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Strictly The Best Charleston 2023
With the Strictly Final resulting in the recent crowning of Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystal as winners of the 2022 Strictly Come Dancing Competition last weekend, what better time to look back on all of the iconic Charleston routines that have made this series great and discover the judges highest scoring routine. Can you guess who it is?
With the Strictly Final resulting in the recent crowning of Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystal as winners of the 2022 Strictly Come Dancing Competition last weekend, what better time to look back on all of the iconic Charleston routines that have made this series great and discover the judges highest scoring routine. Can you guess who it is?
First up was Football Manager Tony Adams with his professional partner, Katya Jones who were the lowest scoring couple of the night after dancing their Charleston to ‘My Old Man’s a Dustman’ by Foster & Allen.
Tony Adams and Katya Jones:
Judges Scores: 4+6+6+6= 22
Our Score: 5
Kaye Adams and Kai Widdrington
Next up, we have Loose Women presenter Kaye Adams and her partner, Kai Widdrington who danced the second Charleston of the night to the Jazzy tune, ‘Music! Music! Music! By Dorothy Provine.
Judges Scores: 4+6+6+6= 22
Our Score: 6
Kym Marsh and Graziano Di Prima
The following week was Movie Week, and we were treated to not one, but two Charlestons. Actress Kym Marsh and her professional partner Graziano Di Prima danced a Sweet Charity themed routine set to the tune, ‘If My Friends Could See me Now.’ Partners Tyler West and Dianne Buswell danced the second Charleston of the evening to ‘Flash, Bang, Wallop!’ by Tommy Steele from the 1963 Musical Comedy; Half a Sixpence.
Judges Scores: 9+10+10+9= 38
Our Score: 8
Blue Peter Presenter, Helen Skelton and Comedian Jayde Adams celebrated 100 years of the BBC with their professional partners with TV Show inspired Charleston routines. Up first, with their performance set in a replica of the Blue Peter Creation Station, we had Helen Skelton and Gorka Marquez who danced to the Blue Peter Theme Tune. Following on from this, we then had Jayde Adams and Karen Hauer who paid tribute to the late icon Victoria Wood with their Charleston set to the tune, ‘The Ballad of Barry and Freda.’
Helen Skelton and Gorka Marquez
Judges Scores: 6+7+7+8= 28
Our Score: 6
James Bye and Amy Dowden
Strictly Come Dancing’s spook-tacular Halloween Week featured a Bee-themed Charleston danced by Eastenders Actor James Bye and professional partner Amy Dowden to the song, ‘Bumble Bee’ by Lavern Baker. However, this routine was the last dance that the pair performed on the show as they were voted off in the dance-off.
Judges Scores: 6+7+7+7=27
Our Score: 6
Ellie Simmonds and Nikita Kuzmin
We are now half-way through the competition, and it was Para-Olympic Swimmer Ellie Simmonds and Professional Partner Nikita Kuzmin’s turn to dance the Charleston. However, despite their routine set to the jazzy tune, ‘Too Darn Hot’ from the Musical Kiss Me Kate, being their highest scoring dance of the series, it was not enough to save them. As a result, Ellie and Nikita were the next couple to leave the competition.
Judges Scores: 7+9+8+9= 33
Our Score: 7
Ellie Taylor and Johannes Radebe
In the week before Blackpool, the competition standards were beginning to skyrocket as everyone wanted a chance to dance in the famous Ballroom. In a bid to earn their place, Comedian Ellie Taylor, and Professional Partner Johannes Radebe, opened the show with a Charleston set to the tune, ‘Friendship’ by Elaine Paige and Bernard Cribbins.
Judges Scores: 7+8+8+8= 31
Our Score: 8
Will Mellor and Nancy Xu
Next up, we had, Actor, Will Mellor and Professional Partner Nancy Xu take to the stage with their unconventional, yet innovative Charleston to, ‘Hush’ by Kula Shaker.
Judges Scores: 9+10+10+9= 38
Our Score: 9
Molly Rainford and Carlos Gu
Following on from this, Musical’s week then blessed our TV Screens, and we were treated to a jam-packed evening featuring some of the nation’s favourite musicals. In amongst all the pizazz, CBBC Star Molly Rainford and professional partner Carlos Gu opened the show with an awe-inspiring Charleston number to, ‘Hot Honey Rag’ from Chicago.
Judges Scores: 9+10+10+9= 38
Our Score: 10
Watch our Hot Honey Rag Charleston Routine here
Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystal
The final Charleston dances of the competition were danced by Wildlife Cameraman and Strictly Come Dancing 2022 Champion Hamza Yassin, and BBC Radio Star Fleur East. Up first, with their Scottish inspired performance, we had Hamza Yassin and professional Partner Jowita Przystal who danced to the iconic tune, ‘Pencil Full of Lead’ by Paolo Nutini. (Check out our Pencil Full of Lead Inspired Routines here). Following on from this, we then had Fleur East and Vito Coppola’s transport us to Naples with an unconventional, yet traditional Charleston set to the tune, ‘Tu Vuo’ Fa L’Americano’ by Fiorella.
