A top notch It Takes Two on Wednesday evening.

Lynda Bellingham and Darren Bennett were first up.

Lynda spoke about getting emotional. Once she had come off stage after getting enough viewer votes in week one she found herself shedding a tear.

Darren added: “Already we’ve got a great sense of a team,” meaning that getting through each week is tinged with sadness at seeing a colleague leave.

In an evening of quality It Takes Two quotes Lynda provided these three corkers:

“I wish we could have a group dance every week because you go to work and feel like you’re a dancer.”

“I thought to myself: ‘I can deal with my body issues’ and then I was standing next to Ola.”

“The paso is all about bulls and I’m playing it as a stroppy cow.”

Darren is the highest scoring male pro dancer in the paso, according to Winkleman. I’m pleased we are getting more stats this year. It’s been a sadly neglected area until now.

Nervy stuff

We were then treated to a montage of celeb interviews in which they gave soundbites reviewing their first week performances. It turns out many of them were quite nervous. I bet you didn’t know that, did you?

Matthew Cutler and Lilia Kopylova then reviewed training footage.

This was a very good section.

The couples are doing either a quickstep or a paso doble this week. Winkleman asked Matthew: “When I say paso doble I’m just thinking ‘John Sergeant’, are you?”

“No.”

Lilia gave her views on some of the quicksteps. here is a summary of her pearls of wisdom:

Brian and Ali – looking good needs more character.

Rav and Aliona – the beginning needs a a lot of work and when they get together it doesn't look like they are connecting at all.

Craig and Flavia – there’s something strange going on; there’s no connecting between his upper body and lower body.

Phil and Katya – it’s looking really good but given the length of his legs he could afford to have a little bit more body movement to make his steps bigger.

Matthew reviewed some of the paso dobles:

Joe and Kristina – I'm hoping he's going to come out and smash the judges away. This should be his dance. I think he’ll go for it.

Jo and Brendan – she’s definitely getting into the character but it’s a little bit loose up top. She needs to go out there and forget about last week.

Zoe and James – looks like she knows what she’s dong already. Nice clean lines, nice posture. One to watch, definitely.

Next onto Winkleman’s coiuch were Chris Hollins and Ola Jordan.

Chris said the quickstep training is not going well this week.

For what it’s worth the training footage looked very good in my view.

Ola said: “He’s very negative. He doesn’t know how good he can be.”

Chris said Ola is tough on him in training, pointing out that she even criticises the way he counts to eight. “But it works,” he added. “Don’t give me carrot, give me stick.”

Last on were Natalie Cassidy and Vincent Simone.

She’s coming across as very determined which surprises me (she wasn’t like that at the press launch a month ago) but I think it will help her go some way in this series. After her tango got four sixes from the judges she said “I would have liked to have seen a seven or an eight.”

She then recounted an amusing incident from their training. Vincent stopped dancing and said: “I’ve forgotten.”

“Why,” Natalie asked him.

“Because I was thinking how good I am.”

Only Vincent could say that.

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Just a quick reminder about Strictly Come Dancing professionals Brian and Kristina’s class – it’s this Sunday evening.

Details from the press release below:

Wandsworth Palais, 52-54 Wandsworth High Street, London, SW18 4LD

Sunday 4^th October – 7pm to 9.30pm

Strictly Come Dancing stars Kristina Rihanoff and Brian Fortuna are holding a one-off dance class at the Wandsworth Palais on Sunday 4^th October.

Kristina and Brian are much in demand as professional dancers and they are both starring in the next series of Strictly Come Dancing which will be back on BBC1 in the autumn.  This dance tutorial is a rare opportunity to see Kristina and Brian perform up close before the new show starts and also to be taught by them in a special salsa class.

Kristina said: “Brian and myself are really looking forward to teaching this dance lesson at the Wandsworth Palais. We don’t often get much chance to teach classes anymore so this is going to be great fun and we are working on our salsa routines at the moment for the event.

“This class will be at a beginner’s level but I think dancers with some experience will also get a lot from it.”

Kristina and Brian will be holding their beginner’s salsa class at the fabulous Wandsworth Palais ballroom that has been recently refurbed and has a superb and spacious dancefloor. The event starts at 7pm on Sunday 4^th October and will run till 9.30pm. There will be a 45-minute dance class followed by some salsa show dances by Kristina and Brian, and a question and answer session with both stars. Then there will be a social dance and at the end there will be plenty of opportunities for autographs and photographs.

Tickets are £40 per person or £70 for a pair and can be booked via ticketweb on http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/user/?region=gb_london&query=detail&event=338425

Yes, our weekly review of the hairstyles sported by The Tess Daly (she’s everyone’s favourite newspaper) returns.

An excellent range in week two, I thought. The Friday night barnet required photography from a number of angles to do it justice. Here we go:

Friday September 25. A pony tail with parting directly above the left pupil:

Saturday September 26. Back to the classic Tess look:

OK, that concludes this week’s Tess Daly hair update.

