Monday Musings: Week 13 - The Final

I came into the final not really minding which of the finalists would life the glitterball, and I left the programme feeling the same way.

I wasn’t sure if the final could top the semi-final last week, and in some ways it didn’t, because we were only treated to one new dance per couple. Yes, we got to enjoy some other routines again, but it’s really only the showdances that we tune in for. And for that reason, I am only going to comment on these.

The showdances actually seem superfluous these days. What was once a chance to let loose and create something outside of the shackles of ballroom and latin, the showdance is now just a ‘greatest hits’ routine, devoid of anything exciting or new. It seems to be there to showcase what each celebrity has learnt, rather than really being an opportunity to convince the public they deserve to win (or not). Now we have Couples’ Choice, it serves the very purpose that the showdance used to. The showdance is completely redundant. It’s a nice full stop on the series, but it’s not exciting.

JB & Lauren were up first with their Motown routine. It totally showcased JB’s ability to get funky. Lovely partner work, but lots showcasing both of them individually too. It was fun and very easy on the eye. It was relaxed and cool.

I am inclined to agree that Tasha is one of the best dancers we have ever had on Strictly. I'd put her up there with the liked of Ashley Roberts, Natalie Gumede and Danny Mac. She is stunning to watch. Her Sing, Sing, Sing showdance with Aljaž was pure Hollywood glamour. She looked perfect. I loved this routine.

Chris & Dianne's routine was 100% a 'greatest hits' routine, more so than the others, but it was still enjoyable. I loved You Get What You Give as a song choice, mainly because of the lyric "One dance left". It was joyful, and showed what Chris has accomplished.

Sarah & Vito's Cabaret routine was probably by least favourite of the four. That doesn't make it bad, it wasn't at all. The lifts were ambitious, and she sold it all the way through. But it was slightly less tidy than the others, and there were a lot more poses. It was a great routine, but more of a performance than a dance. 

Chris & Dianne were very worthy winners, and were definitely the people’s champions, despite being consistently lower than the others on the leaderboard throughout the competition. I ended up voting for them because it is amazing what they have both achieved. 

I cannot wait to see what happens on the Strictly tour in the new year. Without Chris, it will be a head-to-head between the other three celebrities, who are all dancing with their original partners (including Amy apparently). And yes, I know Shayne, Montell, Wynne and Jamie are also on the tour, but surely the tour winners will be one of our final couples. It's going to be interesting. See you at The O2!

Thursday Thoughts: Week 12 - Semi-Final

What an amazing semi-final. There were so many wonderful routines! It was one of the best shows all-round that we have seen for a long time. Highlight after highlight.

Tasha & Aljaž's salsa started off in a very high-energy way. Tasha's jump from the platform into Aljaž's arms was breathtaking. Her spins throughout were fast, without losing focus. I loved the first big lift, where she slowly walked her feet round the inversion. Unfortunately, the other lifts looked too telegraphed. You could see her lining up for them - put leg here for Aljaž to take hold. But I loved it otherwise.

Their waltz was stunning. It can be a hard dance to make interesting, but I was hooked from the beginning. Tasha was the perfect Disney princess. Gorgeous feet, gorgeous frame (although I did wonder if perhaps Aljaž's right arm was too high in places...), gorgeous rise and fall. I loved it so much, I almost didn't think about Murphy Brown at all...

I loved JB & Lauren's very gothic paso doble. The chemistry between them was spot-on. It was a battle, but yet they were so in sync with each other. It was passionate and dramatic. JB absolutely nailed it. The only thing which could have made it better would have been single-handed cape work. Loved it!

Their salsa was a total groove. It was more earthy than Tasha & Aljaž's routine, and had fewer challenging lifts, which I think was a good thing because it made for a slicker performance. This is the type of routine where JB thrives. Delightful.

Chris & Dianne's Charleston was light and fun. Full of funny moments. His swivvel was OK. It wasn't the most finessed Charleston we've ever seen, but it was entertaining.

Their Viennese waltz, however, was so effective and impactful. Nothing Else Matters is such as beautiful song, and they used it beautifully. It had so much emotion. They covered the floor beautifully well. I got really emotional watching Chris' flerkerl - it was possibly the first time anything had drawn attention to his disability in the whole series. He gave a brilliant attempt at something he has never seen. It got me. A routine which we'll remember in years to come.

I loved Sarah & Vito's tango. It was dramatic from start to finish, and packed full of content. As always, Vito threw everything it at, and Sarah nailed it. She left nothing on the floor. Amazing.

Their jive was a little 'upright' for me, which has been Sarah's issue with Latin throughout the competition. I wonder if her heels are a bit too high for her. They did seem to be ahead of the music through much of the routine as well. It was one of the weaker points of the night for me.

Pete & Jowita's foxtrot was a little close to American smooth for my taste, but he did a good job. It was classy and classic. Credit to Pete for never dancing over Jowita. So many celebs with shorter partners end up leaning forward, but he has always maintained his own frame and posture. The routine nicely showed how far he has progressed, although I am not keen on the "Mr. Strictly Come Dancing" proclamation. I disagree with statements of "what Strictly is all about". It's up to viewers to decide whether Strictly is about dancing, the partnership, the personalities or the journey. It's personal preference.

For the Argentine tango, it was clear that Jowita was in full Ola Jordan mode, totally dancing around Pete while he did a lot of standing. To his credit, he does present her quite nicely and lifts her well, but I wouldn't say he was leading her.

Like most others, I was relieved to see Pete leave the competition. I have really enjoyed his journey, but I prefer everyone else left.

I am now concerned that the final won't reach the peak of the semi-. It was so good. Can the final possibly top it?

Panto Round-Up

Want to know where to find Strictly participants past and present in theatres around the country this year? You're in the right place.