Judges Scores: 9+10+10+10=39
Our Score: 10
There have been many wonderful Charleston routines throughout the 2022 series of Strictly Come Dancing, however, the Top Three Charlestons, in reference to the Judges scores, are the following:
1. Hamza Yassin and Jowita Przystal, Fleur East and Vito Coppola= 39
2. Molly Rainford and Carlos Gu, Will Mellor and Nancy Xu, Tyler West, and Dianne Buswell= 38
3. Kym Marsh and Graziano Di Prima= 35
Which Charleston routine was your favourite, and do you agree with the overall winner of Strictly Come Dancing 2022? We would love to hear your thoughts.
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
“Let’s Play Italian Swing”
On the 25th November MyCharleston Pordenone, based in the north-east of Italy and directed by MyCharleston teacher Samanta took part in an exciting show dedicated to the most famous songs of Italian swing. Samanta shares with us her story.
On the 25th November MyCharleston Pordenone, based in the north-east of Italy and directed by MyCharleston teacher Samanta took part in an exciting show dedicated to the most famous songs of Italian swing. Samanta shares with us her story.
I was very happy when the director of the “Fiati della Livenza Orchestra” called me and asked about the possibility of having some of us to dance to some old Italian hits.
It has been only a year since I started Charleston dance classes in Pordenone and I didn’t expect to have the chance to take part in such an interesting show. I’ve always loved dancing to live music even though I know it’s challenging. Live music gives you great energy and wonderful vibes but it’s also true that (especially if you are dancing in group) everything can change on the stage -tempo, accents, musician’s solos, etc. You must be ready to improvise! For example, we rehearsed to a version of the song “Baciami Piccina” (Kiss me Baby, a famous italian swing song) at a crazy tempo and then, fortunately, on the stage it was played a slower speed.
In my former career as a belly dancer I worked with different musicians and I knew what kind of problems I could encounter along the way. But MyCharleston Pordenone only opened in January 2022 and the orchestra called me in October! I contacted some of my students from my classes who had some performance experience. They were ready for the challenge!
In just two months we devised 6 different routines. Creating routines was not a problem at all. I feel that the creative process is the best part of my job. As we were short on time, routines had some repetition, followed the music and words and were easy to adapt when needed.
We met the orchestra just once to rehearse together and only on the day of the show we discovered the stage size. I was nervous about this because I knew that the theatre’s stage was quite big, but the orchestra consisted of 35 musicians.
The day of the show, when we arrived in the theatre, our biggest fear came true… we hadn’t enough room to dance, and we had to adjust all the routine just before the show!
Not everything was perfect, but we did it and everyone had a great time.
The singers and the orchestra’s director were happy to collaborate with us because a concert with dancers adds an extra sparkle and appeals to a wider audience. Making it fresher and more inspiring to young kids (some of them got out of the theatre dancing, bouncing and jumping). After the show everyone said: ‘We should do it again!”
Now we are back in the studio. MyCharleston Pordenone dance classes continue till 21st December and start again on 9th January 2023.
Whether you want to dance in the studio or on stage we are ready to Charleston together!
About Samanta
Samanta lives in Italy, near Venice and has taught oriental dance for almost 20 years. A few years go she discovered swing dance and fell in love with the Charleston. She has loved being taught the dance by Elena and Fiona and is now excited to offer dance classes to the people her area.
Strictly Review: Hamza Yassin & Jowita Przystal | Fleur East & Vito Coppola
With only a week to go until the Final of the Competition, last Sunday we were treated to not one, but two Charleston routines on Strictly Come Dancing! Both dances received high praise from both the audience and the judges; but which was your favourite? Hamza Yassin & Jowita Przystal or Fleur East & Vito Coppola?
With only a week to go until the Final of the Competition, last Sunday we were treated to not one, but two Charleston routines! Both dances received high praise from both the audience and the judges; but which was your favourite? Hamza Yassin & Jowita Przystal or Fleur East & Vito Coppola?
First up, we have Wildlife Cameraman and Countryfile Presenter Hamza Yassin and professional partner Jowita Przystal who danced a highly entertaining number set to the iconic tune, ‘Pencil Full of Lead,” by Paolo Nutini.i The choreographer is Jenny Thomas and her assistant Sean Moon. I would also highly recommend checking out Jenny’s Instagram to find out more about the making of her routines.
The routine opens with a very chilled approach with both Hamza and Jowita seated comfortably on a sofa. However, after a few shoulder bops to the opening beats, the pair spring into action with some ‘foot-ography’ (a sequence of moves that are somewhat similar to the iconic Happy Feet). Immediately following this, the couple then come together for a brief section in hold and complete a sequence of 20s Basic Charleston Swivels, and a 30s Charleston to change direction.
