Quick Reaction Alert over Bath: How quick was it?

Posted on by
Reply

QRA over Bath : How quick was it?

James rolls back to his Aerospace experience to see just how quick the QRA was

Yesterday as we were sat in wonderfully scenic Bath crafting out some thoughful teaching plans for the next few weeks, the roar of fast jets pierced the silence and Twitter was abuzz with Eurofighter sightings over the city. We watched one of the jets circle what was probably a shivering little helicopter which had apparently earlier “accidently” set off a 7700 (Highjack) or 7500 (Emergency) radio sqwark.

Sonic Boom, yes, but not actually sourcing over Bath

I’ve been lucky enough to see these aircraft close up several times, and their performance is staggering. They don’t have the thrust vectoring of some of the latest generation of ultra-maneuverable planes but they’re still pretty handy. There was some confusion about the noises yesterday so let’s discuss those first.

To maintain a low flight speed, where significant lift isn’t being generated, thrust levels have to be high to keep the aircraft in the air. In order for the aircraft to observe a helicopter at close quarters, it must therefore reduce it’s flight speed but maintain significant thrust through the engines or it would merely keep losing altitude. I’ve seen a Eurofighter take off and go vertically in the air and the noise is deafening, but this isn’t a sonic boom. It is highly unlikely that when the aircraft were over or near to Bath that there was any sonic boom given their flight speed was so low.

However, these aircraft were scrambled from RAF Coningsby, some 150miles or more in a straight line from Bath. The MOD statement said the helicopter had put out it’s sqwark around 6.10pm, and the first reported sighting of the jet over Bath was around 6.22pm; a difference of 12 minutes. The QRA crew and aircraft are on standby 24/7 and it is not known (or rather, it’s classified) as to how quick they can be airbourne, but let’s give them a minute to get their socks and chocks away. This would mean a flight time of 11minutes from Coningsby to Bath. Simple maths now: 150miles, 11mins, that’s a cool average ground speed of 818mph, handy for the commute to work eh?! Assuming the speed of sound at sea level yesterday was 760mph, and the speed of sound generally decreases with altitude (let’s say around 600mph at 38,000ft under the same conditions), they not only did break the sound barrier on route, but must have maintained a high flight speed, maybe Mach 1.2 and higher for some duration of the flight.

Don’t forget the aircraft are not leaving the runway doing Mach 1, and they certainly weren’t doing Mach 1 over Bath, so this average doesn’t tell us the highest flight speed they reached but if surely means they would have achieved Mach 1 by at least half way through their journey, hence all the fuss from Coventry and beyond too, and it is very possible that the boom was heard over great distances if the planes were significantly low enough which they clearly were. Reports came in of hearing the booms from Swindon, Bath, Coventry, Birmingham, Oxford and beyond.

Faster than a speeding bullet

Isn’t it incredible though, that with 12 minutes of alarm, there are two £215m (There’s a huge debate about the actual cost, see here for example) warplanes over the city poised and ready for action, almost certainly scrambling a VC-10 refueller in the process too?

If you think quite a lot might have actually happened in 12 minutes, just remember the Eurofighter is not just a Mach 1.2 aircraft, it has a top speed of Mach 2.0. At 1550mph for example, this would suggest a minimum Coningsby-Bath Eurofighter flight time of around 6-7 minutes… now that’s not bad is it?! By then the airframe would be falling apart so don’t ask for a return ticket.

Next time they’ll just have to phone ahead if they want a well earned cuppa ready before they arrive.

James has a PhD in Aerospace Engineering and specialised in dynamic flows, working closely also with vortex flows from canard foreplanes and delta wing aircraft.

Spectacular Shoes

Posted on by
Reply

The World’s most comfortable shoes

Shoes With Wonderful Sole

Recently we raided the coffers for the latest four-monthly round of replacement shoes that witness the most incredible punishment and work harder than you could possibly realise. As we detailed out the order we began to realise very little is known in the outside world about what goes in to making our shoes, so we thought we’d open your eyes to the wonderful world of the ballroom & Latin shoe, and the incredible care and attention to detail that these handmade wonders command.

We’ve been wearing Supadance ballroom and Latin shoes for our entire dancing lives and have in that time seen many changes and quite sophisticated improvements in the styling and functionality. James was involved in testing the recent new patent leather material, the traditional version of which used to be prone to cracking until Supadance developed a new patent material with a Lycra component. More recently they were busy producing him a custom lass for his rather bespoke feet (Joanna: didn’t fix the odour control though!) to be fitted a whole new sized and tweaked shoe, such is the importance of our shoes!

But did you realise these treats for the feet are still made in good old Great Britain? Well they are, and don’t we appreciate it. Let’s take a little tour of their factory and we’ll explain a little more into what’s gone into these little works of art.

Supadance FactorySupadance are based in Buckhurst Hill, Essex, with their factory just a little further away. They are one of the few dance shoe companies who are based and manufacture in the UK; this really shows up when, as we do, you have to liaise with them more carefully with very particular requirements. If you’ve ever tried getting anything customised, improved, refined or otherwise from another country without actually being there then you’ll know the pain we are sparing ourselves here!

Supadance Factory Tour

Supadance Factory FloorOn the factory floor there is a hive of activity and you really begin to see the complexity of constructing the shoes from the plain fabrics and materials. It’s a busy floor with many staff working on the intricate parts of the shoe manufacture. Let’s take a look around and see some of the different parts of the process in a bit more detail.

Material CuttingHere you can see the materials for lining and insoles being punched from the sheet material using the template cutters and the huge press. Note this is a manual process and there is someone’s heart and soul going into the crafting out of these components. The materials used are carefully selected with considerations for usability, durability, cost and ease of handling. You may not realise but there is some degree of cushioning in the insides of dance shoes which adds a level of comfort often not noticed until you try a pair without!