Hold on, what happened to Winkleman’s well brushed hair of Monday?

It’s gone and back is the shaggy hair over one eye look.

Apart from that here is the rest of the show’s highlights:

Craig Kelly and Flavia discussed how they decided to do the tango instead of the rumba (they got the same score 22 for both): Flavia thought the tango’s music would be more upbeat, Craig felt more comfortable in hold and reckoned the technical comments from the judges about their rumba would play on his mind.

Winkleman asked Craig we should expect from their forthcoming quickstep. “Steps that are quick,” replied Craig.

Genius.

Head judge Len turned up to do Choreography Corner. It wasn’t very illuminating but he did refer to Natalie Cassidy as being “like a puppy that had just been let off the leash” when referring to the way she danced on her own during her routine with Vincent.

Zoe Lucker and James Jordan appeared and brought us back to reality. James said Zoe (the highest scoring female celeb in this series so far) was the slowest to pick up the steps of all the people he’d ever taught. But he did say it in a nice way and they clearly get on well. We were also treated to a montage of Zoe getting confused between her left and right. Time after time. That should do her confidence the world of good, eh?

Last on were Phil Tufnell and Katya Virshilas.

Phil has really been bitten by the Strictly bug, hasn’t he? He was so enthusiastic about how much he loved the waltz. “It think it’s the first time I’ve been romantic in my life,” he said.

Katya said she thought (judge Craig’s) four for their cha cha cha was too low.

Alas there was no time for Winkleman to explore the meaning of flagellant.

Richard Dunwoody was knocked out of Strictly Come Dancing series seven after losing to Craig Kelly in the dance-off.

The judges’ scores
After the judges’ scores from Friday night and Saturday night had been added together the leader board looked like this:

Ricky Whittle and Natalie Lowe 33 + 32 = 65

Zoe Lucker and James Jordan 30 + 31 = 61

Laila Rouass and Anton du Beke 30 + 25 = 55

Phil Tufnell and Katya Virshilas 29 + 22 = 51

Natalie Cassidy and Vincent Simone 24 +26 = 50

Craig Kelly and Flavia Cacace 22 + 22 = 44

Richard Dunwoody and Lilia Kopylova 19 + 19 = 38

Jo Wood and Brendan Cole 18 + 18 = 36

The dance-off
After the viewers’ votes were added to the judges’ leader board Richard and Lilia and Craig and Flavia were left in the bottom two and faced the drama of the dance-off.

The judges voted as follows:

Judge Craig: Craig and Flavia

Judge Alesha: Craig and Flavia

Judge Bruno: Craig and Flavia

So out went Richard and Lilia.

Head judge Len’s vote was not needed but he said he would have voted for Richard and Lilia. We think he must have watching a different dance-off from the rest of us. Lilia danced brilliantly but Richard didn’t quite do as well.

(Our thanks to the ever brilliant Miss Bubbles for doing the live blog – you can read her comments in the previous post)

My full review of Saturday night’s performances:

Phil Tufnell and Katya Virshilas – cha cha cha

Brucie: What a start, well done. You’re only poking your tongue out when you’re looking at the judges.

Our view: She’s outdanced him. Some nice moves but dodgy arms.

Blogger’s wife: Disappointed about the yellow dress. Full of Phil’s personality but the dancing wasn’t that good.

Head judge Len: Phil it was a bit like the England cricket team after winning the Ashes: from magic to tragic. I didn’t like your posture at times sometimes your footwork wasn’t there but on the positive you got through it and there were no major incidents throughout. Well done.

Judge Alesha: No-one can argue you didn’t bring cheekiness to the dance. You moved across the floor really well. I love your energy and enthusiasm try not to let that hinder your control in the dance.

Judge Bruno: You have this natural easy going sense of fun. You’re a bit of a stage animal and people like you; you do have this ability to connect with the people. It doesn’t always translate to your feet but you’re good to look at.

Judge Craig: It didn’t exactly set the studio on fire, sadly. Very flat footed throughout, the arms were flagellant. Your tongue had more action than your hips but I have to say you are a likeable personality on the floor, you really are.

4 6 6 6 = 22

Craig Kelly and Flavia Cacace - rumba

Brucie: Well done Craig. Marvellous. You got a lot of raunch into that.

Our view: Like last night’s performance it’s a middle of the road affair. It won’t trouble the top of the leader board but it will be enough to put him in the middle. Last night I commented that the middle area can be a tricky place to be. We’ll see…

Blogger’s wife: Ugly hands distracted from the rest of the dance.

Head judge Len: You did have good hips but there was a lot of posing going on and the running promenades were clumsy looking but you do come out and give us a performance.

Judge Alesha: Well I thought your posture was OK and you made a real effort with your hands and attention to detail. You really, really tried. I commend you for trying.

