Dancing with the Stars---Week 4 [Archive]

Larinda McRaven

06-22-2005, 09:04 PM

Previous Dancing With the Stars Discussions
Preshow and Week 1 Discussion (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=9152)
Week 1 Poll (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=9845)
Week 2 Discussion (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=9909)
Week 2 Poll (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=9927)
Week 3 (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=10023)
Week 4 (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=10123)
Week 5 (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=10219)
Finale (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=10312)

Soundtrack (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=9893t=10122)
Judges & Contestants (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=9928)
In the News (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=10054)
Music (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=10036)
Sold Out (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=9883)
Free Tickets (http://www.dance-forums.com/viewtopic.php?t=9233)

Here we Go!!
As always Joey looks like he is having a great time. His posture is greatly improved, and he even has a good samba action in his center.
Len Goodmans critique was off.
:roll:

Ashley

06-22-2005, 09:14 PM

I agree with you, Larinda--I was amazed by how much his posture had improved. On a random note, Ashly has an amazing smile!

Didn't like "tequila" for their music though. Wanted something with more rhythm!

Larinda McRaven

06-22-2005, 09:20 PM

What is up with the judges oozing all over Rachel? It iwas just okay, the tempo was rather slow and she almost fell, right before the promenade/counter-promenade runs she actually looked like she forgot the choreography...

Ashley

06-22-2005, 09:22 PM

Aaaa! I didn't prefer Rachel's samba at all, even without any boo-boos.

I agree with Carrie-Ann--it definitely had some flashy dips and moves, but the basic moves were boring. Even the shakes weren't very interesting.

It really did remind me of Austin Powers (the movie theme that was played) in that it seemed like a parody, rather than a sexy, fun dance.

I think that the judge on the right just likes Rachel. :P

GalacticDancer44M

06-22-2005, 09:24 PM

I thought Joey & Ashley did better this week than Rachel & Johnathan. But, the judges obviously disagreed.

Larinda McRaven

06-22-2005, 09:27 PM

For the first time... I am disappointed with Johns performance.

Shannon

06-22-2005, 09:31 PM

I thought Rachel's samba was just awful!!! I don't understand the judges on that one.

GalacticDancer44M

06-22-2005, 09:31 PM

For the first time... I am disappointed with Johns performance.

I agree.

pygmalion

06-22-2005, 09:32 PM

Larinda McRaven

06-22-2005, 09:33 PM

On a random note, Ashly has an amazing smile!

She has a great smile and great stage appeal! I have been really impressed with her over the weeks.

pygmalion

06-22-2005, 09:34 PM

Yes. I agree. She was gorgeous, even when she was getting disappointing scores. Her smile looks real, regardless. Wow. Good stuff. 8) :D

Larinda McRaven

06-22-2005, 09:37 PM

WARDROBE MALFUNCTION!!! I coould barely watch the dancing. I kept waiting to see how she managed her top. She kept a hand on it most of the time. And occasionally just threw caution to the wind and let go and went all out.

Alecs shirt is awesome.

GalacticDancer44M

06-22-2005, 09:44 PM

WARDROBE MALFUNCTION!!!

Kelly's? Something must have happened because she reached midway thru the dance to make sure nothing jumped out. Would have made some nice ratings! :shock: sorry

All in all, Kelly did a great job. I think she could have tucked in the tummy a little though, IMO.

Larinda McRaven

06-22-2005, 09:50 PM

Joey and Ashley are SO FUN! Fun Viennese although rather frantic.

GalacticDancer44M

06-22-2005, 09:53 PM

Joey and Ashley are SO FUN! Fun Viennese!

Yeah, I thought they did really well. The judges seemed to have already made up their mind to eliminate them.

I think all of the dancers did pretty well, but I felt Rachel's performance was the weakest this time.

Larinda McRaven

06-22-2005, 09:55 PM

Yes, I think the judges have already got it set in their minds that he goes home. He can't get a nice word from them at all.

Larinda McRaven

06-22-2005, 09:57 PM

oopps I guess we got that wrong.

GalacticDancer44M

06-22-2005, 10:05 PM

Wow. That was a surprise. Rachel was really sad. I think she's going to miss her dance partner more than anything.

pygmalion

06-22-2005, 10:05 PM

:lol: This was the first time I really liked Rachel. She looked sexy, like she had a feel for the dance, to me. *shrug* Maybe she got eliminated because of last week. :?

Either way, next week promises to be can't-miss material. :lol: :lol: Off to cast my vote. :car:

Big10

06-22-2005, 10:21 PM

For the first time... I am disappointed with Johns performance.

