Strictly Come Blogging

Ola: "My Best Friend Is James"

2012-01-26T23:10:00.002Z

Ola Jordan has answered some questions posed by the Daily Express.

She reveals that her best friend is James, she has a weakness for crisps, she wishes she could cook like her mother and she's a bit of an OCD neat freak.

Worth a read...

Tour Reviews

2012-01-26T22:31:00.002Z

The reviews of the Strictly Come Dancing Live tour have started to appear online.

Here are a selection:

Bromsgrove Standard

Daily Telegraph

The Stage

Sunday Mercury

Birmingham Mail

The Guardian

Brendan: Strictly Doesn't Need "Some Random Judge"

2012-01-25T12:52:00.002Z

Strictly pro Brendan Cole thinks that a TV personality with some dance experience would be the best bet for the Strictly judging job - although he doesn't offer any suggestions.

He told Yanhoo!'s The Juice: "I'd like a TV personality who has some form of background in dance that understands what it's all about. I think it's quite a funny thing to get someone who's had three months of dancing experience. It cracks me up actually, it takes years and years and years to understand what we're all doing. You need the respect of the dancers otherwise the comments are taken with a pinch of salt. It's like "whatever"."

He doesn't think Kara Tointon would be right for it: "No, I'd like to see somebody that is a TV personality. I don't think they just need some random judge. Somebody who's a television personality that people are going to know and love already."

The Only Way Is Strictly

2012-01-19T12:39:00.002Z

The Only Way Is Essex's Lydia Bright would like the opportunity to take part in Strictly Come Dancing.

Contactmusic quotes an interview in which she said: "I'd love to do Strictly, I think it sounds really fun. I like trying new things. You never know, if it came around and it was the right opportunity for me then I would definitely consider it. At the moment I'm really enjoying filming TOWIE and being involved with that."

Rebecca Adlington: "Strictly I'd Love To Do"

2012-01-19T09:14:00.001Z

Olympic swimmer Rebecca Adlington is already thinking about her life and career after 2012, and if she retires she'd love to have a go at dancing.

She told The Times: "If I'm happy that I've done what I can [in London], I'd be ready [to retire]... I would like to do more commentating, Strictly I'd love to do - and then I'd love to do the team manager's job for Britain. I think I'd have a lot to offer from the right perspective."

Cleopatra Coming At Ya

2012-01-19T09:02:00.003Z

Nancy Del'Olio was presented at the Strictly tour photocall in a way only Nancy could be - dressed as Cleopatra being carried in a sedan chair - sorry, lounger - by Artem and Robin.

The Daily Mail reports than Nancy won't be taking the usual bus to the tour venues, which kicks off tomorrow night in Birmingham. A source told the paper: "She has insisted that she travels in either a Rolls-Royce, a Bentley or a Mercedes, and that there will be two cases of vintage champagne and five vases of lilies in her dressing room every night. She will also have a masseuse and acupuncturist on hand."

Russell Could Be New Judge

2012-01-16T12:42:00.002Z

Russell Grant's name has been added to the ever-growing list of potential replacements for Alesha Dixon. The Sun reports that Strictly producers have contacted him to see if he would be interested in the role.

A source told the paper: "Russell made a huge impression on Strictly last year — not only with viewers but with bosses too. There was a big groundswell in favour of Russell taking over Alesha's judging role, and executives contacted him to see whether he would be up for it and he gave them a resounding yes. They have now added his name to the shortlist from which a final decision will be made."

The paper suggests that no decision will be made until a new executive producers is appointed, which will not happen until the spring.

Bruno Backs Kara And Jill For Judgeing Job

2012-01-16T12:38:00.003Z

Bruno Tonioli thinks that Kara Tointon or Jill Halfpenny would be good choices to replace Alesha Dixon on the Strictly judging panel. Although we shouldn't expect an announcement any time soon.

He told the Sunday Mirror that he was surprised to hear of Alesha's departure: “It’s showbiz, these things happen. I was in the Caribbean sunbathing when I heard. I think Kara would be very good as a replacement as she is a champion and feisty. Jill Halfpenny would also be very good for the same reasons. I’m surprised Alesha quit, but that’s the industry and I think she will be great on Britain’s Got Talent. We’ll carry on and we will come back bigger and better than ever. I don’t think a decision will be made until June or July when we have regrouped.”

Erin: "I Want To Beat Anton Every Year"

2012-01-11T13:11:00.002Z

Erin Boag has been talking to the Northampton Chronicle about her upcoming Let's Do It theatre tour with Anton, her partnership with Rory Bremner and what she likes to do in her spare moments.

On being partnered with Rory: "When I saw the line-up I thought Jason, nice but intense, Harry from McFly was too small and young, Russell was too big, but I thought Rory is a good size and he is nice, I wouldn’t mind having him. We never know who we will get, but I was really pleased with him."

On competing against Anton on Strictly: "I want to beat him every year. I can’t believe that he did it this year with Nancy Dell’Olio. When Rory and I got out and our results were being called I said: ‘it could me or you’ to him. We were in the bottom two. When Rory was called I couldn’t believe it. I will have to equal it out next year."

On the future: "I still feel I have a lot to do. I would like to have a baby. A family, a small family, and to have a baby, not babies."

Arlene And Karen Overwhelmed By Support

2012-01-11T12:54:00.006Z

Arlene Phillips has been overwhelmed by people suggesting she should be asked to return to Strictly Come Dancing following Alesha's sudden departure.

Arlene told The Sun: "The Strictly thing was just starting to die down. Having been asked about it every day for years, this Christmas and New Year I thought — heaven, it's ending a bit. Maybe there is another life for me. Then this happened, and as soon as it did my phone hasn't stopped ringing. And I am very grateful but I can't even say thank you without it causing an avalanche. I've not been able to breathe. It's sad I have had to be quiet on Twitter because I love engaging with people through Twitter."

Many fans have suggested that Karen Hardy should replace Alesha. She has also been humbled by the support she has had.

She told the Bournemouth Echo: “I’m shocked to hear the news Alesha is going. I’m completely overwhelmed by the amazing support from my fans and through Facebook and Twitter. Obviously, as everything has happened so suddenly, it will be exciting to see what happens.”

Chelsee On Judge Shortlist?

2012-01-11T12:42:00.005Z

According to the Daily Mirror, Chelsee Healey is on a list of potential new Strictly judges, and has already been informally approached.

A source told the paper: “BBC bosses have a shortlist of about eight names and Chelsee is one of them. She would do really well with younger viewers and help bring in a new demographic. As a successful past contestant – like Alesha was – Chelsee will understand exactly what the celebs are going through and bring with her that empathy. Bosses have already sounded Chelsee out but Nancy [Dell'Olio] has her heart set on the role... She believes people stopped watching when she was booted off and thinks her sense of fun and unique personality are just what Strictly Come Dancing needs. Nancy has invited [outgoing Strictly executive producer] Moira [Ross] for lunch at The Ivy in London – her favourite haunt – in an effort to convince producers she is the one they want.”

Nancy continues to be a deluded soul. I often think she just says things so that she will get written about in the papers.

Chelsee is the wrong choice in my mind. I was never a fan of Alesha on the panel as I didn't think she really added anything (the whole "I've been there" thing doesn't wash for me). At least Alesha had the 'qualification' of being a Strictly champion, which Chelsee does not. Chelsee has been a great participant and is a lovely dancer, but I don't think she's right for the panel. The other judges would eat her alive. You need strength - especially if you are a woman among three men. Alesha never really found that until the most recent series.

If producers want a young female on the panel, Kara Tointon would be a better choice, since she was a Strictly champion like Alesha. But this would cause a conflict of interest if Artem is still a professional dancer on the show in 2012. They have been a couple for over a year.

NTAs Shortlist

2012-01-03T14:16:00.006Z

Strictly Come Dancing has made it through to the shortlist of the National Television Awards.

You can vote here. What better way to sock it to Simon Cowell for pinching Alesha than to vote for Strictly!

Strictly is nominted in the Talent Show category, alongside Britain's Got Talent, The X Factor and Dancing On Ice.

You can also vote for former Strictly participants Jaye Jacobs in the Drama Performance (Female) category for Waterloo Road and Jesse Wallace in Serial Drama Performance for EastEnders.

Winners are announced on 25th January and the ceremony will be braodcast on ITV1.

Alesha's Off

2012-01-03T13:59:00.002Z

Alesha Dixon has left Strictly Come Dancing to join Britain's Got Talent.

The Mirror reports that Simon Cowell is paying her £300,000 for the move, joining him on the judging panel alongside Amanda Holden and David Walliams.

Alesha's agent Malcolm Blair told the paper: “Three years is a long time on one show and she wanted to keep the end of this year clear for her new album. Much as she loved doing Strictly, it is time to move on. This is not about the money. Doing Strictly every Saturday night for 15 weeks was a huge commitment and this will free her up for other things.”

Personally, I don't think Alesha will be missed that much. She was a very unpopular choice when she replaced Arlene Phillips, and seemed less committed than the other judges - not joining the tour and rarely appearing on It Takes Two. However, to give her her dues, she had started to make some comments with a bit of substance during the last series.

The Mirror article suggests that the BBC were not aware of Alesha's departure until it hit the media yesterday, so it will probably be some time before any decision is made on a replacement (although, as Alesha is the only female, I would presume she will be replaced).

My preference to replace Alesha would be Karen Hardy. Anyone who has listened to her comments on Chrography Corner on It Takes Two can't fail to see what a good job she would do. And she's already a part of the Strictly family. I'm not sure how I'd feel about someone 'new' joining the panel, unless they had some pretty strong dance credentials. I don't think there are any former participants who would be strong enough to take on a judging role.

I hope Jennifer Grey is not waiting by the phone...

Gethin And Katherine Split

2011-12-30T19:21:00.002Z

Former Strictly participant Gethin Jones has split from his fiancee, opera singer Katherine Jenkins.

The pair met in 2007 when Katherine was a musical guest on Strictly while Gethin was in the competition, and announced their engagement in February this year.

They announced the split on their respective Twitter feeds.

Gethin tweeted: "Hi everybody. I'm deeply sad to tell you that Kath and I have ended our relationship as a couple. We are both heart broken... Gx"

Katherine tweeted: "Sorry for being quiet of late, its just that I have some very sad news. Geth & I have decided to go our separate ways. We are both beyond broken hearted. All your hugs & support will be much appreciated xxx"

Tess Daly will be so disappointed.

Panto Review: Aladdin at Milton Keynes Theatre

2011-12-23T11:01:00.003Z

While Craig Revel Horwood is on his third year in panto, former Strictly pro Camilla Dallerup makes her panto debut in Aladdin at the Milton Keynes Theatre this Christmas, as the Genie of the Lamp (a part which she shares with Strictly participants Russell Grant and Anita Dobson).

Naturally, I went along to see how our Strictly starlet got on.

Because of Camilla's presence, there are frequent jokes and references to Strictly throughout the show. I couldn't help thinking that, as it's been three years since Camilla appeared that some of them were lost on young kids, but anyone over the age of about 10 should be fine.

Camilla has a big dance number to Moves Like Jagger (Russell and Anita will perform their own numbers from Strictly). Look out for the judges who come on to critique the number - very funny.

I thoroughly enjoyed the show. Gareth Gates is excellent as the heart-throb Aladdin, proving that he can act as well as sing. John Barr is first class as Widow Twanky. Nicola Brazil is a beautiful Princess Jasmine who little girls will be enchanted by. But it's impressionist Paul Burling as Wishy Washee who completely steals the show. Not watching Britain's Got Talent, I had no idea who he was, but I was totally blown away by his performance. He completely stole every scene.

Strictly fans will enjoy the panto and will love the references to the show. Camilla did a good job, and was able to show more of her acting skills following her recent small role in the touring company of Calendar Girls. I'm sure Anita and Russell will be just as good.

Aladdin is on at the Milton Keynes Theatre until 15th January. You can purchase tickets at ATGTickets.com.

Sir Bruce Will Be Back

2011-12-23T10:21:00.002Z

Sir Bruce Forsyth will be returning to Strictly Come Dancing next year, as long as he wants the job.

A source told the Daily Mail: "[The job is Sir Bruce's] as long as he wants it. Sir Bruce has certainly been as proud of this series as any. Ultimately it is up to Bruce, but he is unique in a million ways."

Strictly Cruising

2011-12-23T10:15:00.002Z

Following the success of Warner Leisure's Strictly Come Dancing breaks, the stars of Strictly are now being taken onto the open seas.

P&O Cruises have launched two Strictly cruises for 2012 which will feature lessons and caberets from, as yet unconfirmed, Strictly dancers. Craig Revel Horwood will host the events.

P&O's MD Carol Marlow told Travel Weekly: “We are so excited to bring the magic of the Strictly ballroom to [the cruiseship] Oriana. Our passengers will be able to learn with the professional dancers, watch extraordinary show dances and hear some of the secrets of this global phenomenon.”

Partner Swap For The Tour

2011-12-23T10:08:00.002Z

Robbie Savage will now be dancing with Katya on the Strictly tour instead of Natalie as previously advertised.

The Sun claims that Natalie was seen leaving Robbie's hotel room early one morning during the TV series after spending all night there. Robbie says that he was having a belated birthday gathering in the room, and that nothing happened between them.

