One problem is that SCD is the only ballroom dancing programme on TV these days, and it's ruined for those of us who would find serious competition without the comedy very entertaining and a privilege to watch.

It's such a shame that the BBC have used ballroom dancing as a vehicle for mass entertainment rather than let it "be itself" in a more suitable slot. There are programmes aimed at minority groups but ballroom fans are out in the cold.

Even the pro dance routines have been weaker this year, IMO.

parthena

I would think it unlikely that any celeb, even one with dance training in their youth, could make it to pro level in any discipline. (Except in a scenario like Alesha has become a judge, where promotion to "pro" level is for reasons other than professional competence!)

Imagine a youthful football prodigy, who then gives up the sport for 10 years to try something else, and then comes back in their mid 20s to try and make it as a pro. I guess they might make it to non-league or semi-pro level, but even journeyman pro standard would be beyond them.

Colin Jackson is apparently very keen on skiing, and uses his athletic prowess to good effect, and by the standards of UK recreational skiers is truly outstanding. But by the standards of even the second or third tier of professional racers, he is a complete non-starter.

"Crossing over" from one sport to another at the same level is very rare. To cross over from being an actor etc. with former dance training to be a pro in any physical discipline does therefore seem very unlikely.

Having said all that, I'll doubtless read next year that Kara is competing successfully at professional level and will be a SCD pro in 2012.

Yes, you're probably right. I have often wondered if (for example) Jill did her jive, would it be comparable to other professionals at competition level. I think it would, but the professionals have to master (or near-master) every ballroom dance discipline. People often say Anton's Latin is not up standard, but that is only comparing him with the some of very best in the world.

Anton IS one of the best dancers in the world!

Out of touch with the real world, are we, lad?

That's because we're a LOCAL forum for LOCAL people.

Isn't that right, Tubbs ?

That is utter balls, and you know it.


Great post, IMO.


Loving the League of Gentlemen reference!

Another example, some claim that Ann's standing ovations are forced by a floor manager. Claudia Winkleman reveals the truth on ITT that once they're up giving Ann a standing ovation "the audience won't sit down".

Depends whether you believe Claudia or people that have actually been in the audience.........

Brenden also said on the Alan Titmarsh show "The entire audience goes nuts" when he was talking about the audience reception that Ann gets.

Are you sure it wasn't "The entire audience throws nuts"?

If you watch the show, or listen to Bruce/Tess/Claudia - every contestant gets a standing ovation. They're either all that good or the audience is being told to do it - the same as they boo the judges if there is any hint of an adverse comment.

Not just SCD - almost every show with a live audience does it. If there's no audience then the laughter or boos is canned.

The Floor Managers instruct the audience when to hiss/boo/clap/stand, etc


Several people who have been to the actual show have commented on this in the past.

JJ