Me too. I kept thinking train wreck. Either he didn't feel the samba or maybe he's over-thinking it. Not sure what's going on, but he's way off his game tonight, IMO. :(
WARNING -- NON-BALLROOM PERSON INTRUDING ON DISCUSSION! 8)

I actually liked John's performance, and I thought their musical interpretation was very nice. Maybe I just don't have a good enough idea of what "Ballroom Samba" is supposed to look like. :?:

Here is how I would have ranked the couples for their Samba:

1. John & Charlotte
2. Joey & Ashly
3. Kelly & Alec
4. Rachel & Johnathan

Even though I ranked Rachel low this week, I was REALLY surprised to see her go. :shock: I felt bad when she started crying. :cry: I just never thought that Joey's fan base was large enough to overcome the last-place scores for this week, especially since I didn't think Joey performed well enough last week to get many extra votes from the "general" audience.

DanceMentor

06-22-2005, 10:26 PM

I voted for Kelly and Alec. After all they have been through, they really turned on a sensational performance this week. I would have voted to remove Joey and Ashley this week, not Rachel and Jonathan. Rachel was very sweet at the end.

leftfeetnyc

06-22-2005, 10:34 PM

I don't have a TV, so I watch the performances later on websites. So spoilers aren't much for me.

My imput based solely on the performances, having seen nothing else....

I really like Kelly. I'm not a fan of hers on a soap, I have no TV remember. But I think she really exemplifies to non-partner dancers what dancing is about. She has consistantly improved and done better with each dance. She has been battered about by th judges but keeps working and trying and having a good time in the process. So her choreography hasn't been the best, so her moves having been the best...so what, she trying and growing which I think is fantastic!

Of all the contestants, I see her and Joey going on later on and sticking with dancing, maybe ballroom, maybe something more street like Salsa or Swing (Swing especially for Joey...but Lindy Hop, not Jive).

The two of them and their enthusiasm is what's kept them on the show and made Joey have a fan base that didn't exist before. They and John's presesence are what have kept the three of them on the show. Rachel may have been a good dancer, but she was consistant and never changed. She was decent from the start and each dance looked the same as they showed of her beautiful balletic leg lines. There's a reason the public voted for her to go.

This isn't Blackpool, it's television, and audiences want the underdog who is willing to give it a shot and is having a good time to win.

Pathological Dancer

06-22-2005, 10:42 PM

I voted for Kelly and Alec this time. Performance is undeniably good. I liked them since day 1, not so much for their previous dances but for Kelly's sheer determination. I have a feeling they are going to win not only because of their good showing but the hordes and hordes of soap opera fans voting for her.

dressgirl

06-22-2005, 10:47 PM

This isn't Blackpool, it's television, and audiences want the underdog who is willing to give it a shot and is having a good time to win.

Amen to that! That is one of the most sensible comments I have heard made about this show.

Of course, on a side note, I do think the judges are trying to give lower scores to the ones getting the more popular vote - just to keep it a little interesting. But Kelly didn't really give them much choice this week. She actually did a relatively decent samba. I actually cheered for her. And her skills as a performer in handling her issues were obviously useful. My favorite is Joey, Ashley has done a great job with him.

Wildon

06-22-2005, 10:52 PM

The music left a lot top desired. Austin Powers Samba, Yikes!!! Remember, that the person to be eliminated, danced tonight just for the exercise. It was a done dea,l since the votes were based on last weeks performance and judges marks.

Charlotte looked a little clunky, and out of her field. Thank God for the VW. Overall Alex & Kelly did the best job with the samba. They did the most basics, and good job with the music.

Larinda McRaven

06-22-2005, 11:06 PM

No the deal was not set. This weeks judges scores were combined with last weeks audience votes in order to let Rachel go.

new-ish

06-22-2005, 11:07 PM

I am just amazed at how well they are all doing. I don't think Jonathan and Rachel had the chemistry that the other couples have, but still they looked fantastic!

After week two, I don't see how anyone one of those dancers could be considered a loser.

I have to admit that I've had a crush on Ashly since the first dance, the abc tv message board had a neat interview with her mom at sltrib.com/vulture/ci_2814234

ACtenDance

06-22-2005, 11:59 PM

I really enjoyed Kelly's performance tonight. It was nice to see some voltas, and how she handles the dress problem was very good.

I wasn't surprised to see Rachel go. I don't think that the viewers saw her improve much, and I don't think the viewers liked Jonathan much.

swan

06-23-2005, 12:52 AM

I was utmost impressed w/ Kelly! Unbelievable. What a great inspiration for all the underdogs ;) There's hope for everyone!

I was disappointed w/ John & Charlotte - the choice of music was not as good. John messed up.

As for costumes, I really didn't like the Las Vegas do on Charlotte & Rachel. I liked Kelly's & Ashley's hairdo was awful this week.

Summary:
The Sambas from everyone were boring except Alec & Kelly!

Absolutely Impressive V. Waltz! Utmost entertaining & everyone did a great job. No one fell. Kelly looked GREAT! Rachel actually for once didn't have stiff topline & nice standing spin. When it comes to Ballroom, no one's going to beat John/Charlotte. Hands down winner. Joey & Ashley are just entertaining - loved her standard gown & Charlotte's!

