Strictly - Back To The Ballroom! - Series Four
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Welcome to Strictly Come Dancing's live semi final! Tonight our five remaining couples will take to the floor not once, but twice each, hoping to impress our judges and you at home and to win a place in the final. Last week saw Emmerdale actor Jeff Hordley head back to the Dales alongside dance partner Natalie Lowe, as they exited the competition in our Halloween quarter final. But which two couples will miss out on a place in next week's grand final? Yes, this week there's a double elimination, and nobody wants to fall at the final hurdle. So without further ado, let's meet the stars of our show...
Former Take That singer Jason Orange and his dance partner Katya Virshilas!
Former EastEnders actress Mimi Keene and her dance partner Kevin Clifton!
Film and television actor Matthew Lewis and his dance partner Aliona Vilani!
Eighties singer Tiffany Darwish and her dance partner Brendan Cole!
And finally, television presenter Laura Whitmore and her dance partner Tristan MacManus!
Kicking off tonight's semi final are Tiffany and Brendan!
Former Take That singer Jason Orange and his dance partner Katya Virshilas!
Former EastEnders actress Mimi Keene and her dance partner Kevin Clifton!
Film and television actor Matthew Lewis and his dance partner Aliona Vilani!
Eighties singer Tiffany Darwish and her dance partner Brendan Cole!
And finally, television presenter Laura Whitmore and her dance partner Tristan MacManus!
Kicking off tonight's semi final are Tiffany and Brendan!
Tiffany & Brendan
Training: For the semi final, Tiffany and Brendan will be performing the Salsa and Viennese Waltz. Tiffany gives her opinion on the two dances; “I’m really enjoying this week; the Salsa is such a fun, carefree dance, and the lifts we have are so exciting! The Viennese Waltz is just lovely and so romantic. I love Brendan’s choreography, but I just hope I don’t get the two dances muddled up on the night!”
Dance: Salsa - Fleur East - Sax
Costume: Tiffany
Craig: Your footwork did become really sloppy towards the end, but I have to say, the lifts and your general energy in that really was commendable. A superb start to the semi final.
Darcey: Wow Tiffany, I absolutely love how you just threw yourself into that dance! It did get a little chaotic, but your enthusiasm and joy really shone through it, and it was an all round great performance.
Len: My my love, you can play that sax any time you want! Perhaps some of the technique did drop a little, but the fun factor that dance had eclipsed that for me. Joyous, sexy and a whole lot of fun! I LOVED it!
Bruno: Oh yes Tiffany! Hot, spicy, full of flavour and full of fun! What an energetic performance that was! You gave that nothing but one hundred percent and I admire you for that, girlfriend!
Scores:
Craig - 8
Darcey - 8
Len - 9
Bruno - 9
Total - 34/40
"That's just us getting started... our Viennese Waltz will be very special indeed," Brendan excites Claudia.
Our second semi finalists are Jason and Katya!
Training: For the semi final, Tiffany and Brendan will be performing the Salsa and Viennese Waltz. Tiffany gives her opinion on the two dances; “I’m really enjoying this week; the Salsa is such a fun, carefree dance, and the lifts we have are so exciting! The Viennese Waltz is just lovely and so romantic. I love Brendan’s choreography, but I just hope I don’t get the two dances muddled up on the night!”
Dance: Salsa - Fleur East - Sax
Costume: Tiffany
Craig: Your footwork did become really sloppy towards the end, but I have to say, the lifts and your general energy in that really was commendable. A superb start to the semi final.
Darcey: Wow Tiffany, I absolutely love how you just threw yourself into that dance! It did get a little chaotic, but your enthusiasm and joy really shone through it, and it was an all round great performance.
Len: My my love, you can play that sax any time you want! Perhaps some of the technique did drop a little, but the fun factor that dance had eclipsed that for me. Joyous, sexy and a whole lot of fun! I LOVED it!
Bruno: Oh yes Tiffany! Hot, spicy, full of flavour and full of fun! What an energetic performance that was! You gave that nothing but one hundred percent and I admire you for that, girlfriend!
Scores:
Craig - 8
Darcey - 8
Len - 9
Bruno - 9
Total - 34/40
"That's just us getting started... our Viennese Waltz will be very special indeed," Brendan excites Claudia.
Our second semi finalists are Jason and Katya!
Jason & Katya
Training: This week Jason and Katya will be performing the Foxtrot and Paso Doble. Jason seems to be enjoying the Foxtrot, as Katya tells us “he is a natural at the Foxtrot. He’s so sophisticated and classy - this really suits him.” However, Jason is unsure about the Paso Doble, saying “it’s very tricky to get everything just right. The character, the technique, the flair… it all has to be there.” But could the Paso Doble be his downfall?
Dance: Foxtrot - Leann Rimes - Can't Fight The Moonlight
Costume: Katya
Craig: There’s no denying your obvious improvement, darling, but your hands did seem very stiff. That said, it was an emotional and engaging performance, and I’d argue your best yet.