Great Souls

Insoles and LiningsThe linings and insoles for all different shapes and sizes of dance shoe are grouped, stacked up and made ready for their fittings further down the factory line. Can you guess which styles these fit into? It seems amazing to think these shoes, born and bred in the UK, end up all over the world.

Shaping the LiningsSome of the linings for the uppers require shaping and of course this doesn’t happen by magic either; this is carefully shaped and stitched as necessary, typically for men’s or enclosed shoes (You don’t see many upper linings on those open sandals do you ladies?).

Leather CuttingThe uppers go through a similar process. Here you can see the cutting table with that soft, fine leather sheet. The template for a man’s shoe (Are they James’ new ones about to roll off the line?) about to be punched out of the leather. The leather has to be cut carefully with consideration to ensuring any minor texture variations in the leather still produce a matching right and left shoe. This leather will also have been skimmed on the reverse side to ensure an even thickness throughout. Sometimes the leather might need functional perforations after the cut-out so these will be added next.

At a stretch

Once the materials are cut, most need shaping around a last, to form the shape of the Last Workshoe materials for the foot they are designed to fit. Here you can see the white outer shoe material being carefully stretched and shaped around it’s matching last. A last is needed for each style of shoe, each size of shoe, and then obviously for both the right and left, so that’s a huge number of variations to have to juggle around. James now has his very own custom last (perhaps we should Christen it James Last?) – now you don’t get that just anywhere do you? Supadance sizes are based on UK shoe sizes and we generally find the sizing to be very much in equality with normal shoes. Supadance have several times gone that extra mile for us though to produce a unique fit shoe making our dance shoes the most comfortable and functional they could possibly be.

Lady's Shoe ShapingThe ladies shoes, and by that we mean the enclosed shoes, are shaped similarly. Here that fine satin for the court shoe is being shaped. The materials have to be pulled evenly around the shoe to ensure a nice smooth, even finish all round, and remember this is all being done by hand.

Mens Shoe StitchingStitch up!

Here you can a men’s patent upper shoe being stitched on the sewing machine. Of course, that’s no ordinary sewing machine, it’s several thousand pounds worth of industrial Pfaff machine – yes, gents, that’s the model you all dream of owning! Typically there may be up to 200 manual processes involved in the shoe production from materials to completed, packaged shoe.

Strap StitchingEven the lady’s intricate strapping for those wonderful Latin shoes have that soft cushioned inner lining hand stitched on before the excess is cut away (Yes, Gents, that is yet another Pfaff industrial Ferrari of the sewing machines you have spotted!). Crafty isn’t it?

SolingOne the shoes are shaped, those wonderful non-skid soles can be carefully glued into position, then all the heels and adornments can be fitted. Those who have ever tried re-soling their own dance shoes will well know they’re never the same as when they are done properly the first time by these guys who really know their art. They make it look easy, but we all know we’d be in a right mess here… it’s similar to being a professional dancer though, you have to make your trade look easy.

Is the Chairman free?

Not His StyleThese shoes are extensively researched and tested and quality remains, in our opinion, second to none. Here’s Chairman, Barry Free, the driving force behind this wonderful team checking out his latest favourite style; we’re not quite sure it’s for him though.

So, next time you go to put on your shoes, spare a thought for the years of experience in all those Great British hands that have helped craft it. They’re a big part of the fun you’re having or the latest masterpiece you’re trying to create. If you haven’t tried them already, you can find them and read more about them here at the Supadance website. You can shop there 24/7 too!

To all at Supadance, we thank you for our shoes; the World’s Greatest Shoes.

Supadance

 

 

Strictly Come Dancing 2011 – it’s final time!!!

Posted on by
Reply

14 weeks later, we find ourselves in Blackpool, home of ballroom dancing, with three worthy finalist couples suited, booted and ready for battle royal on the dance floor. but who would prevail? Would Harry manage to keep his nose in front or would the glints we had often seen from Jason and Chelsee spoil his Blackpool illuminations?

On with the show.

Harry & Aliona (Scored 10, 10, 10, 10, 40) : Opening the show with their highest scoring dance of the series, their quickstep, we were (and Harry was!) off to a great start with an improved second run at this dance. He’s turned out a really competent dancer over the 14 weeks and maybe this was his best so far, a lovely varied routine with some flashy bits, basic steps, well danced. A well deserved perfect 40 for Harry for this one and puts the others under pressure to perform at their very best.
Showdance (Scored 9, 9, 10, 9, 37) : Into the second half of the 3 couple part of the show where showdance gives the opportunity for lifts, freedom and that extra creativity. being a Rock and Roll number, it was lively, energetic and a real crowd pleaser full of variety. There were a couple of very minor bloopers, and we felt it needed a stronger ending of them both together rather than Harry on the drums. Then the scores rolled in and suddenly was this a little chink in the armour that the others might be able to steal the show with?

Jason & Kristina (Scored 9, 10, 10, 9, 38) : We were impressed how Jason pulled his best dance out of the bag with his last of the semi-final and maybe that was the one that really got him here. Now he had to be Mr Consistent with that level to take the dancing fight to Harry. They took to the floor with their Tango and you could see the determination to entertain and perform from both of them (How apt a music choice, “I will survive!”). It wasn’t flawless and the hold wasn’t as good as Harry’s throughout, with a few minor postural (posterior!) distractions, but full of vibrancy and fun. Perhaps not a performance to win but certainly full of entertainment factor for that all important public vote.
Showdance (Scored 10, 10, 10, 10, 40) : Following Harry’s showdance, we felt if Jason (and Chelsee) could really pull the stops out now it could level the competition again. Once again, out he roared with a showdance based on Quickstep, full of that big stage performance factor we’ve become used to from him. no major bloopers here, great variety in the show too with some nippy costume rip-offs that seemed to add some different looks and interest. It looked more than Harry’s showdance with it’s variety and equalled with energy. Then came the scores, and Jason had hauled himself right back into the mix. But wait, it’s not about the judges this week, but the public, had he won the public appeal?

