Waltzing Through Week One

So of course, I will be eagerly watching this series and sharing my thoughts on each show every Monday. I’ll be talking about the highs and lows of the dances, the costumes that dazzle or divide opinion, and the judges’ comments that get us all chatting. From surprise stand-out performances to those heart-in-mouth dance-offs, I’ll be here each week with a fresh cuppa in hand, ready to relive the glitter and the drama. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just popping by for a weekly catch-up, I hope you’ll join me as we follow every twirl, lift and sparkle on the dance floor.

Chris Robshaw - Samba (4)

Opening the show with a samba is never easy, and bless him, he really gave it a go. Overall, it lacked that traditional samba bounce, but it is week one so we can’t expect perfection just yet. What I did enjoy was seeing how hard he was trying, and he seemed to grow more comfortable as the routine went on. And honestly, who doesn’t love a cheeky finger point? There’s definite potential here, and I’m curious to see how he develops in the coming weeks.

Alex Kingston - Viennese Waltz (6)

Drama, fierce and full of flair. I agree that a traditional Viennese Waltz is usually danced more in hold, and this routine certainly was not that. However, the music did not really lend itself to a classic waltz either. Now imagine if they had gone for a tango instead, absolute chills. Overall I think she delivered a brilliant performance, and I cannot wait to see more from her.

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey – Cha Cha (6)

Well, what can I say about Harry? He definitely has the charisma and the performance side of things for Strictly. His dancing was not bad at all, and I can see real potential in his hip movements and natural rhythm. Now he just needs to focus on getting the technique right and he will be one to watch. Also, nice push-ups.

Stefan Dennis – Foxtrot (5)

This dance played to pure Strictly. As a Neighbours fan back in the day, I loved the theme, the song and the choreography. Stefan already shows the beginnings of a beautiful ballroom hold, which is no easy skill to master. Overall, this was a lovely routine that I thoroughly enjoyed.

Ellie Goldstein – Cha Cha (5)

Wow, Ellie came out with a bang, sparkling from head to toe. I loved her energy and diva-like flair. I think she has real potential. I agree her feet were a little high, but she still gave a brilliant performance. A real little star.

Lewis Cope – Jive (7)

Get ready because here Lewis comes! This routine was jammed packed, and I loved it! He had great stamina and fabulous performance values. He did seem a little out of control at times, but once he manages his energy and nails the technique, I see real potential.

Ross King – Cha Cha (3)

Ahh, Ross… well, those trousers were very sparkly and eye-catching. As for the dancing, I think a few more steps are needed next week.

George Clarke – American Smooth (6)

What a surprise. I’ll be honest, I’m not really familiar with George’s work, but to pull off a beautiful routine as a non-dancer is really something special. Those lifts were brilliant too. I think we may have a secret contender, and I’m excited to see more. He just needs to get the left shoulder down a little.

Vicky Pattison – Cha Cha (6)

Our Geordie lass has talent. Nerves aside, this routine was entertaining, and I could see some real technique shining through. I think she was really brave to start the routine on her own in the very first show. She definitely has potential, and she is another one I cannot wait to see progress.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbank – Quickstep (6)

The first quickstep of the season, one of my personal favourites, and he hit it hard. He is definitely breaking the curse of the footballer. I thought he had a lovely frame and plenty of energy to match.

Balvinder Sopal – Samba (5)

When the samba meets disco, you know it is going to be good. She had a bit of the samba bounce going on and a real disco diva energy. She looked fabulous in her gold dress, living out her superfan dreams.

La Voix – American Smooth (6)

This routine, for me, felt like Strictly at its best: traditional meets camp, and it was brilliant. La Voix had the perfect mix of grace, elegance and comedy. I am really looking forward to seeing her in the Latin routines, bringing this fun energy.

Tom Skinner – Paso Doble (3)

It is giving John Sargent vibes. He seemed to focus more on the mood rather than the steps and the pout. Still, it is only week one, so there is plenty of time to improve.

Amber Davies – Waltz (7)

Wow, wow, wow. Now, I know people will say she is a trained musical theatre dancer, but that does not automatically make her a specialist in ballroom and Latin. Twenty-four hours to learn this beautiful dance, and she smashed it. Standing ovation. I cannot wait to see what she is going to bring to this competition with more than twenty-four hours’ notice.

Karen Carney – Jive (8)

My star of the night. She was insanely good and at times looked just like Carlos. Honestly, this lioness will go far. Her kicks and flicks were so controlled and precise, it looked like she had been doing this for years. Loved it! My star of the night. She was insanely good and at times looked just like Carlos. Honestly, this lioness will go far. Her kicks and flicks were so controlled and precise, it looked like she had been doing this for years. Loved it!