Class of 2017 - Week 7

Well Week 7 is here, just a plain old week, no themes. Wonder how many times the B (Blackpool) word will be mentioned this evening?

Alexandra & Gorka - Cha Cha Cha

I have been waiting to see Alexandra dance this dance as it is often the nemesis of most of the dancers. She had a really good leg action and did some really good syncopated moves which resulted in a good hip action. I also loved her look tonight, a lot more natural and it suited her. An excellent opening to the show, but for me not a perfect dance.

Judge Julie says - 9

Mollie & AJ - Foxtrot

Loving Mollie's look this evening. love the shorter length dress for ballroom. This routine was going really well until she had a little stumble/balance issue about half way through the routine. Some lovely heel turns and well placed footwork from Mollie and she did really well to get back into the dance. A lovely top line from Mollie, I think I prefer her ballroom to her latin.

Judge Julie says - 7

Joe & Katya - Charleston

Oh my word how cute do these 2 look? Well I just loved that routine and yet again Katya's choreography was brilliant. Some cute little tricks and lifts and Joe's acting ability shone through in this number. He had great swivel and I loved his little head wobbling as he executed the moves. Well done Joe, I'm not a massive Charleston fan but I loved this.

Judge Julie says - 9

Gemma & Alijaz - Salsa

I'm not really a Salsa fan either and I found this routine to be quite laboured, especially the first half of the number. I think Alijaz was struggling with the lifts and Gemma wasn't at her finest. I really think she is better when in hold in the ballroom routines. I think Gemma could be in the dance off this week unfortunately. 

Judge Julie says - 6

Aston & Janette - Viennese Waltz

Have to say I am not digging the theme of this with a Viennese Waltz?? 70's/Barber Shop/Viennese Waltz? Not so sure! All seemed a little bit random to me!! Wasn't my favourite routine of Aston's and he had some smart footwork although I found it a little bit hit and miss and I wasn't sold on the whole package.

Judge Julie says - 7

Ruth & Anton - Paso Doble

Well Ruth looks amazing, not so sure about Anton! Again, not a fan of the Paso but Ruth really seemed to get into this and I loved the slowed down section towards the end of the routine but my favourite part was of course the the end where Ruth and Anton fell over and she mounted him! 

TV GOLD but not a lot of technique!

Judge Julie says - 6

Debbie & Giovanni - Tango

Yet again Debbie wows us all with her ability. She had it all, great head action, fantastic technique and an all round excellent performance. She totally embraced the whole Tango persona but managed to not go too far with the fierceness. I mark Debbie not as a 59 year old but the same as everyone else, she isn't getting marks like this because she is older than all the others. Well done Debs!

Judge Julie says - 10

Jonnie & Oti - Salsa

I felt that Jonnie was hunched a lot in this routine and had his bottom stuck out for a great proportion of the number. He also seemed to spend rather a lot of time twirling Oti around. He lacks a lot of hip and technique but I think he is a great genuine guy. Must say I like his spotty shirt though! 

Judge Julie says - 7

Susan & Kevin - Jive

Susan Calman is my FAVOURITE! That was a great little Jive, full of energy but there was a TONNE of basic Jive steps in there which I loved about the routine. Kevin has done great work with Susan this week and she really delivered and looked so cute in her little pinafore! Yes it was flat footed but she was wearing flat shoes/pumps!

Judge Julie says - 8

Davood & Nadiya - American Smooth

American Smooth is one of my favourite dances and I LOVE this song. Last used by Lisa Riley and Robin Windsor for their Foxtrot in Series 10. This for me was Davood's best dance and it brought out a new side of his personality. Excellent lifts and some really great footwork. He obviously enjoyed this routine which you could totally tell by how well he executed the moves and sold the whole number.

Judge Julie says - 9

DRESS OF THE WEEK - Debbie's Navy Tango dress

PROP OF THE WEEK - Susan & Kevin's Paint Rollers

SONG OF THE WEEK - This will be (an everlasting love) - Davood & Nadiya's AS

Class of 2017 - Halloween Week

Ooo love it or loathe it, it's Halloween Week. 

Have to say I LOVED the opening number with the ghosts of series winners and then Anton!

Jonnie & Oti - Cha Cha Cha

Some difficult moves in this routine but it wasn't one of his strongest performances. Cha Cha Cha didn't suit him but he had a good go at it. Very little in the hip department from Captain Jack!

Judge Julie says - 6

Ruth & Anton -  Quickstep

Ruth's hold wasn't consistent throughout the routine and there was a lot of gaping, a few moments of looking down and a tendency to cling onto Anton for dear life. Slight error but she recovered and she did seem a little more confident and I do think she is improving. Ross was watching with us and he commented that it lacked "pizazz"

Judge Julie says - 6

Simon & Karen - American Smooth

This routine was very pedestrian, no rise and fall at all but I understand Simon has an injury. There was a lack of lifts and it was very very flat, I didn't find any part of it exciting. I think Simon will be in the dance off this week again and it is his time to go. 