Judge Bruno: I like your focus - you went for it all the way through. It was a bit wooden and mechanical. There is work to do and your determination is great.

Judge Craig: I thought it was all a bit stilted and full of abrupt stops. Your walks forward were a little awkward and I thought you were presenting Flavia rather than telling that push and pull story of the dance of love but I think you can dance and in my heart of hearts I know you are going to grow.

5 6 5 6 = 22

Laila Rouass and Anton du Beke – cha cha cha

Brucie: There were a lot of laughs in that.

Our view: Looked good but didn’t reach the heights of Friday’s performance. She did enough to prevent me watching Anton do a Latin dance and that has to be a good thing.

Blogger’s wife: Stunning dress and she really looked the part. Always awkward watching Anton doing Latin but it was a credible first Latin performance.

Judge Craig: The spins you did were very clean and very good. You got out of sync a couple of times. I would like to have seen a lot more attack in your kicks. The whole thing lacked excitement. I’m disappointed. There is a lot more in you that we did not get to see tonight.

Head judge Len: Laila has a lot of potential. I love to see a bit of basics in the routine but It was a like a garden with no flowers. It was very safe. You did well but it was a little bit safe; go for it.

Judge Alesha: Not as good as yesterday. It lacked the attack that I want to see. You have great natural rhythm and you can go a long way in this competition. You have to come out and attack.

Judge Bruno: I cannot believe the waste of all that magnificent equipment. It’s like having a Ferrari and driving 20 miles an hour. I’m so disappointed.

6 7 6 6 = 25

Zoe Lucker and James Jordan - rumba

Brucie: That was so lovely.

Our view: Two odd hairstyles twirled around the dance floor quite well. Good performance.

Blogger’s wife: I was a bit distracted by her hair covering her face. I think the hair department has let a few of the dancers down. Well danced, I wasn’t uncomfortable watching it.

Judge Alesha: I loved it darling. I expected you to come out and do a filthy rumba but I thought it was really sexy but not over the top. Fantastic chemistry between you. You acted it right from the beginning to the end. Wicked.

Judge Bruno: I really felt it. The chemistry was incredible. You never left the eyes all the way through {Bruno kind of lost it here].

Judge Craig: I think we’re going to have get Bruno a cage. I thought it was smackingly good, I really did. It was like peeking through a keyhole at a private moment.

Head judge Len: I liked your arms tonight. You danced very, very well. For me the whole thing was more suited to a bedroom rather than a ballroom. It was over-raunchy. I liked your dancing but I’m talking about a characterisation of the rumba which is about a developing romance between two young people.

8 7 8 8 = 31

Jo Wood and Brendan Cole - rumba

Brucie: Good girl, Jo. How about that?

Our view: I wasn’t looking forward to this but it was a bit better than I expected. That said, I won’t be watching this routine again on iPlayer.

Blogger’s wife: I love that song and I wish they hadn’t chosen it. And that’s all I’m saying.

Judge Bruno: You did a very, very difficult dance all the way through to the best of your ability. You should be proud.

Judge Craig: I don’t wish to sound unkind but the best part of that was when you were standing still. The free arm had no definition, she was on bent knees throughout the entire routine.

head judge Len: I’m so pleased for you Brendan. It would have been so easy to have given all the choreography to you but you didn’t; it was a full on rumba.

Judge Alesha: Beautiful song choice. I preferred tonight’s dance, I think this suited you better. Not technically perfect but you had the sensuality and I have to commend you for trying.

Brucie: You’re my favourites.

3 5 5 5 = 18

Richard Dunwoody and Lilia Kopylova – cha cha cha

Brucie: Well Richard, come on, come on.

Our view: Lilia has done that really well, he hasn’t. Out of time, out of sync. Shame.

Blogger’s wife: Is Lilia competing with Ola to see you can wear the least? He lost the timing but I quite enjoyed it. Only a few moments where I wanted to shut my eyes.

head judge Len: You come out confident. Bright, lively, a bit skippy and your hips are not there. It suddenly went a bit bezerk but I enjoyed the gaiety of it all.

Judge You’re adorable, Richard, you brought a smile to everybody’s face. You don’t have natural rhythm but I kind of don’t really care. It was bit more jivey but you’ve got a great attitude

Judge Bruno: How many espressos did you have today? You were marching to another tune.

Judge Criag: It’s left me with a smile on my face. Lots of timing issues. It was blocky, placed and wooden. You lost it halfway through and the end was late but I suppose in a vague way it was entertaining.

Brucie: I’m going to make you my second favourites.

4 5 5 5 = 19

Ricky Whittle and Natalie Lowe - rumba

Brucie: How about it? Come on. It was hot in here anyway but you’ve raised the temperature by another 20 degrees.

Our view: Crikey. He’s in a different league from the others this weekend, isn’t he? So confident and controlled. It did look a little sharp and not fluid when he did the spins but, wow, a first-time male rumba and we got that.