Craig Revel Horwood (judge), Peter Pan - Milton Keynes Theatre, Milton Keynes

Kai Widdrington (pro), Peter Pan - The Auditorium @ M&S Bank Arena, Liverpool

Karen Hauer (pro), Sleeping Beauty - Middleton Arena, Rochdale

AJ Pritchard (ex-pro), Cinderella - Fareham Live, Fareham

Brendan Cole (ex-pro), Goldilocks & The Three Bears - Hull New Theatre, Hull

James Jordan (ex-pro), Cinderella - Winding Wheel Theatre, Chesterfield

Joanne Clifton (ex-pro), Cinderella - Royal & Derngate, Northampton

Julian Clary (Series 2), Robin Hood, London Palladium, London

Gethin Jones (Series 5), Cinderella - New Theatre, Cardiff

Dani Harmer (Series 10), Beauty & The Beast - Grand Opera House, York

Louis Smith (Series 10), Snow White - New Theatre Royal, Lincoln

Scott Mills (Series 12), Jack & The Beanstalk - Grand Theatre, Swansea

Danny Mac (Series 14), Peter Pan - Birmingham Hippodrome, Birmingham

Lesley Joseph (Series 14), Snow White - Theatre Royal, Plymouth

Ore Oduba (Series 14), Adaddin - Assembly Hall, Tunbridge Wells

Robert Rinder (Series 14), Snow White - Theatre Royal, Plymouth

Alexandra Burke (Series 15), Jack & The Beanstalk - New Wimbledon Theatre, London

Brian Conley (Series 15), Goldilocks & The Three Bears - Bristol Hippodrome, Bristol

Joe McFadden (Series 15), Jack & The Beanstalk - Central Theatre, Chatham

Faye Tozer (Series 16), Sleeping Beauty - New Victoria Theatre, Woking

Ranj Singh (Series 16), Snow White - Churchill Theatre, Bromley

Catherine Tyldsley (Series 17), Snow White- Lyceum Theatre, Sheffield

Karim Zeroual (Series 17), Aladdin - Beck Theatre, Hayes (Middx.)

Maisie Smith (Series 18), Beauty & The Beast - Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury

Su Pollard (Christmas 2011), Sleeping Beauty - Darlington Hippodrome, Darlington

Please drop me a line if I have missed anyone.

Friday Feelings: Week 11

This is always the easiest week to cover. Seven couples, seven routines, seven musicals.

Sarah & Vito got to kick things off with a Charleston to one of the biggest musicals of the moment - Wicked. The routine was a series of gravity defying lifts (see what I did there?). Sarah is so fearless! I would have liked Sarah in a slightly zanier role, rather than the more irritating role of Galinda, but she did what she could in the parameters of the character she was given. I barley noticed Vito.

Montell & Johannes were dealt a bit of a dirty hand. The music was very slow to begin with, and Montell didn't really breathe enough with it to fill the music. There was too much stillness. She also didn't always fill the space - her arms were too contracted in places. It was better when it sped and and there was more impetuous. But it was forgettable music, and rumba can be a hard sell. As soon as I watched the routine, I knew Montell would be in trouble. Incidentally, I saw the movie, and while I have never seen the original film or read the book, it absolutely did not work for me as a musical film. Maybe it was better on stage.

I loved Tasha & Aljaž's Argentine tango. The choreography was dynamic and intricate. She has such beautiful leg lines, and they were showed off to perfection. Absolutely amazing. I cannot understand why she was in the bottom two. Breathtaking.

Chris & Dianne's quickstep was light and joyful. Lovely, close hold throughout. I liked the cheekiness that they incorporated, as it is quite a cheeky number from Anything Goes. It was fast, flat and fabulous.

Oh, Pete. Pete really has hit his ceiling in the competition. I really like the fella, and I appreciate the progress he has made, but messing up and whisk and chassé in the quarter final is pretty unforgivable. It's one of the earlies waltz steps you learn. There was also a lift, Jowita's feet clearly left the floor, but I guess we don't care about that anymore.

JB & Lauren's Viennese waltz was a nice way to close the show. Pretty classic choreographically. Nothing daring or unexpected, but there is no need to take risks at this stage. I liked the flashes of red provided by JB's open jacket. I thought the additional dancers were a distraction here, as they didn't really add anything. A token lift of Lauren was all. But it enough to take them through.

I was sorry to see Montell in the dance-off again. She did not deserve to go home, although she had no chance against Tasha. The judges made the right decision, but it wasn't a decision they should have been left with.

Saturday Suppositions: Week 10

 Week 10 was everything I wanted Blackpool to be...

We started with Pete & Jowita's tango. I appreciated seeing Pete do a dance with no theme, just a straight-up tango in a nice suit. Easy Lover is not dramatic enough for a tango, but they did their best. The dance suited his moody vibe. I liked it, but Pete is clearly the weakest dancer left in the competition.

Chains had the perfect amount of drama to allow for a rumba with lots of light and shade. Vito is so good at choreographing to the accents in the music. There were a couple of moments where Sarah fell into a move because she wasn't quite supporting her own weight. And as always, it was lacking a bit in hip action, but otherwise it was fab. She's so nice to watch.

JB & Lauren's classic Charleston was a delight. It was bouncy, cheeky and fun. It's a shame that JB seemed to run out of steam toward the end. The lifts could have been a little slicker. But overall, it was fun and full of choreography.

Once again, Jamie presented Michelle in a very mindful way - he really shows her off and supports her. The foxtrot was always going to be a hard sell among a lot of more crowd-pleasing numbers, but they did a very sweet job. Nice footwork. His right arm is too far forward which puts the frame out, but I still like watching him.

The paso was always going to be a difficult dance for Chris because it's so unlike anything else, and so difficult to explain to someone who has never seen it. Dianne was smart to keep most of the dance in hold and focus on moments of shape as well as the appels. It still had drama, and the choice of traditional music and costume helped to sell it. I loved it.

I loved Montell & Johannes' quickstep. It totally suits athletes, and it totally suited her. They flew around the floor in such an effortless way, and Montell was just beaming throughout. She was clearly having a wonderful time. The only thing I didn't like was her dress. Perfect colour, but I hated the stiff bodice which seemed to impair her moments, and the ugly black zip in the back was unforgivable. 

Tasha & Aljaž's American smooth was dreamy. Beautiful lifts, complex choreography. It was almost perfect, but for at least two heel turns with splayed feet. But I guess sometimes you just have to overlook those things when the whole thing is breathtaking.

I loved the sambathon, because it was like a real competition. The couples had to move around the floor, while avoiding others. It really challenged their floorcraft. Of course, any -athon is going to be challenging for the leaders as they have to direct the dance around. It's much harder for the female pros to decide where their leader is taking them. But it is also hard for the celebrity followers, as they cannot assume they will be sticking to a choreographed routine - they have to adapt if their partner chooses to do something else to steer them out of trouble. It was all tinged with hesitation, and it made it real.