A source told the paper that it was Robbie's wife Sarah who ordered the change: "She didn't want them dancing together."

Natalie will now partner Mark Foster instead.

These pairings seemed daft from the outset anyway. Mark is taller than Robbie, and Natalie is taller than Katya, so it makes more sense for them to be partnered this way around. Maybe that is the real reason for the switch...

Pasha & Katya On Tour

2011-12-23T09:57:00.002Z

Pasha & Katya have announced that they will be going on tour.

The pair, who have been partnered together on Strictly this year, will perform 35 dates across the country accompanied by two other dancers.

All of the details can be found on the Love Katya Virshilas fan site.

Congratulations, Holly!

2011-12-23T09:48:00.002Z

Holly Valance has become engaged to her property tycoon boyfriend Nick Candy.

Holly posted this photo on Twitter to show how it happened.

She tweeted this morning: "Thank you EVERY ONE for your beautiful well wishes! We're high as kites on excitement & love! Thank U 4 all your thoughtful messages! ♥H&N♥"

Craig's Boob Job

2011-12-19T23:24:00.002Z

It seems that Chelsee Healey isn't the only one on Strictly who has had a boob job.

Craig Revel Horwood has admitted to the Sunday Mirror that he has had breast reduction surgery.

He told the paper: “I couldn’t cha-cha-cha about without them jigging in my face. I was fed up with having tits so I had them hoovered away and now I feel fabulous. I’d say I went from a C-cup down to an A-cup. I’m finally flat-chested again.”

James & Ola To Be Axed?

2011-12-19T23:13:00.002Z

James & Ola Jordan could be looking for new jobs next autumn, following rumours that they may not be asked back in 2012.

The Jordans were not asked to be a part of the upcoming Strictly live tour. It's no secret that there is no love lost between James and judge Craig Revel Horwood, who is also tour producer.

But now the Daily Star reports that the Jordans' days on TV may also be numbered. A source told the paper: “There could be a very different line- up this time next year. Producers are keen to keep things fresh so quite a few faces could be dropped. It’s going to be brutal for some of them. But that’s the way it works when you’re on telly’s top show. The only ones who have been discussed are Ola and James at the moment. They might be liked by viewers but that may not be enough to save them.”

Jason's Salsa

2011-12-19T20:29:00.005Z

Jason did not get the opportunity to perform his salsa, but here is the footage from their dress rehearsal at the Tower Ballroom. I actually really like it, especially the epic armography section.

Sunday Service: Week 12 - The Final

2011-12-18T15:13:00.004Z

They think it's all over. It is now. Strictly Come Dancing is over for another year. But what did the final bring us?

Round one: Judges' Choice

Harry & Aliona kicked things off with their quickstep. This was one of my favourite dances of the series, mostly due to its simplicity. It was old school Strictly. The routine was even better on the big Blackpool Tower dancefloor. Harry was so light on his feet. He even smiled a tad more than before (though not much).

Aside from the fact that I hated Jason & Kristina's tango the first time around, and I still do, I didn't think Jason's performance was as good as the first time around. His posture was really odd throughout. It didn't quite have the same drive and intent as the first time. The serious tango sections seemed a little camp - whereas Jason was totally in character the last time they performed this and only camped it up on the disco section.

Chelsee & Pasha's jive was another of my favourite dances of the series. It is such an amazing routine, which Chelsee seemed to really love. There did appear to be a tiny timing issue or two last night, but it was still fantastic.

Round two: Showdances

Showdances. So built up. So often disappointing.

Harry & Aliona's routine to Great Balls Of Fire was all about the lifts. There was some nice jive content, but it got lost between all the lifts. The lifts were well-executed. I just wasn't all that taken by the routine. I didn't like the drumming bit at the end, as it took away from the dance, and destroyed the possibility of a spectacular ending.

Jason & Kritina's showdance was the best of the three choreographically. They opted for a more theatrical dance, and I loved the song choice - Dancing Fool. I loved all the Bucks Fizz costume moments. It had some nice lifts, which were within Jason's capabilities, and a nice mix of quickstep, jive and Charleston. The routine totally suited Jason. It's just a shame he didn't execute it that well. The side-by-side sections were his undoing yet again.

I felt that Chelsee & Pasha's routine was a little ambitious, which made Chlesee appear nervous and tentative. There were some daring lifts, which seemed a little tough for a non-professional dancer. They looked great when both feet were on the ground, but I think that Pasha may have gone just one step too far for Chelsee. As she came out of each lift, it was not a smooth transition into the next section. It was a great song, though - One Night Only is the kind of song a dancer just loves to perform to.

Round three: New Dance

It was probably right for Jason & Kristina to place third. If Jason had nailed the showdance, he might have squeeked in, but as things stood, it was right.

Harry & Aliona's American smooth was gorgeous. The choreography was romantic and the performance was elegent and tender. It was still a bit serious - Harry is the antithesis of Jason when it came to facial expression. I loved the lifts, especially the first one which was very lyrical.

Chelsee & Pasha's rumba could've been tighter. There were a few stumbles. But it was still very romantic. Chelsee has more beautiful lines than anyone else in the competition. Like their showdance, I felt that the rumba was a little too ambitious. The running split was better than it had been in the American smooth, but it was still not perfect, and the look on her face before she went for it was not a happy one. I loved the 'angry' section after the creschendo in the music, but it was followed by an awkward lunge.

Round four: Favourite Dance

Harry & Aliona opted to do the Argentine tango again. It was slick and polished. A brillint performance to end on. Harry was totally in control and lead Aliona all the way through the dance.

Chelsee & Pasha ended with their quickstep. It was a great choice, as it was the routine where Chelsee really started to look like a contender. It was brilliant to see them perform the routine on the large Tower floor, and it was Chelsee's best performance of the final.

Personally, I would have preferred Chelsee to win, mainly because I found Harry generally quite boring. He lacked expression on the floor throughout the competiton, and the dances where he scored well were the ones where you don't need to smile. For some reason, he seemed to escape the accusations of being too laid back that plagued Holly.

That said, Harry was clearly the better performer in the final, and based on last night's performances only, Harry was stronger than Chelsee.

Next time we need a tripwire around the ballroom. No more pitch invasions. Bloody McFleas. And why did we not get to hear from Chelsee & Pasha? Or Aliona?

Another year is over. That's been my sixth year blogging about the series. I really do appreciate all of you who still come and read my ramblings, even if you do not necessarily agree with my opinions. As always, I will continue to blog about all things Strictly throughout the year, so please keep checking back for updates, and follow me on Twitter.

Keeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeep dancing!

Here are the videos...

Harry & Aliona - Quickstep

Jason & Kritina - Tango

Chelsee & Pasha - Jive

Harry & Aliona - Showdance

Jason & Kristina - Showdance

Chelsee & Pasha - Showdance

Harry & Aliona - American smooth

Chelsee & Pasha - Rumba

Harry & Aliona - Argentine tango

Chelsee & Pasha - Quickstep

The moment of truth...

Book Review: Chance - A Strictly Novel

2011-12-14T18:05:00.005Z

I will admit it. My heart sank when I heard that a new Strictly novel was being published. Last year's offering was pretty dreadful.

But I am very forgiving when it comes to all things Strictly, so I decided that I would put the past behind me and get stuck in.

The most pleasing thing is that this book - Chance - is written by a different author. Already a good start.

Unlike the last novel, the story is not based around the show. It centres around Ava, a Shropshire florist. She has a sussessful business and but something is lacking. She is taken for granted by her non-committal boyfriend. Her dominieering sister is in the throes of planning the wedding of the century. And she misses her best friend, who is now married with children, in still living in London. So, inspired by Strictly, she decides to sign up for dance lessons. And this leads to meeting a handsome, but illusive, man who is her perfect dancerfloor partner. The dance lessons make Ava feel alive, and she starts to take a long hard look at her life.

Strictly comes up regularly in the story, and all of us will see ourselves reflected at times - wether it be the excitement of Autumn nights meaning the show will be here soon, the desire to take up lessons after falling for the Strictly magic, or wishing we could wear those amazing costumes. Ava gets the opportunity to see the show live, and if you have been lucky enough to go to Television Centre, you will also identify with the excitement and buzz of being in the studio audience.

This is a well-written romance novel with a loose Strictly theme and is a quick and enjoyable read. You certainly won't want to throw it against a wall or anything.

And if you get the iPad version, it also includes three mini-games within the pages to test your knowledge of the dances that Ava learns at class. Nice!

Chance is available now in all good bookstores and online retailers (big thanks to the nice folks at HarperCollins).

Sunday Service: Week 11

2011-12-11T09:17:00.003Z

What I loved about this year's semi-final is that everyone has a different opinion about who should make it to the final in Blackpool. Which makes it really close and really interesting. They were all dancing for their lives last night.

Harry & Aliona started things off with a brilliant Charleston. The routine was good fun and it had great energy. It had more facial expression than we usually see from Harry, although it still could have done with more. It was a fast routine, which Harry kept up with brilliantly. All of the side-by-side sections were completely in sync. He coped very well with all of the lifts. It was a great start to the show.

Harry & Aliona's Viennese waltz was also first class. It was romantic and moving. They went straight into a fleckerl and then onwards. No tricks, just a magical Viennese waltz. I think Aliona's choreography has really improved in the last few weeks. She's doing what the judges want, and it's improving their scores. Harry's footwork is very good. To be really picky, his left arm can be a little high at times, and he could have taken longer strides. The only disappointing thing was his face. He looked like a serial killer. When he remembers to smile, he looks amazing. I wish he could have done it all the way through.

Alex & James' waltz looked a little bit awkward. Alex's right arm was a little too stiff, he bottom was stuck out, she didn't close her feet properly. It just wasn't as good as some of her earlier ballroom dances. Alex did look relaxed, though. She seemed to be enjoying the experience.

Alex & James' salsa was OK, but not really good enough for a semi-final. She needed to bring her legs closer together on the basics. The routine had some nice armography. Alex really went for it and seemed to enjoy herself. Her timing was a split-second out in places. But I didn't see the point of the overcoat and broom at the beginning...

Chelsee & Pasha's American smooth was less Hollywood and more rumba than other routines, which made it romantic and elegant. Chelsee is such a beautiful dancer. Her lines, her arms and her hands are all amazing. The only thing I didn't like was the drag split near the end. Only people who can do the splits should be given that.

Chelsee & Pasha's paso doble was also very nice. There were a couple of wobbles, but otherwise it was excellent. It had drive and passion, and all of the beautiful lines that Chelsee always produces.

I'm afraid I wasn't that keen on Holly & Artem's Argentine tango, and I didn't see what the judges saw. For me, Holly was a bit soft. She had bent legs and wasn't strong enough. I didn't like the section on the stool. On the positive side, her lunge lines were gorgeous (which is probably why there were so many of them in the routine).

I loved Holly & Artem's Charleston. It completely suited Holly, who was never going to be comfortable with the usual 1920s style cheeky routine. It was different, but brilliant. Unfortunately, I thought Holly looked under-rehearsed. Her steps didn't look as slick as they could have, which really stood out next to super-slick Artem. It's such a shame, because it was such a brilliant routine, and Holly looked relaxed and comfortable.

Jason gave the samba a good go, but it was not his best routine. You could see that Kristina had worked hard on his hip action, but it just wasn't on the money. Jason's timing was a bit iffy on the some of promenade runs. I loved the routine, though. Proper samba. I love those crossing botofogos, and I think this may have been the first routine to have them. It's a shame Jason had to have the dreaded samba in the semi-finals.

Jason redeemed himself with the Argentine tango. It had great passion and drive. I loved the lift where he pulled Kristina from the floor. Jason needs to watch his timing just a little, but this a fantastic effort.

Without a doubt Harry and Chelsee should be in the final. They are both brilliant. It's hard to split Holly and Jason. Holly is the more natural dancer and is technically better than Jason, but she finds it hard to find the character of the dance sometimes. Jason is the better performer, but sometimes tries too hard and loses his timing. Personally, I would rather see Jason make the final. He works so hard, and I think it would mean more to him. I also think that over the course of the series, Jason has put in more routines that I have enjoyed.

Tonight's results show is going to be a killer...

Videos to follow...

Catch-Up With Camilla

2011-12-09T13:29:00.003Z

Camilla Dallerup may have left Strictly, but she will always be associated with the show.

This Christmas, she is appearing in Aladdin at the Milton Keynes Theatre (look out for my review next week) as the Genie of the Lamp (a role which will be shared with Anita and Russell - check the website for performance details).

The Northampton Chronicle caught up with her to ask her about the role, as well as other things she has been up to since leaving the Strictly dancefloor.

On panto: "It is like a dream come true. Panto is one of the greatest British traditions. I have just been wishing to do panto."

On returning to Strictly: "Not unless there is a spare seat on the judging panel."

On this year's participants: "I’m totally in love with the boys this year – Harry, Jason and Russell – it is all about the boys. The boys are really strong and are nailing it every Saturday."

Read the whole interview for more.

Christmas Strictly Style

2011-12-09T13:18:00.002Z

The stars of this year's series have come together for a very special 12 Days Of Christmas photoshoot for the Radio Times.

Alex Jones is a Maid A-Milking, Rory Bremner is a Piper Piping and the most inspired shot has to be Edwina Currie is a Goose A-Laying. I see what they did there!

The Daily Mirror has some of the pictures, and you can see a behind-the-scenes video on the Radio Times website.

