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Proudly blogging about Strictly Come Dancing ALL YEAR ROUND since 2006. Always spoiler-free.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Next! Natalie Imbruglia...
Natalie Imbruglia is the latest in a long line of celebs who have said "I turned down Strictly Come Dancing".
She told BBC News that despite having danced as a child, she would be "terrorfied".
Don't worry, Natalie. The public don't tend to like anyone who has had any kind of formal training, no matter how long ago, so you're probably best off out of it.
Zoe Lucker has been battling her nerves since signing up for Strictly.
She told Now magazine: "I'm way out of my comfort zone and it's taking me for ever to learn the dance steps. I'll even wake up at 3am thinking: 'What comes next?'"
Thankfully her fiancé James has helped her through: "I couldn't have done it without him. For the first week or so I was coming home saying, "I can't do this!" and he'd reassure me that as long as I did my best, that was all that mattered."
She certainly did her best, and looks like a real contender. Nothing to be nervous about Zoe. You did a grand job.
Richard Dunwoody is naturally disappointed to be voted out of Strictly so early on.
He told the Belfast Telegraph: “Taking part in Strictly Come Dancing was an amazing experience and I am very glad I did it. I am now able to put one foot in front of the other and I think I’m coming away from it having learned a few dance steps. It was brilliant to be asked to do the show in the first place and I really did try my best. Yes, I’m disappointed to be out, particularly when I didn’t have the lowest score, but that’s just the way it goes. It was immensely hard work and a massive challenge and I never wanted to be the first one to go from our group of eight, but I’m also relieved to be getting back to my normal life.”
Richard was a fun contestant, and did a good job. He brought a joy to the floor, and I think he'll be missed, despite having such a short ride.
Alesha Dixon claims she is starting to relax into her role as Strictly judge.
She told the Daily Telegraph: "Last week naturally I was just settling in. There has been a massive build up to the show and there was a lot of pressure on my shoulders. This week, however, I was able to relax and be myself."
And of Bruce's comments of support on Friday's show she said: "Brucie is a sweetheart and has always supported me ever since I was in the show in 2007. His words of support were encouraging and very lovely."
I think the public might still take a bit more convincing than Bruce...
Joe Calzaghe's dad has been sticking up for his son, not that he needs it.
Enzo Calzaghe has told Wales Online that he doesn't think much of Craig Revel Horwood: “If I was there I’d throw a big bag of tomatoes at him! If I put Craig in the boxing ring, I wouldn’t be so rude and demanding, he’d have to pick it up at his own pace.”
He also said: “None of the dancers there are a Fred Astaire or Ginger Rogers, they are all finding it difficult. They’re all as nervous as hell.”
The Daily Mail reports that viewers find the skimpy costumes on Strictly too much for teatime telly.
The article quotes at least three viewers who are 'shocked' by the skimpy costumes, although I can't see any difference from previous years. The Mail helpfully publishes lots of pictures of the offending articles.
Arlene Phillips believes that the Strictly judges have been marking the couples too high so far.
She told the Daily Mail: "I’ve done an overall mark for everybody and theirs are nowhere near where mine are. I think Craig is the only one marking what he sees - and he gets booed."
What struck me this weekend is that Alesha often gave the couples the same mark as Craig, while Len and Bruno scored one higher.
Arlene belives the scores for Jo should have been more like the ones given to Fiona Phillips: "Jo should not have got more than threes. I know with Fiona she got threes, fours and maybe a five - and that's the kind of performance it was."
Personally I thought Jo was a bit better than Fiona. More on a par with Kate Garraway.
Zoe Lucker's dad has spoken to the Huddersfield Examiner, and admitted that she never used to be one for dancing.
Paul told the paper: “When she was asked to do Strictly, she had huge worries about whether she would pick it up and there’s a huge amount to learn in a short space of time. She genuinely didn’t know how she was going to get on because she’s not a dancer. At family dos and parties, she would be the one who would sit out. She probably took one look at her mum and dad dancing and thought, ‘No thanks’!”
Here are my thoughts on Week 2 of Strictly Come Dancing, a little earlier than usual.
One thing I feel I have to mention is how tough it's been for the celebrities doing tango, rumba or even both. Tango and rumba are both intimate dances that usually come later in the competition when the couples have built up a rapport. Having to do that at the beginning is pretty harsh.
Anyway, on to the couples.
Natalie did well with her tango. It was a little stompy in places, but it was vey competent. Personally, I found the passion a little 'acted' and not very genuine. I didn't like it as much as the judges. But Natalie & Vincent have good chemistry. A little work on her posture would go a long way.
