craig: 9 "Bruno is absolutely right...was an illegal lift in their sadly"
Len: 10 "The more you see it, the better it gets"
Alisha: 10 "I need a tissue...I think you just raised the bar even more"
Bruno: 10 "Glorious Rumba of hypnotic beauty...sensuous, romantic, technically always pushed to the limit"

Total Score: 39

Scott Maslen & Natalie Lowe - Rumba

Can Scott pull off one of the hardest dances for male celebs? 

Hip action's not bad, a little bit shaky at times and needs to keep his hands palm down during open outs and finish them better.  A very good Rumba though and definitely benefited from having it later in the competition.

I'm going to give it an 8, he needs to work on finishing his hands and just smoothing it a bit.

Craig: 4 "Did look like you'd just come out of hospital after a double hip replacement"
Len: 9 "No one realises how difficult it is for the man...by and large I think you pulled it off"
Alisha: 7 "For me you look a bit stuck in your body...a bit stagnant"
Bruno: 8 "This week not quite so hot...wasn't horrific...maintaining fluidity [needs work]"

Total Score: 28 (their lowest score to date)

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

Dancing on Wheels - Show 2

See the show, available until 9.59pm on Thursday 25th March 2010.

So this week the competitors are either performing a Foxtrot (my personal favourite) or a Rumba.

I'm really looking forward to seeing the Foxtrot, I think any of the 'floaty' ballroom dances will really suit a wheeled competitor.

Up first, Diana Morgan-Hill & Mark Foster - Foxtrot

I'd like to see maybe a little more contrast in the speeds, and Diana needs to ensure her arms are shaped and 'finished' when she's apart from Mark.

Some very nice and well time maneuvers and I think a really good use of the chair in that dance. I think they'll be easily safe this week.

Paul Jacob & Heather Small - Rumba

Heather really struggled to stay in time last week, I think if she doesn't manage it this week they could well be going home.

I don't like their arm movements, they always look uncomfortable, and Heather needs to count in her head rather than evidently.

A nice ending but I didn't really think most of the dance was that good i'm afraid and early contenders for the dance-off.

Simone Milani & Kevin Sacre - Rumba

The best performance last week, I want to see how Simone copes without being in hold for the majority of the routine.

Kevin doesn't look as comfortable with the Latin as he did with the Tango last week, and Simone's hands are actually better than Kevin's.

Nowhere near as good as their routine last week but still a much better performance than Paul & Heather.

Harry Maule & Michelle Gayle - Rumba

Not a particularly good performance last week, I hope they do better this week.

Some nice moves at the start, it's just such a shame that Harry can't sit up straighter in his chair (something that Ade suggested last week shouldn't be as much of a problem as Harry appears to make it).

A nice performance but still could do with improvement.

I can't imagine how hard it is for Harry to stay in time with those shakes going on!

James O'Shea & Caroline Flack - Foxtrot

So Caroline almost didn't show, due to sickness - which would have seen them ejected from the competition and everyone else given a bye - but finally she did show up and let's hope they do the dance justice.

Ballroom must be an interesting challenge for the man, normally required to lead, when you can't really get the purchase in the floor to guide your partner.

A good performance and flowed well, though it looked like Caroline had a little slip up in the middle, but probably the best performance of the night.

Overview

I think the bottom two will be Paul & Heather and Harry & Michelle. This'll be a close one but I think Heather's timing issue, two weeks in a row, will be a major downfall for them if she mucks up in the dance-off.

It's interesting to see the interaction between the three judges, considering that two of them are married, but there does seem to be independant opinions being shown.

Dance-off and Result

Bottom two as predicted then, everything on this performance for both of them.

I'm stil not impressed with Heather's use of her body, it still looks really forced, and she's unfortunately gone completely out of time again. That I think will see them going home.

Michelle could dance a little softer but it does look like Harry has heeded Ade's request to stand up better. Michelle does look very uncomfortable and forced in quite a few of the movements though.

Voting then:

James - Harry & Michelle
Ola - Harry & Michelle
Ade - Harry & Michelle

Unanimously then Paul & Heather are sent home 3-0, not a suprise I'm afraid as I do think they were the weakest couple left. Harry & Michelle do need to up their game though if they want any chance of staying in next week.

What do you think of how the show's developing, and this week's result?

Rachel Stevens & Vincent Simone - Rumba

Rachel was one of the best female celebrity Rumba dancers I've seen on Strictly, and I'm looking forward to seeing their dance tonight.

Ah the pivot, ever an audience favourite, and well placed in a varied and sensual routine.

However during the lift at the end Rachel needed to put some shaping into her legs as they did look like they were just hanging there.

Technically the lift shouldn't have been in there anyway so I'll ignore it (seeing as the judges appear to be ignoring lifts too!) so will have to say potentially another perfect score.

Chris Hollins & Ola Jordan - Rumba

I personally really liked Chris' Rumba back in his first week but there was still significant room for improvement, let's hope 10/11 weeks on has seen that improvement realised!



At times Chris' hands look really good, at others they are just stuck out, but thankfuly mainly there is some shaping there.

I'd like to see more hip action though, to match the sheer amount of chest on show.