Blogger’s wife: Hair and dress disaster for Natalie. The performance was in a different class.

Judge Alesha: It’s so refreshing to see a male celebrity really dancing at this stage in this competition. You don’t often see that. Your continual movement was what was so special. It was so fluid. I’m looking forward to seeing your journey on this show.

Judge Bruno: Ricky, so macho and so in control. Smooth. You know how to work a girl, I tell you that. Totally in command.

Judge Craig: Slick, confident, masculine, sexy - you are born to dance. That was absolutely amazing. I’ve never seen a first Latin dance done by a male celebrity like that.

Head judge Len: Dancing is all about light and shade. Big, small; hard, soft. This was harder than a cut in your wage packet, It was too fast and sharp. You’ve got to get a blend of movement in there but you are the one to beat.

8 8 8 8 = 32

Natalie Cassidy and Vincent Simone – cha cha cha

Brucie: How about it, Natalie? Well done my love that was wonderful

Our view: That’ll be enough to put her in the middle of leader board, no more, no less. And the EastEnders fans at home will keep her safe from the dance-off. She didn’t get the audience going like Ricky Groves did when he performed the cha cha cha and the result of that was we ended up focusing on her technique rather than sitting back and enjoying the party atmosphere.

Blogger’s wife: I liked the colour of her dress but I didn’t think the design was at all flattering. I found the dance a bit dull.

Judge Craig: I liked it but I didn’t love it. You were picking your feet up, it looked like a chicken in a hen coop. A bit more verve and energy.

Head judge Len: I love your enthusiasm and it was better than last night’s tango.

Judge Alesha: You showcase her personality really well, Vincent. You’ve It was bit skippy and the hands were a bit odd. If you can get your technique up to the standard of your performance, Natalie, you have a real shot. Keep at it.

Judge Bruno: You were not firing on all cylinders. You went wrong a few times. You know you can come back and show us what you’re really made of.

6 7 7 6 = 26

My pick for elimination was Jo Wood (when I wrote the preview blog post on Friday afternoon) but she got enough viewer votes to escape the dance-off. I wonder if Craig’s tough comments prompted people to call in with a sympathy vote for her?

Your views
What do you think about the result? Should Jo Wood have been in the dance-off? Should Richard Dunwoody have stayed in?

And how do you think judge Alesha did this week? I thought she hit her stride this week and delivered what the BBC put her on the judging panel for. I also thought Brucie was nicely supportive of her on Friday night.

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Show kicks off:

"Nice to see you, to see you, nice!" Oh Brucie - there's life in the old dog yet. Tess Daly's wearing a tango orange dress, very simple - very nice. But who's dressed Alesha Dixon? She's in a terrible pink leopard-print dress. 

Time to meet the dancing celebs and both Rav Wilding and Ricky Whittle have got their chests out. Ricky's in pink... very nice! Jo Wood's dress is bizarre.

Phil Tufnell & Katya Virshilas - cha cha cha

Tuffers is enjoying himself and it's infectious. Who cares if he's not the best? You can't take your eyes off him so I hope he doesn't go tonight.

Judges' comments:  Alesha says that the cha cha cha is a cheeky dance (who's scripting her?). "I loved your energy. I loved your enthusiasm," she tells Tuffers.

Judges' total score: 22

Latin and ballroom score: 51

Craig Kelly & Flavia Cacace –  rumba

Craig has a very intense look on his face. He's tryng hard to bring this dance off. It's OK - but nothing special.

Judges' comments:  Ooooh! Alesha disagreed with Len Goodman's criticism of Craig's movement. That's a turn up for the books. She also commended Craig for trying.

Judges' total score: 22

Latin and ballroom score: 44

Laila Rouass & Anton du Beke – cha cha cha

They're dancing to Sway by Dean Martin - always a good tune for a cha cha cha. Have to say, I preferred last night's dance. This doesn't have much passion at all. It's very mechanic.  

Judges' comments: Alesha says, "Not as good as yesterday. It lacked the attack that I want to see." I agree. Can't argue with that.

Judges' total score: 25

Latin and ballroom score: 55

Zoe Lucker & James Jordan – rumba 

The Footballers' Wives star is dancing to Gabrielle's Out Of Reach. Blimey - what's she wearing? The bottom half looks like a gigantic spider. But the dance itself is gorgeous. Lots of heat between them.

Judges' comments:  Alesha says, "I thought it was really sexy, but not over the top. Wicked!" Len thinks it's more suited to the bedroom than the ballroom. Hahaha!

Judges' total score: 31

Latin and ballroom score: 61

Jo Wood & Brendan Cole – rumba

Ronnie Wood's estranged wife has got fantastic legs! OK, it's not going to be the best of the night but she danced much better than on Friday's show.

