Christmas Service: The Christmas Special

It's a bit tricky for me to write about the Christmas Special, as I was in the studio. This gives me a slightly different perspective.

I must start by saying a massive THANK YOU to Force Ten, who generously offered me a ticket for the Christmas Special.

I wasn't quite as excited about this year's special, possibily becuase last year I had the thrill of sitting downstairs, and the thrill of seeing Ian & Zoe dance together again.

Mark & Karen did not appear to be as strong as they had been in the past, but still put in a very hi-energy performance. It was nice to see them do the jive instead of the salsa.

Alesha & Matthew put in a strong cha cha performance, but it seemed to me that they saw the Christmas Special as a bit of fun, and were focused on the main show. Clearly, this was the right strategy.

Gethin & Camilla completely blew away the audience. Their waltz was just magical, and I was totally swept away by them. The special was recorded at a point when Criag had not yet awarded any 10s, so the crowd went wild when he held up his paddle. We started to ask ourselves if Gethin could be in with a chance of a place in the final.

Letita & Darren's foxtrot was beautiful. The couple had just been knocked out of the competition, and they seemed to throughly enjoy their last dance.

Matt & Flavia danced the rumba, a risky dance for a Christmas Special, but a dance that Matt had done well with during the main series. This was recorded just two days after Matt's meltdown (hence his comments to Tess about having got through it). I think the Christmas Special couldn't have come at a better time for Matt, who needed a confidence boost. It let him prove to himself he could still dance outside of the pressure of the main show.

Darren & Lilia did the right thing by going for the American smooth, as it is exciting to watch. Darren danced as if he had never been away from the floor. It was fantastic.

The pro performance was just fabulous. I could watch it over and over again!

I think that the right top two were left standing, and I was happy for either Gethin or Darren to win.

We came out of the show wondering if Alesha might be worried, as Gethin had done so well. But Alesha reigned supreme when it mattered most.

Mark & Karen



Alesha & Matthew



Gethin & Camilla



Letitia & Darren



Matt & Flavia



Darren & Lilia



Pro Dance

Matt Looks Forward To Strictly Tour

Matt Di Angelo is pleased that the tour is bringing Strictly Come Dancing to more people.

He told the Belfast Telegraph: "I think it's so unfair that such a small audience get to watch the show. I genuinely think we're going to be sold out. So many people want to see the show, it is such a huge deal. And I get to dance for another 5 weeks which is going to be a fun and exciting experience."

Boys, Boys, Boys

The Daily Mail recently caught up with three Strictly boys - Anton, Vincent and James.

Anton says that Gethin should have been in the Strictly final: "Frankly, [Matt]'s not as good a dancer as the show's winner Alesha, and when two weeks before the final he had that messup and forgot his dance steps, he gave up. He didn't try and get through the routine, he seemed more to shrug his shoulders and accept defeat. I can't accept that sort of attitude. As far as I was concerned he didn't deserve to be in the final - for that reason alone, it should have been Gethin instead."

He also talks about his father: "My father gave up. He was an alcoholic and died 15 years ago. He was very difficult to be around, totally unsupportive of my desire to dance. He was stereotypical in that he believed dancing was not a profession for a man. As a result, we had a very strained relationship. To me, he could have died earlier as he only got in the way in the first part of my life. I don't like talking about it as I don't want everyone to pity me and say "Poor Anton", but it was tough."

James talks about the relationship he has with Gabby and Kenny: "Ola and I have made two great friends. We were all able to hang out together, work together and enjoy each other's company without worrying about any romantic issues."

And Vincent enjoys his new-found celebrity: "Of course I love the attention from women. I enjoy it when they want to pinch my bottom or chase me for my autograph."

Psst... I Watch Strictly

Men have admitted to the Radio Times that Strictly Come Dancing is their biggest guilty TV pleasure.

The Press Association reports that men watch the show for the "smallness of the costumes... the drama, the humour and the frocks". But they won't admit to their mates.

The top five, as selected by a poll of 800 readers, were:

1. Strictly Come Dancing
2. Heroes
3. Doctor Who
4. I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!
5. The X Factor

Alesha: "Dancing Saved My Life"

Strictly winner Alesha Dixon has told the Daily Star that dancing turned her 2007 around.

She told the paper: “I thought 2007 was going to be crap. But because of Strictly, my confidence is back. I was so down and depressed. Dancing saved my life. I’ve got the real me back. Now I’m ending this year on a high.”

