Sunday Service: Week 12

 The semi-final was epic! It's a cliché to say that it's the best series ever, and the judges, especially Motsi often get caught up in their own hyperbole, but I have to admit that this series has been a bit special.

Rhys & Nancy started the show with a tango. The word that sprang to mind while watching it was 'determined'. Rhy looked focused throughout the routine. His topline still isn't perfect, and he is still often boarding on being ahead of the music. But all of the choreography was there, and it was a nice routine from Nancy. I kind of liked that Rhys began the routine alone, in fact I think he might have been better on the solo section than in hold. A good start.

I felt that Rhys' suspect timing was more evident in the samba. The move where Nancy sun around Rhys' leg and onto the floor didn't quite come off. Something also went awry in the middle section where Rhys didn't quite catch Nancy's arm to lead her into a spin, and then missed her hand again. I did really like Rhys' hip action, though. Brilliant voltas, and a nice natural top. 

AJ & Kai's quickstep was the story of Hollywood glamour routine we have been missing this series. It delivered everything. Amazing costumes, a fantastic rendition of Sing, Sing, Sing by the band, and a relentless routine which was exhausting to watch. They didn't break hold for the entire routine, their frame was spot-on and there was almost no gapping. A quickstep masterclass, and completely deserving of a perfect score.

Their rumba was also very well-danced. They seemed connected, but were performing for us as well as just each other. It felt like a performance and not just a dance. It didn't move me emotionally as much as some of their earlier dances, but it was still an excellent routine and very enjoyable to watch. It's such a shame so many couples try to dodge the rumba, because it's wonderful when it's performed this well.

I really loved John & Johannes' couple's choice routine. I got the feeling from social media that it wasn't everyone's cup of tea (more to do with people not liking contemporary dance than anything they did), but I thought it was moving. There was a moment at the beginning where they both stood up and walked forward. Johannes looked at John and gave him a little nod to say 'We've got this", and it was adorable. The routine showcased the beautiful mirroring skills we've become accustomed to, and the strength which you would only ever see with two male dancers together. Wonderful storytelling, and John was totally in the moment. It was wonderful.

I didn't enjoy the jive quite as much. It was fine, but it wasn't special. Maybe it was the music choice - I can't help wondering if I would have liked it more to a different track. John needs to watch his free arm, which was just not placed in this routine. They looked like they were having fun, but I didn't feel like I was part of the party.

Finally, we have Rose & Giovanni. The waltz is often really underrated and overlooked, but when it is performed as well as this pair did, it's truly beautiful. It was so elegant, perfect rise and fall, perfect frame. Totally enchanting. Their connection is so special to watch. I could watch that routine over and over again.

The key thing about the Argentine tango is that the woman has to follow. It looks so much better when she doesn't anticipate the steps. Because Rose cannot hear the music, she is the queen of following, and this was evident in their AT routine. She is also a fantastic actor, and it all came together on the floor. It was intense and atmospheric. She danced into the floor, and her legs kicked in all the right places while still looking effortless. I was Flavia was back in Choreography Corner this week, because I'd love to hear her opinion on it.

So, tonight four must become three, and for me Rhys is the one who is a hair behind the others. His timing and frame aren't quite as good as the other three. I fear that John & Johannes might join them in the bottom two, and if so there's an outside chance that the judges could save Rhys.