I agreed with the judges that sending Natalie off to do the cha cha walks on her own was very brave, but shows how much faith Vincent has in her ability. But the rest of the routine was a little lacking in content. Natalie's personality shines through. I hope she stays for a while, because she loves it so much.
Zoe & James were wonderful in the waltz. I loved the opening. The whole thing was graceful and romantic. She did a good job with some great choreography.
Zoe has beautiful arms and uses them so well. Unlike the judges, I didn't like the rumba as much as the waltz. I thought her hip action was great on the basics, but lacked on other steps. She's very much a contender.
Craig &Flavia's tango had lots of attack, although I didn't really like Jai Ho as a tango music choice. I agreed with CRH that Craig was leading with his left arm in places. The choreography was very complex, and Craig handled it pretty well.
Latin certainly doesn't come naturally to Craig. It was like dancing by MFI instructions - stick arm A into position B. He really lacked finesse. Maybe the more up tempo latin dances will be more Craig's thing.
Richard &Lilia's waltz was quite impressive. It was graceful and calm. I agreed with Craig that Richard needs to watch his balance, but it was a good first effort and showed potential.
The cha cha wasn't really Richard's dance. He had terrible timing, but he was so much fun to watch. Like Ricky last week, Richard went out and entertained the audience and had bags of personality.
Laila's tango was fabulous. A class act with beautiful poise.
The cha cha was not as good as I'd expected. We all know that latin is not really Anton's passion, but I'm really not sure I liked the comedy choreography. That aside, I thought Laila was a little bit wooden. I expected more.
Phil's waltz was really charming. Like Len, I was really surprised at how good Phil's performance was. Katya has done a good job with him.
The cha cha was a solid effort. It was fun. Phil's posture was a bit iffy, but any lack in his technique was made up for with his personality which sparkled through.
Jo is not a natural dancer, but she managed to get through Brendan's tango choreography and certainly wasn't the worst we've ever seen.
Jo's rumba was awkard. She actually has nice lines at times when she's still, but she was terrible when she was on the move. Mentally she's in Strictly Come Dancing and is giving it everything. But sadly physically it's not happening for her.
Ricky &Natalie's waltz was beautiful and romantic. Aside from that tiny slip, it was fantastic.
In the rumba they had great chemistry and drama. I actually thought he needed to watch his timing just a little at the start. He seemed to be fractionally ahead of the music (unless I'm imagining things). He had the best hip action since Colin Jackson. Where's Arlene when you need her? I'd love to know what she'd say to Ricky.
I enjoyed this week's Michael Jackson group number much more than last week's group mambo. They seemed better rehearsed and together. A much better team effort.
Overall, I thought Jo & Brendan should have been sent packing, but we all know the public likes the underdog. I don't think either of the bottom two couples should have gone, but I think the judges made the right decision. While Richard & Lilia were entertaining, Craig & Flavia were the stronger pair.
Joe Pasquale, whose surname already sounds like a latin dance step, has admitted that he wouldn't mind giving Strictly a go some time.
He told the Chard & Ilminster News: “I'm not a dancer but I'd definitely give it a go. I love to challenge myself, that was the biggest draw about going into the jungle.”
Well, it is a jungle out on that dancefloor. I wonder which one Tuffers thinks is the most challenging...
This is possibly the campest thing I have seen since... well, Strictly Come Dancing.
Clementine, a fashion doll from Norfolk, will be blogging each week for the BBC Norfolk website
Now, I generally am reluctant to promote other bloggers, but Clementine is something to behold. She's fabulous, flirtatious, and funny. Go and check out her video blog here.
Ballroom legend Peggy Spencer called BBC Radio Norfolk this week, on her 89th birthday, to give her backing to Bruce Forsyth.
She said: "I think Brucie is part of the programme now. I don't think you could tear him away from it now. If you were talking about starting again then maybe have a rethink, but I think to start to destroy the image at this moment wouldn't be quite right."
The training may be easier than the Olympics, but the competition is harder, claims Jade Johnson.
She told the Press Association this week: "It's totally different to training for the Olympics - it's actually a lot easier to train for this, but I think it's going to be a lot harder to compete in this than the Olympics, to be honest... This is a totally different kettle of fish. A lot more fun, lots of glitz and glam - it's a lot different to the sand and the sweat that I usually deal with."
Judge-in-waiting Darcy Bussell gave the Strictly celebrities a ballet masterclass earlier this week at the Royal Ballet School.
