Everything you need to know about ‘Who’s got the Pain’

As featured on the Fosse/Verdon series, “Who’s got the Pain’ was the only film number that Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon performed together. We are very excited to be teaching this number for our next Charleston Musicals Course running from 24th February to the 31st of March both Online and in Brighton & Hove!

This 6-week Musicals Course is a great opportunity to perfect your inner-Fosse, so you can Jazz-Hands your way into any social dance; making you so copacetic on the dance floor!

Click this link, or visit www.mycharlestondance.com to secure your place!

Want to find out more? Read on to discover why this dance is highly celebrated in the world of Jazz!

Historical Context: ‘Hands, Hips, Hats:’

As seen throughout his work, Fosse developed a distinctive choreographic style, wherein many of his routines have dancers sat into one hip with fingers flexed and hiding their eyes beneath a hat. In today’s society this is often mockingly called ‘Jazz hands’ but the terms that Fosse coined was ‘Webbing’ and ‘Spirit Fingers;’ this move is often danced in a sequence with a hat.

Although Fosse did not invent the phrase, Hands, Hips and Hats, the way he put them together and what he made them hint towards (sex, corruption, and falsity) became his in his own right. Since ‘Who’s got the Pain’ has been aired, his iconic style of dance has been imitated on Broadway, the West End and also in Pop Culture videos; most notably in Michael Jackson’s music video Beat It and II Hands II Heaven by Beyoncé; who have folded Fosse’s style into their own.

‘Who’s got the Pain’- Damn Yankees:

Thanks to the high number of streams of the miniseries Fosse/Verdon, Fosse’s name is now back in cultural conversation, as is the 1958 number Who’s got the Pain, featuring Gwen Verdon. At this point in his career, Fosse was still married to his first of three wives, Joan McCracken, but when Verdon was cast as Lola in Damn Yankees, the two created an inseparable bond.

Fun fact: Did you know that Fosse’s love of dancing in hats was in aim to hide his premature balding?

From the very beginning of the routine, Fosse and Verdon embark on a stylistic journey of stereotypical Fosse choreography. Their faces are hidden under their hats, their hips are shunting, and all angles created are crisp and clean. The body isolations, tick-tocks, and perfect synchronisation were all picked up from the African diaspora, adding to the multi-cultural elements of the dance.

This fun, eccentric dance will undoubtedly get your toes tapping as you embark on a voyage through timeless choreography full of Jazzy flare (plus the song is pretty cool too!)

Sign up today, by clicking this link, or visit www.mycharlestondance.com to secure your place!

By: Eleanor O’Donnell

Work for us: Administration and Communications Executive – Maternity Cover

Administration and Communications Executive – Maternity Cover

Employer: MyCharleston, mycharlestondance.com

Location: Brighton/Work from home

Salary: £15 an hour – 8-10 hours a week

Role Starts: March/April 2025- 9 Months with possible extension

Sector: Administration/ Editorial/Marketing

Attendance: Part-Time

Contract Type: Freelance contract to cover a period of maternity leave

About us

MyCharleston run dance classes, workshops, performances and events all themed on the 1920’s. We run 11 classes in the South East, working with freelance teachers. We also train and license teachers to run MyCharleston classes in other locations. We have weekly online classes online on Zoom which connects us to a wider audience. All our classes are run as six-week courses which students book and pay for in advance. We create video tutorials for both Teachers and students to learn the content for that course. We have a vibrant community of dancers both locally and through our social media channels.

Job Description:

We are currently looking for someone who can take the lead on communications, is familiar with Mailchimp and managing a client database. You will work closely with the Creative Director to make sure day to day tasks are completed, inboxes are cleared and that all enquiries and leads are followed up. You will work with them around planning events and products and support them in diary management, marketing and sales. We are looking for someone who is highly organized and efficient who can help manage the Creative Director to ensure the business side of the company runs smoothly while their Business partner is on Maternity leave. We are looking for someone who is that second eye, who will notice when a task has been forgotten and see that it is dealt with. The ideal candidate is someone who is confident, has excellent initiative and would enjoy working as part of small and lively dance company.

Responsibilities:

• Office administration: Managing enquires, bookings, raising invoices and assisting the Company Director on day-to-day tasks including tracking sales figures and meeting targets.