Darcey: Wow Jason, you had me absolutely drawn in with that Foxtrot. The chemistry between you two was unbreakable and all the little added flairs with the music worked really well. Excellent dance.
Len: Katya, you my love, must have worked your chest off with Jason, because that was a fantastic performance. I know this show is about great dancing, but it’s also about the ones who improve and improve, and you Jason have done just that. Fantastic.
Bruno: There was something so magical, almost like a fairytale, about this. I tell you something, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so engaged in a dance, and it really was great to see. Well done!
Scores:
Craig - 8
Darcey - 9
Len - 9
Bruno - 9
Total - 35/40
Jason beams in disbelief after receiving his highest score so far.
Hoping to impress now are Laura and Tristan!
Training: This week Jason and Katya will be performing the Foxtrot and Paso Doble. Jason seems to be enjoying the Foxtrot, as Katya tells us “he is a natural at the Foxtrot. He’s so sophisticated and classy - this really suits him.” However, Jason is unsure about the Paso Doble, saying “it’s very tricky to get everything just right. The character, the technique, the flair… it all has to be there.” But could the Paso Doble be his downfall?
Dance: Foxtrot - Leann Rimes - Can't Fight The Moonlight
Costume: Katya
Craig: There’s no denying your obvious improvement, darling, but your hands did seem very stiff. That said, it was an emotional and engaging performance, and I’d argue your best yet.
Darcey: Wow Jason, you had me absolutely drawn in with that Foxtrot. The chemistry between you two was unbreakable and all the little added flairs with the music worked really well. Excellent dance.
Len: Katya, you my love, must have worked your chest off with Jason, because that was a fantastic performance. I know this show is about great dancing, but it’s also about the ones who improve and improve, and you Jason have done just that. Fantastic.
Bruno: There was something so magical, almost like a fairytale, about this. I tell you something, I don’t think I’ve ever seen you so engaged in a dance, and it really was great to see. Well done!
Scores:
Craig - 8
Darcey - 9
Len - 9
Bruno - 9
Total - 35/40
Jason beams in disbelief after receiving his highest score so far.
Hoping to impress now are Laura and Tristan!
Laura & Tristan
Training: Tonight Laura and Tristan will be dancing the Paso Doble and the American Smooth. Tristan seems confident about Laura’s chances this week, saying “Laura is such an excellent dancer, I don’t think learning two dances is going to be challenging at all.” She tells us “I’m absolutely loving both of my dances, and that isn’t a lie. I love how different they are, and I just hope I can show the judges that I am a consistent dancer.”
Dance: Paso Doble - Pirates Of The Caribbean - One Day
Costume: Laura
Craig: Your heel must have got caught in your dress somewhere, because it did go a little wrong. I have to say though that were was nothing technically wrong with it and the character you brought was something else.
Darcey: Laura, I absolutely loved this. It is a shame about the wardrobe malfunction, but you picked yourself up from that so well and definitely showed yourself to be a worthy semi finalist.
Len: Well shut the door and call me Mary! That was the Paso Doble I’ve been waiting for! You did stumble a bit, but these things happen, and I think you coped with it very well. I’d love to be able to see that again without the mistake.
Bruno: Oh darling, it is such a shame that that mishap had to happen. It was all going so well and I was actually in awe of your performance! Come back even stronger with your next dance because you are an incredible performer.
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 9
Len - 9
Bruno - 9
Total - 36/40
"I'm so annoyed about my dress... I just hope our American Smooth goes better than that!" Laura says, disappointed.
Now we have the amazing Matthew and Aliona!
Training: Tonight Laura and Tristan will be dancing the Paso Doble and the American Smooth. Tristan seems confident about Laura’s chances this week, saying “Laura is such an excellent dancer, I don’t think learning two dances is going to be challenging at all.” She tells us “I’m absolutely loving both of my dances, and that isn’t a lie. I love how different they are, and I just hope I can show the judges that I am a consistent dancer.”
Dance: Paso Doble - Pirates Of The Caribbean - One Day
Costume: Laura
Craig: Your heel must have got caught in your dress somewhere, because it did go a little wrong. I have to say though that were was nothing technically wrong with it and the character you brought was something else.
Darcey: Laura, I absolutely loved this. It is a shame about the wardrobe malfunction, but you picked yourself up from that so well and definitely showed yourself to be a worthy semi finalist.
Len: Well shut the door and call me Mary! That was the Paso Doble I’ve been waiting for! You did stumble a bit, but these things happen, and I think you coped with it very well. I’d love to be able to see that again without the mistake.
Bruno: Oh darling, it is such a shame that that mishap had to happen. It was all going so well and I was actually in awe of your performance! Come back even stronger with your next dance because you are an incredible performer.