Strictly Final Is Third Biggest BBC Show Of The Year

The Telegraph reports that the Strictly Come Dancing final on 22nd December gave the BBC its third biggest audience of the year (NB - this may have now been topped by programmes over the festive period).

The show had an average of 11.4m viewers, with a peak of 12.1m.

Alesha said of her win: “It was worth all the bruises, all the lack of sleep, all the painful cuts and sore joints, all the tears and all the 380 hours of training."

Buy Your Own Ballroom

Where shall I go dancing? This is a question which many a dancer has pondered in their time.

The answer could soon be 'my own ballroom'!

icWales reports that a Georgan mansion in Brecon, Wales, which features a ballroom, has been converted into an appartments.

Peter Reilly, of Savills estate agents, said: “It is the dream apartment for any Strictly Come Dancing fan. It’s a truly unique property that gives you the chance to feel like a ballroom star every day. With towering ornate ceilings and original white pillars, it is a home like no other.”

It's on for just under £1m. Pass my chequebook...

Public Yelling For Classes

Yell.com (the online version of the Yellow Pages) has reported that searches for ballroom, salsa and adult dancing schools has increased by 58% during Series 5 of Strictly Come Dancing.

Clodagh Ward, consumer development director at Yell said: “Whether people are looking to learn the Rumba, the Cha Cha Cha or the Tango, Yell.com can help you get that left foot into shape.”

No doubt Anton's class will be bursting at the seams again in the new year...

Sunday Service: Week 12 - The Final

Last night's final has to be one of the closest we've seen. Here are my thoughts...

Ballroom

Matt & Flavia opted to perform their American smooth. This was a shrewd choice, since the lifts make it the most spectacular of the ballroom dances. They performed it well, and it was enjoyable to watch.

There was no doubt that Alesha & Matthew had to go for the waltz, because of the amazing comments and scores. Like the first time around, their performance was excellent. I would have liked to have seen them give their tango another go, but it just wasn't going to be worth the risk in the final.

Latin

I think that over the course of the competition, both of these couples turned in better ballroom than latin. Matt's latin was a bit hit and miss throughout the competition, but the salsa was a knockout, so again it was a no-brainer which dance he and Flavia would perform again. This performance rivaled the first and was an absolute joy to watch.

Alesha loved the cha cha and they were right to choose that for the final. I still think Alesha's technique could have improved further. She still had bent knees in places, which made her look a bit less elegant. But she and Matthew turned in another excellent performance.

Judges' Choice

The judges' choice returned this year. Both professionals were given We Like To Boogie by T-Rex to choreograph a routine to.

Flavia went for a quickstep. I loved Matt's tap dance opening. He must have done some tap training in the past, because no-one could do such nice wings cold. It was bouncy and energetic.

Matthew chose the jive. Alesha's footwork could have been neater. I find she lacks control at times. But her timing and musicality is great.

Group Viennese Waltz

There's really not much anyone can say about the Viennese waltz, other than they were both excellent.

Showdance

Once again, the whole competition was resting on the showdance. This was the closest final since Darren and Colin. The showdance could have been the make or break of the night.

Both couples went for a hi-energy song that would get the crowd onside. Matt & Flavia danced a cha cha-based routine to Are You Gonna Go My Way?. Flavia's choreography was fantastic, an absolute joy to watch. Matt looked to be enjoying his last dance and gave it bags of performance. The one handed lift was fantastic. It was one of Matt's best performances of the competition.

Alesha gave her best performance of the night on the showdance. Holding Out For A Hero is one of those songs dancers line up to dance to. It's an exciting, epic, dramatic track, and the routine was all of those things. Alesha must have been at an advantage, as Matthew is capable of more lifts than Matt, leading to a more 'spectacular' showdance. I loved the elements of paso toward the end.

The Result

I think most people believed that it would be Alesha's night, but Matt held his own and it really could have gone either way. The final was close, much closer than Mark and Matt last year.

I actually preferred Matt all the way through the final. I like his performances. I find Alesha can be a little untidy, and for some reason I just don't see what the judges see. Alesha is excellent, but not perfect. For me she plateaued a few weeks ago, and the imperfections just did not improve. But they could have done. Her performances never wowed me as much as I thought they would.

Of course, Matt had had hiccups throughout the competition, and perhaps he shouldn't have even been in the final. Stumbles, mistakes, memory blocks. But he continued to improve week after week.

Over the course of 12 weeks, I have to admit that Alesha is the better dancer. But last night, Matt was strong, and I enjoyed his routines and performances more.