I liked that they went back to getting couples to leave the floor when eliminated, as it left space for everyone else. Was it unfair on Chris? Of course. But that wasn't a reason not to include it.

My favourites of the night were Sarah and Chris, but everyone is so good there are no bad routines here. I was sorry to see Jamie leave, but there was no way he was stronger than Montell, who shouldn't really have been in the danceoff.

Sunday Service: Week 9

There's always so much hype for Blackpool. Some of the dances met those lofty expectations, and some didn't. In fact, most didn't. Let's get into it...

I loved Chris & Dianne's American smooth, which opened the show with a bang. It was a big production number, and it suited the Tower Ballroom. There are a few things Chris could still improve. His frame could be bigger. He could pull his shoulders back more. He could place his arms better when he is out of hold. He could be a bit smoother getting Dianne into lifts. But I enjoy watching him so much that I can forgive those little details. 

Montell & Johannes' disco salsa was fun, but Montell lacked fluidity for me. I hated her shoes, which were inelegant. There wasn't enough fluidity between moves. The steps had movement, but between movements it was a bit stiff. Craig said it needed to be more seamless, and I think that's what I am getting at here.

I liked the concept of Sarah & Vito's couples' choice, and it would only work with the additional dancers and the space of the Tower. I loved the ambition, but it didn't quite come off. My major issue is Sarah's lack of hip action, which made the hip thrust moments (of which there were several) look wooden. That ponytail was a liability as well, as it kept sticking to her face. There were some stand-out moments too, though. I really loved the ending where she jumped down to the chair, and then stood back on the table. 

I have never seen anyone so incapable of swiveling, but it's almost as if Wynne's ankles don't twist in that way. That means that this failed to look like a Charleston at all. It's a good thing Katya isn't afraid of a lift, as that was what made this interesting. Wynne certainly sells it, but I'm just not buying.

Pete got completely stitched up last night. The whole concept for is cha cha was questionable, from the Pepto Bismol colour palate to the PVC strides. It was very camp. But Pete just rolls with it, and I admire that. Somehow he maintains a level of masculinity throughout. His timing was not great, but we saw in the week that the counting was proving difficult. But as always he partnered Jowita well, and I was entertained.

I loved JB & Lauren's routine. It was pure quickstep from start to finish. Fast and flying. They didn't stop, no filler. Exactly what a quickstep in this ballroom should be. He was unphased by extra dancers, especially on the section travelling down the floor when they danced as a group. I liked it.

I think I would have liked Tasha & Aljaž's paso more if it had been to a different piece of music. The music lacked crescendos. I was dying for a key change or something to give it some drama. In fact, it washed over me on first viewing, and I needed to watch it again to fully appreciate it. On second view, it was clear that they danced it as if there were crescendos there. The dancing, as always, was flawless. I just hated Tasha's facial expression. Drama came across as 'stank face'.

I absolutely loved how camp and daft Jamie & Michelle's jive was. A giant glittery ketchup bottle? Of course! Dancers dressed as ketchup and mustard? Don't mind if I do! Jamie was properly leading Michelle - the pushes he gave her turns could have spun her to the seafront. His acting when surrounded by the bottles was so fun. His arms were a little overly placed in a couple of places, and he could have been more up on the balls of his feet in places. Why didn't they give him red shoes? Especially when Pete had pink ones. It accentuated the heaviness of his feet. I still don't know why the judges are so down on Jamie. They never seem to praise him more than criticise him.

My favourites were Chris and Jamie, followed by JB. For me the bottom two were in line with the leaderboard. I think Pete got a bit stitched up by the concept, although he is now clearly the weakest in terms of timing. Wynne did not have the styling of the dance at all. I'm really not going to be happy until he is gone.

Sunday Service: Week 8

The couples were fighting for a place on the Blackpool this week, and the judges weren't making it easy for any of the couples. Here's how I thought they got on.

Tasha & Aljaž's quickstep was cute. It was light, fast and very well executed, as always. Lovely footwork and topline. They moved around the floor as one. The only thing I didn't like was Tasha's dress, which was way too bulky for her frame.

I really liked Shayne & Nancy's rumba. They had an emotional connection, which I don't think we've seen from them before. His hands were a bit splayed and ugly at times, but his lovely walks made up for it. It was cute when that smile came across his face. The storytelling was beautiful. A good job.

I kept exclaiming "Wow!" throughout Sarah & Vito's American smooth. The routine was lovely all the way through, and the lifts were breathtaking. The standard of the choreography was so high that I think it was a shame the judges nitpicked so much. I can't believe the scores were so low. Sarah should be very Proud of that performance. 

Pete & Jowita's couples' choice routines absolutely played to his strengths in partnering and making lovely shapes. He presented Jowita beautifully, and he really felt it emotionally in a way I hadn't seen from him before. I think Anton captured it well when he said it was "the greatest hits of you". Lovely storytelling.

JB & Lauren's samba was pure party. I loved the vibe of the dance, and it was clear that JB did too. His body was so fluid, and his hip action was on point. There was lots of recognisable samba content, and a good attempt at the samba rolls. He looked fantastic too, I loved that costume. It's so good to see JB having a good week with Latin.

I loved the intimacy of Jamie & Michelle's Argentine tango. It was very intense. There was a fantastic gancho section in the middle. It possibly lacked a bit of light and shade and dynamism, but that's more a criticism of the choreography than the performance. And yes, maybe he was a bit off balance in places, but I still enjoyed the performance.

I've made no secret of the fact that I don't really like Wynne, and this American smooth didn't do anything to change my mind. This dance didn't really do anything for me. Katya's choreography wasn't as clever as it sometimes is. I think Craig summed it up when he said it lacked style. I think that's exactly why Wynne doesn't work for me. He lacks panache. And that "I'm mad, me" suit didn't help. But you can't put him in black tails because of that ad campaign.

I liked Montell & Johannes' paso, but I felt that some of the time it was a little soft. There were some really strong moments, but there were also some soft moments which could have had even more attack. I know there needs to be light and shade, but that comes from the choreography, the slow and the quick. The routine had light and shade built in already. I loved her intensity. I really liked it, but I wanted even more.