Later on in the routine, they complete a series of Pushes, a Lindy Hop inspired moves, and a Jump in perfect unison. They then break into a sequence consisting of multiple Shimmies, followed by their first Trick Lift- further wowing the already elated audience.
At 1:00, complete further Pushes, 20s Charleston Swivels, Kicks into a Scarecrow, a Box Step (also known as a Jazz Square), followed by a further Lindy Hop inspired sequence. Later on, the pair then go into their second Trick Lift, where Jowita hangs to Hamza’s legs as he whirls her around at break-neck speed; leaving the audience on the edge of their seat and one critic, “Watching from behind their sofa cushion.”
They then have just enough time for a few more Swivels and a quick Lift before Hamza carries Jowita back to their sofa where they collapse into their final position for a well-earned rest.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this routine and, like many others, am thrilled that Hamza has secured his place in next week’s Final. Throughout the routine, Hamza’s energy could not be faulted as he kept it up and gave 100% right through the very end. I thought each move was executed to perfection and the fact that he was wearing a Scottish Kilt, made this all the more impressive. It is clear that I am not alone in thinking this as one critic was left, “Speechless from start to finish” whilst another, “Could not stop smiling.”
Due to this, the Judge’s comments were also full of high, complimentary praise and both Motsi and Shirley giving a standing ovation. Head Judge Shirley Ballas was full of excitement as she exclaimed that she, “Love it,” and, “Applauds [Hamza] for the execution of [his] lifts,” and Motsi believed that “[The pair] have lifted the level for lifts on Strictly.”
As a result of their performance being a huge success with the Judges, Hamza and Jowita swivelled their way to success with their leader-board topping score of 39!
Scores:
Craig Revel Horwood - 9
Motsi Mabuse – 10
Shirley Ballas – 10
Anton Du Beke – 10
MyCharleston – 10
If Hamza and Jowita’s, Charleston has left you feeling inspired, why not check out our YouTube Playlist full of our “Pencil Full of Lead” routines here.
Next up we have BBC Radio star and Singer Fleur East and her professional partner Vito Coppola who transported us to Naples with an unconventional, yet traditional Charleston set to the tune, ‘Tu Vuo’ Fa L’Americano’ by Fiorella.
Set in a beautiful Italian town full of Vespas and Spaghetti, Fleur and Vito open the routine, setting the scene in an Italian courtyard.
After a few opening bars of music, the couple sprung into action as they flew down the Ballroom and broke into a sequence of perfectly controlled and synchronised, Basic Charleston Swivels.
At 0:34, we see the first of many Lifts take place, which is shortly followed by some Chugs, 30s Charlestons, Kicks (with immense height), and Pushes. The pair then come together for a further death-defying lift, where Vito flings Fleur upside down and into a Cartwheel- causing the audience to erupt into a cacophony of applause.
Later on in the routine, the pair break into an Italian inspired Musical Theatre, Cabaret-esque, sequence with immense energy, which is shortly followed by further 20s Charleston Swivels and another complex Lift, which Fleur emerges from with apparent ease. Immediately following this, the couple go on to complete a series of Shorty Georges (Learn to dance this move here), a brief section in hold and a further Lift.
At 1:24, the tempo of the track then changes, and the pair go onto complete a series of moves in Slow-Motion, including a sequence of passionate ‘Napkin-Ography,’ which further adds to the fun and pizzazz of the already Jam-packed routine.
After a few bars, the tempo picks up again and gradually increases until the pair are dancing Suzy Qs, Squat Charlestons, and Kicks at break-neck speed.
They then have just enough time for a few further flicks of their napkins before running back and into their final position, where they are greeted with an explosion of Italian Flag streamers from all four corners of the Ballroom.
For me, I really enjoyed watching this routine and felt it was a really interesting take on a traditional dance. Although the choice of song did not uphold an authentic 1920s, Jazzy feel, the routine itself was jam-packed full or original Charleston content which was incredibly fun to watch. However, there were also elements of the routine where I felt Fleur lacked fluidity and as a result, certain moves were performed with seriousness rather than upholding the intended light-hearted nature of the dance. It is clear I am not alone in thinking this as one critic stated that, “The seriousness of the dance removed the element of fun [for them].” However, it would also be impossible not to mention the high praise that their routine also received as one critic even went as far to say that “This [for them was] the BEST Charleston in Strictly History.”
Due to the mixed opinions from the audience, the Judge’s comments were overall very positive with Anton Du Beke stating that, “[Fleur is] having exactly the night [someone] would want to have in the Semi-Final” and this alongside Motsi’s statement that, “This dance [was] so authentic” left the pair beaming with pride. Even though Craig, gave some slight criticism as he felt it had, “Too much control” he too could not refrain from smiling as he felt it was, “Ah-Ma-Zing!”