It was the right result, but my vote went to Matt. Probably the first time ever in the final that I have not voted for the obviously stronger dancer.

In my opinion, Alesha was the better dancer but Matt was the better performer. Performance is something you can't teach. Nor is it something you can describe. You just feel it when you dance and know it when you see it.

There concludes Series 5. I can't believe another series is over. Thanks for reading my thoughts. But it doesn't end here. I shall be continuing to blog about all things and people Strictly. This is a year-round service. And with the tour only around the corner, there will be heaps more coming up.

Keeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep reading. And Dancing!

Final videos

Matt & Flavia - American Smooth



Alesha & Matthew - Waltz



Matt & Flavia - Salsa



Alesha & Matthew - Cha Cha



Judges' choice



Viennese Waltz



Matt & Flavia - Showdance



Alesha & Matthew - Showdance



The moment of truth...

Len On The Judges: "Blimey, This Is A Motley Crew"

There is a lengthy interview with the judges in The Guardian today. But, as always when it comes to Craig, Arlene, Len and Bruno, it's got some real gems in it.

Len on Craig: "Craig is the sort of person who would tell a child there is a toilet monster. He's got that nasty streak, but I admire him for it. You know the three hardest things in the world to do? Climb a wall that's leaning towards you. Kiss a girl who's leaning away from you. And criticise someone who's looking at you."

Bruno on Len: "He called me a pillock. Hah huh huh huh HAH! It takes one to know one. The situation creates that. It's the passion for the dance. You care so much."

Bruno on Strictly: "It is a reinvention of the variety show, with competition and entertainment. It's more connected to the big variety shows from 30 years ago than it is to Celebrity Fuck Off I Don't Know Who You Are."

Craig on marking: "I get booed for giving an eight and in my world that's high marks. But the audience's expectations are higher. I say something nice they think I'm just going to whack out a 10, willy-nilly, but actually I don't."

Craig on Emma and Alesha: "Everyone said last year I was Emma Bunton mad but the only reason I was Emma Bunton mad was because Emma Bunton could bloody dance. And the only reason I'm Alesha mad is because she can dance. I don't favour them in my scoring but I do champion people who are good."

Arlene on being teased by the others and Bruce: "It does get to me, it really does. It's outdated. It's not correct, the 'little woman' thing. What do you want me to do, go and get you a cup of tea, guys? I just smile and go along with it."

It's worth reading the whole article. It's got some really funny comments in it.

Brockett Approached For SCD?

Professional celebrity wannabe Lord Brockett has claimed he has been approached to take part in Strictly Come Dancing.

What's On TV reports that Brockett said in a recent interview: "They've asked me twice to do Strictly Come Dancing and I've twice said no. But my wife Harriet really wants me to do it, so if they ask me again, I'll probably give in."

I just can't actually bring myself to believe this story. Lord Brockett? Really??

Fairy Kate

Here is a bizarre little video from website video content makers Flow.

Kate is a fairy on a Christmas tree and Anton is trying to teach her pirouettes. Bizarre, but cute and funny too.

You need only watch the first 50 seconds.

New Lesson 12

I was hoping for some festive tunes to dance to, but I was unlucky.

We started off with a bit of more advanced waltz, which was nice. Then we went on to cha cha. The teacher sort of winged it, and the little sequence was a bit different than usual, which was pretty cool. We finished with a sequence, Rumba 1. I'd done it before, but it makes a nice change from standards.

I hate not dancing for a couple of weeks. I must watch the mince pies. I'm more overweight than normal, and I don't want to make things worse!! Especially with no dancing of any sort for three weeks...

Could We See Tess On The Floor?

Tess Daly told Celebs On Sunday at the weekend that all this standing around watching has sparked her interest in dancing.

"I’ve had a few tentative dance lessons with Anton du Beke – he has to deal with the fact that I try to grab him for a quick spin every time I walk past. I jump on him and say “swing me faster”. I love it. The more I see, the more I want to have a go. Although I’ve got two left feet."

Sing The Feem Toon

The Strictly Come Dancing theme tune has been re-worked with words in a late bid for Christmas No. 1.

The tune's composers Dan McGrath and Josh Phillips have created Let's Go Dancing, performed by Strictly singers Carol Kenyon and Tommy Blaize.

It's available to download on iTunes, and a percentage of the profits will go to Nordoff Robbins Music Therapy. There are 7" and 12" versions - although being download only, I'm not sure you can call them that.

Check out the MySpace page for a little snippet of the track.

I'm not an iTunes user, so I doubt I'll get to hear the full version.