I'd love to know who picked out the wardrobe & who designed those gorgeous gowns!

smoozer

06-23-2005, 12:56 AM

Alec and Kelly get my vote. IMHO I think Alec has done a marvelous job with Kelly. I like Joey and Ashley the least.

Katarzyna

06-23-2005, 12:57 AM

I'd love to know who picked out the wardrobe & who designed those gorgeous gowns!

I believe they are all from designs to shine

Vince A

06-23-2005, 01:03 AM

The show just ended here in CA . . . I voted before reading anything . . . Kelly and Alec kicked butt . . . Kelly has flatout improved the most . . . took it to the next level. I don't think the other two can catch her, even with Joey's huge fan-based following of voters!

ACtenDance

06-23-2005, 01:10 AM

I voted John & Charlotte to help them to the final. I'd like to see John vs. Kelly in the final after seeing this week. Hopefully they'll dance both a standard and a latin... John is at a disadvantage when dancing just latin. Any idea what dances are next week?

discovery

06-23-2005, 02:25 AM

My ranking of the couples this week:

1. Kelly & Alec
2. Joey & Ashly
3. Rachel & Jonathan
4. John & Charlotte

It really seems like the judges are adjusting their scores (and probably rightly so) to offset the public vote. I voted for John & Charlotte to help keep them in. I thought joey danced well this week but I find him a little pompous. But I'm sure a lot of that is video editing as both Louis and Jonathan probably came across to the general public as pompous a-holes in their introductions the first week. Kelly definitely deserves kudos for being most improved. Everyone else looks like they did in the first week.

At this stage I too would like to see a final between Kelly Monaco and John O'hurley. I think Kelly will win because of 1) her apparently large fan-base, 2) her marked improvement, and 3) her attitude. I think it would be a great message to all aspiring students if she did win because so many times people think you have to be born a dancer; and what a great thing to see this transition on live TV.

Stiletto One

06-23-2005, 03:29 AM

Holy crap, Kelly was impressive tonight.

She was the only one who was obviously doing a samba...she might not have the leg lines and hip alignments quite right, but she's got the spirit of the dance DOWN.

I didn't really care for that spin, but whatever. The ballet lesson seems to have done wonders WRT her balance.

Of course, she was automatically at advantage over the other three dancers (Rachel's not a particularly...primal...dancer, Joey and John are guys), being the most sensual even from the beginning. :p

swan

06-23-2005, 03:37 AM

I think it would be a great message to all aspiring students if she did win because so many times people think you have to be born a dancer; and what a great thing to see this transition on live TV.

Couldn't agree more! She's really transformed. No more stiff topline. Her movement is not awkward anymore. She's feeling more musical.
I was surprised to see her V. Waltz! Knowing ballroom is not Alec's strong suit, they really pulled it off well.

Very inspirational performance today by Kelly!

bjp22tango

06-23-2005, 03:47 AM

Wow, what an improvement from Kelly! I, too, hope it comes down to John & Charlotte and Kelly and Alec. She has really come a long way. She was a bit stiff at first, but strangely enough, the wardrobe malfunction seemed to loosen her up, even as she was clutching the top for dear life.

Joey is improving, but Kelly has the better chance to improve in Latin, and John has him beat in the smooth.

I think it was mentioned that Foxtrot and Paso Doble will be next week. Since there are only three couples left do you think they will dance both dances?

If so, Kelly has the easier time of it in both. I mean who is going to watch her when Alec will be taking center stage in the Paso, and she will have a stable leader in the Foxtrot while the other two will have to lead the hardest dance. (Although with the music choices they have been making they may have uptempo Foxtrots to dance to. Anyone willing to guess what they will play for contemporary Paso Doble music?!?)

I wonder what Len is looking for, because some of his comments seem really off the wall. It is as if he were watching an entirely different performance than we saw. There can't be that much different between watching all the camera cuts and seeing them live. When they pan Joey for a relatively OK Samba with no glaring errors and then gush over Rachel with an obvious mistake, it makes you wonder what mushrooms they had in their dinner.

The female judge has been the most unbiased I think. She has made some harsh statements, but she has made them consistently, and not just to one couple. She has not gushed over any star either, like the Italian over Rachel. Yes, she has made some suspect remarks like her first nights comment to Louis, but overall she has tried to give reasons for her opinions. Talk about going against stereotype: the female is rational and the men are following their emotions!

Laura

06-23-2005, 04:50 AM

I'd love to know who picked out the wardrobe & who designed those gorgeous gowns!

I believe they are all from designs to shine

That is correct. Maria McGill/Designs to Shine

I still can't stand Kelly but she has definitely shown improvement week-to-week. You can't argue with progress. I had to laugh at the wardrobe malfunction, though...people over on Television Without Pity have been hoping for weeks that something would happen, and it's rather funny that they've suddenly gotten their wish....

Anyway, speaking of progress -- Joey's shoulders were really good tonight. I was so happy for his upright and un-hunched posture that I plan to go vote for him tonight. I wonder what Ashly did to bring about such a drastic positive change?