Judge Julie says - 5

Gemma & Alijaz - Jive

I find that Jive is always harder the taller you are. This routine had mistakes and I felt Gemma wasn't giving 100% although she did seem confident. I felt the kicks and flicks could have been much stronger and there could have been more bounce action and higher knees from Gemma

Judge Julie says - 7

Joe & Katya - Foxtrot

Enjoyed this routine and yet again some wonderful choreography from Katya. Still tending to stick his bottom out and lean forward a little but I think this was Joe's best ballroom effort. He seemed confident this week and I liked the concept of the story too!

Judge Julie says - 8

Mollie & AJ - Cha Cha Cha

Cha Cha Cha can make or break dancers and to be honest this was much better than I thought it was going to be. Mollie had some straight legs but not all the time. I did think this was quite a basic routine and maybe AJ could have put some trickier moves in there. She had a couple of balance issues but it was a solid attempt and I wished I looked like that in a catsuit!

Judge Julie says - 7

Alexandra & Gorka - Tango

Tango can be quite fierce and Alexandra often has a fierceness about her so I was very excited for this routine. It was intense with great footwork and head action. I think this could have been my favourite of their routines and I am delighted to see Gorka able to show off his talents. 

Judge Julie says - 9

Davood & Nadiya - Rumba 

Well Dav's got his torso out and I wasn't sure where to look! Ooo and it's sparkly too! I found it strange that he was dancing in a ballroom shoe rather than a cuban heeled latin shoe. Although I liked the concept of this dance I did find that it lacked a lot of Rumba moves and there wasn't enough hip action in the routine.

Judge Julie says - 6

Susan & Kevin - Foxtrot

I'd been looking forward to this all night although I have never watched Game of Thrones. Although I love Susan I have to say this was a bit of a let down. I don't think Game of Thrones, Killer Queen and Foxtrot are quiet compatible. She was trying hard but it wasn't for her. I'll still be voting though!

Judge Julie says - 6 (cos I love her!)

Debbie & Giovanni - Charleston

The best thing about their VT was how Giovanni says "Debbie". Debbie looked and danced like a 30 year old and I was in awe of her. The costume change was a little laboured in my opinion and some of the lifts were a little "awkward" but I loved this and wished I could dance like Debbie.

Judge Julie says  - 9 but so close to a 10!

Aston & Janette - Paso Doble

Well I always say I am not a fan of the Paso but I could not take my eyes of Aston in that routine and you could not tell who the pro was in this partnership. So powerful, amazing shaping and such confidence from Aston. I couldn't really fault this!

Judge Julie says - 10

Who would have thought my first 10 would be for a Paso!

DRESS OF THE WEEK - Mollie's All in One (technically not a dress!)

PROP OF THE WEEK - Mollie & AJ's Devil Fork

SONG OF THE WEEK - Can't decide between Better the Devil you Know or Frankie!

Class of 2017 - Week 5

I was a bad blogger last week and just didn't get chance to update due to me appearing in Legally Blonde the Musical. 

Davood & Nadiya - Jive

The Barista Vt was cringey but he was dancing to a top tune! More bounce needed and he needed to flick from the knee more. A fast routine full of content and lots of basic jive. A good energetic opening to the show.

Judge Julie says - 7

Mollie & AJ  - Viennese Waltz

Quite a bit of messing about at the beginning until they got into hold. Lovely lines and posture throughout from Mollie and a very tidy routine. Not out of this world for me but there was loads of content.

Judge Julie says - 8

Simon & Karen - Charleston

Felt awkward watching this and he seemed to be struggling a lot. Timing issues and no swivel, this was dad dancing at its finest with his mouth open all the time! He could be in danger this week!

Judge Julie says - 5

Debbie & Giovanni - Rumba

2 Latin dances in a row for Debbie coming from the CCC last week. She did show some signs of nerves but what an excellently well executed Rumba, probably one of the strongest female Rumbas. Filled with loads of Rumba content which were danced so so well.

Judge Julie says - 9

Brian & Amy - Jive

When I saw their costumes at the start of the show I commented that they looked like they were on Hi-De-Hi! Whilst Brian danced the moves in time and order, he did look like a Juvenile (under 12's) at a competition. Very little bounce action and no flicking from the knee. Brian could also be in danger this week.

Judge Julie says - 6

Susan & Kevin - Cha Cha Cha

Loved wee Susan in her dressing gown, she looked amazing again. Lots of content in this but the technique wasn't strong which I suspected it wouldn't be. She is very consistent in her approach to each dance and has a great energy and warmth. I just love how she throws herself into every dance.

Judge Julie says - 7

Aston & Janette - Waltz

A very contemporary feel to this Waltz. Excellent footwork and amazing rise and fall. A great frame and some signs of swing and sway, a very confident performance from Aston but not my favourite of his routines. 

Judge Julie says - 8

Ruth & Anton - Samba

Fabulous song, Brenda and Natasha danced to this song in Series 1 for their famous Samba. Anton looked like he had stepped out of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert!. There was a big mistake in the middle of the routine. Not her best and again Ruth could be in danger this week.

Judge Julie says - 5

Gemma & Alijaz - Foxtrot 

Gemma looked incredibly nervous. A lovely full Foxtrot, no gimmicks, props or messing about - a very classy routine. Gemma needed to relax a little bit more but she is really coming on and improving week on week, some great technique displayed.