Lilia And The Newbie

Not be be outdone, the News Of The World sent a journo who had not done much dancing to have a latina tone class with Lilia Kopylova.

She talked to him about Dominic: “I think there were certain things he said that shouldn’t have said, so I kind of had the feeling that we going out early. I was not happy by some of his comments, put that it way.”

And who does Lilia think should win?: “I’d like Alesha to win because I think she is really very good dancer.”

Andrew And The Newbie

The Sun sent a girl who'd never had a dance lesson to learn a cha cha in four weeks and perform it in front of her friends. Her teacher was former Strictly pro Andrew Cuerden.

Worth a quick scan, and there's quite a nice video to go with the article.

What You Didn't See On Jonathan Ross...

Here is a short clip from the Jonathan Ross interview with the Strictly judges that didn't appear on Friday's show.

Please be aware this clip contains Adult humour.

Jonathan Ross Does an Impression of Bruno Tonioli - BBC One.

Camilla Storms Out?

The Sun reports today that Camilla Dallerup stomed off of the Strictly set on Saturday night after being knocked out of the competition.

Are we really supposed to believe this?

She hurt herself during the paso. Perhaps she wanted to go and rest. Or maybe she just wasn't in the mood to party. But I doubt very much that "Camilla stomped off, locked herself in her dressing room and refused to go to a party". Sounds a bit out of character.

Alesha: "The Only Reason I Did Strictly Was To Learn To Dance"

There was a lengthy interview with Alesha Dixon in the Sunday Mirror yesterday. In it she talks about Strictly, as well as her much-publicised split with her husband.

Here are a few highlights...

On being sexy: "Dancing makes you feel really sexy. I call it foreplay without the finale. When you're dancing with somebody all day and spending that much time up close together, it makes you feel very sexual."

On frank conversations: "I rang my nan for some advice on my cha cha and she said, 'Just give it some sex'. I couldn't believe I was hearing this from my grandma!"

On Kelly's withdrawal from Strictly: "It was really horrible when Kelly and Brendan left. It felt really weird not having them in the show. Brendan was like a force of nature with the judges. So losing him was like having a pantomime with the villain missing. The atmosphere really changed that week and Kelly was really missed. And it was sad for her because she's got a passion for dance and it all ended in such an unfortunate way."

On her partnership with Matthew: "The best Christmas present I could get him would be to win the show, but second to that I have already given him a framed engraved picture of us dancing together. I represent the girl whose mum couldn't afford to send her to stage school, but who's getting the chance to catch up when she's 29."

"It sounds corny but the only reason I did Strictly was to learn to dance. So whatever happens, I feel like a winner. And I'm happier than ever."

Sunday Service: Week 11

Semi-final week. Can you believe it's almost over?

This has to be the closest competition ever. Three participants, all of whom could win it. I can't wait for tonight's result (although I am restrained enough not to cheat and look it up online - I want to enjoy the suspense!).

Alesha & Matthew's quickstep was packed with tricky footwork. I liked the Charleston characterisation, and it worked really well with the very un-Charleston track Valerie. Alesha is one of the most consistent performers ever. Virtually every performance has been bang on.

Their Argentine tango had fantastic interplay and connection. Alesha needs to keep her knees straighter, which I think Arlene picked up on.

Matt & Flavia's Argentine tango was controlled and well-placed. Matt had the advantage of being with Flavia, the queen of Argentine tango. He couldn't really fail. I did agree with Len that there was a lack of passion. This is probably because Matt just wanted to get through it, but it was the piece of the jigsaw that was missing. It was unusual because Matt & Flavia usually have a wonderful connection.

The connection could not be denied in the waltz. It was so romantic and genuinely moving. I think that is was worthy of four 10s, and that must be enough to prove to Matt that he could win it.

I loved Camilla's paso choreography. This has definitely been one of Camilla's strongest years for routines. The paso was exciting and Gethin was in control. I actually think the judges were a bit harsh. I didn't see anything missing at all.

Their Argentine tango was beautifully understated. It had intensity. It was smouldering and enthralling. Again, I thought it was under-marked.

I must confess that I forgot to vote last night. I got up to do something after the programme, and it was 10.45 before I realised. I'm so cross with myself, because every vote counts at this stage of the competition.

Alesha & Matthew seem to have plateaued. They have been consistently strong, but it seems that it has been some weeks since there was any real improvement, and it is her routines, rather than Gethin's, which I feel lack something at times. She doesn't blow me away in the way I expect her to.