Even though the pair ended the evening in the bottom two and, yet again, in the dance off, it was Will Mellor and Nancy Xu who were the next couple to leave the competition. As a result, Fleur and Vito have swivelled their way to success as they secured their place in the Final of the Competition
Scores:
Craig Revel Horwood – 9
Motsi Mabuse – 10
Shirley Ballas – 10
Anton Du Beke – 10
MyCharleston – 10
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Dance Active 2022 - Group Performances
On the 10th December, MyCharleston joined a fantastic community dance extravaganza involving over 150 dancers from across Brighton and Hove.. There was a wide range of dance styles to celebrate the dance communities within the city. Three of our groups performed on the night including our Musicals group and both our Open Level and Intermediate Charleston groups.
On the 10th December, MyCharleston joined a fantastic community dance extravaganza involving over 150 dancers from across Brighton and Hove. There was a wide range of dance styles to celebrate the dance communities within the city. Three of our groups performed on the night including our Musicals group and both our Open Level and Intermediate Charleston groups.
Dance Active is a truly celebratory intergenerational event. It involves multiple community groups performing their work and we proud that this is the 6th year we have taken part. Watch below the performances from the night. Well done to all our students who took part!
ALL THAT JAZZ - MUSICALS GROUP
FIVE FOOT TWO - CHARLESTON OPEN LEVEL GROUP
CLAP YOUR HANDS - INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON GROUP
Videos: What's on this January
If you fancy dancing with us this January you can take a peek at all the routines we will be teaching next term. Charleston to 'Minor Swing' or dance to 'All I Do is Dream of you' in our Singin’ in the Rain musicals course. Learn our 'Uptown Funk 'Street Jazz routine or 'Wham Re-Bop Boom Bam' Intermediate Charleston course.
If you fancy dancing with us this January you can take a peek at all the routines we will be teaching next term. Charleston to 'Minor Swing' or dance to 'All I Do is Dream of you' in our Singin’ in the Rain musicals course. Learn our 'Uptown Funk 'Street Jazz routine or 'Wham Re-Bop Boom Bam' Intermediate Charleston course.
CHARLESTON COURSE - MINOR SWING
we are happy to confirm this is a brand new routine and choreography to the Jazz classic ‘Minor Swing‘.
BRIGHTON & HOVE LEWES WORTHING PORTSMOUTH ONLINE
Course Dates:
Brighton: Charleston Course. Monday 9 Jan-6 Feb, 7.30 - 8.30pm, The Dance Space
Hove: Charleston Course. Tuesday 3 Jan-7 Feb, 6-7pm, Open Space Studio
Hove: Charleston Course. Thursday 5 Jan-9 Feb, 10.30 - 11.30am, Open Space Studio
Lewes: Charleston Course. Tuesday 3 Jan-7Feb, 6.30-7.30pm, The Body Workshop
Portsmouth: Charleston Course, Tuesday 3 Jan-7Feb, 7.30-8.30pm, CourtX
Worthing: Charleston Course. Wednesday 4 Jan- 8Feb , 7-8pm
Online: 6 week Charleston Course. Open Level via Zoom. Monday 9 Jan-6 Feb, 6pm BST
Online: 6 Week Musicals Course via Zoom. Monday 9 Jan-6 Feb, 7pm BST
Hove: Musicals Course. Tuesday ,3 Jan-7 Feb, Open Space Studios
Portsmouth: Musicals Course, Wednesday3 Jan-7 Feb, 6.30-7.30pm, CourtX
INTERMEDIATE CHARLESTON - wham re-bop boom bam
On our next Intermediate Charleston course we'll be teaching a solo jazz classic - Wham Re-Bop Boom Ba, - fun and a real joy to dance.
Hove: Intermediate Charleston. Thursday 5 Jan-9 Feb, 7-8pm, Open Space Studios
BOOK NOW
STREET JAZZ
Hove: Street Jazz. Thursday 10 Nov- 17 Dec, 6-7pm, Open Space Studios. Our Routine track is set to UpTown Funk
BOOK NOW
Hove: Street Jazz Course. Thursday 5 Jan-9 Feb, 6-7pm
Strictly Review: Molly Rainford & Carlos Gu
On Saturday, CBBC Star Molly Rainford and professional partner Carlos Gu opened Strictly Come Dancing with an awe-inspiring Charleston number to, “Hot Honey Rag,” from Chicago. Do you agree this should have been in the bottom two despite their high score of 38?
Last Friday, Musical’s week blessed our TV screens, and we were treated to a jam-packed evening featuring some of the nations favourite Musicals. From an iconic Sally Bowles, Cabaret-esque inspired Couple’s Choice to a Samba to ‘They Live In You,’ from the Lion Kind- they had it all.
On Saturday, CBBC Star Molly Rainford and professional partner Carlos Gu opened the show with an awe-inspiring Charleston number to, “Hot Honey Rag,” from Chicago.
Watch their Full Routine Here:
However, despite the couple swivelling their way towards the top end of the leader board with their highest score yet, there has been an uproar across the Strictly fandom over their scores from judges Craig Revel Horwood and Anton Du Beke. Even though the other two judges whipped out their 10 paddles, Craig and Anton decided not to put theirs to good use.