• Website Management: Content writing and building new pages

• Delivering E-Marketing campaigns through Mailchimp, Squarespace and MailMerge

• Assisting social media accounts: Creating and scheduling posts on all social media platforms.

• Writing editorial content for the website blog

Profile required:

• Proven digital marketing experience

• Good working knowledge: Squarespace, Mailchimp, Canva, Photoshop and MS Office

• An active interest in dance and a desire to support a small creative business

• Willingness to learn new techniques and skills

• Studied a relevant degree/apprenticeship

How to apply

Please apply with CV and a covering letter highlighting relevant experience and tell us what you think you would bring to the role. Enquiries and applications should be directed to Elena Burslem, Managing Director, hello@mycharlestondance.com

Provisional Start Date: March/April

This role is offered on part- time basis, with exact working patterns to be negotiated with the successful candidate. The role is offered on a fixed-term basis to cover a period of maternity leave. The anticipated term of the contract is a period of 9 months, from End of March/April 2025 to Jan/Feb 2026 or the earlier return of the postholder.

The role is a freelance contract, and you will work remotely from home but will be required to travel to Brighton on occasions for meetings. When working from home, you will need access to internet, a computer and telephone.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Job Types: Part-time, Freelance

Pay: £15.00 per hour

Expected hours: 8 – 10 per week

Benefits:

• Flexitime

• Work from home

Schedule:

• Monday to Friday

Work Location: Remote

Application deadline: 28/02/2025

Everything you need to know about Hot Honey Rag

On Saturday 8th February we are hosting our next Musicals Masterclass, and we could not be more excited for this one because Chicago is coming to Hove! In this two-hour workshop, you will be able put on your finest 1920s Glad-Rags and channel your inner Velma Kelly as you master the iconic routine that is ‘Hot Honey Rag!’

Click this link to secure your place!

Want to find out more? Read on to discover why this routine is loved and celebrated by so many. Why this routine hit the theatres by storm; making it quintessential to the world of Broadway!

Now, we all know that Chicago is one of the most iconic and enduring musicals of all time. Its dazzling choreography, unforgettable songs, and sharp portrayal of crime, fame, and corruption continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Among the standout moments in Chicago is the sizzling "Hot Honey Rag," a show-stopping number that has become a symbol of the musical’s energy and flair. Let's take a closer look at the history and cultural impact of this routine.

Watch our very own routine of ‘Hot Honey Rag’ based on 2002 musical. Choreography by Rob Marshall.

The Origins of "Hot Honey Rag"

"Hot Honey Rag" first graced the stage of Broadway in Chicago, which opened in 1975. Written by John Kander (music) and Fred Ebb (lyrics), the musical is set in 1920s Chicago and tells the story of Roxie Hart, a vaudeville performer who finds herself on trial for murder. Chicago’s sleek and jazzy score pays homage to the Vaudeville and Jazz Age, and "Hot Honey Rag" is one of its standout musical numbers.

The number features a high-energy combination of music and dance that captures the essence of the Roaring Twenties; a time of excess, freedom, and rebellion. Originally, the routine was choreographed by Bob Fosse, whose signature style has gone on to define much of Chicago’s aesthetic. Fosse is known for his attention to detail and his choreography for ‘Hot Honey Rag’ is a blend of Jazz, burlesque, and vaudeville; combining quick footwork, sharp isolations, and suggestive movements in which exude sensuality and confidence. which were seen as highly provocative and daring for the time. In the production of Chicago, these moves translate into a routine that is at once, flirty and intense, and seductive and humorous; therefore upholding the power to captivate audiences around the globe!

Watch Gwen Verdon and Chita Rivera perform the 1975 choreography from the musical.

The Song and Its Power

"Hot Honey Rag" is performed in the second act of Chicago and serves as a pivotal moment in the show. Roxie Hart, having gained fame from her murder trial, joins Velma Kelly for the performance. The song itself is a catchy, jazzy tune with playful lyrics about a woman’s desire and the irresistible allure of the “Hot Honey Rag” dance, which provides the perfect backdrop for the choreography to shine!

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Since its debut, Chicago and the "Hot Honey Rag" number have left an indelible mark on musical theatre. The number has become a hallmark of Broadway and beyond, influencing the way subsequent musical theatre productions use choreography to tell a story. The incorporation of female empowerment and feminism within a musical was groundbreaking, and it has paved the way for other shows to explore similar ideals.