Chelsee & Pasha (Scored 9, 10, 10, 10, 39) : Shrek stormed onto the Balckpool Tower floor as Chelsee showed us her Jive once again. We felt some deja vous from Jason’s dance as we saw Chelsee spring to life, full of energy and entertainment, but the odd very minor technical distraction for us – occasionally looking a little flatter in the feet, and calling for a little more fuller Jive action from the legs and body. She should be so proud though of what she has achieved. From the outset we wondered how the youngest pairing would handle the pressure but her they are in the final, entertaining the nation. After the three had danced their first dance, Harry already had a nose in front, something Jason and Chelsee would find tricky to overcome without pulling out their very best dancing in the showdances.
Showdance (Scored 9, 9, 9, 9, 36) : After Harry’s showdance had possibly left him open to a good challenge, then Jason bringing out a 40 for his, Chelsee had to step up for this one. It was a shaky, nervy looking opening, until she got going with Pasha into a rip-roaring lift-fest! She was, for us, starting to tire a little towards the latter half of this extremely high energy routine, or maybe it was slightly loss of focus. Great music (“For one night only”) but there was more potential here to be squeezed out and yet it didn’t quite reach that dizzy level. And the scores were in…. 36, and surely she hadn’t made enough of an impression over over Harry?

After the first part of the show, Jason leads with the judges on 78, Harry on 77 and Chelsee behind on 75, but that doesn’t mean anything. How would the public vote reveal itself. We had maybe seen signs that the public hadn’t warmed to Jason with previous votes but for us he’s neck and neck with Harry at this stage. The only thing we had noticed is that all important connection between the dance and emotional expression – this might sound strange but possibly with Jason’s big stage experience he was used to over expressing whereas Harry seemed more genuine, sometimes more introvert in his approach and this made a difference to the natural look of the dancers. An hour to go…..

…..and then they’re back! Phone lines not close, but frozen – was this because of the additional cold tonight we wondered?

The first result was in…. Jason out!! The public had probably removed the last remaining threat to Harry lifting the title this year. What could Chelsee do now, with two dances already in the shadows? Phone lines already un-frozen. Come on Chelsee, give it your all!

Harry & Aliona (Scored 9, 10, 10, 10, 39) : Dancing their American Smooth, they were now beginning to have a confident look about them. This partnership had gelled several weeks back and he became our “nose in front” and never really overtaken since. Ha had a few things to work on still here, with very splayed hands and still looking rightwards in the right turns, but this was a lovely dance, nicely choreographed and he showed a great feel and right emotion for the dance too. Then the scores, and another strong vote form the judges, not that it counted in the total, although it was bound to prove influential.
Second Dance (Scored 10, 10, 10, 10, 40) : With their Tango, they were clearly focused and this showed through the dance. This was nicely done, with a good mix of traditional and showey elements; this couple really had started to have a good luck together. Stronger expression Len said, and yes, we agreed, it did seem stronger. Scores in… 40, and you could sense the relief after all that hard work. With this, surely he’d now sealed the title? But, remember last week, Jason nipping through with that last dance of the night making such a strong impression? Could Chelsee do the same?

Chelsee & Pasha (Scored 9, 10, 10, 10, 39) : Dancing the Rumba, this now had to be very good. How did we see it, well another lovely dance, with a nice story and cleanly danced. For us she still lacked that middle body action to really get into the movements more but in 14 weeks, phewph! Well done Chelsee, and great upper body presentation here. Scores were in… great score but she really needed one more point to make a bigger impression than Harry here we felt. At this stage, we had Harry still ahead.
Second dance (Scored 9, 10, 10, 10, 39) : Finishing this fabulous series with a quickstep, Chelsee has the humor of being the last to grace the floor. Nice routine, with a little story telling too, in general nicely danced. She had a good few moments when her feet weren’t closed elegantly when they should have been, and the hold lost some poise in the tricky steps, but she’s done such a great job with this enormous dancing challenge. And the scores… 39, a great score but for us this left her behind Prince Harry.

So after the two sets of two dances, the judges had Harry on 79 and Chelsee on 78, not accounting for the other earlier dances. We were all (and there were two other experienced dancers with us) of the view that Harry was about to lift the trophy and give Aliona her first Strictly win too. Chelsee had raised her game and done extremely well but it wasn’t enough to challenge.

And then the big result of the year…. and Harry had done it! Well done, a huge congratulations for all the hard work. A terrific final, close at times, but this was a worthy winner and one you could see coming from those early weeks. You had to feel for Jason and Chelsee but what a show they made of it, and a great contribution to a fantastic series. Roll on next year, although a bit of a rest for some in between might be nice!

Our very best wishes for Christmas and the New Year,

James & Joanna

 

Strictly Semi Final – Who Will make it?

Posted on by
Reply

Semi-finals – it feels like only a few weeks ago when they all started out but what a journey has unfolded before us.It’s been building up to a good few last shows, with a few dancers in the running for that rare chance at the title.

This week, they must take on two dances, and with a double elimination week, there was huge opportunity for feeling the pressure; who would succumb and who would take a lead?

Harry & Aliona (Scored 9, 10, 10, 10, 39) : Dancing their Charleston, what a refreshing outlook they gave to the dance with a slightly modern feel to their great choice of music “I’m just wild about Harry” – to be honest we are too! A really terrific dance, evidently very well rehearsed with some good technique employed, balanced with good choreography. They really pulled out the stops with this one which has surely got them half way to Blackpool (Is that Birmingham?).
Second Dance (Scored 9, 10, 10, 10, 39) : His Viennese Waltz was very classy, nothing over the top, and well danced from beginning to end. Minor footwork issues on the opening Fleckerl and sometimes occasional rightward shaping when his head should have been left, but otherwise good and surely he’s on his way past Blackpool now….