Do you think the couple deserved the 10s or are you more in agreement with Craig and Anton? Let’s take a closer look as to why many felt they deserved top marks.
The routine opens with Molly Rainford and professional dancer Lauren Oakley playing the roles of Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly- therefore perfectly encapsulating the scene in which this routine was inspired by. After a few moments of applying makeup, the pair run out from behind a mock-up stage curtain and swivel out towards the centre of the Ballroom. Carlos, then, strides out across the floor to greet Molly, where they then break into a sequence of Basic 1920s Charleston Swivels, Helicopters, Tick Tocks, and then dive straight into their first trick move.
Immediately following this, they then go into a section in hold where Bunny Hops, Truckin’, and a Side-to-Side Charleston are completed with apparent ease. The pair then come together for a nerve-wracking lift and leaving the audience whooping with delight with one critic commenting on how, “Molly has seriously improved technically since week one.”
Later on in the routine, further Basic Charlestons are danced in hold and used to pivot and change direction- a difficult move to master (especially with only having four days’ worth of training).
Furthermore, just when the audience thought there could not be room for anymore Charleston content, the couple complete a sequence of 30s Charlestons, Check your Nails, Flapper Walks, Spank the Babies, and Squat Charlestons at immense speed.
The pair then sprint towards the back of the Ballroom and have just enough time to complete a brief sequence of Hand-ography (Jazz Hands which were perfectly in time with the music), and a quick Cartwheel before Carlos spins Molly into their final position- igniting a cacophony of noise of the audience.
The choreographer behind this amazing dance was Jenny Thomas and her assistant Sean Moon. The routine that they created for Molly and Carlos really captured the authenticity of the Charleston and took the audience on a journey through the bright lights of Jazzy Chicago. The choreography included a great mixture of classic Charleston steps and trick moves; overall producing a brilliant, original Charleston routine of which was extremely fun to watch. I would also highly recommend checking out Jenny’s Instagram to find out more about the making of this routine.
For me, I thoroughly enjoyed watching this routine and, like many others, was shocked by the fact that they were in the bottom two yet again. Molly’s energy and characterisation could not be faulted as she kept it up and gave 100% right through the very end. I thought each move was well-executed which made for a clean, stylish, and synchronised piece. It is clear that I was not alone in thinking this as one critic felt, “It [was] undermarked and underappreciated” and another thought it was, “Hard to tell the difference between [Molly] and the other professionals.”
Due to this, the response from the judges was overall very positive and full of high complimentary praise. Head Judge Shirley exclaimed how, “[She] was not expecting that” as it was, “Absolute perfection!” Motsi was also in agreement as she ecstatically stated that, “[Molly] was a shining star.” Craig, however, could not resist in giving a little criticism as he felt her, “Elbow was a little low for, [his liking],” but even he felt it was a “Transformation,” as “This was the first time [he’s] seen [Molly] with full power and energy.”
Even though the couple ended the evening in the bottom two and in the dance off with their high score of 38, they managed to swivel their way through and keep their place in the competition, therefore securing their place in the Semi-Finals.
Scores:
Craig Revel Horwood – 9
Motsi Mabuse – 10
Shirley Ballas – 10
Anton Du Beke – 9
MyCharleston – 10
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Strictly Review: Will Mellor and Nancy Xu
With only a week to go until the Quarter Finals of the competition, last Saturday we were treated to a leader board topping routine from actor Will Mellor and professional partner Nancy Xu, who opened the show with a Charleston, set to the unconventional tune, “Hush,” by Kula Shaker.
With only a week to go until the Quarter Finals of the competition, last Saturday we were treated to a leader board topping routine from actor Will Mellor and professional partner Nancy Xu, who opened the show with a Charleston, set to the unconventional tune, “Hush,” by Kula Shaker
It appears that Will and Nancy’s Charleston has caused controversy amongst the Strictly fandom with mixed opinions being shared about the dance. Even though some were in agreement with the higher scoring from the judges and believed it was a “Sauvé, stylish take on the Charleston,” many, “Weren’t keen,” on this new approach to this centenarian dance.
Do you think the couple deserved their score or are you more in agreement with the harsh criticism? Let’s take a closer look…
The routine begins with both Will and Nancy setting the scene wearing headphones and rocking out to the tune. After a few bars of music, the pair strut out of their boxes towards the centre of the dance floor, where they launch straight into a Paddle Turn and Basic Charleston Swivels, shortly followed by a sequence of 30s and multiple Kick Charlestons. They then come together for a brief section in hold where they complete a series of Happy Feet, and Will using Nancy’s leg as an air guitar- igniting a multitude of whoops and cheers from the audience.
Later on in the routine, further 1920s Basic Charlestons are completed in hold, followed by Cake Walks and a lift. At 0:50, a sequence of Hitchhikes, Slow Motion Running (with exceptional facial expressions), and Side-to-Side Charlestons are danced with immense intensity- further establishing the Charleston-esque qualities of the dance.