A training insider told The Mirror: "It was quite an intensive class. I think some of the blokes thought it would just be pointing toes and posing. But Darcey showed them ballet could be a tough man's game too."
Visit What's On TV for some photos of the session.
Craig Revel Horwood is threatening to throw a strop if Alesha and Bruno don't stop speaking over him.
He told The Mirror: “I would like to slap them both. That’s my intention come this weekend. If they start rabbiting on I am going to put a stop to that. They both try and out-talk me despite the fact I am only given 10 seconds to speak. I think its rude to talk over other people and I can’t understand why they do. Are their comments better than mine? They are like little children.”
Richard Dunwoody has written a column for The Mirror, in which he reveals he's nervous, but having a good time.
He writes: "I can't ever remember being as nervous. Where riding is so different from dancing is that the devil is in the detail. You have to think about where you are putting your hands, timing, foot placement and a million other things. It is a language that is very hard to learn and you are judged on it."
Two more fabulous magazine photoshoots to mention this week.
The professional females have a 4-page spread in Hello magazine, looking very sultry and steamy indeed. Check it out.
And the judges are gracing the cover of the new Radio Times in a West Side Story themed shoot. Check out Bruno and Craig's high kicking and Alesha looking hot in two Vivien of Holloway dresses (I have a VoH dress - every girl should own one - they are FAB-U-LOUS!).
It was Kristina's birthday earlier this week, and Joe joined her and her friends at Kensington Roof Gardens. The Metro has a few pictures of them leaving.
Rumours continue to swirl that Joe & Kristina's relationship is more than Strictly professional, although what happens off the floor is no-one's buisness other than there own. The publicity might help keep them in the competition a bit longer, as based on last weekend I'm not convinced that Joe's dancing alone is enough to make it very far. People might keep them in just to watch the relationship develop.
Or maybe it will go down the Big Brother route where the public always seems to like splitting up blossoming romances.
Phil Tufnell is trying to improve his health by cutting down on KFC - and all the training means he can't smoke as much either!
Although he's not as committed to training as some of the others. He told The Mirror: “The other celebrities train for far more hours but I can be lazy. I like to have a coffee, a sandwich, and a chat throughout rehearsals, so Katya has had a job on her hands to get me to where we need to be. She has to crack the whip and stamp her feet. I know when she is angry because she calls me Philip. The only other person who calls me Philip is my mum.”
Phil admits that the main reason he signed on to participate was because of his wife Dawn: “She was one of the main reasons why I did the show really. She is a big fan of it. We sashay around the kitchen when I want to practise. I think she does find it a bit embarrassing though when we are out shopping. I’m in the middle of Marks & Spencer and my feet start tapping and I’m going, ‘One-two, one-two’ and she’s saying ‘What are you doing?’”.
Richard & Lilia took a break from training this week to head to Wimbledon Village Stables for a riding lesson.
Richard's spokesperson told Horse & Hound magazine: "Her balance was good, she was getting the rising trot and really loving it. She wants to learn to ride — and would have been cantering if the BBC let her!"
I'm not surprised that the BBC want to keep a tight rein (geddit?) on their dancers. They don't want to lose one to injury, especially a non-dancing related injury.
Justin Lee Collins has expressed how disappointed he was to interview Bruce Forsyth on his BBC Three Strictly sister show during the first series.
He told BBC News: "As legendary as he is - I grew up loving him, as did my parents, as did my grandparents - he wasn't particularly nice to me on that show. I loved him and they do say never meet your idols because you're always going to be disappointed and in the case of Bruce I was disappointed. He was very rude."
But he thinks Alesha was a good choice to be a new judge: "The only one on that panel with any technical knowledge is Len Goodman, as he's the only one with any ballroom dancing experience. Alesha is just as qualified, if not more so, to comment on the dances than Craig and Bruno because she's done it and she's won it. And she's got personality bursting out of her every pore."
The stars of Strictly Come Dancing have been ordered not to publically criticise Alesha Dixon's judging skills.
The Mirror reports that BBC bosses have warned the stars to keep quiet. A source told the paper: “It was made clear we can’t say what we really think. There is a culture of fear. It’s as if they are trying to brainwash us. It would be funny if so many of us weren’t worried about accidentally saying something inappropriate.”
The BBC denies that those involved with the show were fed stock answers about Alesha, Arlene and ageism.
The contestants and celebrities on Strictly Come Dancing were very upset at the poor food served up at Television Centre at the weekend.