He certainly acted a good Rumba, could still do with improvement though. I'd give him an 8.

Laila Rouass & Anton du Beke - Rumba

I thought their Paso last week was very good, and deserved higher marks than it received. Anton's Latin choreography has been a bit weak this series so i'm hoping we see some improvement in the content.

That foot/ankle injury is obviously causing Laila serious problems and the dance has definitely suffered.

I think they might let Anton get away with that lift this week!

The main problem is that Laila couldn't generate any hip action as it requires pushing into the floor.

So difficult to have any opinion on a score and there have to be a lot of generosity to get anything higher than a 6, unfortunately.

Phil Tufnell & Katya Virshilas - Rumba

This, I'm afraid Phil, could potentially be a disaster!

Needs to relax the shoulders right from the start. Looks to have lost his timing just before going into the sliding doors.

Hip action is ok but could do a lot more. Not a bad performance but I think only 7's though - apparently he's Bruce's favourite.

Judges scores: CRH 6, LG 8, AD 7, BT 7.

Ricky Groves & Erin Boag - Rumba

Ricky has consistently been the clown in the competition so far, but he can't really afford to be too funny in this dance.

The weight loss is definitely showing in Ricky now and he's looking good, though the hips are a little forced in that beginning, and still needs to watch his shoulders when in hold.

Not so sure on the arms being flung everywhere but a serious effort from Ricky. Not a bad performance I think and I would say yet more 7's (swiftly becoming a habit tonight!)

Ricky Whittle & Natalie Lowe - Rumba

Hitchhiker! That's the word I was thinking of, still not good i'm afraid though Richard.

So, the girl's favourite is up next, and starts by flashing the torso to his fans!

Nice hip action but needs to sort the shoulders out - makes him look uncomforable.

Really good lines however and the only partnership to utilise the slightly faster/sharper Rumba speed.

Overall a good Rumba but only worth a 7 I'd say.

Jo Wood & Brendan Cole - Rumba

Jo lacked confidence in her Tango last night and the Rumba may prove to be a difficult dance too.

No action at all in her Rumba walks, and shame they got caught up together.

There wasn't much of an atmosphere between them and I think she'll get 5's if they're feeling generous.

Zoe Lucker & James Jordan - Rumba

I'm afraid I really don't think Laila's dance was worth a 7 Len, but everyone else agreed with my 6.

Zoe struggled during the week with the sensual side of the dance so will be interesting to see how she copes with the pressure of a live performance.

Needs to round her hip action out a little more, but not a bad start and a good performance all round, very intimate acting at the end.

Best performance so far and I think this could get 8's, maybe a 7.

Craig Kelly & Flavia Cacace - Rumba

During the week Craig's hips and arms weren't quite working in sync, let's see if a couple of days more of practice have helped.

Needs to have a fot transition between moves with the hands at the start, improved by the time he gets to the cucarachas.

No real connection or emotion in the dance between them though. Predicted a 6 and I think that'll be it.

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!

Rumba walking...

Apparently Natalie Lowe's advice to Ricky Whittle, to perfect his Rumba walk, was to imagine he's walking down the street with change in his pocket and he's trying not to jingle it - will definitely have to test that one out!

I once read that the Rumba walk that we try so hard to perform, are natural to animals such as camels for example:




So guys, that's all you've got to aim for...!

Good question

After receiving the following comment on one of my previous posts, I felt it deserved a post of its own:

Hi Antony. One question after Saturday. Why did Len criticise Chris Hollins' hand movement for the New York in the rumba?

He said that for men, spreading the fingers and pointing the middle one down is "not a good look" and that they should keep the outer 3 digits bandaged together.

But that is how you teach and obviously Ola as well, since she took the blame for this on the show, so I'd be interested in your reaction ...

Thanks, Maggie



Personally I learnt the middle finger down, I teach guys to hold the middle two down – I don’t like the look of the three fingers together.

The Walter Laird technique book shows the middle finger down in the pictures, but there is no guidance other than that.

I would say that Chris' hands were really good myself, and like with most judging it really does come down to personal preference once you get past technique.

However if you watch any of the male professionals from Saturday night they all have one or two fingers down (not at right angles but say around 20 degrees) so I think Len is wrong to criticise this - especially as it's effectively criticising Ola as Chris' teacher.

The dance off!

Both dancing a Rumba, this makes comparison a lot easier!

...

Rav first...

A better performance I think than earlier on and hips are working better than earlier (though not always in the correct direction!)

...

Now Martina...

Just feels like there's more emotion in those first few steps than Rav's whole dance.  Taking slightly smaller steps now which is helping (wonder if she saw the blog!)

Loss of balance there as she gets carried away, let's hope that doesn't ruin her chances.

...

Will the judges base on both dances, or just the dance off?!  For me i'm afraid it has to be Rav still to go.

Martina Hingis & Matthew Cutler

...and now I'm back in time with the live show!

...

Rumba I think will work for Martina but she will need to use her core ab muscles better tonight. 

...

Not too bad to begin, still needs to use the floor better - and maybe take smaller side steps in the Cucaracha's.

Hands not too bad but need work.

Make sure your weight is over the foot when moving.

I think this will be a 6-7