Rachel's samba was a let-down, and so was John's. And it was difficult to watch John dance because I was way too distracted by the (forgive me for saying this) god-awful dress Charlotte had on. And poor Ashly, her samba dress made her look huge (and she looked fine in the training clips, so it's definitely the dress).

I'm starting to worry that this is the end of the road for John, but since this is a "10-dance" competition of sorts then he needs both the Latin and the Ballroom, and the samba just wasn't there for him. Fortunately he doesn't need to move his hips in Paso Doble...but by next week it might already be too late.

Angelo

06-23-2005, 09:38 AM

My ranking of the couples this week:

1. Kelly & Alec
2. Joey & Ashly
3. Rachel & Jonathan
4. John & Charlotte

.

I agree with this ranking. Kelly has won me over with her determination and improvement week to week. The segment on her work with the ballet teacher was inspiring to watch because you could see her struggle and when she performed out on the floor you could see that her struggles are paying off. Joey and Ashly did great as well. I thought they would be gone after that jive last week.

Medira

06-23-2005, 11:57 AM

I'm voting for John and Charlotte because I really want to see them in the final. I was disappointed to see him struggle so much with the samba, but everybody has their weak points. I still think his attitude is absolutely stellar though.

I was so glad to see the improvement in Joey's posture, but the chemistry between him and Ashly doesn't seem to be the same as it was in the beginning. They were much more entertaining to watch in the beginning, imo. Joey's lack of duck bum this week made me smile though. It was painful to watch his jive last week.

Kelly's improvement just blew me away! I was so impressed to see that she took the ballet advice. It really made a difference. :D I'm glad to see that she's still got the determination to beat the rough start and I agree with what somebody said above about her being an inspiration to the people out there who would like to try it, but just aren't natural dancers. I would really love to see her make it to the finals. :)

Still though, John and Charlotte are getting my votes despite a rough performance this week. I really, really want to see him in the finals.

As a side note, I thought it was really big of Rachel to take time to hug and thank the judges and everybody. I hope she decides to keep dancing, since she's said since the beginning that it's something she has always wanted to do.

jxntwinkletoes

06-23-2005, 12:16 PM

OK, I can't believe no one has mentioned that Kelly's top almost fell off and then she kept grabbing her bosums! My husband thinks it was done on purpose to get more votes, ha. I disagree that it was on purpose but she should have had her wardrobe more secure to prevent that. Isn't it true that if you have wardrobe malfunctions in competition that you get points taken off? Anyway, I found it hard to vote because I like all of the couples and they all appear to be working really hard. I think its funny that all these non dancers are really getting into watching this show. Can't wait until next week!

LennJS

06-23-2005, 12:33 PM

I wasn't home in time to catch Joey's performance, too bad. Kelly did really amazing, no one seems to argue about that. After the first two weeks I was certain that john and charlotte were gonna take this whole thing, not anymore...

I have a theory about Joey's fan base. All the girls that were crazy about new kids from the block back in the 80s are grown up now and are all voting for Joey.

Alskling

06-23-2005, 12:37 PM

And it was difficult to watch John dance because I was way too distracted by the (forgive me for saying this) god-awful dress Charlotte had on.

The dress was ghastly, one of the worst I've seen in a long time. I wonder who makes the choice of what to wear, the dancers themselves, or the powers-that-be on the show?

ACtenDance

06-23-2005, 01:08 PM

I was so glad to see the improvement in Joey's posture, but the chemistry between him and Ashly doesn't seem to be the same as it was in the beginning. They were much more entertaining to watch in the beginning, imo. Joey's lack of duck bum this week made me smile though. It was painful to watch his jive last week.

I don't like how the training clips show Ashly and Joey kind of switching roles... like how last week he was telling her how things should be done. I got a similar impression this week. It's probably just how it was edited, but it hit a nerve with me.

cornutt

06-23-2005, 01:20 PM

I saw two lifts during the VW. Didn't they say at the beginning that they would have a no-lifts rule?

Larinda McRaven

06-23-2005, 01:55 PM

I saw two lifts during the VW. Didn't they say at the beginning that they would have a no-lifts rule?

Yes, but they weren't being judged during the VW, it was purely for audience appreciation. And considering that I must say I give credit to Joey and Ashley. They certainly did not hold back, well, they never have held back, he certainly gives it his all.

jxntwinkletoes

06-23-2005, 01:56 PM

they said for the VW last night it was exhibition style, no rules, which meant lifts were allowed

Redtango

06-23-2005, 02:01 PM

I was quite dissapointed to see Jonathan and Rachel booted this week - I was hoping that it would be down to them and John and Charlotte. John is a real showman and has the right kind of attitude that I think should be representing the amateur dancer to the non-dancing reality tv-watching crowd. It has been mentioned many times that the leader has to learn a lot more and it is much harder for a pro follower to make an am leader look good - almost for that reason alone John and Charlotte should win.
The General Hospital fans really are a strong voting force (that is if we think that the viewer votes count/are counted). Anyone notice that this is also an ABC network show? ^_~
John and Charlotte were portrayed as the early winners - so people were more tempted to give the "underdogs" a more fighting chance. But now virtually anything can happen.
I am honestly quite surprised that ballroom people are actually enjoying Kelly and Alec - I think they should have been the first ones to go! I agree she has been improving - but she is not a dancer, and not really a performer either - Joey and Evander really had personality regardless of their "dancing" ability.
And I am tempted to agree with jxntwinkletoes's husband on the costume issue, I had the same thought during the show - especially considering that the strap was nonctirical to the stability of the garment ^_~
This should be an interesting show...

