Halfway Highlights: Drama, Glamour and A-MAZING Moments on the Strictly Dance Floor

Lewis Cope – Cha Cha (9)

After last week’s 40, the pressure was on. It was a routine packed full of technique and fun moves. It’s getting to the point now where it’s hard to tell who is the professional and who is the celebrity. A brilliant, well-danced, authentic cha cha.

Karen Carey – Charleston (10)

I have been looking forward to seeing Karen do a Charleston for weeks, and she didn’t disappoint! It was packed full of classic Charleston moves and lifts. She kept an infectious energy throughout. I loved this! A-MAZING!

Alex Kingston – Paso Doble (7)

A traditional Paso with costuming to match. She had some great lines and swept across the floor beautifully. I do think her balance was a little off in places, and a few small mistakes were visible in the dance. It was clear that she seemed a little nervous this week, but the Paso is a tricky dance.

La Voix – Foxtrot (8)

This was simply lovely (if you know, you know). It felt like they were dancing on air. I really enjoyed the sway she had in this dance. Such a feel-good performance. A little work on the top line, bringing the shoulder down slightly and extending the neck, would be great. She shines in ballroom.

Balvinder Sopia – Couple Choice (9)

This is when Couple’s Choice works well for me. I love getting an insight into a culture and a world I don’t often get to see. The energy was joyfully infectious again and had a real celebratory feel. I personally couldn’t disagree with Craig more. I’m sure her mum would be looking down, proud of Balvinder, and the standing ovation was well deserved.

George Clarke – Viennese Waltz (9)

Perfect. What a transformation from George. I couldn’t stop smiling throughout this dance. He framed Alex beautifully and looked so effortless around the floor as they glided together. Great technique and great atmosphere. He looked like a dapper, old-school dancer.

Amber Davies – Salsa (10)

This was giving very much show dance vibes. The tricks and lifts were amazing. It was nice to see Amber let go and flow more in a dance. She shimmered and shone on that dance floor, creating a real party atmosphere. It made me want to don a sparkly catsuit and join in.

Vicky Patterson – Tango (10)

This dance had drama. The synchronised head flicks and the intense facial expressions were fantastic. What I love about the tango is that it’s a dance where a lot of the work comes from the feet while the top frame stays static, and Vicky nailed it. She looked confident and in control the whole way through and really played the character so well.

Harry Aikines-Aryeetey – Samba (8)

A great way to end the show. It brought a fun Samba vibe to the dance floor. Gloria Estefan is a great music choice for this type of dance. They kept a great energy throughout the whole performance, and I appreciated a pec pop or two.