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 9
Len - 9
Bruno - 9
Total - 36/40
"I'm so annoyed about my dress... I just hope our American Smooth goes better than that!" Laura says, disappointed.
Now we have the amazing Matthew and Aliona!
I don't think my support for Tiffany needs voicing. 
Any two couples other than Tiff & Brendan could go and I'd be happy; Mimi, Jason, Matthew, and Laura are all equally good and bad in my eyes.
Any two couples other than Tiff & Brendan could go and I'd be happy; Mimi, Jason, Matthew, and Laura are all equally good and bad in my eyes.
Matthew & Aliona
Training: Performing the Argentine Tango and Jive tonight will be Matthew and Aliona. Matthew tells us “learning two new dances has been quite tough, but I’m having so much fun. Going from the moody and intense Argentine Tango to the fun and energetic Jive is quite odd, but that’s Strictly for you!” Aliona says “I think Matthew has actually conquered both dance styles really well. We could be in for a good semi final on the night.”
Dance: Argentine Tango - Bajofondo - Cuesta Arriba
Costume: Aliona
Craig: Er… you were slightly ahead of the music going into the last bachacada section… However, I did think that performance was a-ma-zing!
Darcey: Well well well… I certainly wouldn’t want to cross you at night! That was so thrilling, and almost terrifying! You performed that so well - I had shivers down my spine! Loved it.
Len: I know there are more standing ovations these days than my pickled walnuts, but I tell you what… that deserves one. Well done - a firecracker of an Argentine Tango.
Bruno: Where on earth did that come from? I can tell you - right from Buenos Aires. It was smooth, sophisticated yet a little scary. I was frightened for my life! For me that has eclipsed your Viennese Waltz. Brilliant work!
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 10
Len - 10
Bruno - 10
Total - 39/40
Matthew looks overjoyed, but then tells Claudia "I hope our Jive can feel as good as that felt!"
And closing tonight's first half are Mimi and Kevin!
Training: Performing the Argentine Tango and Jive tonight will be Matthew and Aliona. Matthew tells us “learning two new dances has been quite tough, but I’m having so much fun. Going from the moody and intense Argentine Tango to the fun and energetic Jive is quite odd, but that’s Strictly for you!” Aliona says “I think Matthew has actually conquered both dance styles really well. We could be in for a good semi final on the night.”
Dance: Argentine Tango - Bajofondo - Cuesta Arriba
Costume: Aliona
Craig: Er… you were slightly ahead of the music going into the last bachacada section… However, I did think that performance was a-ma-zing!
Darcey: Well well well… I certainly wouldn’t want to cross you at night! That was so thrilling, and almost terrifying! You performed that so well - I had shivers down my spine! Loved it.
Len: I know there are more standing ovations these days than my pickled walnuts, but I tell you what… that deserves one. Well done - a firecracker of an Argentine Tango.
Bruno: Where on earth did that come from? I can tell you - right from Buenos Aires. It was smooth, sophisticated yet a little scary. I was frightened for my life! For me that has eclipsed your Viennese Waltz. Brilliant work!
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 10
Len - 10
Bruno - 10
Total - 39/40
Matthew looks overjoyed, but then tells Claudia "I hope our Jive can feel as good as that felt!"
And closing tonight's first half are Mimi and Kevin!
Originally Posted by Monsieur23:
“I don't think my support for Tiffany needs voicing.
Any two couples other than Tiff & Brendan could go and I'd be happy; Mimi, Jason, Matthew, and Laura are all equally good and bad in my eyes.”
“I don't think my support for Tiffany needs voicing.
Any two couples other than Tiff & Brendan could go and I'd be happy; Mimi, Jason, Matthew, and Laura are all equally good and bad in my eyes.”
I must say I'm surprised you feel this way (not)
Mimi & Kevin
Training: Mimi and Kevin’s semi final dances are the Rumba and the Tango. Mimi praises Kevin’s choreography this week, saying “I’ve fallen in love with both the Rumba and the Tango. They are completely different, but I am equally excited about performing both of them.” Kevin echoes Mimi’s excitement, telling us “Mimi has come on leaps and bounds and has stretched her capabilities on Strictly. I just hope the judges and viewers will see that with our semi final dances.”
Dance: Rumba - Elton John - The One
Costume: Mimi
Craig: This had all the intensity and storytelling that was missing from your Paso Doble last week. It truly was a spine tingling performance, and I loved it.
Darcey: Mimi, you brought passion to that that I’ve never seen you give before. It was so moving, I’m not afraid to say I was almost in tears when you walked away at the end.
Len: Kevin, I have to say, that was top class choreography, but Mimi, you are a top class performer. That touched nerves I didn’t even know existed. It was quite a spectacle and I can’t wait to see what your Tango is like.
Bruno: All I ever needed was the one, and tonight Mimi, you are the one! I want to watch that again; magical, my darling!
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 10
Len - 10
Bruno - 10
Total - 39/40
Mimi looks pleasantly surprised, while Kevin teases "just wait for our Tango!"