Chris & Dianne's couples' choice routine looked like a showdance. If they make the final, I'm not sure where they go from here. It was nice to see Chris look relaxed, as there was no technique to worry about it. So many lifts, which well well executed. A small error on the judges' side of the floor, but I'm not completely sure who went wrong. I lovely routine which was enjoyable to watch.

JB and Sarah were my favourites this week. It's so hard to pick a bottom two, as everyone is so good. I'd happily see Wynne in the bottom. I guess I'd have to put Jamie or Shayne there too, but I loved both of their routines. I wouldn't like to be in the judges' shoes for the results show.

Saturday Suppositions: Week 7

 Icons Week. Oh dear. What a mess. Let's get into it...

Oh Pete. The salsa was a dance disaster. I almost wanted him in the bottom two to give him a chance to do it again correctly. The lift in the middle was good, but he didn't quite get hold of Jowita at the end so it was a bit messy. And he spent the rest of the dance just not really doing much. Not an exciting routine. I am warming to Pete, though. He seems to have found a love of dance and it's cute.

I really don't understand what the judges see in Wynne. They shower him with parise, and I don't know why. His rumba was competent, yes, but it lacked fluidity in places. He's trying hard, no doubt about that, but I don't enjoy the shapes he makes with his body. Perhaps Craig was right, it had too much attack. Too much emotion to the point of being affected. Katya was phenomenal, though.

Sam & Nikita's American smooth was very sweet. It had elegance and poise. Sam looked steadier on her own feet than perhaps she has up to this point. The hold was good, the footwork was solid. One of her better dances.

Chris & Dianne's tango was a bit hampered by the song choice, which wasn't staccato enough for a tango, nor did it have any kind of crescendo. The tango is a tricky dance to understand if you have never seen it, because it's hard to understand the drama it requires. I felt this was the first routine which might have suffered due to Chris disability. Everything else was there, as always. His timing was great, he led Dianne well.

Did anyone feel nervous seeing a Madonna track starting with a cape and a set of stairs? I love Sarah, but her cha cha was a little too 'upright' for me. Her legs are so straight and balletic that the cha cha lacked a bit of movement for me. She doesn't have much action which the dance needs to give it dynamism. Otherwise, she is amazing. And Vito's "What is wedgie?" question will live on in Strictly lore. 

JB's couples' choice was 24-karat magic! I loved it. And I think JB had a bit of a touch being partnered by Lauren for this number. I love Amy, I really do, but I don't think this dance would have been quite this good with her partnering JB. It was so wonderful to see JB finally shine.

Montell & Johannes' waltz was cursed. This arrangement of I Will Always Love You was not good. How Johannes made something of it shows what a fantastic pro he is. Montell is a beautiful dancer, and I think she was just unlucky to be in the dance off. The waltz is not a wow dance. As a Whitney fan, they should have given Montell an uptempo dance instead.

I don't get why the judges love Wynne, yet they seem to always give Jamie a hard time. Jamie had some really nice shaping in the samba, lovely hip action, nice footwork. The promenade runs were delightful. He and Michelle are becoming a good partnership, and I disagree with the judges that they lack connection.

The contemporary, lyrical type of couples' choice (or showdance) is not really my bag unless it's done really well. Tasha & Aljaž did do it really well. The lift section in the middle was professional level. But I'm afraid it didn't make me feel anything. It was beautiful, I just didn't connect with it emotionally.

I don't really know why they decided to end the show with Shayne & Nancy. There was quite a lot of gapping during the fast-moving sections of their quickstep. There seemed to be a lot of dead time where they were not in hold. I don't really understand why he needed to take off the jacket. I don't think it was hiding his body or getting in the way. It was a big moment in the dance which served no purpose.

Icons Week was a bit underwhelming. I don't like that we have had two theme weeks in a row. JB was my favourite of the week by a mile, and the only one I would want to watch again. The bottom two for me were Pete, because he messed it up so royally, and possibly Chris because he wasn't able to get the drama of the dance. But I voted for both of them because I wasn't ready to see either of them go, and I was hoping that Wynne might end up in the dance-off.

It's a shame that Sam got knocked out on what was quite a strong week for her, but we're getting to the point where everyone is pretty decent. Every dance-off is going to be tough. Montell was just unlucky, and hopefully she will absolutely nail the paso this week.

Saturday Suppositions: Week 6

I was away last weekend, so I was a little late to the Halloween party. So better late than pregnant (IYKYK), here are my thoughts on last week's special.

Chris & Dianne kicked off the show with their disco samba. There is a certain amount of artistic licence that has to be tolerated on a theme week. The samba had zombie elements which weren't quite in keeping with the dance. But I enjoyed it nonetheless. As the judges noted, it was too jumpy instead of bouncy, but Chris continues to bring fun to the floor.

I really enjoyed Pete & Jowita's Viennese waltz. Some of Pete's moves weren't finished completely, he doesn't always close his feet properly. There was at attempt at a fleckerl in there, and they covered the floor well. And he totally nailed the character. He embodied Joker, and that took it from an OK routine into a good performance.

I thought that Montell & Johannes' cha cha was good, but I didn't love it. I felt that Montell's body got lost in a mass of hair, tassels and sleeves. I felt like I couldn't see her, she was hidden. It was good, but it just didn't stand out for me. I love this pairing, and I want to see them fly.

Punam didn't look steady on her feet during the tango, and Gorka was keeping her up and getting her where she needed to be. She needed more sharpness, and she needed her bodyweight be on her own feet. But I enjoyed the routine - it had plenty of content.

Katya is fearless. She always gets her partners to lift her in ridiculous ways, even when perhaps it might be beyond them. The first and last lifts were fine, but that shoulder plank lift in the middle was not comfortable to watch. It was a bit too ambitious for Wynne. The dancing in between was fine, although a bit 'picked-up' and not into the ground enough.

JB & Amy's foxtrot was very sweet. The footwork was good, his frame continues to improve. It was a charming routine. Not a showstopper, but competent and nice to watch. 

Tasha & Aljaž's samba was so much fun. I loved the characterisation, but there was also a recognisable dance in there. I very rarely say this, but they actually look like a professional couple. The only thing that wasn't professional level were the batucadas, which didn't have the level of hips that the pros have. But that is being super picky.

I'm afraid I have to agree with the judges about Shayne & Nancy's paso - the theme meant that there wasn't enough paso content, and the dance didn't showcase Shayne enough. What he did get to do was reasonable. His shaping looked a bit off in places, although I think he was hindered by the costume, which cut his body and made him look short. Great storytelling, but death by theming.