Judge Julie says - 8

Joe & Katya - Paso Doble

Well Joe looks like he has had the double dip in the fake tan this week! Not a huge fan of the Paso but I love Katya's choreography, she is a real talent. A great routine from Joe, well executed and very convincing with excellent shaping throughout. Think he was however, overmarked by Shirley

Judge Julie says - 9

Alexandra & Gorka - Samba

Again they are left until near the end of the show! Could not take my eyes off her legs. Amazing routine, what can't she do? I agree about her feet but she is born to dance and entertain. A very powerful performance again this week. I would like to see her do a Rumba soon.

Judge Julie says - 8

Jonnie & Oti - Quickstep

Dancing on his blade this week Jonnie was amazing. He tends to stick his bottom out a lot. He had a lot more sass and swagger about him this week, following his acting lesson and he seemed a lot more confident. A full on Quickstep which he executed superbly.

Judge Julie says - 8

DRESS OF THE WEEK - Susan's Cha Cha Dress

PROP OF THE WEEK - Jonnie's shopping basket

SONG OF THE WEEK - Tell her about it - David's Jive

Class of 2017 - Week 3 - Movie Week

Well I have to say I just LOVED the La La Land opening number, made me smile throughout!

Simon & Karen - Quickstep

After the worst VT ever with Simon "flying" round the rehearsal room we were treated to a Toy Story themed quickstep but I didn't enjoy the speeded up version of "You've Got a Friend in me". My 14 year old son said "That was awful, it was all running about and no technique!" Thanks Evan! Simon is very light on his feet but there was no drive throughout the dance. It didn't take me to infinity and beyond!

Judge Julie says - 6

Ruth & Anton - Rumba

First Rumba of the series and I felt sorry for Ruth. Not only was she setting the standard for Rumba but she has Anton whom I feel is not strong at choreographing Latin routines. Not enough pressure on the floor which resulted in a lack of hip action. Her arms need attention too as lots of opportunities for lovely arms were thrown away. She looked stunning but I think she would fare better on a slightly lower heel.

Judge Julie says - 5

Mollie & AJ - Viennese Waltz

Mollie was the sexiest Maria I have ever seen and AJ looked very cute too! I felt that there could have been more Foxtrot in this routine although the parts that were in there were very competent footwork-wise from Mollie. My favourite of their routines so far, very endearing and tender.

Judge Julie says - 8

Rev Richard & Diane - Paso Doble

Again I am slightly disturbed watching him! The leg length of his red trousers were distracting me, they were at half mast! He seems to remember the routines OK but he is awkward and out of control. Unfortunately I don't enjoy his performances. I think his time could be up, in fact I hope it is! Sorry Rev!

Judge Julie says - 4

Debbie & Giovanni - Quickstep

I didn't write anything down during their dance as I was transfixed and QS is my ultimate favourite. There was too much messing about at the beginning but it was a lovely routine, very light and some great footwork. I wasn't a fan of the side by side in the middle but I disagree with the judges pulling her up on it with the 10 second rule thing! What can't Debbie do? I am looking forward to seeing her if she gets a Cha Cha Cha as I think this could test her!

Judge Julie says - 8

Brian & Amy - American Smooth

I actually really enjoyed this! Great characterisation from the funny man. Could have been a little but more basic ballroom in there but his footwork was fairly neat. He did need to push more and drive through the dance rather than "walking" it through. I think he will escape the dance off this week.

Judge Julie says - 6 

Alijaz & Gemma - Charleston

Awww Alijaz lost an ear! He even looks handsome when he has his face painted as a bear! I was looking for swivel through the routine but there were very few swivel style steps in there. Loved the energy and the concept of the routine and it was a great contrast to last weeks lovely Waltz. Her best dance so far for me!

Judge Julie says - 8

Charlotte & Brendan - Tango

Just how much was Brendan loving being Maverick? I think the leather jacket and Aviators went to his head though and I found his "come back" at Shirley very unprofessional and awkward, he was back to the old Brendan! So back to the dance, Charlotte looked amazing AGAIN but her footwork was messy, she needed to drive more and get into her knees more. However it was better than last week!

Judge Julie says - 5

Jonnie & Oti - Paso Doble

Indiana Peacock does the Paso! I was slightly perturbed by his coloured in beard but it was an action packed routine. He tended to stick out his bottom a lot and he also needed to improve his shaping but it was a great routine and I think he is a consistent performer.

Judge Julie says - 7

Susan & Kevin - Samba

First Samba of the series for wee Susan! As much as I love Susan this was another terrible VT! Who was leading who in this routine? Little power house Susan was in total control of the routine but it did lack technique, as fun and entertaining as it was! A very hard dance for a complete beginner.

Judge Julie says - 5

Joe & Katya - Viennese Waltz

2 ballroom dances in a row for Joe. Lots of content this week, think they have taken note after last weeks wardrobe fiasco. He does lean forward a lot in hold and he reminded me of a character from the Elves and the Shoemaker with his little moustache. Much improved after last week.

Judge Julie says - 8

Aston & Janette - Cha Cha Cha

Well I couldn't take my eyes off his little blue legs and for the first time I felt that you could not tell who the pro was. With him wearing tights his legs we also very exposed and not hidden by trousers. He had great technique, pushed into the floor and had straight legs. One of the best male CCC's I think we have had this early in the comp!