Alex & James (Scored 7, 9, 9, 9, 34) : Dancing the waltz, we just hoped she’d get through it without getting any heels in anyone’s clothing! Phewph! At last, a clean run so we could see her at her best. This wasn’t bad, and she really has improved such a lot from those early weeks, but there was more technically here that wasn’t addressed than some of her peers had managed. There were a few moments when posture was lost, and feet didn’t quite work so well, mixed in with better moments. She has to rely on a fantastic second dance to get her through to Blackpool as this put her under pressure.
Second Dance (Scored 7, 8, 8, 8, 31) : Well, we were hoping for something to put her back in the game after her first dance, but despite a great effort, we don’t think this was her ticket. It had some good moments, and still we think back to how she really has improved, but it also had some weaker moments when her leg action let her down, sometimes passing the feet too wide apart. She gave it her everything and if she does go home, she should hold her head high.

Chelsee & Pasha (Scored 8, 9, 10, 9, 36) : Their American Smooth was danced nicely, finished well in places too, but mixed with a few minor places of less finesse which we felt would keep her from the very best scores. Perhaps it wasn’t the greatest we have seen from her but solidly performed.
Second Dance (Scored 10, 10, 10, 10, 40) : What we were hoping here, was not just for another strong performance to get her to Blackpool, that was within reach maybe, but one that would start to put Harry under some pressure. Her Paso was strong, full of shaping and character so essential to carry it off. It was sometimes danced a little high for us but she got away with it, and it was a nice piece. The scores came in just slightly higher than we thought so maybe this did send a good message that the competition is still on! Well done Chelsee.

Holly & Artem (Scored 9, 9, 9, 9, 36) : We felt Holly really raised her game last week with a wonderful Paso, and our favourite dance of the series so far. Could she continue that way? Well, this was another very solid performance, for us a little on the careful side but perhaps in-keeping with the dance. Good mixture of steps, nicely timed together, and we admired them for not going for the wow factor of frenzied steps so often seen in show-dance Argentine Tangos recently but maybe this kept them back from those 10s.
Second Dance (Scored 8, 8, 9, 9, 34) : Chelsee showed a stronger second dance than her first and you had to feel Holly now had to do the same. Take a few risks they said in the lead-up, hmm. This was an interesting modern twist on the Charlston which did seem to work. There were a few minor links between steps and lifts that weren’t quite so slick, but this was good and generally well danced throughout. We felt it was slightly under-rated compared to some of the other outcomes tonight and maybe not enough. We wish her luck with good old Joe public tomorrow!

Jason & Kristina (Scored 8, 9, 9, 8, 34) : Last time we saw Jason dancing Latin was in Wembley where things quite go fully according to plan. Dancing the Samba, there was nearly a slip before he got on the floor, and a couple of ‘speedy’ timing moments (Running Promenades) which took the edge of the dance. It was vibrant, full of energy but maybe that let the control get away from him a bit. He applied himself well again, that was never the problem, but maybe he needed to squeeze more from this than he did. Under pressure for that second dance.
Second Dance (Scored 10, 10, 10,10, 40) : And so here it is – maybe his judgement dance! This was an Argentine in complete contrast to Holly’s earlier, full of over-drama, lifts and aggression but maybe lacking the sultry, subtle look. Perhaps the extra performance factor would gain him some higher marks seeing how they are scoring so far…. and then came out the 10s, all four of them. Cracking score and what a time to bring it out, on the last, and most publicly memorable slot on the show as well.

That left Harry on 78, Chelsee with 76, Jason on 74, Holly on 70 and Alex bringing up the leader-board bottom on 65. Jason really pulled it out of the bag with his last dance – would that keep him in with the public though, especially after a bottom two finish last week? Surely Alex has probably had her time. It looks like Harry and Chelsee are already booked in to Blackpool hotels, but what about that other place? We’re really not sure what to say. Perhaps Jason has applied himself better, but more recently Holly has raised her game and we’d like to encourage that. Interesting results show tomorrow from that point of view and much less clear cut than of late.

Lastly, whoever makes it, what a great line-up we’re looking at for the final next week. Will anyone be able to raise their game enough to challenge Harry, or will he continue to be uncatchable? Those pros have certainly got their work cut out next week – no pain, no gain. Good luck to all of them.

Best wishes,

James & Joanna.

 

Strictly Week 10 – Who makes the semis?

Posted on by
Reply

This week was movie week – dances and music all themed around those famous movies.

Robbie & Ola (Scored 7, 7, 8, 8, 30) : Robbie was saved by the public last week but needed a better week this week. Dancing his quickstep, it was better but lacking some finesse in the hold and movement which sometimes left it looking less tidy and together than it should do. Is this his best score so far? Maybe. Still falling behind we feel.

Harry & Aliona (Scored 9, 9, 9, 9, 36) : Dancing the Rumba, this was probably one of the most capable Latin dances, certainly the rumba from the male celebrities so far. He had some body-centred action, the routine was danced clean and tidily and there was some real character on show throughout. Another good dance from Harry. Where is his weakness? Well, it seems it doesn’t have one!

Alex & James (Scored 8, 8, 9, 9, 34) : Their American Smooth was danced without major bloopers, although a couple of minor ones here and there. This wasn’t bad but it wasn’t Rolls-Royce smooth that would have made the bigger difference to them. We felt they needed to bring themselves more into the competition than this but they certainly won’t be bottom of the judges leader board for the moment.

Holly & Artem (Scored 9, 9, 10, 10, 38) : Dancing the Paso, Holly claimed this would suit her rather better than the fluffy dances – and so it proved. This was a more assured performance from Holly, clean, stylish, good shaping – it really did suit her well. Occasionally downcast but a really good performance from Holly, and after a bottom two shock last week she needed this. Good dance from them.

Jason & Kristina (Scored 9, 9, 9, 10, 37) : He knows he’s got serious competition from others improving around him. This week dancing the American Smooth, he acknowledged he had to raise his game, and that’s with the pressure of dancing in the shadow of Gene Kelly. This song means a great deal to us so we sat down hoping it would do it justice. Certainly he gave a better performance here, without that blooper of the last week or two, and showcased him rather than her. Jason’s weakness had been over-trying, over-working it and maybe he showed us here he is on his way to relaxing into it.