I liked Jamie & Michelle's American smooth. A nice mix of content in hold and out of it. The characterisation was there, more so out of hold than in hold. It was a fun routine. He doesn't seem to be that comfortable with lifts, which will be a hindrance if they come to do Argentine tango.

Apart from the opening lift off the bed, which was frankly awkward, Sarah & Vito's lifts were stunning. But the parts of the Argentine tango in hold seemed to lack connection in the body. It was very good, but I almost wish I could've seen an AT from them without the theme.

The Bucks Fizz reveal was definitely the thing which sent Sam & Nikita though to next week. I spent the first half of the routine wondering why they were on last. It was unexpected. But otherwise, Sam's jive lacked sharpness. She was out of time in a very noticeable way. She is starting to fall behind the pack. I liked this number because it was fun, but Sam has a lot of work to do.

Tasha was my favourite of the night. Sam and Punam were the weakest, and I think it was right for Punam to go home. Now on to Icons Week.

Thursday Thoughts: Week 5

 Super-late update this week, and next week is also likely to be super-late. But I'm still here!

JB & Amy's jive just didn't quite get there. JB was a bit heavy footed, and needed to be up on his toes more. He was also a little pigeon-toed at tines. JB has so much personality and looks like he is having fun, but his dancing is letting him down a bit. And I've noticed that Amy has this habit of putting her hand to her throat, which is obviously just something she does with her free arm, but to see it three times in about 16 counts was a bit distracting. They did her dirty with that frock, though. Awful.

Punam & Gorka's Viennese waltz was competent, but just really dull. Nothing stood out. Everything was a bit plain. And there were a few times where Gorka was dancing around Punam. he was definitly doing all the work. There wasn't even a fleckerl to keep things interesting, just a standing spin.

I really liked Jamie & Michelle's paso. I loved the black and white costumes (yes, even Jamie's high trousers). I loved the traditional music and how it built as the routine went on. It had more appel than we have seen from other couples this series. It had a bit of drama. The only thing I didn't like was the weird hand-shaking bit.

You knew Chris & Dianne's waltz was going to be a thing of beauty before they even walked onto the floor. It was emotional without being sentimental. His dancing continues to be very good, too. I've watched it several times now, and I still shed a tear when Dianne leaves Chris to dance alone. He absolutely did his team and his city proud.

Tasha & Aljaž continue to be stunning. Their tango was spot on. I know I am going to enjoy whatever they present. They look amazing together. They cover the floor so well and so effortlessly. It perhaps could have had a little more light and shade - it was a bit one-note. But I didn't dislike it at all.

I did, however, dislike Paul & Karen's samba. The wacky waving inflatable arm flailing tube men were more interesting to watch than Paul. Karen did all of the work, as usual.

I think Sam was beating herself up unnecessarily. There was a small error in the middle of her quickstep, but it certainly wasn't a disaster. She looked elegant and she and Nikita covered the floor well. She still needs to work on her timing, which is still her greatest issue, and will probably will be her ultimate undoing in the competition.

Pete & Jowita's rumba was pretty OK for a male rumba. He looks as though he is leading, even if he probably isn't. He does a reasonable job of showing off Jowita. And there was a good mix of intimicy and outward presentation. I thought it was decent. I could live without the illegal lifts. Len wouldn't stand for it.

Once I got past Sarah looking like Toyah in that wig, I really enjoyed her samba. The routine was light and fun. But I think Sarah left her hips in the dressing room. There was no hip action at all. There was more hip on her sassy walk away at the end of the dance than appeared anywhere in the routine. Vito gave her another complex routine, and she kept up with it all. I really wish the nude illusion fabric on her dress wasn't so loose.

Shayne & Nancy's American smooth was competent but it didn't really stand out. I really loved the lifts, and none of them were easy. Shayne dances, and partners, really well. It was understated, and lovely. I'm glad Shayne didn't end up back in the dance-off, but they'll need to do something to stand out or they might end up there again.

I don't really enjoy watching Wynne. If someone else had done this routine, it would have been really charming and sweet. There was nothing wrong with Katya's creativity. But I find Wynne and his 'dad bants' really cringey. His hold is a bit iffy at times - his right arm is too far forward which makes him sag a little. Yes, he has good musicality. Yes, he is light on his feet. Yes, it was correct throughout. But at no point do I look forward to watching him. Overmarked once again.

Montell & Johannes' couples' choice was total joy. Just like Punam's, it celebrated who she is. Who they both are. It was everything we love about seeing Johannes on tour, and it was stunning. I fear for other couples' choice routines now. I don't think anything can live up to this. Undermmarked! What can Craig possibly not have liked about it?

Montell and Chris was absolutely the best of the night. It was right for Paul to be in the dance-off and to leave. He was getting left behind, and there wasn't anyone in the group that he is better than. JB did go a bit wrong, but the judges were right to save him.

Monday Musings: Week 4

I watched the show on Saturday night, but just didn't have the time to write down my thoughts before the results. I'm not 100% sure I was watching the same show as the judges, though. They seemed to be piling on hyperbole and overmarking all over the shop.

Shayne & Nancy's cha cha just didn't pop for me. It lacked flow and never really got going. I blame the bowling theme for that. Perhaps Shayne was concentrating too hard. It just didn't look relaxed, and his arms looked shortened. He's competent, but just not reaching his potential yet.

Sarah & Vito's foxtrot didn't really get going for me either. It felt a bit 'small'. Sarah is a lovely dancer, and as Shirley noted, her spotting is impeccable. But this dance just didn't sing in the way other dances have done for her. I don't know why they changed hold for a few counts - it jarred with the feel of the piece for me.

I enjoyed Nick & Luba's Charleston. It was sweet. And given his injury he did really well. He's quite light on his feet for a big fella. I thought the routine was joyful.

I think Jamie played the part of a wide-boy holiday rep really well. The salsa was pretty solid, and it's clear that Michelle really trusts him as a partner. His partnering skills are really strong. What I'd like to see next is for him to develop his performance so that he is dancing for all of us instead of just being focused on being a great partner. Definitely his best week so far.

I thought Wynne & Katya's tango was overmarked. I know the tango is supposed to to staccato, but it was a bit jerky and lacked drive and flow for me. His left arm was a bit far forward for my liking, the frame didn't look quite right. The storytelling was there, though. He took on the character.