A source told The Mirror that there might be a mutiny if things don't improve: "Everyone was exhausted and hungry and they were really disgusted at the food. Many of the celebrities and dancers said they could not go on if this didn't change."
The source said that the menu consisted of lukewarm chicken strips, dried-up pasta, limp salads and old fruit.
When they have put in the amount of training and rehearsal as these guys have, they need food to keep their energy levels up. I can totally sympathise with them.
Arlene Phillips has added a Sun column to her list of commitments, and this week has scored each of the couples.
She gave the highest marks to Ali & Brian with 7. And the lowest went to Joe & Kristina and Martina & Matthew, both with just 2.
She also feels that the programme lacks something by being all in one show, instead of having seperate results: "An hour and a half is too long and getting the results so quickly diminishes the excitement. Viewers like to be able to get up, make a cup of tea, then come back and settle in for the results. It heightens the level of excitement. Thinking, 'Somebody is going to go home tonight' used to give me butterflies. There was much more drama when there were two shows."
I'm inclined to agree with her on that (alright, maybe not the bit about tea, although I do like to have time to refill my wine glass and phone my Mum to discuss what I've just watched). I always liked the drama of 'earlier tonight...' and the anticipation. And surely the BBC are losing telephone revenue by only having the phone lines open for 15 minutes.
Alesha has spoken out against criticism again, this time to the Radio Times.
She's been defending her judging credentials: "I spent six years singing with Mis-Teeq, and another four as a solo artist where I had to pick my own dancers and audition them. Also, having competed on the show, I'll be the only judge who understands what the celebrities are going through. Unless you've walked in those shoes you'll never know how demanding it is."
As opposed to Arlene who has only spent the best part of 40 years auditioning dancers...
But I do feel bad for Alesha. She's been put in a position that's not really of her own making, and I suppose she just has to make the best of it.
Former Strictly champion Mark Ramprakash will be signing copies of his autobiography, Strictly Me, at Waterstones in Leadenhall Market, EC3 on Monday 28th Setpember between 12.30-1.30pm.
Alesha Dixon has spoken out about the criticism against her judging skills and credentials.
She told The Mirror: “Obviously Arlene was a big part of the show for a long time. But my job is not to replace Arlene. My job is to provide a perspective that was maybe missing before and that is the understanding of the performance aspects and of just how tough it is to perform to the standards the viewers expect. Having been through the Strictly experience I can relate to what they are going through.”
I don't think anyone disputes that Alesha understands what they're going through, but that still doesn't mean she makes a good judge. Does appearing on Popstars: The Rivals mean Cheryl Cole brings an added perspective to the singing corner (I have no idea, I don't watch it, but please comment if you have an opinion)?
Alesha's not letting public opinion nudge her out: “I am not a quitter. It’s not in my nature to consider quitting. We are just starting on a long road and I know I can help make the path smoother for some of the celebs.”
Although Darryn Lyons' gossip website MrPaparazzi implies that Alesha was not as confident in her abilities as she might let on to the tabloids. An audience mole told the website: "When the dancers were being interviewed backstage the panel were off-camera. Alesha turned around in her chair between almost every dance and asked her family their view. We could see her mouthing, 'What do you think?' then asking for a thumbs-up or thumbs-down. I also heard her asking Bruno what he thought several times."
Welcome to the return of my Sunday Service. Each week I'll be posting my thoughts about each of the couples in the competition, and what I thought of the result.
Rav & Aliola had the difficult task of going first (although everyone who has gone first so far has made it to the final). The tango is a pretty difficult dance to have to tackle in the first week, and Rav did a fair job. He needs to make sure he keeps his shoulders strong, and doesn't like his butt stick out (which it did on occasion). And you could have driven a bus between them. But a good first effort.
I preferred Rav's rumba to the tango. He had fair hip action although the performance lacked connection between the couple. I didn't believe that there was any love between them. It was all a bit... functional.
Ricky &Erin's waltz was classic Erin - simple, stylish and elegant with plenty of basic and nothing too fancy. Ricky actually did a very good job. His topline, especially his left arm, need to relax a little more, but it was a very good effort. If only he'd smiled...
What can I say about Ricky's chacha? It certainly was entertaining, and his facial expression made up for the lack of expression in the ballroom. It was actually pretty good. He lost the timing in the middle, and could have reached further with his legs on the Cuban breaks. But I liked the performance as much as the studio audience. If he can get the timing in check, Ricky could do quite well.