Judge Julie says - 9

Alexandra & Gorka - American Smooth

Left towards the end of the programme again. I just love seeing Gorka getting more opportunity to shine and show off his choreography. A well performed dance where everything worked, music, chores, costumes and facial expressions. A fantastic all round beautiful piece of theatrical dance.

Judge Julie says - 8

Davood & Nadiya - Samba

Davood in tight white pants - no comment! His arms and hands need work and there could have been more bounce action. He has a tendency to have his mouth open all the time which is slightly distracting but is was an improvement on last week.

Judge Julie says - 7

DRESS OF THE WEEK - Ruth's Rumba dress

PROP OF THE WEEK - Alijaz honey pot

SONG OF THE WEEK - Can't stop the feeling - Aston & Janette CCC

Class of 2017 - Week 2

Well every mark matters this week as we lose our first couple this weekend. Going from a Latin to Ballroom or vice versa with only one week to practise is always difficult, let's see how they get on!

Chizzy & Pasha - Foxtrot

This was always going to be hard for Chizzy as she is naturally more suited to the latin dances. There was far too much messing about around the breakfast table at the beginning and it was almost lunch time before they got into hold. A lot of gaping and Chizzy had too much weight forward. She struggled with the footwork basics but I love her confidence, sadly a little too much "performance" which overtook the technique.

Judge Julie says - 5

Aston & Janette - Salsa

Well I didn't write anything down during the dance as I was transfixed. Janette is the Salsa Queen so this was always going to be a top effort and it did't disappoint. Excellent tricks, great basic and just full commitment to the routine. I noticed the "Karen & Mark" head drop move from their famous Salsa back in Series 4 (2006). Just a brilliant number from these 2 pocket rockets!

Judge Julie says - 8.5

Susan & Kevin - Charleston

I love Susan and she had her wee little legs out tonight! As a complete beginner she totally went for it. No real swivel action but great entertainment and she kept up, gave it her all and she was in time and synchronised with Kevin. I love their relationship and that she is having the time of her life, which is evident in her execution of the dance.

Judge Julie says - 6

Charlotte & Brendan - Cha Cha Cha

I don't think people realise just how technically difficult a Cha Cha Cha is. It's usually one of the first latin dances you would learn at a class but it's so so hard to get right and Charlotte was just all wrong I am afraid. Too skippy, absolutely no pressure on the floor and therefore no hips. She really struggled and I felt so sorry for her, not her dance at all.

Judge Julie says - 4

Joe & Katya - Tango

What was with the wardrobe? I thought someone was going to pop out from inside it. Far too skippy and not down in the knees enough. Too much gaping and he seemed very nervous. It looked like something went wrong. Not as strong as last week but he is capable of more. Not enough drive in the dance either.

Judge Julie says - 6 

Brian & Amy - Cha Cha Cha

Love this song and the disco elements suited the music. It was so much better than I thought it would be. His side by side stuff was great but the actually CCC elements were laboured and there was zero technique. Had loads of energy and fun though!

Judge Julie says - 5

Gemma & Alijaz - Waltz

Gemma looked STUNNING and this was such an improvement on last week. A lovely Waltz with some great footwork from Gemma. really suited her and the music and choreography worked so well together. Could Gemma be more of a ballroom girl?

Judge Julie says - 7

Rev Richard & Diane - American Smooth

Our first AS of the series. Not really a fan of the Rev and I find it quite uncomfortable to watch him. You can tell he is concentrating very hard but he is very clumpy and has very little grace. He tried really hard and God loves a trier!

Judge Julie says - 4

Ruth & Anton - Charleston

Ruth looked AMAZING and also looked much more confident in Week 2. A couple of minor mishaps where she seemed to forget the routine but she was so much better than last week and she deserves to stay in. She also had some swivel which was fantastic! 

Judge Julie says  - 6

Simon & Karen - Waltz

You could tell this dance meant so much to Simon but I think nerves got the better of him. I love that they had no messing with props and were straight into the waltz. He had no drive throughout the dance and he walked a lot of it rather than dancing it. There was a bit of a faux pas towards the end which was quite evident. A tender performance, think he could be in the bottom two.

Judge Julie says - 5

Mollie & AJ - Tango

Nicehold, a little skippy in places. For me there is something missing with Mollie but I cannot put my finger on it? I think she wasn't fully committed to the dance, and it lacked a little attack. I want to see her blow us away!

Judge Julie says - 6

Johnnie & Oti - Jive

I am just in awe of Johnnie, this week he danced on his blade. WOW what great attack and energy he had. There was a slight error on one of the side by side sections but other than that I think he delivered a fantastic Jive.

Judge Julie says - 7

Debbie & Giovanni - Viennese Waltz 

A lovely little routine from these two! No props, no gimmicks just a lovely routine, let the dancing do the talking. She has fabulous lines and she danced beautifully. The whole number looked effortless and easy and was really well choreographed by Giovanni.

Judge Julie says - 8

Davood & Nadiya - Quickstep

Davood in glasses dancing my favourite dance the Quickstep, what a combination. This was a very quick routine, almost frenzied in places. I didn't really like the costume change, I quite liked the geeky Davood at the beginning. Lots of messing about at the beginning and a bit too out of control. 