Matt & Flavia have got over last week's hurdles. Their waltz was worthy of four 10s, but their Argentine tango didn't match it.

Gethin found his stride a few weeks ago, and his performance levels continue to rise. I thought he was under-marked last night. In fact, I would probably have reversed the judges placings.

For what it's worth, I would have voted for Gethin.

Alesha & Matthew - Quickstep



Alesha & Matthew - Argentine Tango



Matt & Flavia - Argentine Tango



Matt & Flavia - Waltz



Gethin & Camilla - Paso Doble



Gethin & Camilla - Argentine Tango

Strictly Shilpa

Bollywood actress Shilpa Shetty has revaled that she would consider taking part in Strictly Come Dancing. She was a judge on the Indian version of the show.

According to Hindu.com, she said recently: "If any offer comes from the BBC's reality show, I will definitely like to consider it."

Want A Third Opinion?

I always post my thoughts on the competition each week in the Sunday Service.

Want a second opinion? Visit The Stage's TV Today blog.

Want a third opinion? Visit Matt's MSN blog.

Jonathan And The Judges

The Strictly Come Dancing judges will all be appearing on Friday Night With Jonathan Ross tomorrow night.

Tune into BBC One at 10.35pm.

Anton Interview

Telly blog TV Scoop interviewed Anton du Beke recently. The blog recently named Strictly Come Dancing as No. 9 in the Top 50 Programmes of 2007. No. 9?? Is that it? It's a typo, right??

Anton on how The X Factor could be improved: "Maybe they need me in it!"

On magic Strictly moments: "A few years ago Erin [Boag] and I danced with Tony Bennett, and that was a real hero moment. Off-the-scale fabulous."

It's only a short interview, so worth a quick read.

Pam St Clement For SCD6?

According to the Press Association, Pam St Clement, EastEnders' Pat Evans, was approached to participate in Strictly Come Dancing this year, but her schedule did not allow.

Would she raid Pat's earring collection to wear on the dancefloor?

Why Do The Tabloids Do This?

Why can't the red-tops leave Vincent & Flavia alone?

The News of the World has been reporting that Vincent has been slagging off Matt Di Angelo, reportedly saying: "He's a little boy who has no idea. She'd be mad to leave me for him. He's a lot uglier than me and is nowhere near as good a dancer."

It sounds pretty out of character, not that I know any of the parties involved personally.

I think I'm going to be sick.

Strictly Christmas Telly

The fifth series might be ending on 22nd December, but there are a couple of Christmas specials to help take the edge off our favourite show's departure from our screens.

On Christmas Day, there is the usual Christmas Special, featuring Mark & Karen and Darren & Lilia competing against this year's quarter finalists.

And on 27th, there is The Strictly Come Dancing Story which looks back at the history of Strictly Come Dancing so far.

Sunday Service: Week 10

Quarter Final week was an interesting one...

Gethin & Camilla's American smooth was clean and well-presented. It was nice to see that Gethin wasn't a one-week wonder, and was able to maintain his performance level.

You could see before Gethin took to the floor that he was pumped up about the jive. It had bags of energy, just last last week's salsa. I loved the swing of Camilla through his legs. Great choreography from Camilla, with fantastic musicality.

I didn't like Alesha & Matthew's Vienesse waltz to begin with. Alesha looked nervous and Memory wasn't doing it for me. But when the music reached the crescendo, I realised why the first half was so understated. The routine had nice musicality, and I liked the open and close.

Alesha's eyes were amazing during the paso doble. The interplay between them was electric. I agree with Arlene, that it could have had a bit more attack, but it was one of the best pasos of the series.

Letitia looked absolutely stunning in her waltz dress. It's quite hard to sell the waltz at this stage in the competition, because it's not as visually exciting as a tango or Viennese waltz. The performance was graceful and Letitia covered the floor well. The performance certainly raised a smile from the viewer.

I really enjoyed their jive. Darren's choreography was great, with great interplay and musicality. Letitia gave it loads of attack and had bags of performance as always. It was probably one of her better latin performances, but again, it made me smile.

Last up were Matt & Flavia. I really felt for Matt. He loves it so much and he wants it so much. He's so good and could be a contender for the final, but nervous overwhelmed him. It's so tragic. I loved Flavia's foxtrot choreography at the top of the routine with them sitting on the step. But Matt lost it pretty much from the outset.

Matt started well with the samba, but you could see he was nervous and just wanted to get through it. He did count along in places, although he was singing in places too which is OK. It was so sad to see him lose his place at times, especially on the line "I just can't control my feet". I hope the public save him.