Laura

06-23-2005, 03:58 PM

OK, I can't believe no one has mentioned that Kelly's top almost fell off and then she kept grabbing her bosums!

I did mention it already :)

Isn't it true that if you have wardrobe malfunctions in competition that you get points taken off?

In figure skating, yes, but in ballroom dancing competitions there's not a code of deductions that anyone has to follow. Solo routines are scored on a scale of 1-100, but in regular competitions people are merely ranked (like figure skating ordinals). No point score is associated with someone's first place, or 5th place, or whatever in regular competitions.

Can't wait until next week!

Me neither! More fun for everyone!

Laura

06-23-2005, 04:00 PM

Alskling

06-23-2005, 06:04 PM

The dress was ghastly, one of the worst I've seen in a long time. I wonder who makes the choice of what to wear, the dancers themselves, or the powers-that-be on the show?

I am not sure, but I think that the costumes are selected for the dancers. It's a logical guess at least, because I can't imagine that Charlotte would ever willingly pick that kind of outfit for herself!

That's pretty much what I was thinking. Doesn't track with what I've seen of her style at all, either on the competitive dance floor or off it.

I was told recently that Designs to Shine isn't getting paid for this, so none of the costumes were designed specifically for the dancers on the show. They're all off the rack from what the designer had available, which could narrow the costume choices significantly. Don't know if that's accurate, but that's the scuttlebutt...

Another Elizabeth

06-23-2005, 06:34 PM

BrookeErin

06-23-2005, 06:39 PM

my uneducated chime-in....

Alec exuded sensuality, but it felt like Kelly was missing the a real latin feel. I was disgusted by her grabbing her chest, not realizing it was a wardrobe malfunction until after the dance. Why is the dress completely strapless?

John and Charlotte may not be improving exponentially, but they were very together from what I could see. If nothing else, he is a fabulous performer and way fun to watch. They are still my favorites.

Joey was much improved, but maybe a bit stiff? I thought he was all over the place with the jive though. I'd like to know how Ashly did her hair; I'm looking for some new ideas since I go out so frequently.

I agree with whoever said that Rachel and Jonathan seemed to match their music in a disappointing way. It felt campy and again boring for me. Her ballet training betrayed her...I wanted her to have more street style.

discovery

06-23-2005, 06:50 PM

Larinda McRaven

06-23-2005, 07:57 PM

As a teacher I know that this is one of the things you grow into very slowly... being able to rope in and control the wild buck of a student. If he really is as headstrong as the clips portay him (which could just be creative editing!) then she simply hasn't had the teaching experience to be able to harness his spirit and redirect that energy into something more important for the task at hand. Every new teacher gets run over by a few students before they figure out how to take charge and control of the situation.