Judge Julie says - 6

Alexandra & Gorka - Paso Doble

Swoon central at Gorka with his chest out! This was outstanding, full of passion, attack and drama as well as great technique and an amazing performance quality. One of the best Paso Dobles I have ever seen, and it's not my favourite dance. She is going to go far!

Judge Julie says 9

DRESS OF THE WEEK - Gemma's lovely blue Waltz dress

PROP OF THE WEEK - Davood's geeky glasses

SONG OF THE WEEK - She's always a woman to me - Debbie's VW 

Thanks for reading, see you next week!

Class of 2017 - Week 1

Woo Hoo it's the first night of Strictly and I am just fully catching up on the dances having been away this weekend. Although I have watched them once on my laptop I wasn't fully in "Judge Julie" mode so I'm armed with the remote control, the house to myself and a large coffee to take everything in!

Couple of interesting pieces of info for you. I do believe that it is the first time since 2005 (series 3) that all the couples have danced on the same night in one BUMPER programme. Usually it has been spread over a Friday/Saturday evening and back in the earlier days even spread over Week 1 and Week 2. Interesting also to see that we open AGAIN with a Cha Cha Cha. I think there have only been 2 other occasions over the whole history of Strictly when the opening dance has not been a Cha Cha Cha!

Gemma & Alijaz - Cha Cha Cha

I have to confess I was slightly distracted by Alijaz, a vision in white from head to toe in this routine, so I had to watch it again! A very safe performance from Gemma and always a big ask to go first. Not enough pressure on the floor which resulted in a lack of hip action. She needs to let herself go and push down into the floor and then the hips will come along with the straight legs needed for Cha Cha Cha. 

Judge Julie says - 5

Brian & Amy - Tango

So the BBC give "funny man" Brian the most serious dance the Tango! I found this routine to be very pedestrian. Kudos to Brian for getting all the steps in there and executing the routine but he very much walked most of it through. He danced it all on straight legs and Tango should be danced on a flexed knee with lots of staccato action.  I understand this was the first time he had got the routine correct all the way through so no doubt he was on cloud nine because of this. 

Judge Julie says - 4

Alexandra & Gorka - Waltz

I love Gorka the Corker and felt he didn't get the chance to shine last series so I am hoping he stays in longer this year. Clearly this Waltz and of course the music meant a great deal to Alexandra and that was apparent in her execution of the routine and the emotion displayed throughout the dance. There was occasional gaping as they transferred from promenade position to closed position so this needs working on. Performed from the heart but I think Alexandra needs to nip the waterworks in the bud as sometimes it can often irritate the voting public. 

Judge Julie says - 7

Simon & Karen - Paso Doble

Ok I will say it now, this partnership does not excite me and combined with the Paso (possibly my least favourite dance), I was quite underwhelmed. Cannot knock the fella for effort but there was a little too much stomping and clapping. His bottom stuck out quite a bit and his frame needs a lot of work but he is after all a complete beginner.

Judge Julie says - 5

Charlotte & Brendan - Foxtrot

OMG Foxtrot for Week 1!!!! How unfair! Have to say Charlotte looked absolutely AMAZING and the dance, the look and the dress all came together beautifully. Very light on her feet and some nice footwork including an attempt at a heel turns. I noticed she looked down quite a lot. Loved the bench bit near the end but wasn't keen on her finishing on the judges desk.

Judge Julie says - 6

Chilly & Pasha - Cha Cha Cha

Well Chizzy has natural rhythm which was apparent during the launch show routine. There was very little Cha Cha Cha basic in this routine and I found it all a little bit too "disco" with too much side by side choreography. She needs much more pressure into the floor to get the straight legs and hip action on the little Cha Cha Cha that she did. Slight wardrobe malfunction with her foot getting caught in her dress, always hard not to panic but she coped so well with that!

Judge Julie says - 6

Johnny & Oti - Waltz

What a lovely guy Johnny is, so tender and caring and this came across in his dance. I think this routine was very "careful" and he has potential as his footwork was fairly tidy. I'm not sure if something went wrong at the end as it seemed to finish fairly abruptly with the photo on the floor. 

Judge Julie says - 6

Joe & Katya - Jive

Oh gosh here we go, another terrible VT set in the hospital with them jiving around in their scrubs!! Do wish the BBC would ditch these, does anyone actually enjoy them? Excellent choreography from Katya which Joe danced well. He could do with a bit more bounce action, as a shorter guy this dance really suited him. Best bit about this was the disagreement between Darcy and Shirley. Awkward, with Shirley pulling Darcy up on her technical comments!!!

Judge Julie says - 7 1/2!

Susan & Kevin - Viennese Waltz

OK I have to say I LOVE Susan. I had no idea who she was but I love her already! Such a cute partnership. I LOVED the little shuffle she did towards Kevin a the beginning of the routine. She needs to work on closing her feet when rotating. As a girl also with short legs I totally admired her for this routine which is fast paced and she kept up with it brilliantly! Spoilt a little at the end by not pointing her toe when she kicked her leg out!

Judge Julie says - 6

Debbie & Giovanni - Paso Doble

Well I think Debbie surprised a few people. I've heard talk of her dance training but I'm not sure how true that is or not. Great tambourine action from Debbie and she created some really great lines and totally dominated the routine. Even though it's my least favourite dance I cannot fail to be impressed by her execution and performance. 