Chelsee & Pasha (Scored 9, 10, 10, 10, 39) : Dancing to Shrek, this could be a fairy tale or a boggy ending. After their recent weeks of improvement, could they step it up again, and would we see some of that acting coming through? She was certainly showing more characterful dancing in her jive, although maybe it is easier to show this for her. It was a fun and vibrant dance, full of energy. There were a few technical aspects that need work for a fuller Jive action but it was a really solid overall performance.

That left us with Chelsee, Holly & Jason heading the leader board, then Harry, Alex & Robbie, at the bottom, propping up the rear end. Maybe it was Robbie’s highest score but the others have come on a long way and he’s being left behind.

Best wishes,

James & Joanna

Strictly Come Dancing Week 9 – the magnificent 7?

Posted on by
Reply

So the competition is hotting up and the pressure of two dances in one week is thrown into the pot too! How would they cope this week? Who would rise to the top and who would be left floundering on the floor this week?

Anita & Brendan (Scored 7, 8, 7, 8, 30) : The Knight in shining armour was back to save the day once again with Robin out of action this week. How would she cope with picking up with a new partner? Very funny intro by the way, Brendan clearly more at home in lycra than armour! Nice little Cha Cha routine, really featuring the celebrity for a change, but obviously lacking some of that solid technique.

Holly & Artem (Scored 8, 8, 9, 9, 34) : After a surprise visit to the bottom two last week, how would she bounce back this week for two dances? First up, their foxtrot, with a tricky slow piece of music, held their own rather well. It lacked some silky smooth, traditionality of slow foxtrot but oozed a style and character that had perhaps been lacking from Holly of late. This was a step in the right direction in terms of showing character and a stronger look but needs more of the dance to come through now.

Alex & James (Scored 6, 7, 8, 8, 29) : Having raised her game in the last few weeks, could she continue to show that improvement needed to challenge for the top spots? Dancing the Charleston should have given her a great opportunity for fun and wonderful characterisation all at the same time. It wasn’t quite to be though. Somehow, maybe as was suggested from the rehearsal footage, this wasn’t to be. Alex looked a bit out of her comfort zone and unable to perform this routine at a higher level. Details were lacking, finishes looked more ordinary and maybe this had held James back from giving her a more ambitious dance.

Robbie & Ola (Scored 5, 7, 7, 6, 25) : Dancing the Samba, Craig took words out of our mouths as his bounce was over-exaggerated and should have a had a more subtle look. He threw himself into it and there was a good string of famous Samba steps (running promenades, stationary walks – hope our classes were watching!) but it went off track a bit far from good dancing in the end as his trousers were thrown asunder! Looks like his briefs put the judges off too!

Chelsee & Pasha (Scored 8, 9, 9, 9, 35) : Dancing the Argentine Tango, this was a good routine, danced well with the odd minor unfinished foot, but it lacked some oomf, passion and vibrance that we’d hoped to have seen. Strong dance but she was so careful with herself – amazing for an actor isn’t it?

Jason & Kristina (Scored 9, 9, 9, 9, 36) : After a high profile mistake at Wembley could Jason forgive himself, and turn it around this week? Another couple dancing the Charleston hadn’t ended showing their forte tonight. Jason definitely showed a better look for the Charleston but it wasn’t error free once again so he’ll have to keep focus. Really good dance though, acted strongly too. Great score but there was even more potential here. He’s still in it to win it.

Harry & Aliona (Scored 9, 10, 10, 10, 39) : Could Harry continue to raise his game and knock Jason back to second in the first dances? Well, he coped with a huge flurry of very tricky variations in his Quickstep so well. He has developed his hold, footwork, movement, poise – all still getting better and better. His look was sometimes down so that should be corrected for the final weeks but he’s just so capable and has to be favourite to win it at the moment. And then the scores rolled in and made it all official. Keep up the hard work Harry and surely no-one will catch you.

Swing-a-thon : The group Jive – Swing – Lindy dance gives the first chance to see them all on the floor at once, requires energy, togetherness and maintaining it right to the end. Robbie and Ola off first, 1 point, dancing off-time, Anita and Brendan next 2 pts, struggling to keep up with them, Holly and Artem next 3 pts, tired looking piggy-back, all losing some energy now, Jason and Krsitina next 4pts, disappointing for them, Alex & James next 5pts, two couples left, Chelsee and Pasha 6pts, leaves Harry and Aliona with 7pts, still with energy for kicks and flicks and a big big psychological win. At the moment there is no-one to touch him is there?

Overall, that left Harry, then Chelsee and Jason at the top, Holly in the middle, then Alex, Anita and Robbie bringing up the bottom (that’s the second time he’s highlighted the bottom tonight!). For the first time since week one, it looks like we have a favourite for the win with Harry but this could still change. What would it take? Well, Chelsee would have to use more of her acting skills, Jason needs to free himself up and on top of that perhaps Harry has to plateau, all seemingly unlikely at the moment. Could it be Robbie’s last week? Perhaps the nation was just not ready for his bottom or maybe it will be his save tomorrow. Not long until we find out.

Best wishes,

James & Joanna

 

Strictly Come Dancing Week Eight – Wembley Week

Posted on by
Reply

The stage was enlarged, the crowd was teetering on 6000, as ballroom dancing took Wembley Arena by storm – an incredible sight. So how would the celebrities cope under all of that additional pressure? Who would be able come through the fog of nerves and show their best dancing in the Best of British show?

Robbie & Ola (Scored 5, 7, 7, 7, 26) : Dancing the salsa, that was one big stage for such a compact dance! Len summed it up quite well – it was a bit wild and perhaps the requirements of filling that stage was not quite the helpful factor for this dance. It lacked some salsa, rythmn in the body and was a bit lacking here and there. Plenty of lifts. Maybe this was the first dance to suffer the bigger stage.