chachachacat

06-23-2005, 09:19 PM

What is wrong with balletic?????????????
Nothing!
Grace, extension, flexibility, pointed toes, posture, alignment, good arm styling and good lines are all major assets to any kind of beautiful dancing - smooth, standard, Latin, Rythmn, swing, salsa, even CW! I'm tired of people saying Rachel is too balletic. There's no such thing, IMO. Look at Olga Forapanova and David Hamilton. I don't see anything wrong with what they've done, nothing I don't see at every comp. Of course, she could be smoother and there are many traits particular to each dance that no one can absorb in such a short time.
John and Charlotte have been my favorites all along. He has great showmanship.
Last week, I voted for Rachel to keep her in, but it didn't work. I thought Mr. All-over- the place Joey should have gotten the boot.
Whatsername has improved a lot, and surprised me. Also, look at what one, ONE ballet lesson did for her!
~~~~~~***~~~~~~~~***~~~~~~~~***~~~~~~~~~***~~~~~~

Finish in 5th, on toe, arms high fifth, into a cursty, arms down to low fifth to second, and rise and smile. ~*

mamboqueen

06-23-2005, 09:52 PM

Okay; just got around to watching it.

I think most of the dresses are just AWFUL. Rachel's -- I couldn't stop thinking she looked like a peacock. Yech!

I thought Joey had really good hip movement. He's got a ways to go, but nailing the hips is not an easy thing to do.

Not that enthusiastic about Kelly. The wardrobe malfunction was too much of a distraction and her footwork was pretty sloppy - feet too far apart. She has improved, though, I'll give her that.

And if I hear this guy say SAMBA with a short A one more time.....

cl5814

06-23-2005, 09:57 PM

cl5814

06-23-2005, 09:59 PM

And if I hear this guy say SAMBA with a short A one more time.....

I hear you... thought it was just me that was eeked.

DWise1

06-23-2005, 10:10 PM

My dance buddy got us tickets for Wednesday's show (22 Jun). Don't try looking for me, though, because they stuck me behind that arch-like set "behind" the audience (behind the right leg of that arch on the judges' side). All I could see was a little bit of the floor just in front of the orchestra along with the dias. The only advantage of my seat was that the host sat right in front of me, so when he wasn't there I could watch the show on his monitor. And I set up the VCR to tape it at home (am copying that recording right now for my dance buddy -- she got a much better seat; they must have placed us based on our looks), so I'm able to see what I missed.

And we had our time on that dance floor! OK, so it was just being led to our seats, but we were out there on that floor!

Laura

06-23-2005, 10:20 PM

I was told recently that Designs to Shine isn't getting paid for this, so none of the costumes were designed specifically for the dancers on the show. They're all off the rack from what the designer had available, which could narrow the costume choices significantly. Don't know if that's accurate, but that's the scuttlebutt...

I heard that too, from a reliable source.

It's funny, though, because there's all these sketches of costumes on the walls in the "Kiss and Cry" area.

DancingMommy

06-23-2005, 10:50 PM

WAAAAAAAAAAAAAH I missed it. Can anyone tell me where to go to see the replays?

chachachacat

06-23-2005, 11:13 PM

. Also, look at what one, ONE ballet lesson did for her!
~~~~~~***~~~~~~~~***~~~~~~~~***~~~~~~~~~***~~~~~~

Finish in 5th, on toe, arms high fifth, into a cursty, arms down to low fifth to second, and rise and smile. ~*

Do you really think 1 ballet lesson made all that difference ? I can hardly believe that.
I wonder myself...
I thought about adding a qualifier. She could have had ballet lessons every day, for all we know.
Or maybe she did learn some things from the ballet teacher, that she could use right away, like posture. It's possible.

Infosaturated

06-24-2005, 12:50 AM

The promo outfits were off the rack, but the costumes for each week are begun two weeks in advance of the night they will be worn and made to measure. The designs are determined in conjunction with the producers and of course the stars do have some input.

I am not positive but I believe the dresses are on loan and provided free of charge in exchange for the advertising. Bad deal in my opinion.

Joe

06-24-2005, 07:36 AM

Look at Olga Forapanova and David Hamilton.
Olga Foraponova and David Hamilton aren't Latin dancers...

Balletic is fine for Ballroom. It doesn't work with Latin.

Joe

06-24-2005, 07:37 AM

Do you really think 1 ballet lesson made all that difference ? I can hardly believe that.
It may have been only one lesson, but it was probably a 4-hour lesson. :)

Joe

06-24-2005, 07:42 AM

Anyway, my opinion of this week's show:

John: not spectacular, but solid.
Joey: much improved. No more hunched shoulders. Maybe Ashly put him on the rack. I must say, Ashly is super adorable. ;)
Rachel was pretty much the same as the previous weeks. Consistent, sure, but not very entertaining.
Kelly seemed to be the most improved celebrity. I have to say she's incredibly game. But sweetheart, you gotta do something different with your hair!

pygmalion

06-24-2005, 08:51 AM

Kelly seemed to be the most improved celebrity. I have to say she's incredibly game. But sweetheart, you gotta do something different with your hair!

Amen, amen and amen to this Joe. :lol: :lol:

Stiletto One

06-24-2005, 09:31 AM

Well, Kelly's targeted problem (for the ballet lesson) was balance, and it doesn't really take much coaching to get that hammered out...especially when she's cranking out >4 hours a DAY dancing.

As for the 'do, I dunno, I like her hair down. For Latin, anyway. (I'm not too fond of the ballroom "look" for non-Standard/Smooth.)

Did anyone else think that the samba queen looked extremely out of place in a studio?

Angelo

06-24-2005, 09:52 AM

Did anyone else think that the samba queen looked extremely out of place in a studio?

Someone dressed like that will look out of place anywhere except Carnivale or Mardi gras.

cornutt

06-24-2005, 10:13 AM

Alec exuded sensuality, but it felt like Kelly was missing the a real latin feel. I was disgusted by her grabbing her chest, not realizing it was a wardrobe malfunction until after the dance. Why is the dress completely strapless?

It had a strap that was supposed to go around the back of her neck. Apparently it was tied in the back, and came loose early in the routine. I first noticed it when she did a spin and it flew out in front of her.

mamboqueen

06-24-2005, 05:21 PM

Maybe she should be dancing with Justin Timberlake :)

DancingMommy

06-24-2005, 05:29 PM

:doh: :uplaugh:

Edie

06-24-2005, 05:31 PM

I didn't watch the tape luntil ast night, so I haven't looked at this thread until now.