Judge Julie says - 8

Davood & Nadiya - Cha Cha Cha

There's no denying I am a bit of a Davood fan, very easy on the eye thank you very much! That being said I didn't enjoy his cheesy VT in the East End - GROAN!!!

Davood came bouncing down the steps and so did his pecs! A very hot Cha Cha Cha but he danced most of it on bent legs which the judges didn't mention at all. He needed more pressure on the floor and a greater hip action and also I was a little put off by his mouth being open for most of the routine.

Judge Julie says - 6 1/2 

Ruth & Anton - Waltz

I must say I was a bit disappointed for Ruth being partnered with Anton, I wanted her to be partnered with one of the younger guys! What's going on with Anton's dyed hair too? I think he has shared the same packet of dye as Brian Conley. Ruth looked stunning but her routine was very nervous and there  were a few errors. She was gripped onto Anton, which I can understand. He had to negotiate her out of trouble a few times. I did think she coped well with the change of head direction so many times though.

Judge Julie says - 5

Rev Richard & Diane - Cha Cha Cha

Hated the cloud and the harp, so predictable! I was slightly distracted by his dangling microphone but was impressed it didn't get caught up in anything! To be fair he seemed to remember the routine but I'm not a fan! Very flat footed and I thought he was doing the Agadoo dance throughout most of that!

Judge Julie says - 3

Mollie & AJ - Jive

Hmmmm this one left me feeling a little underwhelmed. Her kicks seem laboured and weren't from the knee and she needed much more bounce action.  It just lacked energy! I often feel that AJ doesn't "dance down" to his partner's level and out danced Mollie

Judge Julie says - 6

Aston & Janette - Foxtrot 

Expecting great things from Mr Merrygold and I am really pleased they gave him a ballroom dance for Week 1 rather than a Latin dance. I thought he executed it superbly and he had great swagger about him. He knows where the cameras are and how to work his audience and it was a great number to end the show on. 

Judge Julie says - 8

DRESS OF THE WEEK -Charlotte's bridal like white/silver dress

PROP OF THE WEEK - Debbie's Tambourine

SONG OF THE WEEK - It had to be you - Aston & Janette Foxtrot

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2 days to go!

So Strictly 2017 is almost upon us and I have been asked a few times if I will be doing my blog again this year!

Having only made it to Week 6 last year I wasn't sure whether I could keep up to it this year (I struggle to fit in my actual work blog) but I love the programme and I love to give my opinions on it so I think I will be back!

That being said, I am running a craft weekend for 20 ladies this weekend and won't be watching the show live, so this weeks blog will be a little late!

My first impressions are that I love Davood (bit of a Kush fan!) and I love Susan (she makes me laugh and is such a cutie) so I hope their dancing is good too!

Enjoy Saturday night, I know I will!

Class of 2016 - Week 6 Halloween Week

Ok I will fess up that I am not a huge fan of Halloween outside of Strictly so it's never my favourite week on the show. That being said I have to admit that the hair and makeup team do a fantastic job on this and I applaud their efforts but I often feel it can overtake the actual dancing on the show.

Louise & Kevin - Charleston

I thought this had a lot of Jive elements to it and I hated the song choice. Louise was very animated in this routine but I didn't think it was outstanding although I liked the comic strip theming running throughout it. I did think her shoes looked difficult to dance in. The music choice spoilt this a little for me 

Judge Julie says - 8

Judge Rinder & Oksana - Paso Doble

Another terrible VT with the silly fake butterflies. Does anyone enjoy watching these? This was the first time we had seen him do a more serious theme and he was channeling his inner butch! It wasn't a bad Paso in general and the guy can really dance. I didn't really buy into the whole butterfly/moth theme but I am developing rather a soft spot for Judge Rinder

Judge Julie says - 8

Claudia & AJ - American Smooth

Very very tidy footwork from Clauda, she has mastered the heel turn and has had consistently good technique in the ballroom. Best so far for me of the night and I liked that their dance wasn't overtaken by the Halloween week.

Judge Julie says - 9

Anastacia & Brendan - Jive

Kudos to Brendan for controlling the Swegway on live TV, he nailed it. Very heavy footed and needed a lot more bounce and higher knees in the back steps. She also need to flick more from the knee (I wrote that down and then Len said it!). 10/10 for effort but not as good as her Quickstep last week. Could be her last dance?

Judge Julie says - 6

Danny & Oti - Foxtrot

Again another terrible VT. The golden boy had a bad week this week and his little stumble knocked his confidence and he lost his nerve. I noticed that he also seemed to be wearing latin shoes (higher cuban style heel) and I wonder why? They took a risk with this dance and although I loved the theme the risk didn't quite pay off!

Judge Julie says - 7

Laura & Giovanni - Tango

Her best dance. Was sharp and aggressive and a great comeback after the disappointment of last week. She did well to dance again this week as her ankle was clearly still bad as she danced in a more  supportive practise style shoe.

Judge Julie says - 8

Ore & Joanne - Charleston

Ore struggled getting his lollipop into his trousers at the beginning and I think it panicked him slightly. From seeing his training on It Takes Two it was clear he was struggling with the swivel action and we all know Craig is obsessed by this. The music and theme didn't work for me and his lift was a disaster but he is a consistent performer and is still a contender in my opinion.