Strictly On The Silver Screen

2011-12-09T12:55:00.006Z

No, not another reference to Movie Night.

The final of Strictly Come Dancing next week is being shown in 3D. But don't despair if you do not have a 3D TV, because Strictly will be shown live in 3D at 14 cinemas around the country.

Apollo locations: Torbay, London Piccadilly, Rhyl, Stroud, Altrincham, Leamington, Carmarthen and Burnley.

Odeon locations: Belfast, Birmingham, Cardiff, Dunfermline, London Covent Garden and Manchester Printworks.

Moira Ross, Strictly's executive producer said: "Watching the show in 3D will bring more of the magic of Strictly to life than ever before with viewers able to experience all of the dazzling routines as though our finalists are dancing right before their very eyes. It’s great that with these cinema broadcasts we can offer more viewers the chance to witness the spectacle up close and share the magic with fellow fans.”

I'm not sure what Bruce and Tess are planning to watch in those glasses, but it won't be the type of 3D that Strictly will be broadcast in.

I've watched rugby in 3D in the past, and because 3D requires completely different cameras, 3D viewers saw the whole match from the opposite side of the pitch to the main broadcast (the pub where I was watching had both 3D and regular televisions to we could see both). Presumably, those watching in 3D will see different camera work to those watching the normal broadcast (which will be in standard and high definition as normal).

I'm desperately upset that I won't be able to make it along to one of these cinemas (I'll be luck if I'm home in time to watch the final live - oh the horror!). I've always wanted to watch Strictly in a shared environment, such as a pub's big screen. Some gay bars in London show the show the singing corner, by sadly nowhere shows Strictly.

Don't Rain On Their Parade

2011-12-08T13:29:00.003Z

Russell & Flavia will be participating in the New Year's Day parade in central London.

Around half a million spectators will line the route from the Ritz Hotel in Piccadilly to Parliament Square.

Speaking about the London Parade, Russell said: "This will be the happiest of New Year’s for me! I have made so many new friends across the country in recent weeks and appearing in London’s New Year’s Day Parade will be the perfect opportunity to say a big thank-you to the great British public for believing in me."

It is the last performance for Russell, before the knee surgery which he had needed since before leaving Strictly.

For more information, visit LondonParade.co.uk.

Robbie Looking For His Next Challenge

2011-12-06T09:11:00.002Z

Robbie Savage has enjoyed the challenge of Strictly that he is now looking for another challenge to fill the void that retiring from football has left in his life.

He told the Daily Mirror: "I always thought I'd never do another reality show but I've realised I'm someone who needs a challenge. If I'm A Celebrity... came up next year I would consider it because I'm mates with Ant and Dec but I'm also a big fan of 71 Degrees North. I was adamant Strictly would be the only reality show I'd ever do but I have been very down since I was voted off. I feel like I could burst out crying. It's not because I got booted off the show, but weirdly because it's brought it home to me that I'm not a footballer any more. When I was about to retire as a player in May I could put a lot of the sadness to the back of my mind because I knew I had Strictly coming up. Now I don't have a challenge any more and even though I've got the best job in the world, talking about football for the BBC and ESPN and writing about it in the Mirror, I'll be looking for the next challenge."

Nancy: "Anton Has Never Had A Better Partner Than Me"

2011-12-06T08:59:00.002Z

Nancy is at it again. This week she's been talking to The Sun, and still seems to believe that she's God's gift to Strictly.

She said: "Anton has never had a better partner than me. He was very upset about us leaving the show. He can't stop talking about me. There was good chemistry and I loved his great sense of humour."

Come on, Nancy! Can you not hear yourself?

"Anton may have been attracted to me. Who isn't? We were always flirting. I think he was probably intimidated by me so he was holding his emotions in. Was I attracted to him? I don't know, we'll see."

Nancy, darling, Anton flirts with everyone. Anyone who has even been in his company will tell you that. Although, she's probably right. He probably was holding his emotions in, although not the same emotions she thinks he was...

Still it's time for Nancy to put Anton behind her. She's been paired with Artem for the Strictly Come Dancing tour: "I think Anton's very jealous that I'm doing the tour with Artem."

Crying himself to sleep, I'll bet.

Physio For Alex

2011-12-05T21:36:00.002Z

Alex had to see a physiotherapist on Saturday after suffering bruised ribs while practising lifts with James for their American smooth.

Alex told the Sunday Mirror: “It was absolute agony and I have been in a lot of pain. We tried to do a lift and I just felt a shooting pain in my back. I've been to the physio and they said I’ve badly bruised my ribs. Afterwards I could barely walk. Even after all these weeks my body is still not completely used to some of the movements and they can be a real strain... but this is by far the worst injury I've had.”

Sunday Service: Week 10

2011-12-04T16:31:00.002Z

The fact that is was Movie Week seemed to undermine the fact that it was the quarter-final. It was barely mentioned, which is a shame because I think it makes the show less exciting. At least that's the themed weeks over for another year!

Robbie & Ola actually did a pretty good job with the quickstep. They covered the floor well, and Robbie was very light. He was a bit pigeon-toed at times. Robbie's timing is excellent. But the whole thing was a little untidy, and not very interesting.

It was going to be tough for Harry & Aliona. A rumba at this stage of the competition must be a daunting prospect. Harry did well. It was well acted (well, Harry pulled the same face he usually does, but it worked for the rumba). It didn't look completely natural, but it was better than most male celebrities. His arms were pretty good, and he had nice lines.

Alex & James did a good job with their American smooth. Alex now looks really comfortable on the floor. The lifts were great, and really tidy. Alex was very elegant, and she's starting to look like a nice dancer. A little more lift in her left arm would be nice.

We finally saw the Holly we've been waiting for this week. She enjoyed the paso, and it showed. Choreographically, I wasn't that keen. It wasn't Artem's best work, although it did have a fair bit of content, so we should be thankful for that. Holly execution, however, was excellent. She had beautiful lines, and her cool personality suited the dance. I do have to agree with Craig's comment about her eyeline. She needs to make sure she presents outward all the time instead of most of the time.

I absolutely loved Jason & Kristina's American smooth. It was wonderful. Beautifully presented with fantasic choreography. Jason has great footwork. The solo section at the beginning was lovely. It was totally Jason's dance, possibly the best since the quickstep on Halloween week. The lifts were gorgeous. The whole thing was glamorous, and perfect for movie week.

I thought Jason & Kristina were the best of the night. Until Chelsee & Pasha danced. From the first solo kick section, I knew it was going to be amazing. It was phenomenal. It was sharp. It had loads of energy. Fantastic choreography. Lots of personality. Chelsee coped well with some very quick steps. She had excellent timing. It was so good, I had tears in my eyes. Loved it!

Chelsee & Pasha were totally amazing, and I loved Jason & Kristina too. Inevitably, I though Robbie was the weakest. He is very good, but at this stage, he's just not in the same league as the others. As Holly was so much stronger this week, it has to be Alex in the bottom two with him. But this is Strictly, so there could easily be a shock exit. I can't wait to find out!

Here are the videos...

Robbie & Ola

Harry & Aliona

Alex & James

Holly & Artem

Jason & Kristina

Chelsee & Pasha

Chelsee's 'Boob Test'

2011-11-29T13:20:00.001Z

After her costume almost let her down on Halloween week, Chelsee now gives all her costumes a 'boob test' to make sure everything stays were it should and covered up.

She told the Daily Mail: "The wardrobe department always make sure that my boobs are comfortable in whatever I wear now. My main priority is that they don’t fall out, so whenever I try on a new costume we do the boob test. I do a little shake in front of my dance partner Pasha just to make sure everything stays in place. Obviously after what happened last time I’m a lot more nervous, and all I ever say to the wardrobe girls is, “Please just make sure they don’t fall out.” Apart from what happened they’ve not been getting in the way as I don’t even realise they’re there."

Fern Would Like To Do The Main Series

2011-11-29T13:01:00.002Z

Following her participation in last year's Christmas special, Fern Britton would now like to have a go at the full series.

The Daily Mirror quotes an interview she gave to Woman's Own, in which she says: "[Strictly Come Dancing] has always clashed with my charity bike ride but next year the ride is taking place in the spring so I’ve certainly got the time. Doing Strictly is amazing. It makes you feel life is wonderful. When people say they feel sad after getting kicked out, it’s true."

Sunday Service: Week 9

2011-11-27T09:47:00.002Z

From this point on, it's going to be difficult to see any of the participants leave. The competition is getting closer, and more exciting.

I thought it was a little mean to make Anita & Brendan go first, but Anita takes everything in her stride. Anita's timing was excellent. I found the cha cha routine a little boring, but as always Anita had lots of fun, and lit up the room with her smile. I liked that Brendan sent er off on her own for part of the dance. She needs to watch her second arm, as it dangles aimlessly at times. She also needs to straighten her legs a bit more.

Holly & Artem's foxtrot was very well executed. Holly was great at the sexy bits where she was posing, but sadly she looked disconnected when she was in hold. Holly missed a few heal leads, and could have flipped her toes up more when travelling backwards. I really wish Holly could connect with the dances emotionally. She would really explode if she could dance from within.

Alex & James did a nice job with the Charleston. It was obvious that Alex was going to enjoy the dance, and she looked very relaxed on the floor. It had lots of goofy personality. She could have pointed her feet more on the kicks. The routine could have had more content, as a lot of it was just walking around, and it was a little messy in places, but Alex's performance was great once again. Holly could learn a thing or two about performance.

My heart sank when I heard Robbie & Ola's music come on, as I immediately knew what was coming. To be completely frank, I am sick of watching Robbie thrusting now. It's not really in keeping with the samba, but I think Ola has found something that he can do and just throws it into every routine. The routine was too similar to last week's salsa for my liking. Robbie lacked hip action where it was required, and I really didn't need to see him in his shorts.

Overall, Cheslee & Pasha's Argentine tango was good, but there were a few things now quite right. Chelsee was a bit flat-footed on swivels, and sometimes didn't spot on her turns. She needs to point her toes more. The routine did lack passion a bit, and Len's right, she should have drawn on her acting skills. The lift near the end was lovely. It was good, but it could have been so much better.

Jason & Kristina's Charleston was pretty good. Jason tends to lose timing when the steps are very fast and jumpy, he doesn't seem to cope well with the speed. The same was evident in the swing number. Jason's facial expressions were very good (except when he occasionally pulls one of his drag queen faces).

Harry & Aliona's quickstep was the treat of the night. It had so much content I actually started to wonder if Aliona had actually done the choreography. They covered the floor very well, and Harry was lovely and light on his feet. I absolutely loved the little drumming move at the very end. Harry still needs to smile throughout, and not just when he remembers. I loved this routine, and I think it could be my favourite of the series so far. Proper old school Strictly!

The group swingathon once again did not live up to the hype. I found it boring. I didn't need to see Holly's jive routine again. The camera angles mean you can't judge it anyway. It needs a fixed camera. Robbie & Ola and Anita & Brendan were eliminated before we really even got to see them. "Its going to be a war on the floor" proclaimed Tess. A bore on the floor, actually. It went the way of the leaderboard, and had little impact.

The bottom two for me were Robbie and Anita. Robbie is a pretty good dancer, but he's a one-trick pony. Anita has so much enthusiasm, but it does not transfer to her feet. I'd like to see Robbie go, but I suspect it might be Anita who is leaving tonight.

Here are the videos...

Anita & Brendan

Holly & Artem

Alex & James

Robbie & Ola

Chelsee & Pasha

Jason & Kristina

Harry & Aliona

Swingathon

Sir Bruce Accuses X Factor Of Fake Rows

2011-11-24T19:57:00.002Z

Sir Bruce Forsyth has accused The X Factor of making up rows between the judges.

The Daily Telegraph quotes an interview that Bruce gave on BBC Radio 4's Front Row programme: “Well, I think [The X Factor] is struggling more in the press, than I think in anything else. There is a length of time that sort of show [can last]. Although ours is a reality show, we do have people getting up and doing something, we have got beautiful music going on, great singers, we have comedy from the judges, there is comedy from me. So it has other things to offer, not just singer after singer after singer and judges making up rows between themselves… scripted, I think. I wouldn't like to say it is on its last legs as I think they will do another couple of series of it. I am just thrilled that our show is getting a bigger audience than ever this year. That is what I am thrilled about.”

COMPETITION TIME! Win the Strictly Come Dancing Annual 2012

2011-11-24T12:50:00.005Z

To celebrate the publication of the Strictly Come Dancing Annual 2012, I have one copy to give away to a lucky Strictly Come Blogging reader, courtesy of Ebury Publishing.

To be in with a chance of winning, please answer the following question:

Brendan Cole has been the 2011 'rentapro', standing in for Artem and Robin, but who stood in for Brendan to partner Michelle Williams for one week in 2010?

Send your answer to loulabelle44@hotmail.com, marking your email ANNUAL COMP. The competition closes at 8pm on Sunday 4th December 2011.

GOOD LUCK!

Competition is open to residents of the United Kingdom only. There is one prize of the Strictly Come Dancing Annual 2012. The prize has been provided by Ebury Publishing. By entering, you give consent to have your name published on Strictly Come Blogging. Only one entry will be accepted per email address. Duplicate entries will be removed. The competition opens at the time indicated on this blog post, and will close at 8pm on Sunday 4th December 2011. No entries will be accepted after this time. The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries and will be notified by email no later than Friday 9th December 2011. The winner will have 5 working days to respond and confirm their postal address. If no response is received in the time, the editor reserves the right to re-draw. Contact details will not be used for any purpose other than competition entry. The editor's decision is final.