Alex & James (Scored 8, 9, 9, 9, 35) : Fairing significantly better than Robbie’s Salsa with her Tango, Alex and James seemed to cope with the space better (the dance by it’s nature travelling much more anyway). It was danced quite high and needed that body compression to really impress a bit more, with that classic leftwards poise too.

Holly & Artem (Scored 7, 8, 8, 8, 31) : Having to suffer the delights of Brendan and Artem in training, surely Holly would have been forced to raise her game from two pairs of teaching eyes? Dancing the quickstep, she seemed to have loosened some of those places that had seemed a little stiff, and she raised her game again. They seemed to fill the stage even better than the others but there were a few places where things weren’t quite held nicely. We thoguth it was better than Alex’ Tango but the camera only shows us part of the story; the judges see everything.

Anita & Robin (Scored 6, 7, 7, 7, 27) : Dancing the Samba, this was probably the ideal dance to put on the Wembley stage, full of travelled steps and Latin vibrance. It wasn’t quite up to par technically and maybe this was one that didn’t suit Anita so well – strong use of feet and legs maybe left her a little lacking but she was expressive in her face and clearly put everything she had into it. Craig reminded us semi-finals are not far away and perhaps this wasn’t a sign that Anita would make it.

Harry & Aliona (Scored 8, 8, 9, 9, 34) : Dancing the Salsa (not the Samba Len!!!) Harry really put everything in it and this was full of dynamic lifts. It was slightly over-danced here and there, steps a bit too exhuberant now and again losing that all-important body action and this stopped it being better reviewed. Craig said it lacked a groove and to some extent we had to agree. Still riding the wave Harry, keep it up!

Russel & Flavia (Scored 5, 6, 6, 7, 24) : Please, please, no more camp! It’s turning into a campsite. Oh no, he’s being shot from a giant human canon… we’re under attack! You can’t say he hasn’t put everything into the show, nor has he failed to provide some entertainment each week when we see the latest characterful delight. Technically, well, it was lacking everywhere, but it was entertaining and he added much to the show. Dance-wise alone, his time is surely running out.

Chelsee & Pasha (Scored 8, 9, 9, 9, 35) : Dancing the Samba, we saw a good amount of traditional Samba steps on this big stage. She didn’t seem to lack confidence, starting on her own and had some more Samba technique than some of the others tonight. A little stiff legged in between, but tended to finish most of her lines, with the odd minor blooper. She’s still capable of more so we’re hoping for some more improvements. Safe for a good while we think!

Jason & Kristina (Scored 8, 8, 9, 9, 34) : No stranger to the Wembley stage, but how would his Jive compare to his live concerts? Clearly he’d worked exceptionally hard with this routine and it did show. A first half exceptionally strong with good bounce action but then a minor blooper on the last fence when he messed up some kicks left him disappointed. He’s in it to win it isn’t he but the competition is stiff and won’t allow for mistakes in the closing weeks.

So, it’s a five-way fight at the top with Harry, Chelsee, Jason, Alex & Holly – could Robbie raise his game to join this battle? That leaves Anita, and at the moment Robbie, at the bottom, with Russel of cause but we never seemto know if the public will save him or not; so far he’s ridden a popularity wave but that will run out sooner or later.

We’ll find out on Sunday!

Best wishes,

James & Joanna

 

Strictly week…. Seeevvveeeerrrnnn!

Posted on by
Reply

Alex & James (Scored 7, 8, 8, 8, 31) : Last week we didn’t see their best side (remember the heel in the dress for most of the dance?) so we were keen to see them again this week and what improvements had been made. Dancing the Jive, we saw a bit more energy from Alex than some of her previous dances and a slightly more confident look about her. For us the Jive was more Rock and Roll and slightly less Jive but not a bad job from Alex. Should be safe for another week with this dance.

Robbie & Ola (Scored 7, 8, 8, 8, 31) : Maybe a little put out that showing his softer side last week hadn’t earned him more allure from the judges, would the footballer make it to Wembley? A little like we saw with Alex, you can see Robbie growing in confidence on the floor too. His American Smooth had all the key elements and their dancing in general has fewer and fewer areas that distract from the overall look. He’s progressing well and safe for another week no doubt matching Alex with the score.

Audley & Natalie (Scored 3, 6, 6, 5, 20) : This is becoming easier, he has to improve more this week, in particular get those ankles working much much harder and articulate more or he’s likely to be the next out. Dancing the Cha Cha, he wasn’t quite as vulnerable as the Jive and as usual he entered the floor positively with that big Audley smile. Technically though, he was still showing a weeker base action, little stretch in those ankles and finishing the figures, some of which looked laboured and behind the beat. He’s done well and has come across on TV very well too, but his time is running out surely.

Harry & Aliona (Scored 9, 8, 10, 10, 37) : In the last few weeks we’ve seen good improvement from Harry who’s turning into a real contender. This week, dancing the Argentine Tango, he didn’t disappoint either. It was a confident and polished performance carrying off some nice elements. The only negative we would add is this. If you haven’t tried it already, this dance is a wonderful experience but does need a clear lead and follow aspect of the dance. For us, this looked so much like pre-set choreography it lost a little of that wonderful connected look – that cause and response, or action and reaction. Len hinted at the lack of mood and this is what the results of that “cause and effect” being lacking lead to. It was a good dance, but this is a partner dance world and demands that magic ingredient – come on Aliona, see if you can bring it out in the next one!

Jason & Kristina (Scored 8, 9, 9, 9, 34) : In the last few weeks, Jason has been through a tougher-time with the judges just keeping him in check from the dizzy heights of those early week successes. His Viennese was solid but we did agree with Craig that the overall look and hold needs improving to really finish it off well. He deserved his good score from this but there’s more potential here if they can bring it out – that’s what will be needed to challenge right at the top in the final weeks. Safe for a while yet.