Chris &Ola's tango was a good first effort. It wasn't as passionate as it could have been, and Chris seemed to walk around the floor with his toes turned up. He needs to watch his top half, and make sure he doesn't stick his butt out. But a solid start.
Chris & Ola's rumba was excellent. I loved the choreography. I loved the connection between Chris & Ola, such a sense of love and longing. It was really good. I totally agreed about the comments about Chris' splayed hands, though. It was really the only thing that let him down.
Jade made a good start with the waltz. I loved the song selection, and Ian's choreography always has musicality that echoes the music (look out for the line 'When will our eyes meet?' in the second chorus to see what I mean). Jade needs to watch the placement of her head. She must control her long arms and not let her hands droop. And her standing spins were a bit 'joggy'. But there is loads to build on, and she could go far.
Jade's split to end the chacha was amazing. She certainly looked more at home with the latin. Again, control of those long arms is going to be one of Jade's challenges, but she was hot.
Aside from the slightly mucky ending, Martina &Matthew's waltz was very competent. Not mind blowing, but neat and graceful. But perhaps a little forgettable.
I loved the song choice for the rumba. Alone is a fantastic song. Martina had a nice performance quality, but sadly didn't have enough hip action. She needs more extension on her lines.
I loved Lynda &Darren's tango. Like Ian's, Darren's choreography really picked up on the music and lyrics of the song. Lynda looked at home on the floor, and really enjoyed it. Their tango was one of my personal favourite performances of the weekend.
The latin probably not going to be Lynda's preference, but she gave it everything, and that is all you can ask. Her joy shone through. It's a shame she lost the timing in the middle, and at times it looked like her feet had had a row they were so far apart. But when the pressure of two dances is removed, I think we'll see good things from her.
Ali &Brian's waltz was first class. Elegant. graceful and effortless. Very impressive at such an early stage in the competition.
Ali's rumba wasn't quite the same standard. I agreed with the judges that her lines were nice, but the transitions were wobbly. She seemed to lack balance and flow, and it was a little staccato. But it was a warm performance. Perhaps Ali will be more at home with the more up-tempo latin dances.
Joe looked really uncomfortable dancing with the much shorter Kristina. He hunched over her during the tango, and his knees were too flexed. It lacked passion, and he actually looked a little glazed over in the middle. I loved the ending, though (no, not because it meant it was over!).
Joe seemed to spend the chacha looking to Kristina for guidance, and forgot about performing to the audience. He seemed to struggle with the timing and looked a bit wooden. I liked the nod to boxing in the choreography, although that was the only part where Joe loosened up.
The group mambo was good fun, but is probably not a good indicator of how the couples will get on next week. Ricky W shone through, and Zoe and Natalie looked pretty good. I can't say the same for Jo or Richard though...
Personally, I would have liked to have seen Joe & Kristina go home. Joe's performances left me cold. Based on the dance-off, it was tough to split Martina and Rav, but I have to agree with the judges, and I think of the two, the right couple went home. It's a shame for Matthew to be first out for the second time, but someone has to leave.
BBC Norfolk recently sat down with Britian's biggest ballroom legend - Peggy Spencer MBE.
Peggy was a big part of Come Dancing, without which there may never have been Strictly Come Dancing.
Peggy started teaching dance during the war, and lead teams of formation dancers on Come Dancing from 1949.
Like much of Britain, she was sad to see ComeDancing's demise: "I did everything I could to get it back. I went to the head of the BBC, but as far as he was concerned, dancing wasn't on the agenda."
Address the hate mail to Alan Yentob, who was in charge of the decision...
Despite being very happy to hear about Strictly, she declined to be a part of the new show: "I was thrilled when I had a call from some producers who were going to bring back Come Dancing with a difference. They asked if I wanted to take part and help present it - I refused. I felt old and said they should get someone younger, much more alive and appealing than me."
Do go and read the whole article. It's a great interview with a true ballroom legend.
Not all celebrities keep the world updated through Twitter.
Ricky Whittle has chosen to write about his Strictly experiences through his official blog. Good lad. Blogging is so the way to go!
On Wednesday he wrote: "It's been a few tough weeks of learning choreography, learning routines, how to even stand properly. My whole posture has changed and adapted and i cant think of a body part that doesn't ache!!!"
We'll find out soon if all that hard work has paid off. If Arlene were judging, she'd be very happy to hear he's been working on his posture.
I think Ricky will be one to watch this year. And if you can't wait until tonight to see him strut his stuff, here's a reminder of his performance with the Hollyoaks gang on Let's Dance For Comic Relief.