Christmas Special Lineup Revealed

2011-11-23T00:04:00.002Z

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special lineup has been revealed, and it's an interesting mix.

The famous five couples are:
Former boxing champion Barry McGuigan & Erin Boag
Comedy actress Su Pollard & Anton Du Beke
Blue's Simon Webbe & Katya Virshilas
Impressionist Debra Stephenson & Ian Waite
EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks & Vincent Simone

Simon's doing it for his Mum. He said: "Strictly Come Dancing is one of my mum's favourite shows. It's always nice to learn something new, the dancing part of my brain is dormant and I want to wake it up. I also want to wear something tight and sparkly!”

And Charlie is doing it her her daughter: “I’m a massive fan of the series and there’s no way my daughter would have let me turn down such an amazing opportunity to be on the show. I love to be challenged and I’m really looking forward to taking to the dance floor with Vincent.”

I have to say that I like this line-up. There's something for everyone, young and old, which is perfect for Christmas day.

It's also great to see Ian Waite taking to the floor once again. He should do well with Debra, who made it to the final of Let's Dance For Sport Relief in 2010, and did very well with a complex Smooth Criminal routine.

Su has also shown her moves on TV before. Check out this clip from Loose Women...

Natually, Simon has done a lot of dancing over the years, so it will be insteresting to see how he does with a ballroom or latin dance.

Charlie went to Arts Ed, so it's likely that she will have had some dance training during her school days.

Barry is the one the Strictly experience will be most alien for, at least on paper. Let's hope he's an Audley and not a Joe...

The Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special will be on BBC One and BBC One HD on Christmas Day. It's as smooth as brandy butter, but zero calories.

Meet Russell And Natalie!

2011-11-22T22:56:00.002Z

Russell Grant and Natalie Lowe will be signing copies of the Strictly Come Dancing Official Annual 2012 at Waterstones on Oxford Street West at 5pm tomorrow (23rd November).

The annual is a comprhensive guide to all of this year's participants, with backstage gossip, quizzes and games. There are also Strictly inspired reciepes, a look behind the scenes of the 2011 tour and make up tips from head make-up artist Lisa Armstrong.

An ideal Christmas pressie!

Harry Understands How Strictly Romances Happen

2011-11-21T23:38:00.002Z

Harry Judd says that he understands how relationships happen on the dancefloor for those who are single.

The Metro quotes an interview he gave to New magazine, in which he said: "You spend so much time with them and you go through lots of ups and downs. Strictly is far too stressful to get aroused! I’m much too focused on getting it right but you do try and make it sexy. Aliona is very sexy – I think we have good chemistry. There’s no talk of her fancying me. She knows I am off limits, anyway."

She knows he's off limits. Thank goodness. Otherwise she'd clearly be all over him. Presumptuous, much?

Alex Embraces The Strictly Experience

2011-11-21T23:33:00.002Z

Alex Jones believes that you should enbrace the whole Strictly experience.

She told the Daily Telegraph: "If you’re going to sign up to do Strictly, I think you’ve just got to go in and ’ave it all – the tan, the sequins. Otherwise there’s no point.”

Alex doesn't feel that sexy, and finds it hard to find that part of her personality: “It’s a funny thing, isn’t it? I mean, what is sexy? The thing is, I don’t walk around writhing in the street – it would look weird. It’s hard, isn’t it, when someone says: 'Do you feel sexy?’ Well, no, not particularly, not this moment and not on live television really, particularly.”

'Rentapro' Brendan Rescues Anita

2011-11-21T23:22:00.003Z

After helping Holly Valance out for a week, Brendan is now coming to Anita's rescue. Robin has contracted a foot infection and will be out this week, so 'rentapro' is partnering Anita this week.

Anita told the Daily Mail: "I am utterly distraught that Robin is laid up sick at home in bed, but hopefully he will be back on his feet soon. I'm really excited at the prospect of dancing with Brendan though - it's a fantastic opportunity."

Brendan hopes he can live up to the challenge: "I'm chuffed that both Artem and now Robin value and trust me enough to ask me to step in and help them with such an important job. I'm very excited to be working with Anita and hope to do her and Robin proud this week. I will be doing my utmost to get her through to next week."

Charlie Brooks For Christmas Special?

2011-11-21T13:28:00.003Z

EastEnders actress Charlie Brooks is reportedly taking part in the Strictly Come Dancing Christmas Special.

A source told The Sun: "She loves Strictly but hasn't been able to commit to a full series as she's had such great storylines in EastEnders. So this is just perfect for her."

We'll ignore the fact that several soap stars over the years have had to juggle a tough shooting schedule with Strictly training... Scott Maslen, Matt DiAngelo, Sarah Manners, Ricky Whittle, Patsy Kensit, Chelsee Healey...

Chips & Salsa

2011-11-21T08:58:00.002Z

Robbie Savage chipped his tooth during salsa training last week.

He told Daily Mirror: “I’ve gone to do the lift, [Ola]’s come up beneath me and headbutted me. I can really feel it. It’s not as bad as when I broke my nose on one of the cameras. I said to her, ‘I don’t mind my hair, my nose, anything, but not my tooth.’ I need to get it fixed straight away. I’m gutted. Two and a half grand, it’s gonna cost me. I’m gonna send her the bill.”

Sunday Service: Week 8

2011-11-20T16:12:00.005Z

Week 8 of Strictly Come Dancing came live from Wembley Arena in front of its biggest audience ever. Lucky enough for me, I was able to get a ticket for this historic show. This means that for this week only, I am writing this already knowing the result.

Robbie & Ola kicked things off with a salsa. Robbie is a good showman, but not such a great dancer. His salsa was a bit flat footed. I found the lifts a little clunky, and he almost fell over when he leapfrogged Ola (and looked a lot worse from the angle I was sat at - behind the action above the 'Tess Pit'. Because of the size of the floor, I found it a bit slow to get going because of the area they had to cover.

I thought Alex & James (or Team Blur as I like to call them. Alex James, geddit?) did a good job with the tango. Alex continues to improve, especially on the performance side, although she still needs to tighten up her technique. A few heel leads would have been nice, and it could have been sharper still. I loved James' routine, which was content driven.

I really enjoyed Holly & Artem's quickstep. Holly's performance has improved a bit. She seemed a bit more connected to the dance, and less cool. They covered the floor well, although there were times you could have driven a bus through the middle of them. And, like Alex, she missed most heel leads. But if Holly wants to compete with the others at the top of the table, she needs to take the bull by the horns.

During Anita & Robin's samba, I could not take my eyes off Anita's face. She had the biggest smile ever, and it lit up the Arena. She oozed joy, and I genuinely had tears in my eyes watching her. Technically, she's not that great, but no-one loves it more than she does. No-one wants to be there more than Anita. She needs to watch her arm placement, as it can be a little scarecrow-like, and Craig is right that she needs to push her shoulders back. She needs more bounce and hip action too. My favourite moment was the little nose rub towards the end.

It was difficult to watch Harry & Aliona's salsa to I'm Still Standing without thinking about that jive. Someone should have said to Aliona, 'No, dear. Choose something else'. Anyway, I'm still having problems warming to Harry. He's so emotionless. He's the opposite of Alex - he's technically good but lacks personality on the floor. It's the strength of his dancing (and the McFly fans) that is keeping him in the competition. He needs an acting lesson. His hip action wasn't bad, but the lift was a little laboured. His timing is excellent, as you would expect from a drummer, and the side by side stuff was very tight.

In past weeks, Russell has danced quite well, but this week the jive action alluded him. He did little more than step kicks throughout the entire routine (well, the bits of the routine where his feet were on the ground). Flavia did all the work this week. But you still cannot fault Russell's joy on the floor, which is up there with Anita's. Russell's timing is usually good, but the peek-a-boo section at the end of the routine was a mess. I am surprised that they went for an Ann Widdecombe style entrance, when Russell actually can dance. Maybe the jive was just too energetic for him.

Chelsee did really well, especially with the opening of the samba, out on the big floor all by herself. There was a little mistake when Chelsee first joined up with Pasha, but otherwise it was good. Chelsee has lovely turns. Her work is neater than it was earlier in the competition. And I loved Pasha's routine which had lots of samba content (Aliona take note!), including a samba roll. Remember those? Now that Chelsee has finished filming Waterloo Road, she should have more rehearsal time, and could really climb the leaderboard.

Despite his performance background, Jason is not as naturally gifted as Chelsee or Harry. He works hard to achieve what he does. I thought the jive routine was good up until the mistake. More great choreography from Kristina. The drunken sailors looked a little laboured, but his side by side work was excellent and in perfect time. It was a real shame he made the mistake, and a bigger shame that it took him so long to pick up the routine again. However, once he did pick it up, he didn't seem thrown. If only he could have a do-over...

As I already know the result, I am not going to talk about who I think the bottom two should be. Tune in at BBC1 at 7.25pm to find out what I already know.

Here are the videos...

Robbie & Ola

Alex & James

Holly & Artem

Anita & Robin

Harry & Aliona

Russell & Flavia

Chelsee & Pasha

Jason & Kristina

DVD Review: Strictly Come Dancing: Dance School

2011-11-20T15:33:00.003Z

Strictly Come Dancing: Dance School is a new instructional DVD.

The DVD begins with a stretching section, led by Katya. This is designed to loosen your muscles ready to dance.

Each dance is divided into two sections - Dance School and Dancefloor.

The Dance School section is the instruction part. Katya leads you through a few basics of salsa, Atrem introduces some cha cha and Aliona teaches the rumba. The instruction is clear, and at a pace that new dancers should find about right. Not so slow it's boring, not so fast that you cannot follow. Gradually, the steps are built up into a routine.

The Dancefloor section allows you to practice the full routine up to speed. This is much faster, and has little prompting, so it's worth practicing the Dance School sections to build up to this, especially if you are new to dancing.

What I liked about the DVD is that you don't need a partner to enjoy it. The dances are taught for the individual, so are perfect if you want to have a go at dancing at home and don't have a partner. In the rumba section, Aliona explains how you could dance with a partner if you wish.

I would recommend this DVD for the beginner. You do not require any dance experience to follow along. Dancers with some experience will probably only need to do the Dance School section through once or twice, but will enjoy the faster paced Dancefloor section. And any fans of Strictly Come Dancing will enjoy watching the pros do their stuff in their costumes in this section.

The DVD also has a fashion and make-up section as extras, although this is not intended to be instructional, just food for thought.

This DVD would make a good Christmas present for anyone inspired by Strictly, who wants to take their first steps into dance.

Still deciding? Watch the trailer...

Strictly Come Dancing: Dance School is available now (big thanks to the nice folks at DNA PR).

Wembley Sneak Peak

2011-11-18T13:41:00.005Z

The BBC's online presenter Nikki Dean has been poking around backstage at Wembley this week while everything has been getting set up.

Here are her reports:

Anita & Robin's Square Dance

2011-11-18T13:27:00.003Z

Anita & Robin went for a square dance this week - Albert Square, that is.

They posed for pictures during a shoot for their VT for tomorrow's Wembley show.

Check out the rest of the pictures on the Daily Mail website.

Commenting on being back in the Square, Anita told the Daily Express: “It was such a nice experience. It felt a bit like going back to a place where I used to live.”

No Strictly For Flintoff

2011-11-18T00:08:00.002Z

Cricketer Andrew Flintoff won't be following in the footsteps of Darren Gough or Mark Ramprakash.

He told the Radio Times that bad knees would rule him out: "Honestly, my knees are so bad I just wouldn't be able to throw any shapes on the dance floor. Apart from the occasional bit of dad dancing, I really can't dance. But I did watch Goughy on it and I thought it was brilliant."

Beatrice Would Like To Do Strictly

2011-11-18T00:03:00.003Z

Princess Beatrice would like to take part in Strictly, but her father won't let her.

Yahoo! News quotes an interview she gave to Now magazine, in which she said: "I absolutely love Strictly... The costumes, the glamour - it's a real girly show. If I were on it, I'd certainly give judge Craig Revel Horwood a run for his money. I mentioned it to dad but it was a stern 'No'."

Her father is probably still bearing the scars of It's A Royal Knockout. I'd bet her mother would be all for her taking part.

Holly: "I've Been Average"

2011-11-17T23:54:00.002Z

Holly believes that her performances have been average.

The Press Association quotes an interview she gave to the TV Times, in which she admitted: "I thought I'd probably be a bit better than this - to be honest I think I've been average. We're all getting into competition mode now. Chelsee's incredible and Harry's doing a great job. Jason works extremely hard and is very hungry for it."

Sounds like Holly realises that she needs to raise her game. Maybe Wembley will be the place, whoever she's dancing with.

Robbie Wants The Spotlight Switched Off After Strictly

2011-11-17T23:44:00.002Z

Robbie Savage says it's nice to be recognised for positive reasons, but wants the cameras off him once the Strictly experience is over.