Chelsee & Pasha (Scored 9, 8, 10, 9, 36) : There has been an upward trend from Chelsee in the last few weeks and with signs things are beginning to gel better with partner Pasha, our hopes were high for their dance this week and their foxtrot didn’t disappoint. She’s come a long way from those early frantic weeks and is improving all the time, seemingly enjoying herself too. There’s still work to do to really put daylight between them and the chasing pack – footwork, poise, leg strength, but it’s all going the right way for getting towards the closing weeks.

Anita & Robin (Scored 7, 9, 8, 9, 33) : She had a great time dancing the Charleston last week but we did feel that dance suited her well so how would she cope with the Argentine Tango? Well, we think we underestimated her before the dance, and she actually held herself quite well. It wasn’t the most fluent of performances and was a little lacking in flow (staccato or otherwise) but she did well with it and has surely kept her place for another week. Come on Anita, surprise us again next week please!

Holly & Brendan! (Scored 8, 8, 9, 9, 34) : With Artem injured, Brendan stepped up to give Holly a partner for week 7. Its difficult and destabilising changing partners for the celebrity but this was a seamless substitution and you had to feel Brendan allowed Holly to show us what she’d been up to in her Rumba very well. Overall it was another good performance but we’re looking towards the later weeks now and she has to get that core working better, stronger feet, legs and ankles. Safe for a while, but we want them all to challenge for the last few weeks – come on Holly and get well soon Artem!

Russel & Flavia (Scored 5, 7, 7, 7, 26) : Please please, not another camp-fest! Oh well! The gimmick is maybe losing its novelty factor. He tries so hard with his steps and never takes himself too seriously but we’d have loved to have seen him take on a more serious role at least just once! Instead, his American Smooth, to “I Am What I Am” was yet another one of ‘those’ performances. Yes, it was crowd-pleasing and it did make us smile but you couldn’t help but feel it was all done to take the eye off the dancing. He’s probably through to Wembley but how much longer will he last?

Well, that was week 7. It’s tight at the top but that’s left Audley at the bottom, and Russel not far behind. More than anything we noticed how we’re starting to enjoy the dancing more as the more obvious bumps and lumps get ironed out, and we’re looking forward to see what magic they can start to pull out of the creative bag as they all head towards the iconic setting of Blackpool – oh, yes, and Wembley next week!

Best wishes,

James & Joanna

 

Strictly Week 6 – Lenless Week

Posted on by
Reply

After giving us some sleepless nights from fright-night last week, it was a relief to see things back to normal this week – almost. This week, Len was holidaying in Butlins so who would stand in for him? Legend of Dirty Dancing fame, Baby, AKA Jennifer Gray, sat in for him, promoting Craig to head judge.

So, how did they get on?

Brendan & Lulu (Scored 5, 8, 7, 7, 27) : We hoped Lulu would finally have a flawless performance and at least make it through the choreography without a major blooper…. but it still wasn’t to be this week. She had a great opening but as soon as she took to the main floor things quite so strong, with the poise going a little downcast and the odd mistake once again. Brendan did a storming job to spin down the stairs but must be left wondering if they’re going to go on much further.

Audley & Natalie (Scored 5, 8, 7, 7, 27) : After getting through possibly his worst dance, the jive, last week, we felt Audley might show his strengths again this week. With his Viennese Waltz he showed us his charming side once more. Smiling throughout, we still find it incredible to see such a sizable boxer on the dance floor – terrific. Natalie please get to articulating his ankles some more; that would help all of his dances and give them a lighter look. Same score as Lulu but we think maybe just safe for another week.

Harry & Aliona (Scored 8, 9, 8, 8, 33) : Dancing the Samba you couldn’t help but feel he should take to it well; he’s been increasingly confident to strut his stuff hasn’t he? Very solid job tonight, and showing signs of starting to gel with his pro partner quite well which must be a sign of things to come. A little wooden through his middle making some of the actions looked stiff. We would have liked a bit more Samba in the routine too. Overall, improving all the time and safe for those later weeks surely.

Anita & Robin (Scored 7, 8, 8, 8, 31) : Costume, character, music, and of course the dance and it was a real Charleston treat. This dance is always a popular little showpiece because of the happy, lively approach. This suited her so much. Not technically flawless, and some things from her other dances still to improve here, but overall very strong here.

Jason & Kristina (Scored 6, 8, 7, 7, 28) : Dancing the Rumba, he had clearly worked hard on polishing the routine, all very good classic Rumba, but there was clearly a disconnection in their dancing that left him looking an individual rather than half of a couple. Contrast this with Harry,who was maybe not so strong, but so much more connected and interesting differences are emerging. Doubtless he’ll be back working hard again on Monday.

James & Alex (Scored 7, 8, 8, 8, 31) : Well, difficult to know what to say fairly here. She got her heel stuck (completely) in the dress and battled through right to the collapse at the end. Craig was correctly sympathetic to here too. There was potential here but we never got to see it. Please don’t vote her out on this week; judge her at her best.

Robbie & Ola (Scored 6, 8, 8, 7, 29) : Causing a few complaints over his raunchy Latin last week, it was back to his strength in his Waltz this week. It was ridden with faults and a little back weighted, but it was largely nicely dancing with some characterisation to it. We’re finding his ballroom more appealing than the Latin so maybe he’s vulnerable only on Latin weeks!

Russel & Flavia (Scored 4, 7, 6, 7, 24) : He’s turning into the joker of the pack isn’t he? Dancing (?) the Paso Doble with one of Flavia’s brilliant fun character’s once again he entertained and gave us a great parody of the Paso Let’s not get too technical here (we’d be here all day), this was all about the entertainment factor. At least his character is allowing Flavia out of the confines of the usual box and showing some creativity. Not the best of scores but he’ll surely be saved by the public vote? Surely he can’t keep getting away with it.

Chelsee & Pasha (Scored 9, 9, 9,9, 36) : Dancing the Charleston, we found her dance didn’t we? This was really a strength for her and all of that frenetic energy we’ve sometimes seen from her was put to good use. Great story, choreography and dancing too – a couple of times with minor timing issues but otherwise terrific and a great score to show for it. Starting to click with Pasha too. Safe for a few weeks we feel.