If Matt's in the bottom two, I'm not sure who the judges will save. Against Letitia he might have a shot. Against the others, it's going to be game over. What if the public save Matt & Letitia?? It could even be bye-bye Gethin! This has to be the closest final for a long time. Maybe ever!

I have to compliment all of the pros on their choreography last night. They all did a brilliant job and seem to have raised their games as much as their celebrity partners.

Gethin & Camilla - American smooth



Gethin & Camilla - Jive



Alesha & Matthew - Viennese waltz



Alesha & Matthew - Paso Doble



Letitia & Darren - Waltz



Letitia & Darren - Jive



Matt & Flavia - Foxtrot



Matt & Flavia - Samba

Last Dance For Rivoli?

The Rivoli Ballroom is not for from where I used to live in south London. It quietly sits opposite Crofton Park train station. I have always wanted to dance there, and so far I have never even visited it. There are no classes held there to my knowledge, so you have to go to a club night. I only know of one jive club that uses it on a regular basis.

Strictly viewers will know it from the intros to each dance shown early in the series. It was also where Natasha & Brendan's It's Strictly Dancing DVD was filmed.

The Independent quotes an interview with The Mercury, a local rag. The owners have told the paper that ill health is forcing them to sell-up. The building is not listed, so could be redeveloped by a new owner.

It would be a tragedy if we lost Rivoli. There should be a campaign to list it or something...

Craig Sings Again

Craig sang All I Want For Christmas Is You on It Takes Two on Friday.

I love when Craig sings. He does have a great voice, although this performance wasn't as good as Under The Sea (where he wiped the floor with Anton last year).

Although the poor chap really does let his nerves take a hold of him. You'd think he would have more sympathy for Matt, wouldn't you?

Kath & Geth

Sorry ladies, but Katherine Jenkins' spokesman has confirmed that she and Gethin Jones have begun dating.

They have been friends for a while, but got together after Katherine's appearance on Strictly some weeks ago.

The spokesman told the Western Mail that people shouldn't get carried away, though, saying: “People shouldn't consider buying hats just yet.”

I love a spokesman with a sense of humour...

All I Want For Christmas...

There is a short but funny article in today's Celebs On Sunday magazine, in which they ask a number of Strictly participants, dancers and judges about their plans for Christmas and funny Christmas stories.

Highlights include:

Who would you most like to kiss under the mistletoe?
Craig: "Anyone with a pulse. I’m desperate".

Have you ever embarrassed yourself drunk at a Christmas party?
Gethin: "I don’t drink. Although I did drink some of Penny Lancaster’s ‘apple juice’ before going on stage at Strictly. I’m like, this tastes a bit funny, Penny – like champagne..."

Read the whole thing. It's very funny!

Dance To The Doctors

It's been widely-reported that people have taken up ballroom and latin all over the country.

The Telegraph reports that this has lead to a rise in dance-related injuries.

Anton du Beke told the paper: "Different dances have different risks. If you are doing a jive or a quickstep, any dance that involves a lot of springy jumps, that can make the balls of your feet very sore. That was the case with Kate [Garraway], who suffered badly from tendonitis. But some of her problems stemmed from bad technique, which will always increase the risk of injury for amateurs. With the foxtrot and the rhumba, the risk is about the muscles in the leg compressing and tightening, which can be painful."

New Lesson 11

My Tuesday lessons have moved to a new hall, now in Wooburn Town. I thought I was going to have a nightmare getting to and from there but it's actually as easy as it was before. The hall is bigger with more space and light.

We started with tango. It was fabulous. I love the tango. I can't wait to learn even more, though I think that's it for now. We're progressing around the room nicely.

We then did a bit of jive. Nothing too taxing. I feel like we've covered quite a lot of jive steps, but haven't ever developed a proper amalgamation. So the teacher can never remember what we have and haven't done. I really think she needs to teach American spins, because they look nice. I also think she needs to give the men tips on how to be better leaders.

Finally, we did a bit of rumba. I'm not that fond of doing rumba there. I don't think it's taught that well. Especially as she insists on moving your feet on the 1 count. Aaaggghhh!

Sunday's Result

I think it was correct that Kenny and Letitia were the bottom two on Sunday. I actually think Kenny put in a strong performance on Saturday, but the judges chose Letitia despite her down week.

I know a lot of people feel that Kenny should have stayed. I don't think it really matters. Neither of them was likely to make the final.

Lesson 30

The lovely Kimberly took the class this week.