Definitely not a good week for Punam & Gorka. Punam's jive was so flat-footed it made for an ugly presentation. There were a couple of very obvious errors. She also needs to learn how to stand when Gorka is moving and she isn't so she looked posed and not just waiting for the next step, or the bus.

Paul showed improvement this week. The quickstep actually felt like a competent dance. It's a shame you could drive a bus between Paul and Karen for most of the dance. But his hold and his timing were a bit better. He's certainly not amazing, but his is improving.

JB & Amy's rumba was fine. It was correct, there were plenty of recognisable figures. But I didn't feel any emotion, either romantic or raunchy. As Motsi commented, it was very technical and well danced. But just not very interesting.

I enjoyed Chris & Dianne's salsa. He partnered her really well, and it's clear that they trust each other. His timing is excellent. His feet were a bit 'picked up', he could have been a little more into the floor. He bobs up and down a bit. A little finessing would make it even better.

Montell & Johannes' Viennese waltz was nice. Danced well, great timing, nice line. Just not exciting and I'm not sure why. Maybe a bland song, I don't know.

Sam's samba was a bit awkward, sadly. She gave it absolutely everything, but she's just not a natural dancer so it ended up reading as a bit naff. I'm glad she and Nikita enjoyed dancing it, and I respect her efforts.

Pete also showed improvement this week. There was a little moment when he went out of sync with Jowita so they were bobbing up and down at opposite times, but overall it was an improvement, and I enjoyed watching their quickstep.

Is there anything Tasha can't do? I wasn't sure about a festival-themed Charleston, but it worked. She's such a neat dancer, she gives it everything without it being wild. She's completely unstoppable. The lifts were great. She and Aljaž could be the perfect partnership.

Punam and Sam were the bottom two for me this week, followed closely by Paul. I was sorry to see Nick depart, and I don't feel we really got to see everything that he might be able to do, although it was right that the judges saved Shayne. He didn't really deserve to be in the bottom. I'd love to see Nick come back for a Christmas special some time.

Monday Musings: Week 3

Here are my belated thoughts on Saturday night's Movie Week special...

Montell & Johannes started the night with a tango. I love One Night Only, but the arrangement by the band was fairly standard, and therefore it didn't lend itself to tango. The whole thing lacked drama for me. Montell is a very competent dancer, but this routine lacked light and shade for me. None of this is her fault, of course. It's just annoying when the songs aren't appropriate to the dance.

Toyah & Neil's samba was definitely more theme week than technical samba. There were some nice samba rolls and promenade runs, and Toyah absolutely brought the characterisation, but it didn't really work as a samba. I'd love to see Toyah play some sort of witch in a panto after that, but this was not a routine which was going to save her from the bottom of the leaderboard.

Chris & Dianne's jive was a masterclass in theming. There were nods to Wayne's World, but there was still plenty of jive content to make the dance recognisable. Lovely toe-heel swivels, nice picked-up knees. I loved it. I'm just concerned that this could lead to lots of dodgy fan fiction based on Wayne and Garth dancing a jive together...

More early-series rumba action, this time from Tasha & Aljaž. I fear that Tasha is peaking too early, and people are going to tire of her. This was another brilliant performance. with lots of clean figures. There is little to dislike (other than Aljaž's dodgy Ken wig). She really understands how to move her body and the shapes she can make.

The musical arrangement did more cha cha in this routine than Paul did. His timing is not good at all. Aside from a few New Yorkers and walks, there wasn't much content. Karen is giving it everything, but she is back-leading the whole thing. Let it be over soon.

Sarah & Vito's Viennese waltz was as magical as the boy the music inspired. Sarah is such a beautifully neat dancer, it is wonderful to watch. Perhaps the dance could have been flatter, and Anton had a point about her head placement, but otherwise it was glorious. Putting Vito in an academic gown was a stroke of genius, as it gave the dance even more movement.

Pete (or George) is improving, although his samba with Jowita was a little odd. His timing was out in places, but I am enjoying his growing confidence. His hip action wasn't quite there - he had a good forward and backward thrust, but lacked the figure of eight motion needed to make the samba more fluid.

JB & Amy's American smooth was sweet and bright, as you'd expect for a routine to Pure Imagination. There is some finessing that would make things even better, and I feel that if this was coming a few weeks later it would have been even better. He could do with a little more drive. To do American smooth before foxtrot is a bit difficult for the celebrities, though. I really wish they could do more ballroom first.

For me, Sam's paso lacked sharpness and appel. They used to spend so much time on the show talking about the staccato nature of paso, and the importance of appel. That was totally lacking for me here. It was all a bit one-note. Sam's timing is still a little off in places. She and Nikita are working hard, but she has a way to go still.

Shayne & Nancy spent so much time out of hold that I had to check if they were doing a Viennese waltz or an American smooth. I picked up on the same thing about Shayne's left arm as Anton (you'll have to take my word for it, but I have a witness!) - he needs to expand his frame to make the whole thing 'bigger'. He's a competent dancer otherwise.

Wynne has very good timing, there is no doubt about that, but this cha cha was a bit 'dad dancer' for my taste. The lack of finesse was fine for a theme week, but it didn't work for me otherwise. I really want to see him and Katya do a straight Latin routine and see how he fares, as he's been hiding behind characters so far.

Punam & Gorka's routine is what Couple's Choice should be. It was refreshing to have a Bollywood routine, which meant something to Punam, rather than just another hip-hop or balletic waft which could be danced by anyone. As ever, it is impossible to judge a CC against any other dance. I can't help thinking this would have been better saved for a week with backing dancers, as it would have been even better with more colour and more movement. But well done to the show for putting this in prime time.

I liked Jamie & Michelle's quickstep. It was bright and they covered the floor well. There was lots of content and most of the routine was in hold without too much faff. I feel like Jamie just hasn't quite popped yet. He's so close to wowing us, and I can't wait to see it when he does.

There is no question that Toyah and Paul were the bottom two. Personally, I would have sent Paul home. I felt that Toyah's timing was a little better, and her characterisation and storytelling was better than Paul's.

Sunday Service: Week 2

Week 2. Second numb behind of the series.