For samba I thought Joey did the best of any of the "stars". He finally got his shoulders back and his hips were the best of the group.

Kelly was much improved, she had some timing and musicality this time around. Her shoulders were still hunched now and then and anybody with breasts that large should know that stapless in not going to work (even if she started out with a little strap). That costume was just a big mistake with not enough support! Last week she had some kind of filmy, scarfy, shawl a wrapped around the bra top nd it also really detracted from her dance giving too much movement to her chest area.

John didn't perform as well this time, but he still did well. I'd have to look at it again to really give an opinon. However, finally one of the judges said the obvious after the waltz, that it is much, much harder dancing for the male "stars" than the female "stars". It's like apples and oranges to compare the two.

I'm sorry to see Rachel go. I think she has done really well and certainly is better overall than either Joey or Kelly - she just didn't have a voting fan base, but I think I enjoyed her because she seemed to really like the dancing. The samba was her worst dance so far. It didn't seem to have any samba to it... the judge who compared her (and he thought it was good) to a Las Vegas showgirl had it down. She was posing and kind of strutting, but it wasn't much of a dance and it was boring. If they thought bringing in a Brazilian samba dancer was going to help her with ballroom samba, they were mistaken - two different dances entirely.

I voted for John. I think Kelly will win because she has the fan base.

Stiletto One

06-24-2005, 06:03 PM

Well, Kelly's been doing the most Latin-like Latin dances thus far. If the judges keep up the Latin + Standard mix, then she'll be getting points in the Latin dances, and can just follow her way through the Standard dances.

EDIT: And her breasts aren't THAT big. Sheesh.

Edie

06-24-2005, 06:32 PM

I'm tall and flat chested, so the remark about the breast size is probably just cattiness! I admit it!

Big10

06-24-2005, 09:41 PM

Last week she had some kind of filmy, scarfy, shawl a wrapped around the bra top nd it also really detracted from her dance giving too much movement to her chest area.
The tone of your writing implies that the result was somehow a bad thing..... :nope: :raisebro: :twisted:

06-25-2005, 12:57 PM

I've been watching the series whenever possible. I've really enjoyed watching the show overall even though it comes of a little cheesy at times.

I tend to agree that a few of the professionals came off as pompous during the first show, so much so that I felt it was directed that way. If I remember correctly, the one that got me the most was "I am the most handsome" or something to that effect. Grant it, I did agree, but it was a little nauseating. Also, Louis show horse pony tail in the first episode had to have turned off many people watching. He came off somewhat slimy to me and I'm used to the slick back hair so I can only imagine what the general public was thinking on THAT hairdo. Nasty.

I was a little surprised to see Rachel go this week although she had been voted low before by viewers. It was hard not to feel badly for her. Charlotte samba costume wasn't the greatest - even my 12 yr old daughter asked why she was wearing that. Aside from Kelly's dress having trouble staying on, I liked their costume coordination the best so far. I think Alec's shirt is one of the best styles I have seen - great color and still masculine enough.

Rachel's hair always looked silly to me and in general, I have found the lady's hair too messy. There does seem to be a trend for wearing hair looser in even the professional circuit. Not sure I like it but maybe it is just a matter of getting use to it.

Even though Evander seemed the most uncomfortable to me, I think his participation in this show will help male participation in this sport, probably the most. He showed a lot of guts. He's obviously a very competitive person - he wasn't too happy to get voted off.

I think all the dancers are doing very well considering the time they have to get ready, how new they still are to ballroom plus dancing live must be a nerve-racking, especially as a celebrity. John is a hoot - I loved his character on Seinfield and he seems the easiest to like on this show. It's very interesting to watch how they improve each week. I especially enjoy the clips of the couples practicing.

I hope that the show is picked up again after this season. Maybe the producers can give the judges something better than those cheapy looking signs to hold up with the scores.
:roll:

Joe

06-25-2005, 02:06 PM

EDIT: And her breasts aren't THAT big. Sheesh.
It's just that she's so small/short, they look bigger in comparison. ;)

06-25-2005, 03:31 PM

EDIT: And her breasts aren't THAT big. Sheesh.
It's just that she's so small/short, they look bigger in comparison. ;)

Breast size is all relative - they're relatively large to me. And she is small/petite. :wink:

DancingMommy

06-25-2005, 03:57 PM

06-25-2005, 04:31 PM

Moi aussi - 5' (and 1/2....of an inch that is!).

chandra

06-25-2005, 04:36 PM

My dad didnt even notice the wardrobe malfunction. HEs like "they kept talkting about a wardrobe malfunction. What was it? I didnt see it?"
Shows hes just such a typical guy. [insert sarcasm emoticon]

DanceMentor

06-25-2005, 05:31 PM

I feel like John and Charlotte somehow got blessed with the "hero effect" early on. They were very fun and expressive to watch, and were the sort of people that everyone loves. They are very easy for someone to want them to win from an emotional level.