Training: Mimi and Kevin’s semi final dances are the Rumba and the Tango. Mimi praises Kevin’s choreography this week, saying “I’ve fallen in love with both the Rumba and the Tango. They are completely different, but I am equally excited about performing both of them.” Kevin echoes Mimi’s excitement, telling us “Mimi has come on leaps and bounds and has stretched her capabilities on Strictly. I just hope the judges and viewers will see that with our semi final dances.”
Dance: Rumba - Elton John - The One
Costume: Mimi
Craig: This had all the intensity and storytelling that was missing from your Paso Doble last week. It truly was a spine tingling performance, and I loved it.
Darcey: Mimi, you brought passion to that that I’ve never seen you give before. It was so moving, I’m not afraid to say I was almost in tears when you walked away at the end.
Len: Kevin, I have to say, that was top class choreography, but Mimi, you are a top class performer. That touched nerves I didn’t even know existed. It was quite a spectacle and I can’t wait to see what your Tango is like.
Bruno: All I ever needed was the one, and tonight Mimi, you are the one! I want to watch that again; magical, my darling!
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 10
Len - 10
Bruno - 10
Total - 39/40
Mimi looks pleasantly surprised, while Kevin teases "just wait for our Tango!"
So, after each couple's first dance, the leaderboard is as follows:
1 Matthew Lewis & Aliona Vilani - 39
= Mimi Keene & Kevin Clifton - 39
3 Laura Whitmore & Tristan MacManus - 36
4 Jason Orange & Katya Virshilas - 35
5 Tiffany Darwish & Brendan Cole - 34
But with just five points separating our five couples, that could all change as our couples perform their second dance!
So please welcome back Tiffany and Brendan!
1 Matthew Lewis & Aliona Vilani - 39
= Mimi Keene & Kevin Clifton - 39
3 Laura Whitmore & Tristan MacManus - 36
4 Jason Orange & Katya Virshilas - 35
5 Tiffany Darwish & Brendan Cole - 34
But with just five points separating our five couples, that could all change as our couples perform their second dance!
So please welcome back Tiffany and Brendan!
Tiffany & Brendan
Judges Comments: “Tiffany and Brendan. I think it’s fair to say she’s had a few ups and downs throughout the competition, but she has stayed fairly consistent recently. I think her main problem is just getting rid of those nerves, because her dances always seem to have at least one avoidable mistake. She does seem to really enjoy dancing, so if she does manage to get rid of those nerves and just comes out without expectation, she could make that final.” But will Tiffany’s nerves let her down with her Viennese Waltz?
Dance: Viennese Waltz - Grease - Hopelessly Devoted To You
Costume: Tiffany
Craig: You’ve really proved yourself tonight, darling. You held your own, even with those manic, never ending turns! It was clean, smooth and elegant, and I really, really enjoyed it.
Darcey: Tiffany, that was gorgeous. Your footwork and the way you moved your arms was just stunning. Just watch that you keep your back well away from Brendan, but a very, very nice performance.
Len: Well, the one niggle I’ve had with you is that you often have a little jitter and sort of lose your focus… not with this one! It was free from mistakes, a lovely Viennese, and possibly your best dance yet.
Bruno: Oh, that was just adorable, my lovelies; it had me all emotional inside! You brought a sort of teen queen vibe to that dance - I thought I was back in the 80s watching you! No, but it was a perfect fit for this dance, and so were you, my love.
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 9
Len - 10
Bruno - 10
Total - 38/40
Combined Total - 72/80
Tiffany looks delighted as Claudia informs her that is her highest score to date.
Next up again are Jason and Katya!
Judges Comments: “Tiffany and Brendan. I think it’s fair to say she’s had a few ups and downs throughout the competition, but she has stayed fairly consistent recently. I think her main problem is just getting rid of those nerves, because her dances always seem to have at least one avoidable mistake. She does seem to really enjoy dancing, so if she does manage to get rid of those nerves and just comes out without expectation, she could make that final.” But will Tiffany’s nerves let her down with her Viennese Waltz?
Dance: Viennese Waltz - Grease - Hopelessly Devoted To You
Costume: Tiffany
Craig: You’ve really proved yourself tonight, darling. You held your own, even with those manic, never ending turns! It was clean, smooth and elegant, and I really, really enjoyed it.
Darcey: Tiffany, that was gorgeous. Your footwork and the way you moved your arms was just stunning. Just watch that you keep your back well away from Brendan, but a very, very nice performance.
Len: Well, the one niggle I’ve had with you is that you often have a little jitter and sort of lose your focus… not with this one! It was free from mistakes, a lovely Viennese, and possibly your best dance yet.
Bruno: Oh, that was just adorable, my lovelies; it had me all emotional inside! You brought a sort of teen queen vibe to that dance - I thought I was back in the 80s watching you! No, but it was a perfect fit for this dance, and so were you, my love.