Judges' comments: Oooooh! Brendan and judge Craig are having a bit of a tiff. Brendan didn't like Craig's remarks about Jo's lack of movement. Alesha said that she preferred tonight's dance, although it was not technically perfect. "Beautiful song choice. I preferred tonight's dance. I think it suited you better," she says.

In the back with Tess, Brendan calls Craig an "idiot". Ooooh! Bruce makes them his favourites - bye bye.

Judges' total score: 18

Latin and ballroom score: 36 

Richard Dunwoody & Lilia Kopylova – cha cha cha 

The music is Wham's I'm Your Man but I can't call it dancing. Richard hasn't got any rhythm but it's kind of an entertaining dance.

Judges' comments: Alesha smiled and said "You're adorable Richard. You don't have natural rhythm. It is a bit more jive-y than cha cha." Bruce makes them his second favourites - dance off here comes Richard.

Judges' total score: 19

Latin and ballroom score: 38 

Ricky Whittle & Natalie Lowe – rumba

They both look sensational. Ricky's showing off his buff chest in a pink shirt... love Natalie's dress - not too sure about her hair though. It's a nice rumba, assured and hot.

Judges' comments: Alesha said: "It's so refreshing to see a male celebrity dancing so well at this stage." She's blown away and excited to see the rest of his journey in the competition.

Judges' total score: 32

Latin and ballroom score: 65 

Natalie Cassidy & Vincent Simone – cha cha cha 

She doesn't look too bad in that blue frilly dress. Natalie even looks as though she's lost a few pounds. Yeah, the girl's doing alright and it's a sweet cha cha cha.

Judges' comments: Alesha said that Natalie should keep at it. Words to live by...

Judges' total score: 26

Latin and ballroom score: 50 

My favourite celeb tonight: Phil Tufnell. I know that Ricky's a better dancer but Tuffers is a joy on the dancefloor

My least favourite celeb tonight: Richard Dunwoody. Sorry but he wasn't very good.


The professional dancers are now doing a paso doble and one of the songs they strut to is U2's Vertigo. Can't wait to see the celebs attempt it. And we're treated to Tess talking to the celebs in the back room (padding). Now it's time for the professional dancers to do a quick step. It's very glamorous... very 1940s Hollywood. Gene Kelly would love it.

Bruce introduces Jamie Cullum who performs while the professional dancers dance around him.

We're about to find out who's through to the next round of the competition....

The Dance-off

It's another week that produces a shock! Shocking result Jo Wood is through!!! It’s Richard Dunwoody and Craig Kelly in the dance off. Shocking!
 

 Here we go...

Craig dances first and Richard dances second... poor Richard. It looks like he's going tonight.

The Judges' Decisions

Craig saves Craig 

Alesha saves Craig
 
Bruno saves Craig

Richard's out...

It's academic, but Len would've saved Richard. So, we say goodbye to Richard Dunwoody.

And that's a wrap! What did you think of tonight's show? Has the right person gone out? We'd love to hear from you so please have your say. That's it from me, I'm out of here. Join MSN's Strictly blogger Matt Ball for his full recap of tonight's show. I'll be back next week for another live blogging session.
 
Goodnight from Miss Bubbles.

Here is the leader board after a fun Friday night of action on Strictly Come Dancing series seven week two.

Hollyoaks actor Ricky Whittle is top after a good waltz. He did slip during the routine but the judges preferred to focus on his overall performance.

Below is our full review of the Friday show.

As usual we offer our view, blogger’s wife’s view, a summary of the judges’ comments and the scores (the order of the scores is: Craig, Len, Alesha, Bruno)

And we provide My Forsyth’s enthusiastic reaction as each couple comes off the dance floor.

Natalie Cassidy and Vincent Simone - tango

Our view: Yes, well done. She’s acted that very well and I liked some of the footwork.For the first one out tonight that was OK.

Blogger’s wife: I thought the characterisation was good the footwork was good but her top line was poor.

Brucie: How about that? How about that? Oh-ho! Well done.

Head judge Len: You should be happy. You got through it without a mistake. It was neat, it was precise. It was a jolly good job well done. Just lift your rib cage and get more of a decent posture.

Judge Alesha: What I like about you Natalie is you've come out here and decided to take this competition by the scruff of the neck. The role play you have out there is fantastic. I thought the body contact was OK but don’t be afraid to push up against him more. I think you did great, well done.

Judge Bruno: I think the choreography was very good but very difficult. Pull up, if you don’t, the top line goes to pieces.

Judge Craig: I really loved all the adornments in all that. Loads of drama at the beginning and at the end but it lacked any purpose or intent but a very good effort.

6 6 6 6 = 24

Zoe Lucker and James Jordan – waltz

Our view: Oh yes they’ve done a great job for their first dance with that. She’s played the part and they work well together.

Blogger’s wife: Beautiful dress loved it. Quite good storytelling. Nice and gentle.

Brucie: Oh, that was beautiful. I was really moved.