That said, I think Kelly and Alec clearly danced better in week 4. The footwork was very clean. The partnership was synchonous. And the choreography was fit them well. I feel John and Charlotte have not been as clean these last two weeks, but the "hero effect" may carry them through to a win. Regardless, I believe Kelly and Alec are the ones to beat right now.

Tigger88

06-26-2005, 05:11 AM

I don't like how the training clips show Ashly and Joey kind of switching roles... like how last week he was telling her how things should be done. I got a similar impression this week. It's probably just how it was edited, but it hit a nerve with me.

I had the same feeling which is what lead me to think he is self-important. And he did the same thing last week. He seems to be taking the roll of the sage artist who tells young grasshopper ashly that she just needs to let go and be free. But somehow as a former NKOTB, I don't think he's qualified to take that roll.

I have met Joe on many occassions, and he has always been gracious and a gentleman. Sure, he can be a little cocky at times, but I think he would have to be in order to survive the horrible reviews, etc. he got as a NK, and to survive the judge's (unfair in my opinion) comments these past few weeks.
I think he just needs some input, and is doing everything he can to win this. I don't see how anyone can fault him for that.....
Trust me, if you met him, you would like him. He is very down-to-earth (even though he has been famous since he was 16 years old), and easy to talk to. He goes out of his way for the fans (including coming out and talking to them, signing autographs, etc. when they are outside of his house or anywhere else). I just don't think it's fair to get an opinion of him without actually meeting and getting to know him.....

discovery

06-26-2005, 05:35 AM

I just don't think it's fair to get an opinion of him without actually meeting and getting to know him.....

True.

Joe

06-26-2005, 09:54 AM

Moi aussi - 5' (and 1/2....of an inch that is!).
You're Australian? :shock: ;)

06-26-2005, 10:15 AM

Ha - good one. Actually the GWN, eh.

Laura

06-26-2005, 01:55 PM

Regardless, I believe Kelly and Alec are the ones to beat right now.

They will win. Someone on the Television without Pity forums analysed the voting procedures and proved how, no matter what the judges do, that at this point the person with the most audience votes will win.

06-26-2005, 02:50 PM

I thought last week that the person with the most viewer votes got 4 points, the next 3 etc. . and then that was added to the judges votes (again 4 points for top couple, 3 for 2nd place, etc). I missed Joey's dancing but watch the rest. Did I miss something?

Laura

06-26-2005, 03:21 PM

Big10

06-27-2005, 03:19 AM

You didn't miss anything except for the power of the "audience vote determines the tiebreaker" rule. It would be better to read sgtbektar's analysis (http://forums.televisionwithoutpity.com/index.php?showtopic=3127321&st=1095&p=3150967&#entry3150967) than for me to try to explain it here.
I was extremely impressed with sgtbektar's detailed explanation and analysis....although I still don't think it makes Kelly the inevitable winner. Sure, there are a ton of General Hospital fans for Kelly -- but wasn't John O'Hurley on General Hospital as well in his pre-Seinfeld days? (I don't watch GH, but I thought I read that somewhere on the Internet or in an article.) What about fans of New Kids on the Block for Joey, or fans of Seinfeld (one of the most popular TV shows ever) for John?

Maybe I'm naive, but I'm also expecting that a certain number of "fans" of a particular celeb may have tuned into the show to see that person, but would still vote their conscience for the "best" dancer as the series nears its finale. I'm also keeping in mind that the show seems to be gathering additional viewers every week, to the tune of several million more now than in the first couple of weeks. So, if we're assuming that Kelly's support is based on loyalty, then wouldn't those faithful fans have been watching since the beginning -- with all these extra millions of curious people not tied to any particular star?

In any event, I think the show is still worth watching, and I think the final outcome is still in doubt. Of course, I'm not discounting the possibility that Kelly could end up being the "best" dancer anyway, given her improvement from week to week.....

Purr

06-27-2005, 07:53 AM

I thought Kelly was the most improved, but I still voted for John.

pygmalion

06-27-2005, 09:15 AM

Purr

06-27-2005, 09:21 AM

That's an interesting read. With the strong audience vote behind her, and her improvement every week, it does seem likely Kelly will be the winner.

Another Elizabeth

06-27-2005, 05:37 PM

It looks to me like John really needs for Kelly to beat Joey with the judges next week. If the audience vote is going Kelly-Joey-John, and if (as expected) John turns in kick-butt performances in both dances next week, then we could see two possible scenarios:

Case 1 (Judge score + audience score = total score)
Kelly 2 + 3 = 5
Joey 1 + 2 = 3 -> Joey loses
John 3 + 1 = 4

Case 2
Kelly 1 + 3 = 4
Joey 2 + 2 = 4
John 3 + 1 = 4 -> John loses (audience vote tiebreaker)

John would need both to win the judges' vote and for Joey to come in third in order to stay in the running, if he his in the bottom of the popular vote.