Just when the audience thought there couldn’t possibly be room for anymore Charleston content, the pair complete a sequence of Tick Tocks, Cake Walks, a Lindy Hop inspired section, a Pirouette, and a Jump Lift with apparent ease.
They then have just enough time for a further few Robotic Walks, Flicks, Kicks, and Spins before coming together for a James Bond inspired ending where the crowd erupted into a cacophony of applause.
The choreographer behind this techno masterpiece was Jenny Thomas (check out her Instagram here) and her assistant Sean Moon. The routine that the pair created for Will and Nancy was well suited to Will’s dancing abilities and not only allowed him to show-off his newfound dancing abilities, but also perfectly encapsulated what the Charleston is all about- having fun!
Overall, I really enjoyed this routine. Although it was not traditional in the sense of upholding a Jazzy tune, the routine itself was jam-packed full of original and authentic Charleston content which was enjoyable to watch. Due to the amalgamation of the older Charleston style and modern music, I thought a fresh new perspective was shone on this dance, which therefore highlights, an array of possibilities and ways that the Charleston can be danced and enjoyed. Further reinforcing this dance as timeless. It is clear that I am not alone in thinking this as one critic claimed they were, “Jumping off [their] sofa at this innovative and unique performance.”
As a result, the Judges were also unanimous with their admiration and complimentary opinions. Head Judge Shirley gave the pair a standing ovation and stated, “Every single thing worked for [Will],” as he, “Nailed it.” This alongside Anton’s comment that, “This was [his] best performance of the series,” left the couple beaming with pride. Even Craig could not stop himself agreeing when Motsi stated that, “This [performance] has set the standard high for the rest of the night.”
Due to these highly praising comments, Will and Nancy Flapper Walked their way to success and topped the leader board for the first time since Week 1 with their score of 38; therefore, securing their spot in next week’s Musical Special.
Scores:
Craig Revel Horwood – 9
Motsi Mabuse – 10
Shirley Ballas – 10
Anton Du Beke – 9
MyCharleston – 9
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Strictly The Best
To commemorate Strictly Come Dancing waltzing its way back onto our screens for its 20th series, research has been done to determine the best of the best – the UK’s favourite dance style, the most popular theme week and the most viewed Strictly performance - and you may be surprised by the results!
An average of 10.9 million viewers tune in each Saturday to Strictly Come Dancing. Over the course of the series, loyal Strictly fans will spend around 1,970 minutes watching it. This is equal to nearly 33 hours sat in the comfort of their living room, watching the professionals and celebrities dance their way round the studio dancefloor each Saturday and Sunday.
To commemorate Strictly Come Dancing waltzing its way back onto our screens for its 20th series, Fenetic Wellbeing have looked back over the years to determine the best of the best – the UK’s favourite dance style, the most popular theme week and the most viewed Strictly performance.
The UK’s Favourite Dance STYLE
There’s no denying that sitting and watching the Strictly contestants Quickstep, Cha-Cha and Waltz around the dancefloor gets you in the mood for dancing. No matter what age or ability we all begin to wonder whether we’ve still got what it takes to make some moves on the dancefloor. But what dance is it that makes you want to get up and boogie too?
Fenetic Wellbeing have looked into the google search volume for each genre of dance that is performed on Strictly to determine the UK’s favourite style of dance. Here are the results per Google Search Volume:
Salsa - 20,000
Tango - 19,000
Charleston - 15,000
Samba - 10,000
Rumba - 7,800
Jive - 4,300,
Rock ‘n’ Roll - 4,200
Waltz - 3,400
Foxtrot - 3,100
Paso Doble - 2,600
The Salsa takes the top of the leader board – the sexy and high energy Latin American dance is a combination of a variety of Cuban and American dances. Following closely behind, the Tango is a very sensual dance and is known for it’s dramatic, vibrant and sharp movements. In contrast, the Charleston is a really fun and upbeat dance. Sophie Ellis-Bextor & Brendan Charleston to 'Rock It For Me' has had over 6 million views.
The Best Strictly Performance of all time!
Although all of the performances on Strictly are spectacular (well, nearly all of them!), we have looked at the number of YouTube views each performance has got and whittled it down to the top 10 performances over the last 5 series.
Danny Mac and his partner Oti Mabuse have taken the lead with over 6 million views! Their Samba to ‘Magalenha’ by Sergio Mendes made Strictly history as he became the first contestant to EVER score a perfect 40 for the dance! The Samba is usually considered one of the hardest dances for the celebrities to learn as it’s so fast-paced and technical, however Danny Mac defied the odds with his outstanding performance.
Professional dancer, Giovanni Pernice, features in the top 10 performances an impressive 3 times, not only for his performances with Faye Tozer but also for his moving performance with Rose Ayling-Ellis in the final. During Giovanni and Rose’s couples choice dance to ‘Symphony’, the music paused and there was around 10 seconds of complete silence while the pair kept dancing in perfect time to one another. Their breath-taking performance not only won a BAFTA for ‘Virgin Media’s Must-See Moment’, but also made headway in increasing awareness and understanding of deafness.