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 9
Len - 10
Bruno - 10
Total - 38/40
Combined Total - 72/80
Tiffany looks delighted as Claudia informs her that is her highest score to date.
Next up again are Jason and Katya!
Jason & Katya
Judges Comments: “Jason and Katya. Wow, what a journey they’ve been on. He started in the dance pits and now he’s up there like he’s in the Ritz. He’s probably the most improved celebrity this year, and there’s been some incredible improvement with that. Maybe he has slipped into the back of the pack over the last few weeks, but he has avoided the bottom two so far, so who knows?” But can Jason’s popularity secure him a place in the final?
Dance: Paso Doble - Guns N' Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine
Costume: Katya
Craig: It was very awkward to watch. There wasn’t really any Spanish feel to it, it was very stiff… quite a big step back from your Foxtrot and not worthy of being in the semi final, I’m afraid.
Darcey: Oh no Craig! Don’t listen to him - you absolutely deserve to be here. It wasn’t your best dance, but the Paso Doble is such a difficult dance and I think you pulled off a very convincing effort.
Len: Yea, it was a bit stiff, but disregarding all the negatives, you have improved a very respectable and admirable amount, and that Paso Doble does show that. It was a fantastic performance.
Bruno: I have to commend you, because the personality and aggression was all there. Maybe the technique wasn’t perfect, but Len is right, with you I’ve seen improvement I don’t think I’ve ever seen before on Strictly. It is amazing!
Scores:
Craig - 6
Darcey - 8
Len - 8
Bruno - 8
Total - 30/40
Combined Total - 65/80
Katya "eek"s as the scores are announced, while Jason smiles through them.
Laura and Tristan are back with their American Smooth!
Judges Comments: “Jason and Katya. Wow, what a journey they’ve been on. He started in the dance pits and now he’s up there like he’s in the Ritz. He’s probably the most improved celebrity this year, and there’s been some incredible improvement with that. Maybe he has slipped into the back of the pack over the last few weeks, but he has avoided the bottom two so far, so who knows?” But can Jason’s popularity secure him a place in the final?
Dance: Paso Doble - Guns N' Roses - Sweet Child O' Mine
Costume: Katya
Craig: It was very awkward to watch. There wasn’t really any Spanish feel to it, it was very stiff… quite a big step back from your Foxtrot and not worthy of being in the semi final, I’m afraid.
Darcey: Oh no Craig! Don’t listen to him - you absolutely deserve to be here. It wasn’t your best dance, but the Paso Doble is such a difficult dance and I think you pulled off a very convincing effort.
Len: Yea, it was a bit stiff, but disregarding all the negatives, you have improved a very respectable and admirable amount, and that Paso Doble does show that. It was a fantastic performance.
Bruno: I have to commend you, because the personality and aggression was all there. Maybe the technique wasn’t perfect, but Len is right, with you I’ve seen improvement I don’t think I’ve ever seen before on Strictly. It is amazing!
Scores:
Craig - 6
Darcey - 8
Len - 8
Bruno - 8
Total - 30/40
Combined Total - 65/80
Katya "eek"s as the scores are announced, while Jason smiles through them.
Laura and Tristan are back with their American Smooth!
Laura & Tristan
Judges Comments: “Laura and Tristan. Now these two are consistent, I tell you that. They’ve topped the leaderboard more than any other couple, and are second by a smidgen with their average score. They did have a little dip in the middle of the series, but I think being in the bottom two was a real wake up call for her. Let’s just hope she can impress us again tonight with what promises to be an amazing American Smooth.” But will Laura triumph once again?
Dance: American Smooth - Michael Buble - Come Dance With Me
Costume: Laura
Craig: That was a smooth American Smooth, darling. Very, very smooth.
Darcey: You really looked the part out there Laura - you were like a modern day Marilyn and I really was in awe. Not only that, but you danced the part and once again showed yourself to be a real contender in this competition.
Len: Well, I do favour the Ballroom dances over the Latin, and this is exactly why. Top of the class, and top class dance. Well done!
Bruno: Oh Laura… I wouldn’t mind dancing with you - that’s for sure! A real spectacle that was; the lifts were incredible, the sassiness was fantastic, the technique was terrific. You’ve come back fighting and I like it!
Scores:
Craig - 10
Darcey - 10
Len - 10
Bruno - 10
Total - 40/40
Combined Total - 76/80
Laura screams in shock as Craig reveals his score. Tristan hugs Claudia in celebration.
Matthew and Aliona are ready with their Jive!
Judges Comments: “Laura and Tristan. Now these two are consistent, I tell you that. They’ve topped the leaderboard more than any other couple, and are second by a smidgen with their average score. They did have a little dip in the middle of the series, but I think being in the bottom two was a real wake up call for her. Let’s just hope she can impress us again tonight with what promises to be an amazing American Smooth.” But will Laura triumph once again?