Tomorrow is the day when this year's hopefuls finally take to the floor.
Sky News has been poking around on set chatting to the nervous participants.
Natalie Cassidy told the channel: "I can't believe I'm in it, it's really strange, like a dream. In rehearsals I'm just standing there and can hear it all going on - Brucie and Tess going 'couple number one'!"
And Jo Wood (who has banned her family from the live shows - good move Jo, more chance of us mere mortals getting a ticket) is hoping it all goes well: "We're going to be a shambles. Well, I hope we're not, but I feel that we are. I only danced in a nightclub before."
Arlene Phillips has a new judging job lined up, on a British version of So You Think You Can Dance? on the BBC.
BBC News reports that auditions will take place around the country next month, and the programme will air in January. She will sit alongside 'Nasty' Nigel Lythgoe who judges the show in the US, and was famed for selecting Kym Marsh, Myleene Klass, Suzanne Shaw, Shrek and Ken for Hear'say on Popstars.
Arlene Phillips has been given a weekly column in Woman's Own to talk about Strictly. Alongside her appearences on The One Show, it's going to feel like she is still very much a part of Strictly.
And in this week's issue of Woman's Own, there is also an interview with Arlene. This is the FIRST interview Arelene has given since her departure from Strictly, and in it she reveals how she feels about it.
Arlene is very diplomatic about Alesha: "Alesha’s got a lovely, bubbly personality and lots to say for herself. I’m sure as a Strictly winner she’ll have learnt a lot from her partner Matthew Cutler."
I couldn't let the day end without mentioning how sad I was to hear about the passing of Patrick Swayze.
Patrick, as Johnny Castle in Dirty Dancing, inspired a generation of kids like me. We all aspired to dance like Johnny and his Kellerman's colleagues. I remember seeing Dirty Dancing on VHS in the early 1990s and being totally blown away by the dancing, even if I didn't fully understand the more adult themes.
I was lucky enough to see Patrick perform in Guys & Dolls in the West End three years back. It was amazing to look up at the stage and think 'That's Johnny Castle!'. It's a memory I will cherish. And we say him at the stage door.
Brendan Cole has condemned the schedulling clash between Strictly Come Dancing and the singing corner on the other side.
He told The Mirror: "Obviously the BBC and the powers-that-be decide the scheduling. It's got nothing to do with me. But I think it's sad that people are going to have to flick between the channels and not see either of the great shows in their entirety. I don't think it's necessary. There's enough time for both."
As someone who can't be bothered with the singing corner anymore, I actually couldn't care less that the shows are on at the same time. Although I do understand ITV1's position. They have revenue to make and advertisers to please, while Auntie is supposed to providing a public service. Perhaps it is a bit unsportsmanlike.
If you haven't been to the studio or the tour, you won't know that Stuart Holdham is the warm-up man for Strictly Come Dancing, who gets everyone pumped and ready for showtime.
The Watford Observer has a little profile of the Dale Winton double who was two time disco dance champion of Watford. Or not.
Here is a new promo video, containing TRAINING FOOTAGE, as well as comments from all the celebrity participants. If this doesn't get you in the mood for Friday, I don't know what will!
Strictly Come Dancing finally returns on Friday at 8.30pm. Only four sleeps to go!
Taking to the floor this weekend are:-
Joe Calzaghe & Kristina Rihanoff Lynda Bellingham & Darren Bennett Martina Hingis & Matthew Cutler Ricky Groves & Erin Boag Jade Johnson & Ian Waite Ali Bastian & Brian Fortuna Chris Hollins & Ola Jordan Rav Wilding & Aliona Vilani
I shall be tweeting live throughout Friday's ballroom programme with my thoughts (home internet permitting, it's been up and down more times than a bride's nightie recently).
Make sure you join me on Twitter. It's going to be fast, it's going to be fun... It's going to be fantastic.
Craig Kelly admits that he's both excited and scared about his dancing debut on Strictly Come Dancing.
He says lovely things about his partner to the Daily Record: "Flavia is just so cool and brilliant. She is very, very patient and she is a great teacher. The good thing is we get on really well. She is a laugh and, yes, it is work, but I am having a lot of fun with her. I am really lucky to have landed Flavia as my dancing partner."
And Flavia seems to be pleased with Craig's progress: "Training is going well. He is a perfect student in the sense that he is very willing to learn and he listens. He doesn't get frustrated either and he gets on with the job. We get on really well and I am just so pleased I have got Craig. I feel very lucky. I am hoping the fact he is an actor will help. Hopefully, he can put his own input into the dances when we start to make up characters and stories."