Head judge Len: It had movement but it needs a tad more. Beautiful arms at the start. I had a smile on my face because there was James there looking more like the last mohican [James responds with a comment about it being better than a comb over].

Judge Alesha: Zoe the waltz is my favourite ballroom dance and watching you do it reminds me why. It was so romantic and it was a joy to watch. Well done.

Judge Bruno: Zoe I cannot believe it. The evil queen of wags is transformed to the picture of elegance and poise.You are so smart James, you showed her at her best. For me it was absolutely beautiful.

Judge Craig: Sickly sweet saccharine, full of heinous sentiment was the opening part then it became simple and elegant. Really fantastic.

7 8 7 8 = 30

Craig Kelly and Flavia Cacace – tango

Our view: That was OK. It didn’t quite have a wow factor for me but I enjoyed some of the steps. Of course, that’s the type of performance that could leave them near the middle of the leader board and, as we know, that is not an ideal place to be.

Blogger’s wife: Loved Flavia’s dress. It didn’t seem like a conventional tango. It had interesting steps and it was entertaining. It was rough around the edges but I liked it.

Brucie: Come on, what about it?

Judge Craig: I felt like you needed to drive the dance more. It needed to be danced on more of one level. Your hand at the back was horribly splayed and moving about. You have to be careful your left arm isn’t doing all the leading. I feel you’re pushing her about with your arm.

Head judge Len: Welcome to Strictly, Craig. It’s difficult for me to say anything good about anyone named Craig. You’ve come out and had a go. You attacked it. In doing so you lost a bit of the finesse and yor hold got a bit peculiar but at least you’ve come out and had a go.

Judge Alesha: You were chanting your way through but I think it was really cool as it’s your way of getting into the role. You have at enedency when you’re walking forward to follow your feet so it’s hard for Flavia to keep that body contact with you because it needs your hips to be turned into her but I thought you came out and gave it your all.

Judge Bruno: You went out with the determination of an assassin but it gets rough around the edges if you don’t have control of the energy. But it is always better doing more than less.

5 6 5 6 = 22

Richard Dunwoody and Lilia Kopylova - waltz

Our view: Good on him for having a go but I did not enjoy that. Painful looking posture. He looked so nervous – there was virtually a grimace on his face. Lilia’s dress was like one worn by those dolls some people put on spare toilet rolls. Not a typical Kopylova outfit.

Blogger’s wife: He was rather wooden it looked like Lilia was dancing with a cardboard cut-out but I really like him as a person

Brucie: Well done Richard. Well done indeed.

Judge Bruno: Richard, compared to the monstrous mambo last week this is a masterpiece. It wasn’t very good but you did a waltz. You forgot to breathe and Lilia was leading most of the time but there is hope.

Judge Craig: A very nervous beginning. The rise and fall was there but you were rising too quickly and sort of crash landing out of it. Occasionally gapping, posture needs correcting, balance and control are essential in this dance and I’m said to say that wasn’t great.

Head judge Len: I’m sure if Craig had to come out and do a waltz for the first time he would be nervous as well. You did a lovely standing spin. It was not brilliant but as far as I am concerned: Richard Dungoody.

Judge Alesha: I think they’re so cute. Everybody’s got a opinion. If I could give you one bit of advice, maybe focus on one thing for next week. Work on your posture, get your back up straight.

4 5 5 5 = 19

Laila Rouass and Anton du Beke – tango

Our view: For a first dance that was terrific. They were so together and looked good. Hilarious that Anton smiled during a tango. He was obviously so pleased it was going so well.

Blogger’s wife: I can see why Anton’s been so excited all week. It was just phenomenal. Bizarre choice of hairstyle.

Brucie: Beautiful, what about it? Well done.

Judge Alesha: You look incredible, Laila, lt’s so refreshing to see Anton with someone who can actually go a long way in this competition. Drama, passion, seductive, your hand does droop occasionally, keep that straight, tension all the way to your fingertips but Laila that was wicked.

Judge Bruno: You’ve won the Lottery haven’t you [Anton}? That’s why you’ve got the grin. The moment you started to dance a halo of sensuality enveloped the room. Remote, untouchable, sexy but distant.

Judge Craig: The hand was like some terrible limp wet fish but you followed Anton’s lead and responded brilliantly to those multidirectional changes. There was one bizarre moment that looked like it wasn’t mean to be. A beautiful stillness to the routine and you captured that tango brilliantly.

Head judge Len: You beauty. Not you Laila; Anton. You know what I like and you gave it to me. No messing about on the stage, straight into hold, pure tango. I know there was a slight incident over there but am I bothered? No I’m not.

7 8 7 8 = 30

Phil Tufnell and Katya Virshilas – waltz

Our view: I wasn’t expecting much but he’s done that OK. Posture not quite right but slick. I’m referring to his oiled hair, there.