He told the Metro: "Before I did the show, I used to get stopped in the street a bit. I went to Westfield yesterday for my lunch and it took me about an hour to do a five-minute walk. It was lovely as normally football fans spit at me and call me an obscenity. Now it’s “sex symbol” – girls and their mums and grandmas stop me and say how good I am. It’s amazing... After Strictly, I’ll go back to my family life. It’s not me. It’s a lifestyle that leaves you shattered. I love this experience unbelievably. I will keep dancing when I’m finished and take my wife to classes."

Russell For Eurovision?

2011-11-17T23:39:00.003Z

Russell Grant could be lined up to enter the Eurovision Song Contest.

The Daily Star reports that producers have been impressed by his skills on Strictly and think he could be right for Eurovision. A source told the paper: “He’s camp just like Eurovision. But he can also sing and dance, unlike some of our past entries. We’re looking for someone who will bring the fun back to the contest so it would make sense to ask him. His dance partner Flavia Cacace could teach him a nifty dance routine and join him on the stage.”

If that's true, I may have to travel to Azerbaijan after all.

Tour Lineup Confirmed

2011-11-17T23:27:00.002Z

The lineup for the 2012 Strictly Come Dancing Live tour has been confirmed.

Anita Dobson & Robin Windsor

Chelsee Healey & Pasha Kovalev

Harry Judd & Aliona Vilani

Jason Donovan & Kristina Rihanoff

Mark Foster & Katya Virshilas

Robbie Savage & Natalie Lowe

Nancy Dell'Olio is also participating, but there has been no announcement about a partner for her. It may well fall to poor Craig to partner her as he did Ann in 2011.

Len and Bruno will be returning to judge with Craig, and Kate Thornton returns as host.

Artem Likely To Return

2011-11-17T23:18:00.002Z

Artem is likely to be back to partner Holly on Saturday, following his recent back injury.

He told Zoe Ball on It Takes Two: "The doctor said that he thinks I'm going to be able to do it. Practically, what he said is 'It's up to you. It depends on the pain levels in your spine.' So I think it's looking good because I had today my first rehearsal with Holly to dance with her, and so far my spine feels OK. So I have to wait and see how it's going to be feeling the next day, in the morning but I think it's good."

However, Artem won't be making a final decision until Saturday, and Brendan is still on standby.

Children In Need: Strictly Special

2011-11-16T09:16:00.002Z

The Children In Need special featuring four BBC newsreaders was recorded over the weekend, and the Daily Mail has a sneak peak.

Sian Williams is partnered by Vincent, Susanna Reid by Robin, Sophie Raworth by Ian and Emily Maitlis by Pasha. Angela Rippon, former newsreader and Come Dancing presenter, makes a guest appearance.

The special will be part of the big evening of entertainment on Friday for Children In Need from 7pm.

Nancy: "In Some Ways I Was The Best Dancer"

2011-11-15T09:05:00.002Z

Nancy Dell'Olio continues to be the deluded drama queen that we all know and despise.

This week she's been telling The Sun how much she contributed to the show and how it is "finished" without her.

She told the paper: "I'm a great performer. I didn't like to say this while I was still on the show, because it would upset the others, but it is a rare quality. I'll admit I made a few mistakes, but in some ways I was the best dancer. I trained in ballet for ten years. There is someone in every group who is the magnet, and in Strictly this time I think it was me. No one turned on the television to see what Dan Lobb was doing, or Rory Bremner — they're boring. They turned on to see what I was doing. Ratings were never so high, and no one had so much publicity, so already I'm a winner. Now I've gone, really, Strictly is finished."

I'm not sure in which ways she was the best dancer... Best dancer called Nancy who danced with Anton in 2011 on Strictly Come Dancing?

Nancy has a real thing about being a magnet. She believes people are drawn to her. Personally, I think she just surrounds herself with people who tell her she's fabulous all the time, and she takes them too literally.

DVD Review: Midnight Tango

2011-11-14T08:58:00.002Z

A sultry night in a Buenos Aires bar. An attractive girl catches the eye of a handsome man. They dance and fall in love. A gaucho enters and dances with the girl. The handsome man is jealous. The next night, the handsome man and the gaucho fight. The girl runs away and the handsome man thinks he may have lost her forever.

This is the world of Midnight Tango. Vincent & Flavia have created a wonderful dance show, and if you were not lucky enough to see it on tour last year, you can now enjoy it all on DVD.

If you like Argentine tango, and Vincent & Flavia, you won't be disappointed. The DVD is worth getting simply for Vincent & Flavia's solo in the second act. Haunting, passionate, romantic, imtimate and brilliant. I could have watched it over and over (and thankfully, now I can!).

There are two extras on the DVD. The first is a short documentary about the show, featruing interviews with Vincent, Flavia, co-producer Arelene Phillips and director Karen Bruce. The second is a short demonstration by Vincent & Flavia of a couple of basic Argentine tango figures.

Still unsure? Watch the trailer..

Midnight Tango is released on DVD today (big thanks to the nice folks at Kaleidoscope Home Entertainment). The show will also be touring again in 2012. See MidnightTango.co.uk for details of venues and dates.

Sunday Service: Week 7

2011-11-13T14:18:00.003Z

Everything about this week's show was normal. No stupid themes. No guest judges. Just Strictly, the way it should be. Although I could live without the judges' bickering. I really hate when Len dismisses Craig like a small child.

I liked Alex & James' jive. While Alex's technique is still not very good, the performance side of her routines has really improved in the past few weeks. She seems to be having fun on the floor now. The jive was bordering on rock n roll or lindy rather than jive, though. It would have been nicer if Alex had pointed her toes on the flicks. However, Alex definitely captured the energy of the dance. A good job.

Robbie looks so good when he does the ballroom dances, and the American smooth was no exception. He did a good job, lifting Ola with ease and leading her well. He looked relaxed and comfortable on the floor. He shouldn't have any problem fulfilling his dream of getting to Wembley.

Audley gave the cha cha everything he had, but we are now at the stage of the competition where everyone is so good, that his days could well be numbered. It's unlucky for Audley & Natalie that they have had to dance latin this week, since Audley's ballroom is stronger. A ballroom dance might have given him a better chance this week. What I love about Audley is how much he seems to be enjoying himself on the floor. Making him dance makes you smile. He gave the cha cha a good go, and earlier in the competition he'd have done enough to go through, but I think that could be his last dance.

The Argentine tango seemed to suit Harry. Harry tends not to show too much personality on the floor, so the cool gaucho role seemed to suit him. I loved the section at the beginning where ran down the stairs and into a drag of Aliona. The nice thing about the routine was the Harry got to move his feet a bit more (presumably because Aliona didn't do the choreogrpahy...).

The Viennese waltz was another competent performance for Jason. It's a hard dance to make interesting because there is not that much you can do with it, but Kristina's choreography was romantic and elegant. The camerawork on Viennese waltzes is starting to frustrate me, as it seems whenever there is a fleckerl/standing spin, they seem to focus on the top half. I couldn't see if he was doing a fleckerl or not until it was almost over.

Chelsee has become so elegant over the weeks. She is starting to become a lovely dancer, who has such lovely lines. Her long dress covered her feet a bit, so it was difficult to see how her footwork was, but her topline and arms were excellent. Pasha's foxtrot choreography was lovely. Chelsee seems to be finding her feet, and it's exciting to watch.

Anita & Robin's Argentine tango was not as strong as last week's Charleston. It's important to let your partner lead in this dance, more so than any other, but Anita seemed to be anticipating the choreography a little. She could have pulled her shoulders back to improve her top line. She was a little hunched over. And her knees should have been straighter. As always, Anita's performance was excellent, and she really captured the mood of the dance.

Everyone was going to be watching Holly & Brendan with interest. Like Michelle last year, Holly had to change partners due to Artem's injury. The difference for Holly was that Artem was still there to choreograph and critique. Holly did a lovely job with the rumba. I really enjoyed it. I agreed with the judges that she needs to have more emotion in her performances, but that has been her biggest problem since day one. She needs to tap into her acting skills a bit more and really feel what she is doing. It will be interesting so see if this threesome will have to continue in the coming weeks.

Russell & Flavia's routines are more like mini-shows than dances, and this week's American smooth was another epic. It was as enjoyable as always. However, I do wish they'd have attempted a simple lift or two. I don't think we've ever had am American smooth on Strictly with no lifts before. I'd like to see Russell move out of his comfort zone and be challenged a little more.

I don't think there's any doubt that Audley is now a little out of his depth and should be heading home. But it's so difficult to pick someone who deserves to be in the bottom two with him. Possibly Alex. Or even Anita. It's so hard to say. I just hope that it is Audley who is sent home tonight, purely because I don't think anyone else deserves to go. If anyone else does go, it will be a complete shock.

Here are the videos...

Alex & James

James & Ola

Audley & Natalie

Harry & Aliona

Jason & Kristina

Chelsee & Pasha

Anita & Robin

Holly & Brendan

Russell & Flavia

Artem Out, Brendan Back

2011-11-10T09:09:00.002Z

Artem will miss this Saturday's Strictly due to the spinal injury he sustained on Friday, and Holly will be partnered by Brendan instead.

Artem has been choreographing their routine from a chair in the training room.

The pair updated Zoe Ball on It Takes Two last night. Artem hope to be back for the show at Wembely Arena next week, but will have to await further advice from doctors.

Robin On Gaydar Radio

2011-11-07T13:24:00.001Z

Robin Windsor chatted to Gardar Radio this morning about Lulu, Anita and life backstage at Strictly Come Dancing. Hear the interview below.

Lulu Unhappy With Height Match

2011-11-07T08:50:00.003Z

Lulu has said that she was surprised to be paired with Brendan, due to their foot difference in height.

She told The Sun: "It's difficult for a person with long legs to dance ballroom with a person with short legs. Ideally the top of the woman's head should be midway up the man's forehead. But my eyes looked into Brendan's chest. It was very hard spinning around the dancefloor with someone who is 6ft tall — it was difficult to keep up with him. If you spoke to a professional dancer, they'd probably say the ideal thing is for you to be a similar height. Vincent thought he and I would have been perfect together."

I was surprised that Lulu wasn't paired with Vincent too. However, the Cutlers were a great partnership, and proved that a height difference doesn't have to be a barrier to success.

Funny how Lulu only mentions this at the point she has to exit the competition. Methinks she is looking for an excuse... Brendan did a great job with Lulu, and I'm not sure she appreciates how lucky she is to have been partnered with him.

Lulu was even more scathing when speaking to the Daily Mirror: “I put a brave face on for the cameras and then cried when I got home. I’ll miss Strictly so much. I know everyone says this but it really does feel like being part of a family. I’d even started to tolerate Brendan, but it was a mistake being partnered with him in the first place. You are supposed to be just a little shorter than the male partner, but I was staring at his chest the whole time we were dancing.”

"Tolerate?" Brendan doesn't deserve that.

Sunday Service: Week 6

2011-11-06T16:44:00.002Z

Jennifer Grey. Lead actress in one of the greatest dance movies of all time. Reigning Dancing With The Stars champion. Total waste of space on the Strictly judging panel. Colin & Erin's muppets would have offered more insight. Next time Len is off, let's get in a decent judge (Karen, Matthew, Ian, Gordon the Gopher), or just leave the darned seat empty.

You couldn't complain that Lulu & Brendan's tango was lacking in content. It had plenty. Sadly, Lulu's technique was a bit ropey. There were no heel leads, it was toes all the way. Still, aside from a noticeable mistake with the swivels, it wasn't a bad attempt. Lulu needs to keep her eyeline up - she kept looking at her feet. Shame the Kiss at the end was a little late.

Audley & Natalie did a nice job with the Viennese waltz. I liked the content of the routine. Audley's posture has really improved over the weeks, and his ballroom is definitely better than his latin. Audley needs to work on the flow of the dance, but it was a good job. They even attempted a fleckerl, although annoyingly the cameraman cut off their feet for most of it. I have to give them credit for that, since so few couples have bothered in the past couple of series.

Harry's samba was a bit stiff. As is a constant for Aliona's routines, it was lacking in samba content. Not only that, but it was generally lacking in Harry content. He barely got to move his feet. The bits he did do were a bit stiff and lacking in bounce. Harry should have been explosive in the samba, but it was more like a dead sparkler.

Anita & Robin's Charleston was brilliant. It was totally Anita's dance. It was cheeky and very entertaining. The only thing that would have made me love it more was a little trick (like Chris & Ola's swim move). Something like that would have pushed it over the edge.

The armlines let down Jason's rumba. He was a bit scarecrow-like. However, I thought his dancing was excellent, and not the camp-fest I feared. It was manly and strong. I especially likes the lunge, where Kristina balanced across his legs. I agree with the judges that he could have had a better connection with Kristina and had more emotion, but for a male celebrity, Jason's rumba was excellent. Why do I always seem to like Jason on the weeks the judges slate him?

Alex looked good - she has certainly upped her performance levels. James made sure the quickstep had lots of content - a lesson Aliona could learn. There were a number of timing errors, and at times Alex looked as though she was hanging on to James for grim death, but it was Alex's best dance to date.

Robbie has been so annoying this week. He hasn't stopped banging on about the complaints about this MJ moves last week (267 of them), and even commented that he thought that the press might have it in for him. As if. It's called news, Robbie. Anyway, he was determined to put in a straight and classy performance this week, and that is what he did. Ola's waltz routine was simple and effective. It was elegant, well-danced and controlled. It would have been even nicer if Robbie had smiled.