Holly & Artem (Scored 8, 9, 8, 9, 34) : Dancing a tricky, energetic Jive, there were areas of this where it was stylish, with a great character. Holly showed some signs of coming out of that box but we still need more. Contrast that with the injured Artem who was still bravely flying those kicks around. She has to step up the energy levels much more if she is to challenge in the later weeks. Come on Holly….

That left Lulu, Audley and Russel at the bottom of the pile, and with Russel putting on a crowd-pleaser, surely the public would save him again? Looks like Audley and Lulu for the bottom two but of those, we really don’t know which way it would go. We’ve been more impressed with Audley but who knows.

At the other end, it looks like a race for the top between Chelsee, Harry, Holly & Jason and a great four-way fight to boot. Could this be the most competitive Strictly so far?

Keep…. watching.

Best wishes,

James & Joanna

Strictly Week 5 – Fright Night!

Posted on by
Reply

Strictly Come Dancing Week 5 – Fright Night for Halloween

Last week it was Rory who made a dignified exit but with Halloween in the air who would give us a fright this week and who would become the latest Pumpkin in the ballroom?

Russell & Flavia (Scored 4, 6, 6, 6, 22) : Suffering with his legs last week how would he battle through this week? Well the little devil treated us to a Samba that wasn’t quite up to par for us with a few errors here and there. He’s likeable and entertaining isn’t he, always willing to put himself out there, but technically this was lacking in several places. He’s still riding the wave of camp performances with his enthusiasm but technically will this allow him through the next few weeks?

Chelsee & Pasha (Scored 7, 8, 9, 8, 32) : Last week’s chart topper was surely under pressure to show a repeat of such a high scoring dance from last week? Despite dancing in a bit of a fog, and a tricky costume issue, she held her own and is improving her performances from those frenzied early weeks. She had some fire in the belly tonight, clearly worked up and wanted to deliver more. If she can keep this going then she’s in it for the longer term we think. Technically still more to do but getting there.

Audley & Natalie (Scored 3, 6, 6, 5, 20) : We feared for his jive, requiring such lightness of feet and it was completely unfounded in the end. It was another spirited (ho ho!) effort from the likeable Audley but he was heavy footed and struggled at times with the body speed. This dance showed his vulnerability and maybe leaves him vulnerable. We had to agree with Craig but Audley certainly threw himself into it and held a smile. Could be vulnerable this week.

Alex & James (Scored 7, 8, 8, 8, 31) : Their Paso did have some passion and drama, especially given the music wasn’t really filled with highlights to bring out their finest choreography. This was an improvement from last week but she certainly didn’t look too self-assured and quite relieved afterwards we felt. A good score and surely safe for another few weeks if she keeps going like this.

Holly & Artem (Scored 8, 9, 9, 9, 35) : It was their turn for the American Smooth this week, to Swan Lake for Halloween – what a recipe! Well, it was a little short in content we felt, but really atmospheric. Some of the lines weren’t 100% finished but she certainly looks a candidate for the later weeks with these strong performances. Very vulnerable in this dance tonight but held her own really well. Keep it going Holly.

Nancy & Anton (Scored 2, 5, 3, 4, 14) : Dancing the Rumba, would she be able to get into character or more importantly get that dancing going a fair bit better? Well, she didn’t show the improvement we all hope for each week, and she was somewhat behind the others already. It just isn’t competing with the others at the moment and the score reflected that fairly we felt. Poor Anton. Surely she can’t survive another week?

Harry & Aliona (Scored 8, 7, 10, 9, 34) : Their Tango had a good story with drama and character but there was so little Tango content here. We were left frustrated by the lack of steps he showed. Those he did, great and it was all looking so good but blink and you missed it. He’s capable but the choreography is more showdance than the dance subject for the week – this is what stopped him holding the highest score this week.

Robbie & Ola (Scored 4, 7, 8, 7, 26) : Paso was the dance that left Jason off the top of the leader board last week, and this is a bit similar for Robbie. Technically it was lacking – it’s a bit more that just walking strongly through the figures. It was full of energy from him again but it wasn’t the best Paso to top the charts this week. Come on Robbie,the others are upping their technique so you have to do the same now too.

Anita & Robin (Scored 7, 8, 8, 8, 31) : It was a good week for Anita last week so we hoped for much the same, in hold once again, for the Tango this week. She clearly got to grips with her Devil Woman character and acting is not a problem here. She showed more dance content than some of the others so didn’t shy away from it. She needs more attack with her feet, strength in the body and a few other improvements to really step up but this was not at all bad. Not the worst this week by any means, but needs more improvement.

Lulu & Brendan (Scored 6, 7, 8, 8, 29) : Lulu underperformed last with her Samba but remains popular with the public. Dancing the Paso, could she perform more strongly? Well, it didn’t seem to have the body strength here and there but she made it through a big performance full of content and flare – a big opening, big finish handling all of the flying so well. Brave stuff. More improvements! Safe for a while yet.

Jason & Kristina (Scored 9, 9, 10, 9, 37) : A tougher week for Jason last week saw him not get on top of the Paso as he had the other dances. With his quickstep, he didn’t to show poise, light and shade and good use of feet and ankles. Not only did he show some good signs of that, but what a clever choreography too. A really enjoyable story told very successfully; not flawless with a few minor bloopers and the odd passage with his bottom stuck out, but great way to end the show. Great score and the highest so far.

It looks like Nancy might be vulnerable this week, with Audley not far off her towards the bottom of the leader board. It all depends on the public vote and in some ways that what is keeping Russell out of trouble for the time being.

Jason, whilst maybe not coming across as the most enigmatic off stage, has certainly pulled out the stops again this week but now has Chelsee and Harry improving and nipping at his heels. It’s getting tougher at the top. Quite right too.

Best wishes,

James & Joanna