Flavia will be hoping to repeat the success she had with actor Matt DiAngelo, whom she took to the final.
Craig is nervous and excited: "Fear motivates me and keeps me on my toes. Before I started training, I was terrified and excited in equal measures. Now I'd say I am slightly more excited than terrified. I will be glad when the first programme is over but I just want to enjoy the challenge and the journey."
Using the 'J word' already? You're going to fit in just fine, Craig!
Make sure you read the full interview. It's really good, and the first we've really heard from this pairing.
Four Strictly favourtites spoke to the Daily Mail yesterday about all things Strictly.
Anton, Erin, Vincent and Flavia revealed their thoughts about the goings on so far this year.
Anton jokes about celebrity partner Laila Rouass: "I'm a great fan. I've got all her records. She looks promising. As she came towards me, she walked in a perfect straight line. She didn't limp or list to one side. I was very pleased because I haven't had that for a while."
Erin on being judged by Alesha: "I thought it was a bit weird to start with, but the idea has grown on me. I'm eager to find out what she's going to be like. She won't be able to comment on technique. She'll have to come in from a different angle and talk about the entertainment value of the dances."
Anton on Alesha: "Alesha's lovely but you'll have to ask me in a few weeks what I think of her as a judge. I don't think she'll impart any criticism. She'll just comment on what she's experienced in, which is taking part as a celebrity."
Vincent on celebrity partner Natalie Cassidy: "She has watched from the beginning. She is great fun and bubbly. I feel already she is my friend."
The Sunday Mirror is claiming that things are hotting up between Joe Calzage & Kristina Rihanoff. The paper has printed pictures of them arm-in-arm and looking happy (scandalous!).
In an interview with the paper, Kristina has revealed that she is very happy with her partner. She said: “Joe is a man of great power and strength. And I have to admit he’s very good-looking. If I met him in a bar, I would think he was a handsome and charming guy. He looks amazing and he’s in tremendous shape. I call him ‘Mr Muscle’ and he calls me ‘The Boss’."
It sounds as though Joe will avoid some of the issues that many celebrities struggle with. Kristina said: "Joe and I can dance all day and he is comfortable with the intimacy that dancing requires. I prayed for a young one and when we met I felt like I’d won the lottery."
But there's no smoke without fire, and the paper quotes Kristina: “It’s great that we’re both single because we are free to do what we want when we want."
I guess it helps you be less inhibited if you're single.
I agreed with so many of them - especially this one.
Your only point of reference with popular music is, for example: ‘Oh, that was Claire and Brendan’s Samba!’ or ‘Kate and Anton danced a tango to that, yer know...’ You = fascinated. Friends = Zzzzzz.
Rav Wilding is literally bursting with excitement about Strictly.
The Mirror reports that Rav keeps bursting out of his trousers!
He has reportedly split six pairs of strides since training began. He told the paper: "I had a little bit of a wardrobe malfunction because I've got tree trunk legs and my pants keep splitting. Thank God, I have clean underwear as last time it was a huge rip and very embarrassing."
A BBC source said: A bbc insider said: "It's become a running joke already about how many costumes he will get through in the series. His thighs are enormous and, coupled with the energetic routines, it's a recipe for disaster. Rav finds the whole thing hilarious but he's slightly nervous in case it happens during the actual competition."
It seems that Jo Wood is finding the Strictly training pretty tough.
The Daily Mail papped Jo & Brendan taking a break in training, and Jo is seen red-eyed, wiping away tears.
Jo told the paper before the incident: "For me to be able to learn how to dance is like a dream come true. I want my kids to be proud of me. I’m saying, 'Yeah, this is me. I’m coming out.' When they said I was with the bad boy of ballroom dancing, I thought, 'Fabulous!' I have been around bad boys all my life. Brendan said every Saturday night we’ll all go out after the show."
Celebrities shedding a few tears is nothing new. In fact, most participants do it sooner or later, and sometimes the pros do too.
Jo Wood's model daughter Leah spoke to The Mirror about her mum's participation in Strictly.
She explained how tough Jo is finiding the training: “Mum’s been rehearsing like a mad woman and there is a lot of pressure. She’s never had dancing lessons in her life. There was a specific part in the mambo dance that she couldn’t grasp, but you do get emotional when you’re over-tired. She has shown me the routine in the kitchen at home and it’s great. I’m so proud of her and I know that she’ll do it on the night.”