I wasn't sure what to make of Russell & Flavia's paso doble. If it had been anyone else, I would have hated it, but Russell is so endearing with such a big heart that you just end up loving it. It was good fun. Russell was not as manly as the dance demands, but Russell does everything in his own style.

I thought the Charleston was going to be Chelsee's dance, full of fun and energy, but there were a few timing issues. It was good, but not Chelsee's best. She wasn't as in sync with Pasha as she could have been. You could see straight after that Chlesee wasn't happy with it herself.

Holly & Artem's jive was very cool and modern, but didn't have enough jive content for me. I find Artem so frustrating. His choreography is brilliant and innovative, and make for amazing showdances, but they always lack the content of the dance required. Holly was a bit flat-footed at the start of the routine (wearing flat shoes meant she wasn't as high on her toes as she should have been). However, it was good to see some performance from Holly at last. She really needs to work on the emotional side of her dancing, as so far she has just come across as efficient.

I think the bottom two should be Lulu and Audley this week. If I had to choose who should leave, it would be Lulu, simply because over the course of the competition so far, Audley has been better.

Although really the weakest person on the show this week wasn't Lulu or Audley. It was Jennifer. Thank goodness she is going home anyway.

Here are the videos...

Lulu & Brendan

Audley & Natalie

Harry & Aliona

Anita & Robin

Jason & Kristina

Alex & James

Robbie & Ola

Russell & Flavia

Chelsee & Pasha

Holly & Artem

Nancy Live On Stage This Wednesday

2011-11-05T18:00:00.002Z

Want to hear what Nancy has to say about life, including her time on Strictly, in her own words?

If you're in London, you can pop along to the Soho Theatre this Wednesday (9th November) and see her interviewed live on stage on comedy chat show Scott Capurro's Position.

See the Soho Theatre website for more information and to book tickets.

Gazza Would "Love To Do" Strictly

2011-11-04T13:36:00.002Z

Troubled former soccer star Paul Gascoigne would like to have a go at Strictly, and believes it would be easy.

He told the Daily Star: “I’d love to do it. I’m up for any challenge now – and I think I would win hands down. I’m skilful at anything. I would take it full-on just like my football. It would be a piece of piss. I could dance when I was drunk But I wasn’t one of those who went to nightclubs and wanted to dance. However, if people say I can’t do something, I try to prove them wrong.”

He would find it a lot harder than he thinks it is, but maybe the dicipline of the show would do him good, and bring back his old competitive and althletic spirit. That said, I'm not sure I'd like to see him take part.

Anita: Strictly "Gives Me So Much Joy"

2011-11-04T13:32:00.002Z

Anita is having the time of her life on Strictly. She's always loved to dance, but has never had lessons before.

She told the Daily Mail: "I wasn’t one of those little girls who had ballet or jazz classes, but I was always first up and last to leave the dance floor at the Ilford Palais as a teenager, especially if Motown tracks were being played. But nothing could prepare me for taking part in Strictly Come Dancing. There’s a lot of training, but it gives me so much joy. My dancing partner Robin Windsor is talented and funny and makes it all so enjoyable."

Nancy Hates Her Strictly Figure

2011-11-04T13:25:00.002Z

Most celebrities love the weight-loss they experience while taking part in Strictly, but trim Nancy is upset to have lost her signature curves.

The Daily Mail quotes an article from Closer magazine, in which Nancy told friends: "The last thing I want is to look like a boy! I'm losing my bum and my breasts and I hate it. I can fit into my eight-year-old niece's clothes. I've hardly been getting any wolf whistles when I walk past building sites and even taxi drivers aren't staring at me in the rear view mirror."

Bong! Newsreaders For CIN Special

2011-11-04T13:13:00.002Z

It's a BBC tradition to get its newsreaders involved in Children In Need. This usually requires them to sing and wear daft costumes.

This year, however, the stakes have been raised. Four female news presenters - Emily Maitlis (as previously reported), Sophie Raworth, Susanna Reid and Sian Williams will all be taking part in this year's Strictly Come Dancing special for the fundraiser.

There is no word on who will partner them, but Anton and Vincent could be safe bets since they have already departed the main competition.

Kristina Believes Jason Has More To Give

2011-11-04T13:02:00.002Z

Kristina doesn't think that Jason has reached the top of his game yet. After all, he hasn't had four 10s.

Kristina told the Press Association: "I don't think any of our dances have been perfect - he has more to learn and I think Jason as well as all of the other contestants are doing great. I hope we stay long enough in the competition for us to show Jason improving week on week. It's still at an early stage in the competition - it would be great in the future to get a full house of 10s. At the moment we are taking each week as it comes. As a professional dancer for me this year it is the most exciting and rewarding. Knowing that people are supporting us is really special and we are so grateful. [Jason] does have a tendency to be hard on himself and doubt himself, but that is a sign of being a perfectionist."

David Walliams Is Waiting...

2011-11-04T12:58:00.002Z

David Walliams believes he'll end up on Strictly Come Dancing at some point, but he hasn't been asked yet.

He told the Press Association: "I've never been asked to do Strictly but it comes to us all in the end. It's a really fun show and even people who aren't any good at it, like Ann Widdecombe, turn a complete lack of skill into a triumph, because the public respect people trying. I know I'd be terrible at it, but whether it would endear me to the public, I don't know."

He's Bad!

2011-11-01T09:11:00.002Z

Robbie Savage's moves like Jackson provoked complaints from viewers on Saturday night.

Around 11m people watch Strictly, and a whole 267 complained to the BBC over Robbie's crotch grabbing and thrusting moves.

A BBC spokesman told the Daily Mail: "Robbie danced a paso doble to Michael Jackson's Bad. The choreography emulated some of Michael's famous dance moves and no offence was intended."

Sunday Service: Week 5

2011-10-30T16:51:00.003Z

Halloween was one of my favourite shows of last series. Last night's show didn't quite live up to last year, but there were a couple of gems. And it's worth tuning in just for the costumes and make-up.

After Russell's comments throughout the week ("I am samba"), I was expecting somthing pretty special, but I found his samba a little disappointing. There were a couple of mistakes, and a few times he seemed to be looking to Flavia to remind him what to do next. For me it just didn't have quite the same amount of charm as some of Russell's earlier routines.

Sometimes, I don't notice when music is reused, but when it's a dance that sticks in my head, I find it jarring. Love Potion No. 9 will forever be Bill & Karen's cha cha for me. However, Chelsee & Pasha's tango was pretty good. It had pleanty of content. Chelsee could have been sharper, but it was still good and less wild than her earlier routines. It was a shame that she felt as though her costume was letting her down, as it made her lose it. Usually I would usually expect the participants to carry on regardless, but not when they're in danger of exposing themselves. I'm sure Chelsee will be demanding something with more support and control from future costumes.

The jive was never going to be Audley's dance in a million years. It was very heavy footed, and his feet were like massive hooks on the flicks and kicks. I didn't really like that Natalie repeated the chorus choreography, but I presume this was because they were limited for training time this week. On the plus side, Audley looked like he was having fun with the routine.

I found Alex & James' paso a bit cringy. Alex's arms still tend to be a bit scarecrow-like, and she just doesn't seem to feel the music. I liked the story and choreography from James, but if Alex can't raise her game soon, she be heading out the door. And Bring Me To Life is another one of those seminal Strictly songs for me - Sarah & Brendan's paso.

Holly & Artem's American smooth was one of the most original routines we've seen on Strictly. For me, it didn't have enough foxtrot content, but that's usual for one of Artem's routines. Holly's legs were a bit too flexed throughout the section in hold. Holly's lines are lovely, but some of the transitions between steps are a bit clunky. But it was so intriguing, and it seemed to suit Holly quite well.

Nancy & Anton's routines, which started off straight, are now deliberately comical in places, but are still tragic. Nancy really does need to keep her legs together more. Nancy is an attractive woman, and looks great when she's posing, but her dancing is just abysmal. I cannot believe that she is still there. It's just not funny anymore. I presume they were aiming for 'sexy' with the rumba, but is was just embarrassing.

I loved the opening of Harry & Aliona's tango routine, with the masks. In fact, it was some of Aliona's best choreography to date, even if it was still lacking in content a bit. As Len remarked, when he's in hold, Harry is great. Let's see more please! Although I doubt Aliona will listen - she didn't when they made similar comments about Matt Baker. Harry's characterisation was great, and of course, he has excellent musicality. Harry's best routine to date.

Yes, Robbie is a great performer. Last week he was channeling the Swayze, this week it was Michael Jackson. The little Jacko notes were quite nice. But otherwise, Robbie & Ola's paso was just mid-table for me. I want to see more of Robbie's own style again. There were so many other interesting routines this week that this one was just lost in the middle.

Anita & Robin's tango was another one that was just mid-table. Anita's characterisation was excellent, but the tango just wasn't sharp enough for me. The judges were right about her posture, and perhaps that was all that was missing to turn a good tango into a great tango.

Lulu & Brendan's paso was OK, but not mind-blowing. Lulu's entrance, exit and costume were the most interesting parts. Lulu does seem to have more focus now than she had in earlier weeks, but I'm starting to question if we have anything more to see from her. Is she already at her full potential?

Jason & Kristina were just brilliant. I loved the quickstep routine, I loved the performance. They were so in sync. Everything worked. It's so good to see Kristina finally show off what she can so. I've not been a Jason fan so far, but last night Jason was gold. Fantastic musicality, and I didn't see the mistakes which Craig commented on. It was brilliant.

Jason was easily the best of the night, followed by Harry. Once again, it should be Nancy's time to go. I'd put Audley in the bottom two with her, as his jive was pretty week. Any other routine, and it could have been Alex or Lulu in danger.

If you are voting for Nancy & Anton, please leave me a comment to explain why...

Here are the videos...

Russell & Flavia

Chelsee & Pasha

Audley & Natalie

Alex & James

Holly & Artem

Nancy & Anton

Harry & Aliona

Robbie & Ola

Anita & Robin

Lulu & Brendan

Jason & Kristina

Industrial Action Threat To Strictly Final

2011-10-26T08:59:00.002+01:00

BBC staff are currently being balloted about industrial action over BBC cuts and changes to redundancy. If the members vote in favour of a strike, it could affect live BBC programming, including Strictly Come Dancing.

Bectu union general secretary Gerry Morrissey told The Guardian: "Without a change to the BBC's position, we are under no illusions that a vote for strike action will mark the start of a programme of industrial action which could affect the highlights of the BBC's autumn/winter schedule including the Strictly Come Dancing finals and the Sports Personality of the Year awards."

Due to it's technical nature, I don't think Strictly is a show that could get by with staff filling in (anyone old enough to remember the TV-am strike?), but strike action is not as effective as it once was. Maybe we wouldn't even know the difference (a bit like those journalist strikes, where the only giveaway is the lack of BBC Breakfast).

Hyp Action

2011-10-24T21:37:00.002+01:00

Lulu has turned to Derren Brown to hypnotise her into remembering her Strictly routines.

A source told the Daily Record: "[Derren] ran Lulu through some of his mind techniques to help improve her memory. He's also helped out with her pre-show nerves, which she's delighted about."

Emily Maitlis For CIN Special

2011-10-24T21:21:00.002+01:00

Emily Maitlis has revealed that she will be a part of this year's Children In Need Strictly special.

She told the Daily Telegraph: “This is for charity. It’s going to be something Latin.”

She hasn't been told who will be partnering her: "I don’t even know who I’m dancing with. It depends which of the professional dancers have been voted off Strictly and are available.”

Holly & Artem Are Just Friends

2011-10-24T09:11:00.002+01:00

Following rumours that they were getting close, Holly has denied rumours that her relationship with Artem is anything but professional.

She told The Sun: "It's all above board. We have become good friends and my boyfriend gets on great with Artem. That's so important. We get on great and he is a fantastic teacher, but when you are suddenly spending time with a random man, it's important that everything is above board. Artem is a lovely guy and I hope we do hang out after this show has finished. He is extremely passionate about dancing and whilst I tend to do things very calmly and quietly, he goes about it in more of a Russian way."

Holly has also taken advice from Artem's girlfriend Kara Tointon: "Kara has been giving me lots of advice. It's not long ago that she did it and she knows what I am feeling like. That's been so brilliant."

Lulu Was Scared Of Getting Brendan

2011-10-24T09:04:00.002+01:00

Lulu has admitted that she was hoping not to be paired with Brendan Cole before the series began.

She told the Sunday Mirror: “I’d heard that he was really tough and a really hard teacher. I was scared of getting him. Couple that with the fact he’s so much taller than me and he was the last person I wanted.”

Now, though, she wouldn't have it any other way: “He’s an absolute sweetheart really. He’s adorable.”

MRI Scan For Russell

2011-10-24T09:01:00.000+01:00

Russell Grant with have an MRI scan after injuruing his knee on Saturday night. Russell's knee was taped at the weekend.

A source told The Sun: "Russell is so worried. And everyone else is too — they all love Russell."

Sunday Service: Week 4

2011-10-23T00:44:00.004+01:00

I didn't watch the show live, so it's now 12.45am, and I'm enjoying tea and toast while watching the programme.

I finally enjoyed one of Jason's performances. The paso was a nice progression from last week's tango, and thankfully didn't have any camp nonsense in the middle. I loved Kristina's choreography and it was a great song choice too. Jason was strong, and made some lovely shapes with his arms and hips. A little gallopy in places, but I liked it. Performances like that make me see what others see in Jason.