In a larger cultural sense, "Hot Honey Rag" is part of a greater conversation about women's agency, the commodification of fame, and the complex relationship between power and seduction. The number’s provocative energy invites us to consider the fine line between performance and reality, and glamour and the darker truths lurking beneath the surface.

As a result, it is clear that ‘Hot Honey Rag’ is more than just a routine from a musical; it is the cultural touchstone that represents the intersection of art, entertainment, and societal expectations; placing influential feminism at the heart of the performance- what more could you ask for?

Now you’ve read the history, and watched the routine what are you waiting for? Click the link or visit www.mycharlestondance.com and secure your place in being able to dance one of the most empowering routines in history!

Location: Open Space Studios, Hove

Dressing up is encouraged!

By: Eleanor O’Donnell

Videos: What's on Spring 2025

February is here, and we have an exciting lineup of 6 week courses this month. Our new term of the year begins on 24th Feb, watch all the previews here.

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CHARLESTON COURSE - STRUT MISS LIZZIE

BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES PORTSMOUTH ONLINE

EASTBOURNE

Take a sneaky peek at our next Open Level Charleston Course coming up in February where we be dancing to Strut Miss Lizzie. We run course online and in the studio locations in the UK. See below dates and locations:

Online - 24 Feb, 6pm BST

Brighton - 24 Feb, 7:30pm The Dance Space

Hove PM - 25 Feb, Open Space Studios

Lewes - 25 Feb, 6:30pm, The BodyWorkshop

Portsmouth - 25 Feb, 7:30pm, CourtX

Eastbourne - 26 Feb, 6:30pm, Leaf Hal

Hove am - 27 Feb, 10:30am, Open Space Studios

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MUSICALS COURSE - ‘WHO’S GOT THE PAIN?’ DAMN YANKEES

HOVE ONLINE

join us in our brand-new musicals course inspired by the 1958 film adaptation of Damn Yankees. We chose this routine as it’s a standout moment in Musical theatre featuring Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon—the only time they performed together on film. The number is an example of Fosse's early choreographic style and we can’t wait to bring it to life both online and in studio

Course available online and instudio

24 Feb - 7pm GMT - Via Zoom

25 Feb - 7pm - Open Space Studios, Hove

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PARTNER CHARLESTON - PARLA PIU PIANO

27 Feb - Open Space Studios, 6pm - 6 week course

Take a look at what's in store in our 1920s Partner Charleston Course which runs every Thursday at 6pm. If you fancy giving it a go, you can sign up to the next course either as a pair or solo dancer and join us from 27 Feb for the next course.

BOOK NOW

INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - IT DON’T MEAN A THING

BOOK NOW

27th Feb - Open Space Studios, 7pm - 6 week course

We are very excited to share a clip of our next intermediate Charleston routine. Set to the tune ‘It Don’t Mean a Thing’ it’s a real crowd pleaser. Take a little look at what Fiona has planned and join her from 27th Jan, 7pm at Open Space Studios in Hove.

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Top Tips For The January Blues

It’s official, today is the most depressing day of the year! So here are our top tips on how to beat the January blues and seasonal depression. You might well think we are going to advise you do some dancing to cheer yourself up. There is no doubt about it dancing is great way to lift your mood but when your mojo is low it’s hard to find the motivation to dance. So, what can you do to lift your spirits in these dark winter months? Here are some ideas you can try in the post-holiday slump

Cry It Out

There is a lot of pressure these days to be happy all the time, but being sad and even crying is OK. I recently told a friend I enjoy a good cry sometimes. Her response was fantastic; she said, "Crying is healthy and cathartic. We should never attach shame to crying – it’s natural! Crying makes us remember we are feeling emotional beings.” So big thanks to Andrea for her sound advice. The conversation had been in relation to a podcast which is both brilliant and life-affirming but at the same time it’s a tearjerker. So, get your box of tissues ready and have a listen to ‘Strangers on a Bench’. The presenter Tom Rosenthal approaches a stranger on a park bench and asks if he can sit down next to them and record their conversation. It’s such a simple premise, and the content is incredibly compelling

Music

When my mood is low, I find I lack energy, so I’m not inspired to dance even though I know it’s good for me. What can help is as a stress relief technique is to listen to music, and I create as many opportunities as I can in my day to hear new tunes. My go-to platform is the fabulous French music station FIP. Brighton fell in love with FIP back in the days of short-wave radio as the signal could be picked up here. There is very little chat, and the music style is a mix of Jazz, Blues, Hip-Hop, Soul, and World Music. They play unusual versions of well-known songs, and I love the way it can jump from some crazy Avante Garde Opera to a super funky tune. Now everything is digital; you can download the app and listen at your leisure. Be warned—your Shazam app will be busy!