Blogger’s wife: Disappointed they continue to produce yellow dresses. It’s a waltz so it’s dull but he did it well.

Brucie: That will shut the boys up. And your tongue stayed in.

Head judge Len: Phil I’m bowled over. My expectation were that it wasn’t going to be that great. The best footwork of the night so far.

Judge Alesha: Tuffers, what I love about you is you’re joker but I can tell you take it so seriously and it was so lovely to watch. Some people have a tendency to look like they’re thinking about what’s coming next but you we were just enjoying it with it you. It was charming, well done.

Judge Bruno: I’m going to call you ‘Easy does it Phil’. You embraced the occasion and you look like you enjoyed it well done.

Judge Craig: This show is always full of surprises and Mr Tufnell you are one of them in very respectable way.

7 8 7 7 = 29

Jo Wood and Brendan Cole – tango

Our view: Bits of that were OK for me but it didn’t feel like a tango odd music and not much characterisation going on.

Blogger’s wife: Dress looks like curtains. I didn’t like choice of music and it didn’t feel like a tango to me so I didn’t like it.

Brucie: I know you’ve been worried but you’ve done it

Judge Craig: Very carless if not slovenly footwork. Lacked any real line or form. You were hopping through some of it oddly. Your feet very rarely came together.

Head judge Len: You didn’t let anyone down. You got through it, you started off well but as it went on you lost focus. Started with shout and finished with a whimper.

Judge Alesha: Not every dance is going to suit every person. I commend you for coming out and giving it a go. When you go wrong we see it in your face. If you do make a little mistake do keep composed.

Judge Bruno: You should be proud because it you did it and it wasn’t a total disaster. It wasn’t technically perfect.

3 5 5 5 = 18

Ricky Whittle and Natalie Lowe - waltz

Our view: He’s done it well. I know I should be more enthusiastic about it and he recovered so well from that slip but somehow I’m not excited by it.

Blogger’s wife: It looked very good. He’s showing great potential.

Brucie: Oh, Ricky Whittle and that walk away at the end.

Judge Bruno: Ricky that was a dream come true. You slipped but it doesn’t take away from your achievement. Incredible.

Judge Craig: Natalie I thought that routine was beautifully and intelligently choreographed. Your legs are slightly bowed but I think you did a brilliant job.

Head judge Len: Now I’ve seen all the couples dance ballroom you’re the one to beat. I hope your Latin is up to the same standard because if it is you’ll be the most formidable couple ever.

Judge Alesha: Congratulations Natalie. I’m going to say something about the music. The beat wasn’t pronounced in it which shows how much control you had in those slow sections. You did it superbly. Best dance of the night.

8 9 8 8 = 33

Get ready for Saturday night’s action
The same eight couples return to perform a Latin dance and one couple will be eliminated after the dance-off.

Our thanks to Miss Bubbles for her excellent live blog. You can review her opinions in the previous post. She’ll be back on Saturday night with more of the same and I’ll post my full review once the show’s over.

Your view
Who do you think should be eliminated? Can Jo Wood save herself with a good Latin performance? Or will Richard Dunwoody fall at the first hurdle?

Show kicks off:

Here comes Brucie and Tess. She's looking lovely in white! And Oooh! There's Matt Di Angelo - the ex EastEnder who took part in 2007. Bruce introduces the professional dancers and we've got a routine to Lionel Richie’s Three Times A Lady. Nicely done, as usual.

Bruce is consoling Alesha for the bad week she’s had. She's gonna need all the sympathy she can get! Bruce is now speaking to the judges and Tess introduces the celebrity dancers; Natalie Cassidy's in an unflattering pink and Ali Bastian's wearing tassles. Yuck. 

Natalie Cassidy and Vincent Simone - tango

She did very well. Natalie tried not to put a foot wrong. She really looked the part. I'm impressed.

Judges' comments: Alesha said: "You've come out here and decided to take the competition by the scruff of the neck.

Judges' total score: 24

Zoe Lucker and James Jordan - waltz

A nice graceful waltz. Considering it's her first dance, she can hold her head up high.

Judges' comments: Alesha said that the waltz is one of her favourite dances and they made it look easy.

Judges' total score: 30

Craig Kelly and Flavia Cacace – tango

They're dancing to the theme from Slumdog Millionaire (great song!) Craig's trying to put some passion into his dance. It's the actor in him... love Flavia's dress.

Judges' comments: Alesha said she thought that Craig gave it his all.

Judges' total score: 22

 
Richard Dunwoody and Lilia Kopylova – waltz

Is Lionel Richie's back catalogue cheaper than everyone else? Another of his songs, this time Truly. I'm not complaining - it's one of my favourites. Well the jockey didn't set the world on fire, but I suppose he did his best.

Judges' comments: Alesha said that Richard should work on just one thing - posture. I think she needs to work on her laugh! Just kidding.