Technically, Alex & James' rumba was a failure. Alex's technique was pretty ropy. She doesn't push her feet into the floor. In fact, at times she picks them up, which in turn means she lacks hip action. A brave try, but really not very good. Her arms have improved, and are not so scarecrow. The saving grace of the routine was the choreography. James is an absolute master when it comes to rumbas, and this was wonderful. His and Alex's chemistry was nice, but not smoldering.

I loved the opening of Rory & Erin's cha cha, with Rory bounding down the stairs. I loved Rory's energy throughout the dance. He was really selling it. However, Rory's timing was all over the shop. It was a little uncomfortable to watch. Technically he wasn't great either. A good attempt, but it really wasn't his dance.

There has been a massive improvement in Audley's posture this week. He looked great, and only raised his shoulders once or twice. He seems to have really opened up from his chest now. The foxtrot is a hard dance to sell - it can be a little boring from an audience perspective - but Audley's charm made a simple dance pleasant to watch. Natalie kept it simple. He needs to make sure he brings his feet together properly on closing steps.

Nancy & Anton's paso was not good. Nancy is like a soggy bun. She has no strength in her core, and her posture is pretty bad. She looked as though she was trying to keep up with Anton throughout the dance, like a small child runs after her mummy. She was counting out loud, which is never a good look, and she needed Anton to tell her what she should be doing throughout the second half of the dance. I did not like it at all.

It's such a shame Lulu kept forgetting the routine, because it was a nice performance. It wasn't very strong technically, but it was entertaining and joyful. I'm not sure what running up the stairs for a groove with the other contestants has to do with samba. I presume Brendan put it in because it meant that it was 32 counts where Lulu didn't have to remember any steps.

The Viennese waltz was Holly's best dance by a country mile. I loved the opening, although it took way to long to get into hold. Overall, it was really solid, and it was so good to finally see Holly & Artem do well. It was really romantic, dreamy and elegant.

I loved Chelsee & Pasha's quickstep. The unlikely aviation theme actually worked really well. There was lots of quickstep content, and Chelsee seemed a lot tighter and in control. I think it was Chelsee's best dance. A total delight.

Harry & Aliona's waltz was very pleasant. Harry found his feet last week, and his confidence has not waned. I just wish he didn't look so serious. The waltz is supposed to be romantic, and I found the whole thing a tad formal. I am so glad that Alesha made the point not to penalise the celebrities for the choreography. Harry did a good job with what he was given.

Anita & Robin's American smooth left me a little bit cold. I wasn't blown away by it, but I can't quite put my finger on why. The lifts were very ambitious, and they were executed well. Anita's leg was very bent on the arabesque spin, which I didn't like. Otherwise, it was pleasant, but lacked wow factor.

As an homage to Patrick Swayze, Robbie & Ola's routine was brilliant. Robbie was Johnny Castle. As a jive, it wasn't quite so convincing. Robbie was a bit stompy when he should have been up on the balls of his feet, and it lacked precision. But in performance terms, it was my favourite Robbie number so far.

Russell & Flavia's tango was very good. It had plenty of tango content (you wouldn't expect anything less from Flavia), and Russell executed the routine very well. I just wish it had been a bit more strong and arrogant. Russell need to find his inner swine, but he has such a sweet nature I'm not sure its possible.

Chelsee & Pasha were streets ahead of everyone else this week.

Nancy remains in my bottom two, and this week it's Alex who should be joining her. The rumba was just not Alex's dance. Alex still has more to show us, but based on this week she should be in the bottom two. Naturally, it should be Nancy on her way home.

Here are the videos...

Jason & Kristina

Alex & James

Rory & Erin

Audley & Natalie

Nancy & Anton

Lulu & Brendan

Holly & Artem

Chelsee & Pasha

Harry & Aliona

Anita & Robin

Robbie & Ola

Russell & Flavia

I Carried A Waltz-ermelon

2011-10-21T13:28:00.002+01:00

Unless you've been living under a rock for the past few days, you'll know that the BBC has announced that Dirty Dancing actress, and Dancing With The Stars champion Jennifer Grey will be the guest judge on Strictly while Len takes some time off. She will appear on 5th November.

Jennifer said: "I am delighted to be involved. I so look forward to making the pilgrimage to the birthplace of the greatest dance show, the mecca of spray tans and tangos, and to sit in for the great and pernickety Len Goodman."

I'm worried that Jennifer will be Alesha Mark II, and will add little more than fluff to the panel. I undertsand why they have chosen Jennifer - she is a massive international star - but I still would have preferred to see someone who would have a more critical eye like Karen or Matthew.

Stage Show For Strictly Pros?

2011-10-21T13:22:00.003+01:00

Craig Revel Horwood is reportedly working on a Chorus Line-esque production for 2012, which will feature some of the Strictly Come Dancing professionals as its stars.

The Stage reports that each dancer will speak to the audience, and talk about why they dance. The show has the backing of BBC Worldwide and will tour from April.

Craig told the paper: “My aim is to show them off in the best possible light. They are real people with real personalities. Strictly is usually always about the celebs, so it’s nice to be able to create something wonderful for them.”

Flashback!

2011-10-18T23:33:00.004+01:00

I was looking through my YouTube favourites earlier, and came across this. Series 3 highlights from It Takes Two. Still my favourite series.

Rory's Night Terrors

2011-10-18T08:56:00.002+01:00

Rory Bremner has admitted that he woke up in the night in a panic before the first show.

The Press Association reports that he told the Radio Times: "Two nights before my waltz, I woke in a muck-sweat, panicking that someone had broken into my head and taken out the file marked 'choreography'. I got up, plugged in my iPod and danced around the bedroom, bouncing off the furniture. Every time I spun around, the iPod jumped to the next tune, a salsa. After half an hour of waltzing to a combination of Barry Manilow and hot salsa ... I slumped back into bed, exhausted."

The Annual Is Coming

2011-10-17T22:32:00.002+01:00

This year's Strictly Come Dancing annual is published next Thursday (27th October).

Here's the cover...

Kara & Artem Fall Out

2011-10-17T21:37:00.004+01:00

Artem and girlfriend Kara Tointon have reportedly been having crossed words about Artem's routines with Holly.

The Sunday Mirror reports that Artem had to cut short rehearsals on Friday while he tried to calm down Kara, whom he has been dating since the conclusion of last year's series.

A source told the paper: “Artem was in a real state at the studio because he is finding it really difficult to deal with Kara’s jealousy over him and Holly. It all got too much and he broke down in tears at crucial stages of rehearsals – he doesn’t know how to deal with Kara’s concerns about him dancing with his partner. Artem has told people Kara has been yelling at him. No one knows why she is so insecure as she is so beautiful herself. Also, Holly is totally smitten with her own boyfriend and isn’t interested in Artem.”

I can't help but be a little suspicious of this story. Kara & Artem appeared to be blissfully happy as they attended the International Dance Championships at the Royal Albert Hall on Thursday evening. Besides, Kara is an actress, and has herself dated actors, so should be used to seeing her boyfriend in the embrace of someone else, and should know that what is portrayed on screen is only a fantasy.

Nancy's R-Anton

2011-10-17T21:30:00.003+01:00

Nancy & Anton are reportedly not getting along, and Nancy believes Anton is trying to steal all the limelight.

A source told the Daily Mirror that Nancy was ranting about Anton in the BBC bar after Saturday's show: “Nancy was having a good old moan about Anton – saying he thinks the show is all about him. Clearly they both have enormous egos, but she wants him to realise that she is the star and his job is to get her through each week. She is finding some of the steps he chooses too difficult, but he enjoys doing them so he keeps them in. Then she announced that he must be gay and was astonished to hear that he most definitely is not. She did seem genuinely surprised to learn that he’s straight and is known to have an eye for the ladies. Perhaps she thinks that any man who doesn’t flirt with her must be gay.”

What Nancy needs to realise is that it is Anton's popularity that is keeping her in the competition. If it wasn't for his fanbase, she'd have been out by now.

Russell: "Forget The Spray Tans"

2011-10-17T21:13:00.002+01:00

You won't be seeing Russell with a spray tan or skimpy outfit ant time soon.

Despite losing lots of weight, Russell wants to keep his non-tanned flesh under wraps. He told the Sunday Mirror: "Costume have taken my pants in five inches and my collar three sizes since I started training. I’m losing weight every single week. You won’t be seeing me in anything slashed to the waist. Can you imagine? I still got quite a way to go... about three stone... All my costumes have been very much high-necked. I wear outfits like Maggie Smith in Downton Abbey. While I’m dressed like the Dowager Duchess, we can leave it at make-up... forget the spray tans.”

Russell is doing it for all the larger dancers out there: “I’ve always loved music and dancing. People tend to forget that fat people can dance. It’s about rhythm, and you can have that no matter how big you are.”

Strictly Wins Ratings Battle

2011-10-17T21:03:00.002+01:00

Strictly Come Dancing pulled in more viewers than The X Factor on Saturday night during the two programmes' overlap.

The Press Association reports that Strictly had 9.6 million viewers at the end of the programme (8.15pm). The X Factor, which was 30 minutes in, had 8.8 million.

A BBC spokesperson said: "It is great that more and more viewers keep tuning in to enjoy what is turning out to be a fantastic series."

Robbie's Sensitive Side

2011-10-17T20:58:00.002+01:00

Robbie has admitted that he's not as tough as people think, and Craig's comments even made him cry.

Robbie told The People: “Before live shows I’m a bag of nerves and I go pale, in spite of the fake tan. The minute the music starts I’m gone. After Craig gave me two out of 10 for my cha cha cha on the first show, I went back to my hotel room with my mum and just cried. I was devastated.”

He also thinks that Strictly Come Dancing is changing people's attitudes toward him: “I’ll be mentioned in 500 tweets [on Twitter] every day and about 250 of them will be full of hate. But I’ve had a lot fewer hate-filled messages since I’ve been on Strictly.”

Sunday Service: Week 3

2011-10-16T13:43:00.013+01:00

We're now at week 3, which means I am slipping back into my regular Strictly routine. Snuggle up on the sofa, dim the lights, crack open a bottle of wine and order in yet another Domino's (should I be ashamed that my local Domino's ends up being one of the most frequently called phone numbers by the end of the series, alongside my mother and the Strictly voting? But who can resist their extensive pizza menu on a cold autumn night?). But enough of my evening, on to Broadway week...

Graphic: BBC

I have to say that last night's show was one of the worst episodes of Strictly Come Dancing I have ever witnessed. Theme weeks are hit and miss, anyway. You needed a map to find the dance steps and actually work out which dance each couple was doing, since there was so little to go on. And then Len Goodman, rule obsessive in the past (remember the 6 for Kara & Artem's American Smooth which didn't have enough foxtrot?), says "Sometimes you have to break rules to make a routine complete". For goodness sake. This has just gone beyond a joke. Why not just call the show Dancing With The Stars and be done with it? Everything which made Strictly so much better than its international franchisees seems to have been eroded away.

Anyway, I'll try to evaluate the couples as best I can.

Holly & Artem kicked things off with their tango. Holly still looked nervous. You could drive a bus between them in hold. It lacked passion for me, and did not have enough attack. Or tango. Holly shows potential, but needs to raise her game soon.

Dan & Katya's Viennese waltz was quite nice. But remember when there was lots of talk about the dreaded fleckerl, and the technical challenge it posed? It was so hard, they only did it at the end of the series. Now they don't even bother to put it in. But then, none of us are expected to remember past series. Natasha who? Anyway, I liked the storytelling, which was quite romantic. Dan still needs to pull his shoulders back and keep them down. They seemed to creep up as the routine went on.

How much was Anita loving it? Almost as much as I was loving Robin's wig! Anita's jive was a little stompy. She needs to be up on the balls of her feet more, and needs to point her toes on the flicks and kicks. She needs to keep her legs together more to keep it neater. But I love how Anita sells everything she does. Often it's not the most technical dancer who gets the job, but the one who draws you in with their performance. That's Anita.

Alex & James made me feel a bit better about the world. Their routine was elegant, and actually resembled a Viennese waltz. It was simple, but effective. If only the standing spin at the end had been a fleckerl (I presume it was a standing spin, the cameraman cut off their feet), it would have been one of the best dances of the night. I liked the continuity of the open and close. Of course, Len thought it was too simple, but a few years back, he'd have loved it. Maybe when he has his week off in America, he should stay over there...

Rory & Erin's quickstep was lovely, very showbiz. It had excellent choreography from ballroom queen Erin, and a solid performance from Rory. Like Dan, Rory needs to watch his top line still, as he often becomes hunched over.

Lulu & Brendan's rumba was very lyrical and romantic, but was a bit lacking in content. But hey, it's Broadway week, so we weren't supposed to notice between all the smoke and mirrors. It was Lulu's best performance so far. She looked confident and in control.

I loved the song choice for Nancy & Anton's tango - Be Italian. It's a shame that was the best thing about it. Nancy was very limp. She had no attack. Nothing was staccato. She stomped around the floor like she was walking to the bus stop (not that Nancy ever does that, but you know what I mean). But at least it was a tango, and Nancy did seem to be getting into the character of the dance. Her best dance so far.