Daydreaming

I don’t like making plans in January. When my mood is low, I don’t want to make big decisions or commit to things. However, that doesn’t stop me from planning my imaginary holidays. So far this year, I’ve explored the souks of Morocco and gone to my friend Patti’s wedding in America, where I chatted to all her funny American friends. It’s free, there is no booking fee, and you can teleport home the moment your kid starts shouting “Mum”!

Ok, that bit wasn’t my imagination! But as the subject of kids has come up, my son is great at getting me imagining: “What supercar would you get, Mum?” “If you won the lottery, how would you rebuild our house as a mansion?” The imagination only needs a little tickle of a question, and it comes alive.

As I was writing this, I did a quick Google search in which I typed “Top questions for stirring your imagination” into the search bar. Four clicks later, I found the question I’m about to share with you because it really made me laugh …
Question: What kind of rides would be in a theme park for snails?

Move Through The Blues

You didn’t really think I would write all this and not recommend a good dance to lift your mood. I still think it’s hard to find the motivation to dance when you are feeling low, which is why finding an dance class could be the key to getting yourself up and moving.
Dance classes for adults are widely available, and there is a broad range of styles. Whilst drop-in classes seem more convenient, the drawback is you will have to find the motivation to get yourself there each week. When it’s cold and dark, that’s going to be hard. Booking a dance course makes it more likely that you will attend because you’ve committed and paid.

Two key things when looking for a class—and I think this is more important than the dance style itself—are finding a class at a convenient location and time of day.
Dancing is such a fun way to get fit, improve mood, and learn a skill, so it’s good for the brain too. Most dance classes have a social aspect, and connecting with people makes us feel better about ourselves and the world around us. Whatever mood I’m in when I begin a dance class, I am always happier and more energised by the end of it.

So, if dance lifts your mood, you could try a class. Or, if you want to try it now, I have one final tune I would like to recommend. It’s a Fado tune, which is a style of music from Portugal known for being mournful. This particular piece is unusual as the melody is upbeat, and the lyrics play with the idea that you can enjoy feeling sad or even feel sad about being happy. It breaks down the duality of happiness and sadness and celebrates the emotions of both co-existing.

This blog has been written to advise those who feel their mood has been low recently. If you have been affected by low mood over a longer period of time, please seek professional advice. We have also provided a link to resources you may find helpful:
Support for Mental Health

Health benefits of Charleston dancing

It’s no secret that dancing offers a wealth of physical and mental health benefits, making it an enjoyable way to stay active for people of all ages, shapes, and sizes. Charleston dancing, in particular, provides a full-body and mind workout that can positively impact your quality of life, body image, and mood. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to help reduce depression and ease anxiety.

Benefits of Dancing for your Brain

Dancing isn’t just great for your body—it’s a workout for your brain, too! Research from Coventry University highlights that regular dance practice can improve spatial working memory (the ability to hold and replicate visual information) by an impressive 18%, along with boosting other areas of cognitive function.

For older adults, the benefits are even more significant. Frequent dancing has been associated with a 76% reduced risk of developing dementia, making it a valuable tool for maintaining brain health as we age. Brain imaging studies also show that dancing increases the volume of the hippocampus, a critical area for spatial memory, more effectively than traditional fitness exercises.

Additionally, dancing enhances white matter in the brain, which supports processing speed and memory. Remarkably, these improvements in white matter are not observed in other forms of exercise, emphasizing how unique dancing is in its ability to boost cognitive health.

For more insights into the amazing benefits of dancing, check out Michael Mosley’s Just One Thing podcast—a 10-minute deep dive into how dancing can transform your well-being. 🎧

Physical Health Benefits

1. Improved Heart and Lung Health
The dynamic movements of Charleston dancing improve blood circulation, making your heart more efficient. Your lungs benefit, too, as the increased oxygen intake enhances overall respiratory function.

2. Better Balance and Spatial Awareness
Charleston dancing promotes good posture and trains your balance. It increases spinal mobility, reducing the risk of issues like slipped discs. By focusing on coordination and motor skills, dance also sharpens your mind while strengthening your body.