Judge Julie says - 8

Greg & Natalie - Rumba

A good song with a theme that matched, makes such a different. Greg had worked on turning his feet out which was clear to see. although he was wearing ballroom shoes and not latin! Had he swapped with Danny? There wasn't a huge amount of Rumba in this routine and there were a heck of a lot of pivots in it. A very atmospheric routine and Greg should be proud of how far he has come on.

Judge Julie says - 7

Daisy & Alijaz - Paso Doble

Again a good theme, music and costume that all worked together. Daisy's arms were lazy at times but she had great attack and it was very nicely performed. I have rather a soft spot for Alijaz so I do hope they aren't in the bottom 2 again this week

Judge Julie says - 8

Ed & Katya - Cha Cha Cha

When someone is left to dance last you know its going to be a showstopper and this was totally that. Maybe not quite for the usual reasons but I cannot deny how entertaining this routine was. Ed was considered the "duffer" of the pack this year but in my opinion he has learned his dances well and hasn't made mistakes (apart from nearly dropping Katya last week which I thought was unlucky) and he was on time with the music tonight. He was so camp and his hips were going wild, I really enjoyed this but I think it is time he went, would be good to go out on his best dance

Judge Julie says - 7

Overall I think the quality of the dancing was lower this week and there were some strange music and theme choices. Roll on next week when we are back to normal.

DRESS OF THE WEEK - Claudia's American Smooth dress

PROP OF THE WEEK - Ore's Lollipop!

SONG OF THE WEEK - Bring me to Life - Greg and Natalie's Rumba 

Class of 2016 - Week 5

Once again I couldn't watch the show live last night as I was out at a cricket presentation night with my family, so it was a late night viewing with a blog catch up this afternoon.

Another eventful week this week commencing with the poorly Brendan being unable to practise and perform on the show with Anastacia. Step in the man of the moment, Gorka the Corker who was the new Brendan for this week. If that wasn't eventful enough, we then have poor Laura who has injured her ankle in training and was unable to perform the Jive this week so she has secured a "bye" into next weeks show as per the rules of the program. I must admit to feeling very sorry for Giovanni who didn't get to perform his favourite dance. 

Judge Rinder & Oksana - Jive

Dressed like a cross between Action Man and Ken (Barbie's boyfriend) Judge Rinder opened the show with a camptastic Jive. It was a little heavy in places, a touch frenzied and occasionally he looked like a camouflage clad kangaroo but as always I enjoyed his performance. He needs to flick from the knee more.

Judge Julie says - 7

Lesley & Anton - Tango

Not sure I enjoyed Lesley's climb over the table towards Anton and I found his trousers to be very distracting. To me this felt very pedestrian and I could see she was thinking of which step was next, there wasn't as much performance from Lesley this week. She was very skippy in places and wasn't down in the knees enough. Could be bottom 2 for Lesley this week.

Judge Julie says - 6

Greg & Natalie - Cha Cha Cha

Greg was unfortunately like a rabbit in the headlights this week and he look very awkward and out of his depth. There were no hips and it was his worst dance by far. I know he has zero dance experience but I would like to see him try and walk like a dancer when he comes forward to do his steps rather than walking like he is shopping in Asda. I really felt sorry for him this week and do hope he doesn't go out on his worst dance.

Judge Julie says - 5

Anastacia & Gorka - Quickstep

I LOVE this partnership, Anastacia looked like a new woman this week. I would have liked a bit more in hold as it felt like an American Smooth to me but I loved the timed pendulums near the judges. Her best dance.

Judge Julie says - 7 but leaning towards an 8

Louise & Kevin - Rumba

As the judges said Louise is consistent. You can rely on her to come up with the goods every week. She did look down a lot in this number and it was a lovely routine but it wasn't a showstopper.

Judge Julie says - 8

Ed & Katya - American Smooth

I was enjoying the Foxtrot element of this routine but my heart was in my mouth when he almost dropped Katya, was definitely a gasp moment. I loved the energy and the nod to the Amarillo video with the cheeky marching 

Judge Julie says - 5

Ore & Joanne - Waltz

Waltzing to Whitney for the second time this series and what an enjoyable routine it was. I am now quite tough when it comes to commenting on Ore as he is very good. It was a little rough in parts but was generally an excellent Waltz. He needed more drive and his shoulders needed sorting out at times. His head seemed to be all over the place too.

Judge Julie says - 8

Daisy & Alijaz - Charleston 

I applaude Daisy and Alijaz for doing something different with their Charleston and I really enjoyed watching it. She had good swivel and gave a great performance, again like Louise she is very consistent and she is growing on me.

Judge Julie says - 8

Danny & Oti - Rumba

I was mesmerised by this performance and I didn't write one note in my book whilst watching the dance. Swit swoo! Danny was looking hot to trot in his latin get up and he had hips to die for and excellent pressure on the floor. Is there any dance this guy cannot do? Lucky Oti!

Judge Julie says - 9

Claudia & AJ - Samba

Poor Claudia! This routine was just far too fast and her little legs could not keep up with the speed of this. She has the talent but this routine was fast even for the pros. She couldn't finish the moves off properly because of the speed of the track. She is a very capable dancer but I would have loved to have seen this number slowed down.