Bless Audley. He almost tripped over his own feet. Audley was very nippy on his feet during the fast sections of the quickstep. Natalie needs to work on his posture. He also needs to pull his shoulders back.

I'm not sure what Robbie & Ola's tango had a paso opening. Just one of the many questions I was left with after this week's show. Once they got into hold, Robbie did a decent job. Robbie is quietly getting on with things, and could be around for a good while yet.

Russell was nervous about doing his first ballroom dance, but he didn't need to be. He did a great job. He just lights up the floor whenever he is on it. He has so much charisma that you just love to watch him. Flavia's foxtrot choreography was lovely. The routine was pure Broadway. Russell is one of the most popular Strictly participants ever, and unlike Ann or John Seargent, it's for the right reasons. Russell deserves his place in the competition.

When Jason & Kristina's tango got going, I was pleased to finally see what I wanted to see from Jason. The cheesy Strictly Ballroom guy was gone, and had been replaced with a fiery, passionate tango dancer. I was so impressed. But then the illusion was shattered by that ridiculous, camp, Priscilla interlude. That totally killed it for me. What was Kristina thinking? I'm not sure why everyone thought it was so clever. I thought it was dance suicide. Still, even though I hated that, it was still the best tango of the evening.

Chelsee is so good. I think she's underrated. There were a couple of wee mistakes in her and Pasha's cha cha. She needs to watch her arm placement at times, as she can throw them around a bit too much, but I love her attitude and sass on the floor. Also, you have to remember that Chelsee & Pasha are regularly training at 10pm. Chelsee has the toughest schedule of any of the celebrities. Yet she gets it done every week without complaint.

The jive was Harry & Aliona's best performance so far, despite the routine's lack of content. It was actually a nice routine, but just not really a jive. Maybe it was because Harry could play Danny rather than be himself. He seemed to find the character. Can someone please explain to me Aliona's obsession with bodyrolls, though? They seem to be in every latin routine she does.

I think that Jason (aside from the interlude), Chelsee and Russell were the best this week. Of course, Nancy is still the worst, despite the improvement. But who else in the bottom two? It's so difficult to pick. Maybe Dan or Audley. I don't think it would be a miscarriage of justice if either of them were sent home.

Here are the videos...

Holly & Artem

Dan & Katya

Anita & Robin

Alex & James

Rory & Erin

Lulu & Brendan

Nancy & Anton

Audley & Natalie

Robbie & Ola

Russell & Flavia

Jason & Kristina

Chelsee & Pasha

Harry & Aliona

More Nancy Drama (Sigh!)

2011-10-12T13:52:00.002+01:00

The tabloids are getting so much milage out of stroppy drama queen Nancy Dell'Olio, I'm starting to wonder what they'll do when she leaves (which will probably involve her walking off in a huff rather than actually being voted out!).

Today's randomness comes from the Daily Mail (of course). The paper reports that Nancy was so enraged by Bruno's comments on Saturday night ("inhaled two gallons of Veuve Clicquot"), that she told friends she would sue.

A friend of Nancy's told the paper: "She was having trouble walking and her leg was in real pain – but she thought the show must go on, so took to the floor. To then have Bruno accuse her of being drunk, she found very upsetting. She has considered legal action – but everyone’s been calming her down."

Why was Nancy so upset about Bruno's comments? No smoke without fire, if you ask me...

Keeeeeeeep Voting!

2011-10-12T13:36:00.004+01:00

It's time again to vote in the National Television Awards. This is the 'longlist'. Shortlist voting will happen in the new year. We have to make sure Strictly gets on the shortlist!

Strictly Come Dancing is listed in the Talent Show category, up against Britain's Got Talent, Dancing On Ice, Got To Dance, Let's Dance For Comic Relief, Popstar To Operastar, So You Think You Can Dance and The X Factor.

It's interesting that half of the shows shortlisted are dance shows. That is the "Strictly Effect" in operation!

Bruce Forsyth and Tess Daly are also both nominated for Entertainment Presenter (alongside Alex Jones).

Click here to cast your vote.

You can also support former Strictly participants Laila Rouass or Jaye Jacobs for Drama Performance: Female and Jessie Wallace for Serial Drama Performance.

Lulu Doesn't Want To Let Brendan Down

2011-10-11T22:52:00.003+01:00

Lulu has admitted that it has taken her longer to pick things up than she expected, and it was her stint on Let's Dance For Comic Relief that name her think she could do it.

The Daily Mail quotes an interview Lulu has give to this week's Woman: "I am good for a few moves but I am not a dancer. I did Let’s Dance for Comic Relief this year performing Soldja Boy’s Let's Crank and it went so well that when Strictly came up I thought ‘OK I can do this’. But I think I was lulled into a false sense of security because this is very technical it’s all about precision and it’s hard for me. Brendan will go over and over and over a move again and again until I am embarrassed because I am slow. I have to say he is a great teacher. The reality is that I am older and I am anxious about forgetting the dances and letting Brendan down again. He’s been great and we’re working twice as hard."

Brendan admits that he was surprised to be paired with Lulu: "Lulu never came into the equation in my mind because it’s unheard of in ballroom dancing to have a 6ft man like me partnered with someone just 5ft 1in. Holly Valance and Alex Jones were the two tall ones I would have been happy with either of them. I am from New Zealand and Holly is from Australia - it would have been fun if nothing else."

How To Get A Body Like Katya's

2011-10-11T09:15:00.003+01:00

Katya has been explaning to the Daily Mirror how she keeps looking so good.

Sadly, not all of us have the same incentive as Katya: “Believe me,” she says, “if you were dancing in front of millions of people wearing hardly anything, you’d make sure you were in shape, too!”

But she has some tips for us mere mortals. Read the full article for her advice.

Strictly Sober

2011-10-11T09:08:00.002+01:00

Nancy may be banned from drinking before the live shows, reports the Daily Mirror.

A source told the paper: “Nancy is the ultimate lady who lunches. She only drinks champagne, never wine, and it has to be vintage. She has structured her training so that it is always after lunch and more often than not she will have lunch with Anton who is teetotal. The main problem is that Nancy has between five to 15 bottles of champagne in her dressing room on any given night – all sent to her by friends and celebrities. She likes to have a drink with wellwishers after each live show, and be social. Before Saturday’s show she had a quick glass or three of bubbly after lunch, and then kept getting her glass topped up backstage afterwards. Following her mauling by the judges, a furious Anton issued her with a strict drinking ban on rehearsal and show days. Surprisingly, Nancy agreed.”

Let's hope that her performances improve as a result, or I might turn to drink to make watching her bearable.

Jason's Extra Tuition

2011-10-10T09:08:00.003+01:00

Jason Donovan had some dance lessons before the official start of training, reports the Daily Telegraph.

The paper reports that Jason had extra tuition from former Strictly showdancer Shem Jacobs. A source said: "A lot of people on set, including the contestants and dancers, are aware of the extra lessons Jason had been having. You could tell from the first live show. His technique was too good, not that of a complete novice."

Jason claims that this was merely advice from a friend, and not formal lessons.

Len To Take A Break

2011-10-10T08:54:00.002+01:00

Len Goodman will take a week off during the current series of Strictly Come Dancing, as he finds the commuting between London and LA is getting too much.

He told the Daily Star Sunday: “Flying back and forth between London and LA doing the two shows is very gruelling, so this year the BBC have kindly agreed to give me a week off to rest.”

A source explained further: “Len absolutely loves doing both shows and there was never any question about him leaving either of them. But he really felt it last year. By the time it got to November he was absolutely shattered. It’s a gruelling schedule for anyone to do year on year, so when he asked for a break they had to listen. Discussions went on for a while and in the end they agreed to give him one week’s break off from Strictly. It means he’ll be able to rest up in Los Angeles for a week and a half before having to fly back to London. The show’s bosses know how important he is and were more than happy to let him have some time off to re-charge his batteries.”

Personally, I'm a little put out by this. Not that Len is having time off, but that it comes at the expense of Strictly Come Dancing. Strictly is the original show, and that is was what led to Dancing With The Stars. And they have two seasons a year, while we only have one. Why can't he spend the extra time here? I guess because LA is warmer...

It is not stated when Len's break will come.

It will be interesting to see who stands in for him. The article name checks Karen, Matthew and Camilla. Camilla is on tour with Calendar Girls until 3rd December, so it's unlikely to be her unless her producers are willing to let her miss a couple of performances. Camilla has expressed an interest in being a judge in the past. Karen would be a natural choice. She is still a part of the show through It Takes Two, and is a professional judge. It would be fun to see Matthew sitting next to former partner Alesha for a week.

I think most of the former pros would be welcome as a judge, and it would be great to have some more technical critiques.

Len may have to watch out...

Sunday Service: Week 2

2011-10-09T14:30:00.003+01:00

It's early in the series, and few couples have found their path in the competition yet. There are a couple of early leaders, but otherwise, it was a whole lot of OK. It's hard to lose anyone this early on, but someone has to go. Who will it be?

I'd like to stress that at the time of writing this, I don't know who is going home. I'm not a fan of spoilers, and prefer to watch the show on Sunday. It makes me feel like I'm living it with the participants.

I thought Chelsee & Pasha were great. Chelsee's work is really neat and tidy, aside from a wobble here and there. She has excellent turns, possibly some of the best celebrity turns we've seen. I loved the salsa armography. Chelsee was a little flat footed, but with a little work, she could be even better.

I felt that all of the foxtrots were more like American smooths. There was not enough in hold. Edwina & Vincent's routine was one of the worst for that. It took far too long to get into hold. When they finally got there, Edwina's footwork was poor and her frame was weak. Her performance, however, was very nice once again. You can see she's having fun on the floor, and she has to be commended for that.

It's clear that Audley has a sense of rhythm, but for some reason his feet seemed half a beat behind his body throughout the salsa. His personality comes through on the floor with Natalie, but his dancing is a little casual in style. He needs to be more solid.

Alex looked fine in hold with James, aside from sticking her bottom out just a tad, but she had scarecrow arms when out of hold. Alex looked beautiful. The foxtrot seemed to suit Alex much more than the cha cha last week. Maybe the security of the hold is when Alex is most comfortable.

Dan & Katya were pretty good. I think the judges were a bit harsh on their salsa. Dan looked relaxed during the dance. It may have lacked fluidity, but it appeared that Dan was leading Katya, especially on the basic steps.

Lulu & Brendan were much better than last week. Lulu needs to develop her posture, and as the judges pointed out, her head placement was odd. The routine had a nice mood, but the foxtrot was an improvement on last week. She seems to have more discipline.

Holly needs to finish her moves more cleanly. There were a few errors in her and Artem's dance, but she had the most challenging choreography of all the salsa routines and coped well with it. Her performance was still a bit careful, but she clearly has a lot of talent. I look forward to seeing her have a go at ballroom.

Rory & Erin's salsa was a bit messy. He seemed to be chasing the music throughout. He lacked flow and fluidity. But what I like about Rory is that he is enjoying himself. Dancing should be about having fun, especially on Strictly. Dancing to Vehicle was brave, as Matt & Flavia used that for their memorable routine. I liked the fact that their routine contained the same shimmies, a nice nod to those who had gone before.

Robbie's performance was charming. He needs to keep his shoulders down when he has Ola in hold, but otherwise it was very good. I liked the choreography, but again it was bordering on American smooth. I wish the routines had been a bit more 'pure'.

It's a shame that Anita & Robin's salsa had a few errors because it was nice otherwise. Anita is a lovely performer, and has an effortless elegance.

The most special part of Jason & Kristina's foxtrot was the choreography. I loved it. Kristina makes a wonderful Jessica Rabbit. I liked Jason's performance better than last week, although I can live without the cheesy Strictly Ballroom smile which seems to come across his face every so often for no reason. That aside, there is no question that Jason is an excellent dancer, and he and Kristina have a great partnership.

The best word to describe Nancy & Anton's salsa is stampy. Nancy was off time in a number of places and it was littered with errors. It was uncontrolled. They did get through it without stopping, which is an improvement on last week. Nancy doesn't do herself any favours with the drama queen routine ("Do you know I have injury?"). We don't want excuses.

Harry & Aliona's foxtrot was good enough, but didn't really sparkle. Harry had scarecrow arms now and then when out of hold. Like Holly, he has the potential and just needs to find his groove.

Russell & Flavia's salsa routine was very cute. He just makes you smile. He was a bit flat-footed, but has great rhythm. Russell is bar far the most entertaining. And he actually appeared to have a nice lead for Flavia's turns.

I think Jason and Chelsee are the strongest right now, with Holly and Harry displaying all the potential to be up there with them in the coming weeks.

Nancy is bar far the weakest, and it's hard to pick anyone else who could be in the bottom two with her. The other contestants who are low on the leaderboard either have technique or personality in their favour. If I had to pick someone else to be in the bottom two, it would probably have to be Edwina, but her personality sparkles on the floor, and it seems a little cruel to single her out above Lulu or Dan or Audley or Russell who are all of a similar standard.

I would like to see Nancy go home. No-one else deserves to leave.

Here are the videos...

Chelsee & Pasha

Edwina & Vincent

Audley & Natalie

Alex & James

Dan & Katya

Lulu & Brendan

Holly & Artem

Rory & Erin

Robbie & Ola

Anita & Robin

Jason & Kristina

Nancy & Anton

Harry & Aliona

Russell & Flavia