3. Enhanced Coordination, Agility, and Flexibility
Spending long hours sitting? Charleston dancing is a perfect remedy for tension and stress. It improves blood flow to tendons and ligaments, maintaining or even enhancing your mobility. The complex movement patterns—such as coordinating your upper and lower body simultaneously—sharpen your concentration, coordination, balance, and agility.

MENTAL HEALTH

Mental Health Benefits

1. Boosted Cognitive Function
Charleston dancing improves brain blood flow, leaving you more alert and efficient. Studies suggest that dancing can reduce the risk of dementia, as the rhythmic and coordinated movements enhance connections between brain cells, keeping your mind sharp and young.

2. Greater Self-Confidence and Social Skills
Dancing releases endorphins, leaving you feeling happier, more relaxed, and satisfied. Attending Charleston dance classes also offers a chance to meet new people, building your social skills and boosting your confidence.

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Whether you’re looking to improve your physical health, sharpen your mind, or lift your mood, Charleston dancing is the perfect solution. If you’re ready to give it a go, check out our upcoming Charleston dance courses—starting soon!

Videos: Watch Pennies From Heaven, Bad Guys and Hold Tight

Watch the winter term routines from all our groups during the final term of 2024! These routines were taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, and online.

Hove Morning Group

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Hove Evening Group

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Brighton Group

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Lewes Group

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Eastbourne Group

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Portsmouth Group

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Bad Guys - Musicals Group in Hove

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Bad Guys - Musicals Group, Online

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Hold Tight - Solo Jazz in Hove

Musicals: What’s on Spring 2025

This spring, our musical dance classes offer an exciting lineup for 2025! Join us for two dynamic 6-week courses featuring routines from La La Land's "Another Day of Sun" in January and Damn Yankees' "Who’s Got the Pain," in February. You'll master iconic choreography and bring these show-stopping numbers to life. Additionally, don't miss our weekend masterclass focused on the thrilling closing number from Chicago, "Hot Honey Rag,". See below for full details and routine previews.

La La Land - Another Day of Sun

Mon 6 Jan - 7pm GMT - Via Zoom - BOOK NOW

Tues 7 Jan - 7pm - Open Space Studios, Hove - BOOK NOW

The opening song "Another Day of Sun" from the musical La La Land is a vibrant and dynamic sequence that sets the tone for the film. Performed on a crowded Los Angeles freeway, it features drivers leaping from their cars to sing and dance in a dazzling celebration of hope, ambition, and the pursuit of dreams. Its striking visuals and joyous spirit make it an unforgettable introduction to the story.

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Damn Yankees 'Who's Got the Pain?'

Mon 24 Feb - 31 March 6pm GMT VIA ZOOM BOOK NOW

Tues 25 Feb-1 April 7-8pm, Open Space Studios, Hove BOOK NOW

The dance routine "Who’s Got the Pain?" from the 1958 film adaptation of Damn Yankees is a standout moment featuring Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon—the only time they performed together on film. The number, an example of Fosse's early choreographic style, is not connected to the plot but serves as a playful showcase of their chemistry. We can’t wait to bring this routine to life in February 2025.

Original Video - Who’s Got the Pain

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Hot Honey Rag - Chicago Masterclasss

Date: 8th Feb 2-4pm

Location: Open Space Studios, Hove

Learn the iconic routine  ‘Hot Honey Rag’ at our next Musicals Masterclass.  In this two hour workshop you will master the breathtaking closing routine from the hit musical Chicago. This is a high-energy, vaudeville-style routine that captures the dazzling spectacle and dark humor of the show. Performed by Velma Kelly and Roxie Hart, it showcases their newfound partnership as they revel in their fame and freedom. The choreography, originally crafted by Bob Fosse, is iconic for its sharp, syncopated movements and intricate jazz-inspired style.

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If you would like to find out more, please email us on hello@mycharlestondance.com

Videos: Christmas Speakeasy

The Christmas Speakeasy was a dazzling evening of glitz and glamour, where everyone hit the dance floor in their boogie shoes and celebrated with us. We were thrilled to highlight the incredible talent from our classes and see so many students take the stage to perform alongside us. Here are the four routines from the night for you to watch and enjoy plus our highlights video.