Dance: American Smooth - Michael Buble - Come Dance With Me
Costume: Laura
Craig: That was a smooth American Smooth, darling. Very, very smooth.
Darcey: You really looked the part out there Laura - you were like a modern day Marilyn and I really was in awe. Not only that, but you danced the part and once again showed yourself to be a real contender in this competition.
Len: Well, I do favour the Ballroom dances over the Latin, and this is exactly why. Top of the class, and top class dance. Well done!
Bruno: Oh Laura… I wouldn’t mind dancing with you - that’s for sure! A real spectacle that was; the lifts were incredible, the sassiness was fantastic, the technique was terrific. You’ve come back fighting and I like it!
Scores:
Craig - 10
Darcey - 10
Len - 10
Bruno - 10
Total - 40/40
Combined Total - 76/80
Laura screams in shock as Craig reveals his score. Tristan hugs Claudia in celebration.
Matthew and Aliona are ready with their Jive!
Matthew & Aliona
Judges Comments: “Matthew and Aliona. Top of the average scores and in the top two of the leaderboard every week bar one - now that’s some statistic. They have consistently impressed us judges, but maybe the public are unconvinced? He did end up in the bottom two despite getting the first four tens of the series. I think if he can show that he’s a good all round performer with the Jive and Argentine Tango this week, he has a very good chance of making the final.” But will Matthew’s Jive hit the right notes?
Dance: Jive - Thurston Harris - Little Bitty Pretty One
Costume: Aliona
Craig: I’d have liked to have seen you go to town more with the moves; it was a tad laid back and indifferent for me. I’m only being picky, because your timing and the actual technique was tremendous.
Darcey: I liked the style of it - it was a cool and collected Jive... Aliona, your choreography was amazing here and it really suited Matthew. Your timing, your kicks, your attitude… love it, love it, love it!
Len: I really don’t know how the viewers are going to choose tonight, because everyone has upped their game, and this was no exception. It was fast, fun, flirty and I really enjoyed it!
Bruno: I’m in too minds, because I do kind of agree with Craig; I would’ve liked more energy in those kicks, but then it did suit the song and theme of the dance. I really enjoyed the feel of it and as ever your timing was impeccable, I’d just have liked more energy.
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 10
Len - 10
Bruno - 9
Total - 38/40
Combined Total - 77/80
"I picked a cool Jive for Matthew because he's a cool guy," Aliona defends him. "And that was a cool performance!" Claudia pipes.
And hoping to close tonight's semi final in style are Mimi and Kevin!
Judges Comments: “Matthew and Aliona. Top of the average scores and in the top two of the leaderboard every week bar one - now that’s some statistic. They have consistently impressed us judges, but maybe the public are unconvinced? He did end up in the bottom two despite getting the first four tens of the series. I think if he can show that he’s a good all round performer with the Jive and Argentine Tango this week, he has a very good chance of making the final.” But will Matthew’s Jive hit the right notes?
Dance: Jive - Thurston Harris - Little Bitty Pretty One
Costume: Aliona
Craig: I’d have liked to have seen you go to town more with the moves; it was a tad laid back and indifferent for me. I’m only being picky, because your timing and the actual technique was tremendous.
Darcey: I liked the style of it - it was a cool and collected Jive... Aliona, your choreography was amazing here and it really suited Matthew. Your timing, your kicks, your attitude… love it, love it, love it!
Len: I really don’t know how the viewers are going to choose tonight, because everyone has upped their game, and this was no exception. It was fast, fun, flirty and I really enjoyed it!
Bruno: I’m in too minds, because I do kind of agree with Craig; I would’ve liked more energy in those kicks, but then it did suit the song and theme of the dance. I really enjoyed the feel of it and as ever your timing was impeccable, I’d just have liked more energy.
Scores:
Craig - 9
Darcey - 10
Len - 10
Bruno - 9
Total - 38/40
Combined Total - 77/80
"I picked a cool Jive for Matthew because he's a cool guy," Aliona defends him. "And that was a cool performance!" Claudia pipes.
And hoping to close tonight's semi final in style are Mimi and Kevin!
Mimi & Kevin
Judges Comments: “Mimi and Kevin. The cuties of this series! Whenever they dance, I really feel like they get each other, and it’s great to watch. They haven’t really had a dud dance, but they have been in a precarious position a few times. I do feel like their dances aren’t the most memorable, even though they are nice. Despite this, they’ve managed to avoid the bottom two so far, so maybe they have a good shot at getting to the final?” But will Mimi’s Tango be memorable enough?
Dance: Tango - Foxes - Youth
Costume: Mimi
Craig: That is the dance of the series. Just spectacular.
Darcey: Wowee Mimi… who knew you had that in you? Everything just came together - the footwork, the music, that dress… I’m blown away. Brilliant!
Len: It was a little too Paso Doble-like for me… all I’m saying is I’d have liked more Tango content! But I mean, that was a performance with power and a half. It was incredible!