A really good piece from the Sunday Mercury has put all the participants comments on Arlene and Alesha in one, easy to digest article.
I love Anton's comment on Alesha's potential bias: "I reckon Alesha is completely biased! She'll swing it towards Matthew every time. They love each other. Matthew comes out and she'll give him ten without waiting for him to dance!"
There's some other, non-judge related chat in the article. Well worth a read.
Strictly is heading back to the home of dance - the Tower Ballroom in Blackpool.
The BBC have announced that the show will return to Blackpool on Saturday 7th November for the first time since Series 2.
Michael Williams, Operations Director of Blackpool Tower, said: "It is fantastic news that the BBC is once again bringing Strictly to the Tower Ballroom. The ballroom will certainly add to the atmosphere and give this year's contestants the opportunity to dance in magnificent surroundings – it really is a welcome return."
This will certainly give the participants something to aim for. It will be a real achievement to make it to Blackpool, and will be a real milestone in the competition this year.
Robbie Williams has sarcastically suggested that Strictly Come Dancing is only for those whose careers are on the slide.
The Sun reports an interview Robbie gave to Capital Radio in which he said: "I love reality TV. It's the only stuff I watch. But yeah, if this CD fails and Take That doesn't do too well, Strictly Come Dancing then straight to panto."
Strictly producers choose you for the show, not the other way around. And frankly, with that attitude, I hope that never, ever happens.
Erin has reported that she and Ricky have only just started training today, because Ricky has been injured. With only two weeks until show one, they have their work cut out. Let's hope he's a natural.
In honour of the new series of Strictly Come Dancing (BBC One, Friday 18th September, 8.30pm, as if you'd forgotten), here is a fantastic photo of all the fabulous 2009 celebrity participants.
Jo Wood is hoping that she can pick up some tips on stage presence from her ex-husband's band mate, Mick Jagger.
A source told The Sun: "Jo's been after some performance tips from Mick Jagger. She knows that he's got lots of experience as a showman and she really wants to make sure she dazzles in the competition. So who better than the Rolling Stones' frontman for some advice? The pair are pals and she's really keen to do her best on Strictly."
A very nasty story in Now magazine implies that Vincent was a bit put out when he discovered he would be dancing with curvy Natalie Cassidy.
The article quotes a source that says: "We think Vincent drew the short straw when he found out he got Nat. We reckon the producers did it on purpose because she’s bigger while he’s stick thin and short, so they look pretty funny together. We’ve joked that we’re going to buy him a back brace for when he lifts her up. Nat hardly compares to petite Rachel Stevens from last year."
What I don't like is the article's implication that Vincent himself feels this way. If the source had said that Vincent was unhappy, I might have bought it. But actually the source said that they thought Vincent had the short straw. Gross mudslinging.
Natalie & Vincent seem to be getting along just fine. And even if Natalie stays the same size througout (and I think she looks fantastic), what does it matter? Letitia isn't stick thin, and she made it to the quarter final.
Why does the biggest girl in the competition always get such a hard time? The oldest competitor gets it too. It's not right, and makes me seethe.
Joe Calzage & Kristina Rihanoff have been shockingly standing close together.
The Daily Telegraph has printed a pic of them together standing together outside their training studio. Scandalous!
Honestly, I'd expect this from The Mirror, but The Daily Telegraph? Dear me.
They're at least 6 inches apart in the picture. Thet's probably the furthest they'd been apart all day. It's hardly a passionate embrase signalling the start of a torrid affair, is it? And even if it was, does it matter?
I can't wait for the competition to start. Then we might get some 'proper' Strictly news.
Macmillian Cancer Relief have posted a video on YouTube in which Kristina Rihanoff teaches the salsa.
It's all part of Macmillan's World's Biggest Coffee Morning event which takes place on 25th September. Visit Macmillan.org.uk/feelgood for more details.
Well, there are a couple of things to tide you over in the meantime.
Look out for Justin Lee Collins: Ballroom Dancer which premieres on Thursday at 10pm on Sky 1 (with various repeats throughout the week). Justin (who some of you will remember presented Strictly's sister programme on BBC Three during the first series) said: "If you were to ask my Mum what my favourite childhood programme was, it would be Come Dancing. I fought for the ballroom dancing mission and am so glad I did."
There's also another chance to see Ballroom High with Anton & Erin on Sky 3 at 6pm on Saturday.
And before that awful winter-time Strictly wannabe came along on the 'other side', there was a Strictly special called Strictly Ice Dancing. There's a chance to see it on Watch this Friday night at 9pm.