Dancers VS YouTube Views
Danny Mac & Oti Mabuse - 6,126,237
Joe Sugg & Diane Buswell - 3,056,825
Karim Zeroual & Amy Dowden - 2,880,539
Aston Merrygold & Janette Manrara - 2,857,287
Faye Tozer and Giovanni Pernice - 2,694,947
Kelvin Fletcher & Oti Mabuse - 2,683,035
Joe Sugg & Dianne Buswell - 2,457,527
Rose Ayling-Ellis & Giovanni Pernice - 2,376,848
Faye Tozer & Giovanni Pernice - 2,251,693
Alex Scott & Neil Jones - 2,228,491
The UK’s Favourite Themed Week
We know just how much viewers love the Strictly themed weeks, but which one is the UK’s favourite? Looking at viewing figures over the last 5 series1, we have calculated which themed week has the highest average viewing figures. As the dancers have been unable to travel to Blackpool to perform at the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, this week was excluded from the data. Having said this, viewing figures for Strictly’s week at Blackpool usually increase by around 6%.
Theme Week vs Average viewing figures
Final - 11,696,840
Musicals - 11,121,258
Halloween - 10,602,723
Semi-final - 10,985,994
Movie - 10,965,445
Launch - 10,965,445
There’s no surprise that the final achieves the highest viewing figures on Strictly, with the couples’ show dances, special guest performances, a final performance from the Strictly Class of 2021 and of course ... the crowning of the winners and the lifting of the glitter ball!
This year there is a special themed week to celebrate BBC’s 100 years of broadcasting where the BBC have said that dancers will dance to ‘’a theme tune from an iconic BBC programme or in tribute to one of the BBC’s most loved services’’.
Credits
1 https://www.barb.co.uk/viewing-data/most-viewed-programmes/ - NB. This data doesn’t include 2020 as the series only ran for 10 weeks due to COVID.
Strictly Review: Ellie Taylor & Johannes Radebe
With Blackpool only a week away, the competition standards are beginning to skyrocket as everyone wants a chance to dance in the famous Ballroom. Last Saturday, Comedian Ellie Taylor and professional partner Johannes Radebe opened the show by dancing a Charleston set to the tune, “Friendship,” by Elaine Paige and Bernard Cribbins.
With Blackpool only a week away, the competition standards are beginning to skyrocket as everyone wants a chance to dance in the famous Ballroom. Last Saturday, Comedian Ellie Taylor and professional partner Johannes Radebe opened the show by dancing a Charleston set to the tune, “Friendship,” by Elaine Paige and Bernard Cribbins.
It appears that Ellie and Johannes’ Charleston has caused controversy amongst the Strictly fandom, with mixed opinions being shared about the dance. Even though many were in agreement with the scores from the judges, some also thought it was overmarked and one critic even stated that the routine, “Was too simplistic for week 8.”
Do you think the couple deserved the score or are you more in agreement with the critics? Let’s take a closer look…
The routine opens with barely any time for setting the scene as both Ellie and Johannes launch themselves into high energy Charleston choreography. After a few bars of music, where pair complete a brief section of ‘Hat-Ography,’ they then go into a series of Charleston Swivels and Cake Walks; shortly followed by a quick Lindy-inspired section.
Immediately after, a further sequence of Basic 1920s Charleston Swivels, Truckin’, and 30s Charleston are completed. At 0:48, the couple come together for some, ‘Shirt-Ography’- this, alongside Ellie’s fantastic facial expressions, really establish the comedic tone of the dance and highlights how much fun they are both having.
At 0:57, more Charleston content is provided as they launch into a series of Side-to-Side Charlestons, a brief moment of skipping, followed by a lift. A sequence of Chicken Arms (with added sound effects) is also completed and adds a sense of hilarity to the already comedic dance.
They then come together for a brief section in hold consisting of Basic 1920s Charleston Swivels, Squat Charlestons, and Kicks. They then have just enough time for one more 30s Charleston and a quick spin before ending the routine with further duck imitations and collapsing on the floor for their final pose.
Overall, I respectfully disagree with the critics as I thought this was a jampacked whirlwind of a routine. I thought Ellie really came into her own during this dance as her personality shone throughout. Although the choice of tune is not a traditional 1920s jazzy number, I thought it was well suited as it clearly reflects how much of an established partnership, as well as friendship, Ellie and Johannes have. Adding to this idea further, one critic said that “[They] loved the partnership [and thought] Ellie was on top form in terms of dancing.” However another disagreed and, “Didn’t understand the song and [they felt] the routine was too stop-start.”
Due to this, the comments from the judges were overall very positive as Head Judge Shirley gave Ellie a standing ovation whilst stating how there was, “A lovely swivel, lovely connection and [Ellie was] definitely, definitely on a roll.” Adding to this praise, Anton felt there was, “A huge improvement from last week.” However, the comments were not absent of slight criticism as Craig, “[Felt] it could have been sharper,” but even he could not keep a smile from his face for long as he went to say, “There were some really difficult rhythm patterns that [the pair] coped with so well.”