Bruno: Don’t listen to Len - that was a tantalising Tango and I cannot fault it at all. Freakin’ flawless!
Scores:
Craig - 10
Darcey - 10
Len - 9
Bruno - 10
Total - 39/40
Combined Total - 78/80
The audience and Claud-pit roar at Len's comments and score, while Mimi and Kevin celebrate Craig's ten.
Judges Comments: “Mimi and Kevin. The cuties of this series! Whenever they dance, I really feel like they get each other, and it’s great to watch. They haven’t really had a dud dance, but they have been in a precarious position a few times. I do feel like their dances aren’t the most memorable, even though they are nice. Despite this, they’ve managed to avoid the bottom two so far, so maybe they have a good shot at getting to the final?” But will Mimi’s Tango be memorable enough?
Dance: Tango - Foxes - Youth
Costume: Mimi
Craig: That is the dance of the series. Just spectacular.
Darcey: Wowee Mimi… who knew you had that in you? Everything just came together - the footwork, the music, that dress… I’m blown away. Brilliant!
Len: It was a little too Paso Doble-like for me… all I’m saying is I’d have liked more Tango content! But I mean, that was a performance with power and a half. It was incredible!
Bruno: Don’t listen to Len - that was a tantalising Tango and I cannot fault it at all. Freakin’ flawless!
Scores:
Craig - 10
Darcey - 10
Len - 9
Bruno - 10
Total - 39/40
Combined Total - 78/80
The audience and Claud-pit roar at Len's comments and score, while Mimi and Kevin celebrate Craig's ten.
So the leaderboard for tonight's semi final is as follows:
1 Mimi Keene & Kevin Clifton - 39 + 39 = 78
2 Matthew Lewis & Aliona Vilani - 39 + 38 = 77
3 Laura Whitmore & Tristan MacManus - 36 + 40 = 76
4 Tiffany Darwish & Brendan Cole - 34 + 38 = 72
5 Jason Orange & Katya Virshilas - 35 + 30 = 65
Now it's over to you! Please start voting, using the following methods:
PM Ranking
Simply send me a PM ranking all couples from your favourite (5) to least favourite (1). This method of voting will close during tomorrow's results show, which begins at 8.20pm.
Voting Allowance
You can also use your voting allowance to make your favourite couple a finalist. Every viewer has an extra 100 votes to use across the series as and when they like. Simply add on at the end of your PM ranking if, and how, you'd like to use your voting allowance. You can also vote using your allowance in a separate PM, for example, shortly before the results show.
I will remind each viewer how much of their voting allowance they have remaining once they have voted. Alternatively, you can ask me how many votes you have left on your allowance before you vote. Once you've used your voting allowance, it's gone for good!
These votes will be added together and combined with the judges points to determine which two couples will leave the competition, missing out on a place in next week's grand final. The results show begins tomorrow at 8.20pm, and features performances from the amazing George Ezra and the one and only Adele!
I will do a vote for a vote, just let me know when you vote.
Until then, keep dancing!
1 Mimi Keene & Kevin Clifton - 39 + 39 = 78
2 Matthew Lewis & Aliona Vilani - 39 + 38 = 77
3 Laura Whitmore & Tristan MacManus - 36 + 40 = 76
4 Tiffany Darwish & Brendan Cole - 34 + 38 = 72
5 Jason Orange & Katya Virshilas - 35 + 30 = 65
Now it's over to you! Please start voting, using the following methods:
PM Ranking
Simply send me a PM ranking all couples from your favourite (5) to least favourite (1). This method of voting will close during tomorrow's results show, which begins at 8.20pm.
Voting Allowance
You can also use your voting allowance to make your favourite couple a finalist. Every viewer has an extra 100 votes to use across the series as and when they like. Simply add on at the end of your PM ranking if, and how, you'd like to use your voting allowance. You can also vote using your allowance in a separate PM, for example, shortly before the results show.
I will remind each viewer how much of their voting allowance they have remaining once they have voted. Alternatively, you can ask me how many votes you have left on your allowance before you vote. Once you've used your voting allowance, it's gone for good!
These votes will be added together and combined with the judges points to determine which two couples will leave the competition, missing out on a place in next week's grand final. The results show begins tomorrow at 8.20pm, and features performances from the amazing George Ezra and the one and only Adele!
I will do a vote for a vote, just let me know when you vote.
Until then, keep dancing!
Well...I'm not optimistic. Let's put it that way.
Oh, and I've thought this a few times, but I'll say it now. You write Zoe Ball brilliantly.
Oh, and I've thought this a few times, but I'll say it now. You write Zoe Ball brilliantly.
Originally Posted by IzzieStar:
“Well...I'm not optimistic. Let's put it that way.
Oh, and I've thought this a few times, but I'll say it now. You write Zoe Ball brilliantly.”