In beginners we did samba. The feet are not a problem, but the hips... oh the hips... I'd need a course of private lessons just on the hips.

In the second class we did a bit of jive. I've really warmed to the jive lately. I want to go to more social dances and get up and jive.

Strictly Come Dancersize: Sneak Peek

The Sun's video player has a sneak peek at the Strictly Come Dancersize DVD.

Click here and scroll down to the 'Fitness' section of the article.

It seems the DVD has already helped a Sun reader loose a few lbs.

Letitia Starts Panto Rehearsals

It's going to be a busy week for Letitia Dean.

She started rehearsals for Cinderella in Ipswich this morning. She's playing the Fairy Godmother, so she'll only be required for certain scenes. The show opens on 14th December.

General Manager of the Regent Theatre, Hazel Clover, told EADT: “From what we understand the commitment to Strictly Come Dancing is pretty hefty and they are learning two dances a week now but pantomimes are a particular discipline of which she is very experienced. Most of the professional pantomime stars are used to coming in from one job and doing a pantomime, particularly her being a soap star.”

Strictly Psycological

Over the next few days I am going to be catching up on the stuff I missed while I was on holiday. Apologies if you have seen all of this before...

Never one to miss a trick, Kate's husband Derek Draper has written an interesting article for The Times about the psychology of Strictly Come Dancing, as well as his relief about having his wife back.

He says: "I think that it appeals, on a fundamental psychological level, to three of our most deep-rooted instincts: sexuality, aggression and the need for belonging. It even taps into ancient mythology and the theory of dreams."

See? It's not all about sequins and mirrorballs after all.

Actually, I think he makes some pretty good points. The sexuality is unquestionable - all the dances have elements of sex and romance, and we enjoy watching the bonding of the couples through friendship, flirtation, or whatever else works. Aggression is also true. We see that in the bickering of the judges, of Brendan and amongst ourselves. And with all the forums, as well as talking about the show with friends and at work, I do fell at the centre of a real community of people who are as passionate about the show as myself.

It's worth a read, if you can get past all the spin about how difficult their lives have been lately and all the poor, neglected hubby stuff.

Matthew To Partner Denise On SCD Tour

It looks that Zoe Ball has her wish. Denise Lewis will be dancing with Matthew Cutler for the Strictly Come Dancing tour next year, leaving Ian free to dance with Zoe.

Denise told ThisIsNottingham.co.uk that she is ready to start training, and is not concerned that a couple of years away from the floor will hurt her: "It's been a long time since I was last dancing in the show but I'm pretty confident I haven't lost my touch."

Denise can't start training with Matthew until he finishes this series, and with Alesha doing well, Denise might have a few more weeks to wait.

Denise has also revealled a little more about the tour: "The stage show is going to be a similar format to the TV programme but obviously the couples won't be doing as many dances. There's one ballroom and one Latin dance for each couple and then some group work too. The professional dancers are absolutely amazing. When you see them live it just blows you away. They're fantastic."

Sunday Service: Week 9

The competition is getting hotter.

It looks likely that we'll have a two-handed final again, so making it to the final is going to be tough, and someone will miss out.

I thought Matt & Flavia's tango was fantastic. I liked the unusual choreography. Matt was commanding, dominating and he had a great face. The routine was slick and well-rehearsed.

Their rumba was also brilliant. Matt has beautiful lines. His performance was masculine but tender. He had the look of love, and the interplay between them was moving. I thought it was one of the best rumbas I have seen on Strictly Come Dancing.

What a change in Gethin Jones! Gethin & Camilla's waltz was graceful and smooth, yet it had an intensity about it. Although Gethin was pulling some odd faces at times.

Their salsa was Gethin's best latin by far. He had bags of performance. But has it come too late?

I disagreed with the judges about Letitia & Darren's quickstep. I thought it was springy and light. I liked the opening and closing choreography.

The cha cha was always going to be a struggle for them. Unsurprisingly, hip action is still not there, but Letitia has tried endlessly to get it, and no-one can say she hasn't worked on it. She also lacks movement in her spine, though. She's just not a latin dancer. To win the competition, you have to be an all-rounder. But in reality, very few dancers are. However, I have to give Letitia a lot of respect for pulling out two high-energy performances when she should have been home in bed. What a pro! Well done, Letitia.

I didn't like the opening of Kenny & Ola's foxtrot. It looked like he was walking a dog or something. He still needs to watch his timing in places. He looks much more comfortable in hold and that's where it became more pleasant to watch. Kenny's foxtrot did bring a smile to my face.

