So where do I start? …………………………….last Thursday even, I was so overcome by nerves, I could not believe that it was me that was about the hit the stage on Strictly Come Dancing.
Our first dance in the hit show was the Waltz. Growing up I always thought that the Waltz was the most boring form of dance there is, that is until I did it myself.
After 6 weeks of practicing and enduring long hrs of pain on my feet, we finally hit the dance floor last Thursday. Initially we were introduced to our dance floor on the Wednesday and used it about 5 times in order to plot our dance moves.
Even with the TV crews and a few backstage personnel, I was extremely nervous when I stepped out, such that I started giggling during my routine and what I had learnt for the past few weeks just went out the window.
Thursday night went off well - we stepped onto the floor after viewing our VNR’s for the first time with the audience. Seeing the whole hall filled to the tilt certainly got my blood rushing a little, but after looking at Sarah, she WINKED at me and we Danced!!!!.
During the whole routine, I was a little stiff but soon relaxed about half way through. The ending was certainly not the cleanest but I thought it was enough to wow the judges.
Judging
A - Gave us 5 and commented on Sarah’s choreography but also mentioned that we have some great moves and we should be a little daring as there is some talent there.
B Gave us 8 - Highest for the evening/show thus far. She liked what we did and was very complimentary.
C: 6 - Told me to keep my butts under my shoulders.
D: 4 - Said it was a disappointing ( I think he was in a mood).
Overall, I was pleasantly happy with the judges comments, little disappointed about the 4points from the last Judge - I was hoping that all judges would score 5 and above.
Other dancers
I must say, I was extremely surprised at the competition - Rob and Mary certainly looked hot and their moves on the floor were to die for. I've always considered Rob the main competition - this after seeing him move in the group rehearsals - but I did not expect what they did, they blew me away.
As for Garth and Hailey, wow, never thought the gentle giant would be so graceful on the floor, come to think of it, he owned it. Absolutely amazing how Hayley used Garth’s size to the max in the choreography. They really went all out and I would have thought that the judges would have scored them much higher - perhaps even 1 point off Rob, but clearly I was wrong. The Gentle Giant and rather competitive Hayley score 1 more point than us.
As for Adil and Shugasmakx, well the brothers each had issues. Adil and Robyn's moves were extremely beautiful and during the two day rehearsal, there were spot on. Sadly they didn't get it right on the night but, as the judges said, they recovered well and made it to the end.
Shugasmakx, what a sweet guy, I guess the waltz was quite a challenge. I recall Adil telling me how during our private practice sessions at various Virgin gyms, he saw Shugasmakx' moves - he told me that before moving in a routine, Shuga does “giddy up”
The man tried his best and from the TV, he looked great. His gorgeous partner Seipati certainly had a tall order, but let's hope that her grace and talent will get them through this difficult period.
I must say though, looking at the pairing, all the ladies that participated in previous SCD did well. Think of it, Mary - I think it's her 3rd season and Hayley won with HHP. Now this counts against Sarah, Robyn and Seipati as the two now know how to work the system - they know what works to please the judges and more importantly the viewers at home.
Personally, I think everyone participating in SCD should be new to the show, that way everyone operates on the same level and there is no added advantage.
Ladies
It was great to see the ladies doing their stuff - without doubt that my favourite is Anele, when she goes on the dance floor, she owns it!!!!!. Aunty J needs to up her game if she's to stay longer but I like her fighting spirit and easy pace.
As for Cindy, for me she got lost in the whole routine and did not shine, Hlubi’s acting background helped her look like she was comfortable but she's going to be tough competition.
Of all the ladies though, the best in my books, is fellow unknown sportsperson like me, Tessa. The girl is extremely beautiful and although a little reserved, her dancing is brilliant and with Grant as her coach, they can certainly go all the way. Had a chuckle with her during rehearsal, she told me that she naturally has never had smelling feet - that is until she started SCD. Classic!!!! I love her game face!!!!
Week Two
In Week 2 we do the group dance - THE MAMBO. Compared to the ladies' group dance last week, the boys one is more challenging with a numerous of lifts and swings and personally more exciting.
In the group dance we all get a chance to do our own little numbers - look out for it because will be incorporating some racing manoeuvres!!!! The dance itself is challenging and quite technical and after doing our 2nd rehearsal yesterday, I'm confident that the gents will all do well. I must admit though, there are some grey areas that need to be fixed, but I know come Thursday, everything will workout.
Thanks to everyone for tuning in and supporting Sarah and I - we will not be playing safe anymore, we will be bringing it on!!!!!
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