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!”

Ann Widdecombe & Anton Du Beke - Tango

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Total Score: 27

Pamela Stephenson & James Jordan - Tango

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

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

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

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

Total Score: 34

Gavin Henson & Katya Virshilas - Tango

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

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

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

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

Total Score: 23

Felicity Kendal & Vincent Simone - Tango

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

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

I'm going to give it an 8.

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

Total Score: 29

Scott Maslen & Natalie Lowe - Tango

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

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

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

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

Total Score: 35

Strictly Come Dancing - Saturday 23rd October

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

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

First up, Jimi Mistry & Flavia Cacace.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Original story here.

Jade Johnson & Ian Waite Tango

After seeing that there's no doubt that Jade was an incredibly strong contender for this title.

My old teacher Mary (Ian's step-mum) choreographed this dance and was gutted when they couldn't perform it on the night.

I feel so sorry for Ian as this was probably his best chance for making it to the final, let's hope he gets someone equally as good next year.

Ali Bastian & Brian Fortuna - Tango

Another dance where Ali won’t be able to ‘float’ round the floor so will be interesting to see how she copes with the passion and aggression required in this dance.

Slight slip in the spins at the start and they appear to be incorporating rising into the dance at points.

Ali is looking quite unsteady at times.

An ok performance but I wasn’t too impressed so far, will have to say 8.

The moment of truth, dance off, and result

Will my prediction of a Laila and Ricky dance off pan out?

Bottom three as expected, now who have the public gone for?

Yep Natalie & Vincent are saved by the audience, and Laila and Ricky are in the dance-off.

More importantly it's Erin versus Anton!

If Ricky can perform without making any mistakes then we could have a competition on our hands, otherwise I think he's going home.

Laila still stumbles in the same move near the end, which is a shame, and she looks very uncomforable during the final pivots. But not a bad performance, all down to Ricky now.

Looks like a much improved performance on earlier and I really don't know how to call this one.

I think Ricky has been more consistent, though Laila has scored highly in a few of her dances.

On that basis I think it will be Ricky going home.

Just waiting on Len to confirm whether it's 3 or 4-0...and Len confirms it would've been 4-0.

Do you agree with the outcome from tonight? Look out Natalie and Laila, there's no-one below you now!

Ricky Groves & Erin Boag - Tango

So I didn't expect a comical take on a Paso, let's see if Ricky can keep it serious for the Tango.



Emma's not really 'feeling' Erin's dress this week, and I must admit it does look a little weird.

Just loses a little bit of drive at times and his dropped head makes him look a little unconfident. Seems to be making mistakes but can't tell.

It was an ok performance but I don't think he'll score higher than a 7.

Tango tips from Katya Virshilas

Katya Virshilas (who danced a sexy and sultry Tango with Antonio Banderas in Take the Lead - which i've also included a clip of), gives us her top three tips when dancing the Tango.

Clip from Take the Lead:

Katya's top three tips:

Ricky Whittle & Natalie Lowe - Tango

With rumours abound this week that Ricky's split with his girlfriend Carley Stenson was due to his 'close' relationship with Natalie Lowe, this could be a passionate Tango indeed!

Ricky Whittle - Tango

The dance certainly starts with a lot of passion and energy, though it does look quite sloppy at times - is this nerves from having gone first?

Quite a few mistakes creeping in near the end, not like Ricky at all. That's a real shame as it should've been a lot higher but i'm expecting 8's because of all the mistakes.

Judges scores: CRH 8, LG 9, AD 9, BT 9

Phil Tufnell & Katya Virshilas - Tango

A dance that requires passion and control, and absolutely no hip rolling!!! Can Phil cope...

Phil needs to keep the bum in, it does appear to be protruding throughout, and this is also resulting in a slight hunched over frame.

An ok performance that should easily get 7's.

The result

Unfortunately for Richard there was no comparison between him and Craig, surprised Len would've voted them however (not sure if that's a consolation vote though!)

Next week then will see all 14 couples competing against each other, but with only one dance to do rather than the two that most have struggled with so far.

At least I only have to set aside a Saturday night now that the Fridays are finished with.

Now I know the results please feel free to leave any comments/feedback!

Moment of truth and dance-off

Here comes another tense couple of minutes!

Yet another poor decision by the audience, but I think that's just signed Richard's death knell.

So Craig up first with the Tango, and again an uncomfortable looking start - needs to work on the upper body, specifically the frame, and also to lead with the body and not the arms.

Still think that, barring a significant improvement from earlier on, Richard will be going out 4-0.

Richard's timing's definitely better this time around, and still enjoying himself in his hitchhiker moment.

Not enough of an improvement however, and hands really need to be facing toward the floor rather than straight ahead.

Jo Wood & Brendan Cole - Tango

Well done Phil, that'll teach anyone that compared you to John Sergeant (though I seem to recall he did have a very good first Waltz too!)

...

6 predicted...

...

A poor start but quickly recovered.  Looking good for a while, but a bit skippy later on and lacks some control.  Going to be 5's, maybe a 6.