Strictly Come Blogging: Sunday Service: Week 1

Welcome back to my Sunday Service for 2008. Each week I shall be posting my comments about Saturday night's dances.

I thought Tom & Camilla made a cracking start. He had a timing issue here and there, but that could be nerves. He looked to be enjoying the experience, and Camilla's choreography wasn't too difficult while still being entertaining. He danced with energy. He looked better in Week 1 than Gethin did. One to watch.

Phil & Flavia did quite well with the waltz. Phil needs to relax his upper body more, but he had good drive and did look as though he was leading, perhaps a little too much at times. The standing spin was a bit awkward. But with some more work, he'll improve I'm sure.

Don had a few timing issues. I expected him to be a bit more of a groover, but it was a solid effort. Although he did stare a little intently at Lilia throughout. He could do with having a little more fun.

Austin started beautifully. I loved his standing spins. And his spotting was excellent on the pivots. Erin is the mistress of ballroom, and it really showed in Austin's quality. Another one to watch. I hope his latin is as strong. And I loved the music choice - Rainbow Connection is a wonderful track.

I found Mark & Hayley a little disappointing. I think Mark was a little to conscious of his height. He seemed to have his knees too flexed, and his shoulders were rounded. But another great track - the beautiful Tennessee Waltz.

I'm afraid I had to agree with judges on Gary & Karen. His timing was dodgy and he was flat footed. It was a bit like Embarrassing Dad. "What's this? It's got a good beat!". I fear for Karen's place in the competition. For someone who was analysing every move in training, it's a long road ahead. He did look like he was having fun, though.

The nation held its collective breath when John & Kristina took to the floor, but I think everyone was pleasantly surprised. Their waltz was sweet and pure. No tricks. Just solid technique and a very endearing performance. And he enjoyed it, which was great to see. I'm not sure how he'll fare in latin, but I would expect to see him back in two weeks' time.

I doubt anyone would have noticed how Andrew danced because Ola looked so amazing in her catsuit. Even I barely looked away from her. She is stunning. Andrew was a little flat footed and awkward in places. He needs to watch his second hand in places, which was dangling down looking odd at times. But, as Arlene said, at least he's an improvement on the previous GMTVers.

I think Austin and Tom were the strongest contenders this week, with John nipping their heels. But it could already be the end of the line for Gary & Karen.

The ladies' group dance left a lot to be desired. Many looked uncomfortable, untidy and unbalanced. Rachel looked to be the only one with any ability, with Heather possibly in second place. I was disappointed with Christine and Lisa, but hopefully they'll shine when they come to do their individual dances next week...

Here are the videos...

Tom & Camilla