It is strictly time, and with Blackpool only a week away the heat is rising. We are now at the stage where every performance counts and leaving the competition feels tougher than ever. The celebrities have put in so much time, effort and energy, pushing through long rehearsals, tired feet and more blisters than they expected. Each week they have learned a completely new dance, and all of that hard work shows on the dance floor at this point in the competition.
You can sense how much everyone wants a place in Blackpool. The atmosphere feels more intense, the audience more invested and the judges more focused. Every couple steps out knowing what is at stake.
Sadly, we said goodbye to Vicky and Kai, who danced the Jive this week. I am genuinely sad to see Vicky go, as I really admired her commitment to the show. I had a soft spot for her from the start and it has been lovely seeing a different side to her, far from her Geordie Shore days which I also enjoyed. She brought warmth and enthusiasm to every performance, and both she and Kai will be truly missed.
So let us get to it. As usual, I will go through the couples in order of appearance.
Balvinder Sopia – American Smooth (8)
What a lovely and sweet way to open the show. It feels as though she is really starting to come into her own now. Her dancing looks more confident each week and you can see her relaxing into the movement. This routine had such a charming and playful narrative and it was a joy to watch.
Amber Davis – Paso Doble (10)
Goosebumps. From start to finish this dance had so much drama and tension. I was completely drawn in and felt that Amber really kept up with Nikita. It was polished and had everything I love about the Paso. She transformed into the perfect character for this dance. Possibly my favourite from Amber so far. Excellent.
Alex Kingston – Waltz (9)
Much better than last week. I loved the story she told throughout this dance. It felt effortless and beautifully clean. She looked elegant and majestic, and there was a real ease to the whole performance. I always look forward to seeing Alex and Johannes, and sometimes it is the little details that draw you in.
Vicky Patterson – Jive (8)
Straight away, hearing that song took me right back to dancing around my living room as a little girl. I thought she showed great stamina throughout and kept her energy high. I agree that there needs to be a bit more retraction in the kicks and flicks, but overall it was a great performance. And she looked fantastic in yellow.
Karen Carey – American Smooth (7)
I am very torn. I did not really feel that this dance was giving an American Smooth. It did not flow the way it should have and at times it came across with a slightly aggressive feel. I realise it was choreographed to the music, which was a difficult choice. However, I did enjoy the dance and I do not think her dancing was bad at all. Maybe this is simply a new take on the American Smooth.
George Clarke – Rumba (7)
Magical. This dance genuinely brought me to tears. The caring nature he brought to the performance was beautiful. The storytelling was thoughtful and so well carried through. Yes, he was a little out of time and could work on his hips a bit more, but this dance proved that it is not all about technique. It is about the feeling a dance gives you, which is so much more important.
Lewis Cope – Tango (9)
A very strong performance. I felt Lewis controlled this dance brilliantly. His leading skills are so strong; a proper leading man. It is almost getting a little predictable how good he is, and I mean that in the best possible way. We know what to expect from Lewis and he never disappoints. Fabulous!
La Voix – Couples Choice (9)
The diva has arrived, darling. Amazing. This dance was so entertaining. I loved the beginning, seeing Chris transform into La Voix. It was spectacular. She dazzled and shone throughout, such a joy to watch. So, showbiz. It felt like a proper show dance. Jazz with a little Strictly twist. Outstanding.
So, with week eight over, it is time to head to Blackpool next. There have been so many amazing and memorable, and sometimes not for the right reasons, dances performed at the Blackpool Tower. There is something about it that just gives a magical feeling. Everything feels elevated at Blackpool and I cannot wait.
Do you agree with my ratings? Who was your favourite dancer of the night? Let us know in the comments.
Keep dancing,
Catherine
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