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The Black Bottom - Performed by our Intermediate Group

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‘Rhythm of Life’ - Sweet Charity - Performed by our Musicals Group

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‘I’ll Always be In Love With You’ - Partner Group our Musicals Group

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The Charleston - Performed by our Open Level Students

Please save the date for our Summer Speakeasy at Brighton Spiegeltent tent on 17th May and our 1920s Tea Dance on Worthing Pier on 29th June.

Strictly Review: Chris McCausland & Dianne Buswell

Last Saturday, Strictly Come Dancing presented their Semi-Final of the 2024 series, and the dancers really stepped up their game, as each couple danced 2 routines ranging from a graceful Waltz and a Salsa danced by Tasha and Aliaz to Pete and Jowita’s beautiful Argentine Tango and Foxtrot; they really did have it all.

In amongst the different routines, it was Comedian Chris McCausland and his professional partner Dianne Buswell’s turn to swivel their way onto the dance floor with a Charleston, set to the tune When You’re Smiling by The Blue Vipers of Brooklyn choreographed by Tommy Franzen and Lizzie Gough.

This wholesome Charleston appeared to be controversial, where some viewers loved the routine and were furious with Craig awarding a 7, whereas others were in agreement with his score.

But what did you think? We’d love to hear your thoughts.

The routine opens with Chris and Dianne floating down onto the stage in a hot air balloon, foreshadowing the fun element of the Charleston, as they dodge a hologram of a seagull and Chris’ ‘gag’ with the telescope; adding to the comedic value from the outset.

After a few bars of music, the pair emerge from behind the basket, take centre stage, and immediately break into a partnered sequence in hold, consisting of Kicks, Flicks, Truckin’ (you can learn to how to Truck here) and a series of Basic 1920s Charleston Swivels.

At 0:58, the couple then complete an astonishing lift- where Chris throws Dianne over his shoulder, after which they jump up into the air, and then fall to the ground to dance some ‘Floor-Ography’ moves; perfectly in synch with one and other!

Later on, at 1:17, the pair come together once again for another partner sequence in hold, with numerous Kick Charlestons, and another Lift where Dianne flips herself over Chris’ back as she snazzily swaggers across the Ballroom; further establishing that cheeky Charleston vibe!

Nearing the end, at 1:34, the couple simultaneously complete a mini comedic sketch, before dancing a series of Knocky Knees, Bunny Hops, and a few Charleston Swivels.

As the pair bound back up the Ballroom towards the hot air balloon, Chris and Dianne have just enough time to complete a Morecambe and Wise inspired Kick, before racing into the basket where they pull smiley faces to the match the lyricism of the song and Dianne hops onto Chris’ back for their final pose- leaving the crowd screaming in delight!

I, for one, really loved this Charleston! Although this routine wasn’t danced at the traditional fast pace, it suited their partnership beautifully (and had me sobbing throughout). Dianne is such an incredible choreographer with the way she gives Chris small, subtle clues as to what the next move is. For me Chris is the epitome of pure joy, and each time I watch him dance, he reminds me that anyone can achieve anything if they put their heart and soul into it. In my opinion, this is exactly what dance is meant to do; it is meant to mean something- and this partnership really does!

It is clear that I was not alone in my opinions, as one critic exclaimed that they thought this routine “[Had] great synchronicity, which is even better when you take into consideration that he’s blind” and another stated “Great swivel and superb musicality- this routine confirmed for me that they deserve to be in the final.”

It seems that most of the Judges were also in agreement with as Motsi Mabuse stated it had “Swag [and] great rhythm,” with Shirley echoing this point with the abstract analogy that Chris and Dianne were, “Like two snowmen in the snow on the floor- perfect timing!” However, Craig Revel-Horwood, opened the Judges comments with a rather patronising statement highlighting how it “wasn’t messy actually” and the routine was “Under-energised” to which the other three Judges (and the audience) quickly disagreed. Despite beginning with these comments, even Craig could not stay too serious for long as he concluded that he “Loved the Swivel!”

Due to this high praise and the fantastic comments from the critics, the pair have managed to avoid the dreaded Dance-Off and successfully swivel their way into next week’s Final of the series.

Scores:

Craig Revel Horwood - 7

Motsi Mabuse – 8

Shirley Ballas – 9

Anton Du Beke – 9

MyCharleston – 8

By: Eleanor O’Donnell