Judge Julie says - 8

I enjoyed tonight's show, looking forward to Halloween week next week.

DRESS OF THE WEEK - Joanne's gorgeous pale blue Waltz dress

PROP OF THE WEEK - Ed's rucksack before they slung it I 

SONG OF THE WEEK - I will always love you - Ore & Joanne's Waltz

Class of 2016 - Week 4

A little later posting from me today as I didn't watch the show live last night as I was out cavorting at a Quiz Night with some of my fellow Made in Dagenham friends. The opening of the show seemed a lot shorter this week with 2 couples departing last week and I missed seeing Will and Tameka on the stairs. 

Greg & Natalie - Salsa

Greg had been working overtime in the Shimmy Shack this week perfecting the upstairs department but the downstairs needed a little bit more attention. His steps were rather large and he was often flat footed but I do love his effort as a complete novice. I can't not mention the lifts he executed, even though Natalie seemed to struggle coming out of one of them.

Judge Julie says - 7

Laura & Giovanni - Quickstep

This routine started "backstage" and reminded me a little of how the routines on Dancing with the Stars (the US Strictly) often start as Laura and Giovanni powdered their noses. I didn't like Laura's hold and topline, it looked awkward. The routine was frenzied as the music was fast and I felt though that there wasn't enough coverage of the floor. Often overmarked by Bruno, for me it wasn't as amazing as it was marked

Judge Julie says - 7

Anastacia & Brendan - Rumba

The first Rumba of the series and I have to say the music, styling, staging and theme of it were on point, loved the photographs projected onto the floor. This wasn't as bad as I expected it to be but it wasn't good. She executed some nice lines but needed more pressure on the floor. Could be in danger this week.

Judge Julie says - 6

Claudia & AJ - Foxtrot

The first Foxtrot (or Foxy as I like to call it) of the series. Foxtrot is my nemesis, it's so hard and this routine was not helped by the horrible music choice. I am a bit of an old fashioned girl when it comes to Foxtrot music. Lovely footwork from Claudia, including a nice heel turn and she travelled very well to say she is so short. The song choice spoilt this for me.

Judge Julie says - 8

Ed & Katya - Paso Doble

A terrible VT to go with a terrible dance that was riddled with mistakes throughout. I like Ed and I like his enthusiasm but this was his worst performance of the series. Very camp and out of control.

Judge Julie says - 4

Naga & Pasha - Charleston 

Not sure I am a fan of the blue wig but have to say Naga at least had some personality in this dance and it was her best dance. Pasha has a reputation for choreographing a good Charleston and this was stronger than her other performances. I especially like the work with the trident. Her best dance but she could be in the bottom two this week.

Judge Julie says - 6

Louise & Kevin - Foxtrot

This song threw me as it was last used as a Cha Cha Cha by Lisa Snowdon back in series 6, one of the highest scoring CCC's I believe and it's always strange to see the same song used for a different dance. I loved the side by side rondes going backwards and Louise always appears confident and polished as a performer. I actually thought her footwork could have been a lot better and Claudia out did her on the technique, but this was a better overall routine because of a better theme/song.

Judge Julie says - 8

Danny & Oti - Quickstep

This is my favourite ballroom dance and Danny was just a total dreamboat. He had swing and sway and was leading Oti around the floor. He oozed confidence and this dance, for me, was on par with Harry Judd's from Series 9, which is probably my all time fave QS. You could not tell who the pro was in this routine.

Judge Julie says - tempted to go 10 but it's only Week 4 so 9

Daisy & Alijaz - Rumba

I love this song but felt it was a little too fast and the circle of lights was putting me off a bit. She had nice opening outs but I felt it was a little regimented however, I am in awe of her long limbs and how she keeps them under control. I very much enjoyed watching Alijaz and his hips in this routine though!!

Judge Julie says - 7

Judge Rinder & Oksana - Viennese Waltz

He is light on his feet and he can dance. He needs more confidence in himself. It was a little bit skippy and he tripped over his own feet at one point. I want to see him do a serious routine now though with a serious theme.

Judge Julie says - 7

Lesley & Anton - Charleston

I LOVE LESLEY. I didn't want to love Lesley at the start of the show but I cannot help myself. She looked amazing and had the time of her life out there. She did look at the floor a heck of a lot but executed every step. Anton's choreography has improved tenfold this year and I am wondering if he has had some assistance? I hope I can dance like that at 51 let alone 71!

Judge Julie says - 8

Ore & Joanne - Jive

Jive is a favourite of mine and this one had high expectations as the last dance of the show often does. Ore knows how to work the cameras and the cheeky raised eyebrow down the camera are perfected in this routine. It was sharp and seamless and I loved the guitar move. Amazing attack throughout the dance and his best dance by far. I do recall that on week 1 I said he was my contender for the final and this dance proved that to me.

Judge Julie says - like Danny I was tempted to go 10 but I will say 9

And so I survived the first week of Strictly without Mr Young.

DRESS OF THE WEEK - Oti's gorgeous Quickstep dress

PROP OF THE WEEK - AJ's iPhone which he managed to remember to take off the top of the lockers once he had taken his selfie at the beginning of the routine

SONG OF THE WEEK - The way we were - Anastacia and Brendan Rumba