Ola's choreography was very clever on the rumba - Kenny barely moved his feet. Shame the judges spotted that too. However, as Craig noted, Kenny's characterisation was fantastic, and there was great interplay between them.

Alesha & Matthew kept the tango traditional and it worked. It was driven, passionate, striking and the ending was brilliant. It was the first dance of the series that got my heart-rate up just watching it. It was a 10 in my opinion.

I have to compliment Matthew's musicality on the samba. Putting samba rolls on the line "Reach out" was inspired. Alesha needs more hip on her samba walks but that is being really picky - I can't get the hang of samba hips. I think they are the hardest thing to learn as an adult. I agreed with the judges that the samba could have been a bit tighter.

The bottom two should be Letitia and Kenny. But who knows? Surely Gethin would have got a shed load of votes for improvement last night, and people have to be voting for Alesha and Matt, surely. I think if any of those three in the bottom two it will be a huge shock.

Matt & Flavia - Tango



Matt & Flavia - Rumba



Gethin & Camilla - Waltz



Gethin & Camilla - Salsa



Letitia & Darren - Quickstep



Letitia & Darren - Cha cha



Kenny & Ola - Foxtrot



Kenny & Ola - Rumba



Alesha & Matthew - Tango



Alesha & Matthew - Samba

Kelly Brook

My sympathy and thoughts go out to Kelly Brook and her family at this difficult time.

I was sad to hear that Kelly is withdrawing from the competition, but there is no doubt that she is doing the right thing for her.

Watching Kelly has given me an immense amount of pleasure over the past 8 weeks. She is a natural dancer and her routines have been delightful.

Perhaps she will join all the other participants when they return to dance again during the final. I do hope so.

Kelly has been a fantastic asset to Strictly Come Dancing this series. I'm sure her father was very proud of her.

Saturday Service: Week 8

Yes, I'm back! There's only a short while left until tonight's show, but I thought I'd quickly run down my thoughts about last week's show.

Gethin & Camilla's routine was light, energetic and was relatively complex. I did agree with the judges that Gethin needs to lift his performance a little more, but that is something that Camilla cannot teach him.

John's voltres (sp?) weren't so good, but he did a competent job otherwise. I liked Nicole's routine, but the performance as a whole just lacked something in my opinion. I suppose at this stage in the competition I'm expecting to be wowed every time.

Letitia looked a little hesitant until she got into the hold, although I did like Darren's choreography out of hold. She didn't close her feet properly throughout the dance. Not her best performance, but her transformation during the course of the competition has been great. I wonder how she is going to cope with two routines a week.

Following on from Ian's 60s-inspired samba a few weeks ago, Brendan took the samba into the 70s with Night Fever, which I thought was a nice twist. I thought the judges were a little harsh. The routine did lack some samba content, because of the Saturday Night Fever moves, but Kelly performed what she was given very well, and I don't feel she should have been marked down because they didn't like Brendan's choreography. My only criticism was that she brushed her hair out of her mouth in the middle of the routine, which was a bit unprofessional. Always leave your hair and costume alone - unless your costume has fallen off!

Kenny did some lovely footwork in the American smooth. The routine was soft and flowing. My only criticism was that the lifts were a bit 'long' - an obvious way of using up extra counts in the music. The lifts were a great demonstration of the trust between Kenny & Ola.

I loved Flavia's music choice. The same track is used for the salsa in the Simply Ballroom show. This was Matt's best latin performance so far. He seemed less inhibited than ever, and the performance side of his work has come on leaps and bounds. Again, I wasn't wowed, but it was excellent. Maybe I'm being too critical at the moment. He needs to not let it show on his face when he cocks something up. It's a dead giveaway.

Alesha & Matthew put in yet another good performance. If I was being really picky, I'd say she needed a teeny bit more hip action on her lock steps, but that's just my inner Craig Revel Horwood coming out. Three 10s, though? I'm not sure.

I loved the group Dirty Dancing routine. Richard Marcel is a God, and I even recognised some of the choreography from his Move It class. It was Kelly who stood out for me. She was born to dirty dance!

It will be interesting to see how they all cope with two dances from this week. It will certainly sort the contenders from the pretenders. I worry about how Kenny and Letitia, and perhaps even Gethin will cope with learning two routines.

Gethin & Camilla



John & Nicole



Letitia & Darren



Kelly & Brendan



Kenny & Ola



Matt & Flavia



Alesha & Matthew



Dirty Dancing Group Routine