Monday Musings: Week 10

I was so sad to see Jade & Ian leave the competition. As Len commented, Jade was there challenging Ricky Whittle for that top slot. She had really found her stride, and was improving with every dance she did. It’s such a terrible shame.

Onto the competition, and I really enjoyed Ali & Brian’s foxtrot routine. I couldn’t find fault with it. The choreography was lovely, and they performed it very well. Ali is so beautiful with ballroom.

Natalie & Vincent had a number of errors, particularly in the first half of the routine. The whole thing lacked bounce and hip action. I appreciate Natalie’s passion. It’s something I always cry out for. And I’ve said many times that enthusiasm and performance can mask a lack of ability. However, a lack of ability cannot be overcome by heart alone. For me, Natalie just doesn’t have it. And I so desperately wish she did because I have so much adoration and respect for her. She has improved. She’s amazing. She’s a role model for anyone wanting to learn to dance. But she’s not a contender.

Chris & Ola’s Viennese waltz was lovely and romantic, but again it’s Ola’s clever choreography that has kept them in the competition. Just like with Kenny, Ola neglected to put a flecurl in the routine. Something about the performance just didn’t gel. I’m starting to think that perhaps Chris has gone as far as her can.

Ricky performed the American smooth brilliantly. The lift demonstrated how much Natalie trusts him. I really liked the routine, but I didn’t like it as an American smooth. I prefer a more Hollywood, glamorous interpretation. That said, it was excellent, and very well performed. I don’t think there is any fear of Ricky becoming complacent.

Laila & Anton’s waltz was riddled with mistakes. The waltz was a bit stumbly. It lacked her usual ballroom style and grace. Laila seems to be making little improvement and is on a plateau. She really has to step up if she wants any hope of making the final stages.

Ricky Groves had the attitude of the tango, but was let down by errors. I think he tried too hard. It’s such a shame, especially when he and Erin were so excited about the dance earlier in the week. I did think it was an odd song choice, especially for Erin who usually sides with more traditional music. However, it was the mistakes that killed him.

I was very surprised that all four judges decided to save Laila & Anton. Both couples put in a better performance in the dance-off, and I know it’s the dance-off that they are supposed to be judged on. Personally however, I feel that Ricky is a better all-rounder, while Laila is a ballroom specialist who’s latin really let’s her down. A one-sided competitor won’t win Strictly Come Dancing. You have to be an all-rounder.

So next week brings new dances – Rock n Roll or Charleston. I’m pretty excited by this prospect, especially Charleston which I really like. I think the Charleston will be the bigger stretch for the couples. Rock n Roll is more similar to jive than Charleston is to anything. And Charleston requires cheekiness, especially from the girls, which they haven’t really had to perform so far.

One last thing to mention is the fact that we are now a couple short yet again. After last year’s controversy, the producers really need to decide how to handle it. I would hate to see a two-handed final, as it tends to be a little dull – although it’s highly likely to be Ali and Ricky left, so would it matter? Whatever happens, it needs to be something more ‘official’ and thought out than last year’s ‘you’re all in the final’ mess.