Scores:
Craig Revel Horwood – 7
Motsi Mabuse – 8
Shirley Ballas – 8
Anton Du Beke – 8
MyCharleston – 8
Thankfully, it appears the curse of the Charleston has now been broken as Ellie and Johannes avoided the dreaded dance off and have successfully swivelled their way into next week- therefore securing their place to dance in Blackpool Tower Ballroom.
If you’re now feeling inspired to channel your own inner 1920s Flapper, why not check out our Charleston adult dance classes
Or head over to MyCharleston’s ‘Move of the Week’ and get those feet swivelling to transport you back to the 1920s…
Charleston Move of the Week - YouTube
By: Eleanor O’Donnell
Strictly Review: Ellie Simmonds & Nikita Kuzmin
We are now halfway through the Strictly Come Dancing competition for 2022 and last Saturday, Para-Olympic Swimmer Ellie Simmonds and Professional partner Nikita Kuzmin took to the stage dancing the Charleston to the jazzy tune, “Too Darn Hot” from the Musical by Kiss Me Kate.
We are now halfway through the Strictly Come Dancing competition for 2022 and last Saturday, Para-Olympic Swimmer Ellie Simmonds and Professional partner Nikita Kuzmin took to the stage dancing the Charleston to the jazzy tune, “Too Darn Hot” from the musical Kiss Me Kate.
Watch their full routine here:
However, despite the couple scoring a highly respectable score of 33, Ellie and Nikita were the sixth couple to leave the competition. This, in turn, caused an uproar across the Strictly Fandom with many believing, “The wrong couple went home.”
Do you think the couple deserved to remain in the competition, or were you in agreement with the overall decision? Let’s take a closer look as to many felt this way…
With both Ellie and Nikita dressed in their finery, the routine opens with Ellie flamboyantly wafting a feathered fan; therefore, perfectly encapsulating the vibe of a 1920s Cabaret act.
After a few moments of momentary wafting, Ellie breaks into a solo piece consisting of basic 1920s Charleston Swivels; she then sassily saunters across the stage to meet Nikita where further kicks and flicks are performed.
At 0:22, we see the first of many lifts which is shortly followed by a brief section in hold, further Charleston Swivels, a Kick Charleston, and another lift-which was highly appreciated by the audience as one member commented on how, “[Her] agility in those lifts is just amazing!”
At 0:49, the pair go on to complete a series of Kicks, Silly Runs, and Bunny Hops in perfect synchronisation which further establishes the idea that Ellie really has put her heart and soul into this dance.
Nearing the end of the routine, Nikita throws Ellie upside-down as the pair complete a series of complex lifts before they return to Truckin’, repeated Jumps, and Swivels- also perfectly in time with the music.
The pair then have just enough time for a few more Kicks, Flicks, and Jumps before Nikita flips Ellie into their final pose- which results in a cacophony of noise from the audience.
Overall, I though this routine was well thought out and well executed by both. The choreography, although appearing basic, contained a sufficient number of Flips, Tricks, and Lifts to keep the audience entertained. However, there wasn’t quite enough Charleston content for me as I kept waiting for moves such as, ‘Check your Nails,’ ‘Apple Jacks,’ and ‘Side-to-Sides’ to really make it scream ‘Charleston!’ I also thought that Ellie’s basic Charleston step could do with a little more Swivel Action and I was surprised that this was not picked up on- especially by Craig. It appears I was not alone in thinking this, as one Critic also thought that “There [wasn’t] enough energy or exaggeration and the technicality of each move [lacked] finesse.” However, it also has to be said that many others really enjoyed this routine and, “Loved her musicality and performance.”
As a result, the Judges comments were mostly full of complimentary praise for the couple as Head Judge Shirley, “Loved it” and felt it was, “Heartfelt and had the wow-factor that every good Charleston should.” Motsi was also ecstatic in her response as she stated that, “[Ellie has] raised the level […] and really put [her] heart onto the dance floor.” Although Craig was slightly critical of Ellie’s footwork, overall, he also thought it was, “Incredible.”
However, despite Ellie and Nikita receiving their highest score of the series so far, it was not enough to save them as they found themselves defeated in the Dance-Off against Molly Rainford and Carlos Gu. In her final speech, Ellie mentioned how she would now be, “Dancing forever” which reinforces the inclusive nature of dance and how much of an everlasting, positive impact it can have on someone’s life.
Scores:
Craig Revel Horwood – 7
Motsi Mabuse – 9
Shirley Ballas – 8
Anton Du Beke – 9
MyCharleston – 7
If you’re now feeling inspired to channel your own inner 1920s Flapper, why not check out our Charleston adult dance classes
Or head over to MyCharleston’s ‘Move of the Week’ and get those feet swivelling to transport you back to the 1920s…