I guess disco cha cha makes a change from disco salsa. Tom's posture was a little better than last week, but unfortunately, his cha cha was a bit flat and ploddy. Nadiya did a lot of the heavy lifting. He did have a bit of performance, though, which was nice for a non-performer.

Punam once again seemed to be given the mummy on a night out role, this time with a bit of Shania Twain. Her foxtrot with Gorka was nice enough. He footwork needs work, but wasn't horrific. Her topline could have been tighter, but for Week 2, it was pretty good.

The most interesting thing about Paul & Karen's salsa was the mirrorball barbecue. Paul did lots of walking, lots of standing and a little bit of lifting. Not much else. Any attempt at dancing was atrocious. I did not enjoy it at all. Poor Karen.

Wynne & Katya's Viennese waltz was captivating. Wynne's timing was lovely, and they glided around the floor as one. The hard work on his posture was evident. The routine had lovely musicality. So much better than last week.

JB & Amy's cha cha was slick and smooth. JB was ever so slightly pigeon-toed, but otherwise it was great. The chemistry between the two of them is starting to come along. I disagree that it was jagged or spiky, I thought it was pretty smooth. Any spikiness was in keeping with the music.

Sam really needs to watch her timing. She was out at times last week, and she was again this week. The Charleston needs the partners to be completely together, and she wasn't in step with Nikita. The swivel came and went throughout the dance. But she managed to get from one end of the dance to the other.

Chris & Dianne absolutely lived up to last week's start with a wonderful foxtrot. His frame could be more solid, and a little less sloppy up top, but he is such a joy to watch that we don't really care. The benchography, particularly the stop up and jump down at the end were a nice surprise. Loved it.

It was a brave decision for Jamie & Michelle to tackle the rumba so early on. But why not get it out of the way when you're very unlikely to go home. I'm inclined to agree with Craig that while the rumba was technically solid, they did look a bit like siblings dancing together. I'd love to see it again in a few weeks when their chemistry has developed a bit more. Maybe that's why it's not a good choice for Week 2.

 Toyah did a better job than last week but a long way. But her and Neil's jive was too flat-footed and lacked tone. The most exciting and most 'Toyah' part was the crawl across the bar. The pony steps seemed to be out of time. She is clearly having a good time, but we need more control and focus on technique.

Nick really threw himself into the American smooth, and fair play to him given his injury. The injury meant that he couldn't really lead Luba and his frame wasn't as strong as it could be, but I think when he is fully fit again, he could be a dark horse.

I really enjoyed Montell & Joannes' samba. She is a confident dancer, and I loved that she started the dance by herself. I wished that there was a little less of the slow rhythm and more up-tempo because I wanted it to be more packed, but it was all executed well and she's so watchable.

Tasha is definitely looking like the early frontrunner. Tasha & Aljaž's Viennese waltz was glorious. It was dreamy, smooth, elegant. She understands the rhythm, and she understands how to move her body and how to make it flow. Stunning.

Before we talk about Shayne & Nancy's tango, I want to take a moment to appreciate Nancy's dress and make-up. I think it's possibly the best she has ever looked on Strictly. Gorgeous. I loved Shayne & Nancy's tango. It had drive and attack, and he looked totally in control. I loved the drama.

Out of hold, Pete looks dynamic. In hold, he looked like a tentative novice. It's a good job this was an American smooth, because it meant that Jowita could get away with not having too much in hold. He's a safe pair of hands for the lifts.

Sarah & Vito's paso was a great way to close the show. It had intent and attack. She needs to be a little bit more grounded, and it looked as if she shoulders were rising, although that could've been the jacket. But otherwise it was a brilliant performance.

I agree that Toyah and Paul are the bottom of the leaderboard, and as you have probably gathered, I wouldn't be sorry not to see any more routines from Paul. Please can we give Karen a ringer next year?

Saturday Service: Week 1 [Better Late Than...]

I'm a little late, but I'm back to review the first week of Strictly Come Dancing, just in time to get in the mood for tonight's show.

Nick & Luba had the honour of kicking off the whole series with their jive. I thought Nick did quite well. It was very 'placed' in the way someone who is not a natural dancer has to be - arm goes here, foot goes here - but it was an enjoyable routine, and a good start.

Foxtrot is a tough ask on Week 1, but Sam & Nikita made it look as if they had been dancing for weeks. Sam released her toes and looked really elegant. However, her timing was off on the parts out of hold, and I fear she might look a bit gangly when it comes to the Latin dances.

I really enjoyed Shayne & Nancy's samba. All hail the disco samba! Shayne looked in control, and was certainly leading on the spins. It was relaxed and comfortable. He has lots of potential, and I can't wait to see what comes next.

I don't know what happened in Toyah & Neil's tango. It started off quite well, and then went to pot. Something went wrong in the middle of the dance, and she never quite recovered. She was frequently on the wrong foot and out of time. Neil seemed to be dragging her around like a ragdoll. Hopefully this week will be better, or she could be on the chopping block.

Tasha & Aljaž's cha cha was really good. Tasha was so confident, and paired with the big summer banger in Espresso, the routine was magic. Lovely leg action, if a little light in places. And it's good to have Aljaž's energy back in the room.

JB & Amy's waltz was very sweet. Waltz is such a hard dance to sell, and they did a good job. JB could have had a little more drive, and a little more sway, but a good job for Week 1. It was a showcase for beautiful Amy's return, but I can't wait to see what happens when they have a dance with more drama.

Pete is clearly not a dancer, but it was clear he was trying hard, and Jowita did well to get him to the standard he was. He had some lovely paso lines at times. It just want a bit Pete Tong when he needed to move his feet. His timing is not there.

Sarah looked as though she has been dancing her whole life. Her quickstep with Vito was effortless. Fast, light, bright, they covered the floor well, and a lovely grand jeté towards the end. If she keeps this up, we'll see her in December.

I think the only thing wrong with Tom & Nadiya's tango was his posture. He was lent forward. It was odd because he didn't seem to be doing it to come down to her height, which some male celebs do. Otherwise, everything else was good. Good footwork, good timing.

Poonam looked as though she was living her best mummy life - glammed up on a Saturday night, dancing with a hot man. She looked as though she was having the time of her life, and it was enjoyable to watch. She's got potential. Her cha cha legs were a bit bendy, but I'm sure Gorka can work on that.

I really don't want to talk about Paul & Karen's alleged American smooth. Poor Karen. What did they expect her to do? His timing was OK. That's the review.