“Well...I'm not optimistic. Let's put it that way.
Oh, and I've thought this a few times, but I'll say it now. You write Zoe Ball brilliantly.
”
You never know what could happen
Oh, and thank you
...and whilst you are:
For next week's grand final, one of the dances our finalists will be dancing is completely down to you. I have shortlisted six dances per couple, that they have performed throughout the series, and it's now down to the viewers to choose which one of those dances each couple will perform, should they reach the final.
Here is the poll for you to vote in and see which dances have been shortlisted. The song it was danced to and the original score is shown for each dance. Depending on the size of response, I may close the poll before tomorrow's results show so I can announce results then. If not, I'll announce the results throughout the week.
Remember that two of our couples won't make it to the final (and will therefore not be dancing the dance you pick), and remember that the couples also get to choose their favourite dance (in case you're wondering why a certain dance hasn't been shortlisted).
So get voting
For next week's grand final, one of the dances our finalists will be dancing is completely down to you. I have shortlisted six dances per couple, that they have performed throughout the series, and it's now down to the viewers to choose which one of those dances each couple will perform, should they reach the final.
Here is the poll for you to vote in and see which dances have been shortlisted. The song it was danced to and the original score is shown for each dance. Depending on the size of response, I may close the poll before tomorrow's results show so I can announce results then. If not, I'll announce the results throughout the week.
Remember that two of our couples won't make it to the final (and will therefore not be dancing the dance you pick), and remember that the couples also get to choose their favourite dance (in case you're wondering why a certain dance hasn't been shortlisted).
So get voting
Originally Posted by Stuart25:
“Just over 12 hours until we find out our semi finalists
”
“Just over 12 hours until we find out our semi finalists
”
Oh dear, you can tell this was posted at 8 in the morning
Keep voting for your finalists, and remember to vote in the poll to decide which dance the finalists will perform as their viewers' choice!
140 minutes until results time Here is a reminder of last night's leaderboard and the ways you can vote:
Here is a reminder of last night's leaderboard and the ways you can vote:
Originally Posted by Stuart25:
“
“
So the leaderboard for tonight's semi final is as follows:
1 Mimi Keene & Kevin Clifton - 39 + 39 = 78
2 Matthew Lewis & Aliona Vilani - 39 + 38 = 77
3 Laura Whitmore & Tristan MacManus - 36 + 40 = 76
4 Tiffany Darwish & Brendan Cole - 34 + 38 = 72
5 Jason Orange & Katya Virshilas - 35 + 30 = 65
Now it's over to you! Please start voting, using the following methods:
PM Ranking
Simply send me a PM ranking all couples from your favourite (5) to least favourite (1). This method of voting will close during tomorrow's results show, which begins at 8.20pm.
Voting Allowance
You can also use your voting allowance to make your favourite couple a finalist. Every viewer has an extra 100 votes to use across the series as and when they like. Simply add on at the end of your PM ranking if, and how, you'd like to use your voting allowance. You can also vote using your allowance in a separate PM, for example, shortly before the results show.
I will remind each viewer how much of their voting allowance they have remaining once they have voted. Alternatively, you can ask me how many votes you have left on your allowance before you vote. Once you've used your voting allowance, it's gone for good!
These votes will be added together and combined with the judges points to determine which two couples will leave the competition, missing out on a place in next week's grand final. The results show begins tomorrow at 8.20pm, and features performances from the amazing George Ezra and the one and only Adele!
I will do a vote for a vote, just let me know when you vote.
Until then, keep dancing!
”
1 Mimi Keene & Kevin Clifton - 39 + 39 = 78
2 Matthew Lewis & Aliona Vilani - 39 + 38 = 77
3 Laura Whitmore & Tristan MacManus - 36 + 40 = 76
4 Tiffany Darwish & Brendan Cole - 34 + 38 = 72
5 Jason Orange & Katya Virshilas - 35 + 30 = 65
Now it's over to you! Please start voting, using the following methods:
PM Ranking
Simply send me a PM ranking all couples from your favourite (5) to least favourite (1). This method of voting will close during tomorrow's results show, which begins at 8.20pm.
Voting Allowance
You can also use your voting allowance to make your favourite couple a finalist. Every viewer has an extra 100 votes to use across the series as and when they like. Simply add on at the end of your PM ranking if, and how, you'd like to use your voting allowance. You can also vote using your allowance in a separate PM, for example, shortly before the results show.
I will remind each viewer how much of their voting allowance they have remaining once they have voted. Alternatively, you can ask me how many votes you have left on your allowance before you vote. Once you've used your voting allowance, it's gone for good!
These votes will be added together and combined with the judges points to determine which two couples will leave the competition, missing out on a place in next week's grand final. The results show begins tomorrow at 8.20pm, and features performances from the amazing George Ezra and the one and only Adele!
I will do a vote for a vote, just let me know when you vote.
Until then, keep dancing!
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