I thought the judges were a bit tough on Jamie & Michelle. Their Viennese waltz was solid, and for a Week 1 routine, it was a good effort. His timing was good. It lacked a bit of drive, it was a bit small, but not bad for a first routine.

I think we were all quite surprised at just how entertaining Chris & Dianne's cha cha was. His timing was good, and he really went for it. It was fun and I can't wait to see more. Of course the technique wasn't quite there, but there is time for that.

Montell & Johannes were everything I wanted them to be. Their foxtrot was perhaps a little too American smooth for my taste, there was lots of of hold. But they were beautiful together. She is a beautiful dancer, and she is going to go far.

I'm not really sure why they saved Wynne & Katya until the end. He is clearly very musical, but he's a bit of a dad dancer. Their samba was nice, but I don't need to see it again. A personality dance like this was fine for Wynne, but I'm not sure how he'll get on with something more serious.

So there we have it. Numb bums have finally woken up after a week, and they'll be back asleep in a few short hours.

I think Toyah, Paul and Pete were the right bottom three. They are going to have to work some to not be in the dance off.

2024: The Pairings

I have struggled to decide if I should retire my blog. I still love Strictly, and having watched Saturday’s programme, I’m all in once again, but writing thoughts every week is becoming a chore that I endure, rather than a pleasure. The world has changed, too. If I was coming to Strictly now, I’d probably have a podcast. There was a point a few years back when I thought about starting one. But here I am, ready to talk about this year’s pairings and still not 100% sure if I really want to make this commitment.

I enjoyed the pairing show immensely. It’s a really interesting cast, and I’m already enjoying the pairings.

Chris McCausland & Dianne Buswell – Chris has already proven to be a bit of a loose cannon on a pre-recorded show, so I can’t wait to see what he says on the live shows. It’s clear from the group number that Chris is not natural dancer. I’m ready and waiting for Craig to make a comment about some lack of ability being a bigger disability than his lack of sight. I presume Dianne still has a massive fan base on social media, and this will probably keep them in for a while.
 
Wynne Evans & Katya Jones – Did Wynne have an argument with the wardrobe department? He definitely had the worst threads of the group! Katya’s clever choreography will probably take Wynne further than he might go with someone else. This pairing doesn’t excite me like some of the others.
 
Shayne Ward & Nancy Xu – I keep forgetting who Shayne is. He looks so different to the guy I remember from The X Factor and Rock of Ages. I think it’s a good opportunity for him to elevate his profile again. Nancy took Will Mellor a long way, and I expect Shayne to have a similar safari.
 
Jamie Borthwick & Michelle Tsiakkas – Michelle has been given a real opportunity to show us what she can do. Jamie proved on the Christmas special that he is very capable, so she should have an easy time getting him to a good standard. It could be a lot of pressure. I hope she really shines.
 
Pete Wicks and Jowita Przystał – Pete was definitely the moodiest looking one on the launch show. He is going to need a bit more than ‘blue steel’ to get through until Christmas. I think he’ll be mid-table.
 
Montell Douglass & Johannes Radebe – Let the Fire puns commence! This team if definitely going to be fire, though. Their chemistry bounced off the screen. I have a feeling already that she is going to get similar comments about ‘attack’ as Fleur. I expect fantastic latin, but I hope she can bring some elegant ballroom numbers as well.
 
Sam Quek and Nikita Kuzmin – Sam looked a little lost at times in the group number, so I think she might have to rely on personality on the dancefloor. I get the impression that it’s not going to come naturally to her. Nikita is a very patient partner, though. I think they’ll have fun. I’m expecting Angela & Carlos energy here.
 
JB Gill & Amy Dowden – I really don’t expect anyone but Amy winning this year, and I think JB can absolutely facilitate that. He’s a good mover, and as long as he doesn’t get an Aston wig of doom or get done a disservice by the judges, I think he’ll be around until the end. I also think JB has a bit more pizazz than the usual ‘nice guy’ celebrities that come Amy’s way.
 
Toyah Willcox and Neil Jones – Toyah is either going to be a revelation (think Debbie McGee) or she going to become annoying quickly. I’m really glad to see Neil back with a partner, but I don’t think everyone ‘gets’ him. I think their success will depend on their chemistry, and how much the public warms to them.
 
Sarah Hadland & Vito Coppola – This couple is going to be chaos. Sarah is bonkers and paired with Vito’s rambling streams of consciousness this couple is going to do well in the personality contest. I have no idea if she can dance, but I’m going to enjoy whatever they bring to the floor.
 
Tasha Ghouri & Aljaž Škorjanec – Tasha is probably one of the least well-known of the participants, but she seems sweet, and she is going to do well with Aljaž, whom everyone is happy to see back on the show. Rose proved that having a hearing impairment is no barrier on Strictly, and Aljaž is a strong lead. Bring on the ITT captions!
 
Punam Krishan & Gorka Márquez – Punam is giving me dark horse vibes. I think she’ll be secretly a bit good. Gorka can send himself up as well as being serious, and if they can straddle that line I think they’ll be fun.
 
Paul Merson & Karen Hauer – Aren’t we at the end yet? The live shows are going to be long… Poor Karen. Has she ever had a ringer? She’s probably got her work cut out again. Paul doesn’t seem like he’ll be a natural. He’ll get the dad votes.
 
Tom Dean & Nadiya Bychkova – Tom looks as though he’ll do OK, but I think he might get lost in the crowd here. He’s going to have to work hard to get votes and be memorable.
 
Nick Knowles & Luba Mushtuk – Nick always seems to be Marmite with the public. Some people seem to have an irrational dislike for him. He’s been omnipresent on our screens for 20+ years, so everyone will know who he is. I fear he might be a bit of a dad dancer, and I wonder if he might have been a better contestant 10 years ago than he will be now.
 
Having Amy back, giving Neil a partner for the first time in years and giving Michelle her first partner means that three pros find themselves on the subs bench. Sadly, despite a truly brilliant debut, Lauren does not have a partner this year. Carlos and Kai also have to sit out. It’s unfortunate, but better that than 18 couples!
 
So, there we go. Fifteen couples, full of hope and possibilities. I don’t usually make predictions, but I expect to be seeing JB and Montell dancing in December. Probably Jamie too. I can’t wait to see how this tuns out.