Judges' total score: 19

 
Laila Rouass and Anton du Beke – tango
 
Laila looks absolutely beautiful in that red dress. Stunning. That was such a great tango, I feel like I'm in South America. That was really, really good!

Judges' comments: Alesha said Laila looks incredible and will go a long way in the competiton.

Judges' total score: 30

Phil Tufnell and Katya Virshilas – waltz

Tuffers makes me laugh! Look at that huge grin on his face... he reminds me of Stan Laurel! A lovely waltz - his enjoyment is infectious.

Judges' comments: Len said Tuffers had the best foot work of the night. Blimey... has he been drinking? Alesha said: "What I love about you is that you're a joker but you're taking this seriously. It was charming."

Judges' total score: 29

 
Jo Wood and Brendan Cole – tango

Jo's dancing to David Bowie's Let's Dance and let's just say we're not looking at Strictly's 2009 champion. She's doing her best to keep up with Brendan though, bless her for trying.

Judges' comments: Alesha consoled Jo: "Not every dance is going to suit every person. I commend you for going out and giving it a go. If you make a mistake don't let it show in  your face." 

Judges' total score: 18

Ricky Whittle and Natalie Lowe – waltz

What a beautiful couple they make. And what a gorgeous waltz. It's like they're floating on air. Oh no! He slipped up! Hope the judges don't mark him too harshly. He's the one to watch and he's the one to beat in my opinion.

Judges' comments: Alesha said it was the best dance of the night. Every single judge was blown away - they all heaped huge praise on Ricky. The man can dance!

Judges' total score: 33

The other celebrity couples perform a group dance to a selection of Michael Jackson songs: of course there's Billie Jean and also, The Jacksons song Shake Your Body Down To The Ground.

Sorry to say this but Rav Wilding looks a bit clumsy. Joe Calzaghe's found some movement and Ricky Groves is definitely the entertainer of the bunch. That was a bit embarrassing to watch but at the same time, huge fun.

My favourite celeb tonight: Phil Tufnell - he made me laugh.

My least favourite celeb tonight: Jo Wood. She's not called 'wood' for nothing. 

And that's a wrap! What did you think of tonight's show? How do you think Alesha Dixon did? We'd love to hear from you so please have your say. That's it from me, I'm out of here. Join MSN's Strictly blogger Matt Ball for his full recap of tonight's show later. I'll be back tomorrow for another live blogging session.

Goodnight from Miss Bubbles

Are you ready for week two of Strictly Come Dancing series seven?

Here is what you need to know about this weekend’s two shows:

What’s the format for this weekend?

Friday night will be ballroom night where the eight of the celebrity contestants and their professional partners will be put through their paces dancing either a waltz or a tango.

And Saturday night will be Latin night as the same couples perform a cha cha cha or a rumba.

The judges' scores from both dances will be combined. The two couples with lowest scores from a combination of judges' points and audience votes will then face each other in a dance-off with the judges then voting to save one of the couples. The other couple will leave the show.

Who’s dancing in week two and which dances are they doing?

• Natalie Cassidy & Vincent Simone – tango, cha cha cha 
• Ricky Whittle & Natalie Lowe – waltz, rumba
• Richard Dunwoody & Lilia Kopylova – waltz, cha cha cha
• Craig Kelly & Flavia Cacace – tango, rumba
• Laila Rouass & Anton du Beke – tango, cha cha cha
• Zoe Lucker & James Jordan – waltz, rumba
• Jo Wood & Brendan Cole – tango, rumba
• Phil Tufnell & Katya Virshilas – waltz, cha cha cha

When are the shows on TV?

Friday night
8:30pm to 10:00pm BBC One. 

Saturday night
7:25pm to 9:05pm BBC One.

This year you can watch in high-definition on the BBC HD channel – available subscription-free on Freesat. For more information go to: www.freesat.co.uk

What coverage will this blog be providing?

We will be doing live coverage on this blog – my marvellous colleague TV expert Miss Bubbles will be in the hot seat for that so join her on both Friday and Saturday night as the show starts. Once the show ends I get busy writing my usual full review of the night including blogger’s wife’s all important opinions on the dresses.

Do join in the discussion by using the comments section – as ever we love to read your views.

Who’s going to be eliminated?

Yes, it is time for my ever-reliable prediction. Last week I predicted Ricky Groves would be eliminated whereas it was Martina Hingis who went out so you can see how ever-reliable my predictions are. 

The William Hill website offers the following odds for the week two elimination:

Richard Dunwoody 13/8 
Jo Wood 2/1 
Natalie Cassidy 7/1 
Zoe Lucker 8/1 
Craig Kelly 7/1 
Phil Tufnell 12/1 
Laila Rouass 16/1 
Ricky Whittle 66/1

So they reckon it will be Richard Dunwoody.

Yet again I disagree with the bookies.

I predict it will be Jo Wood. 

What happens from week three onwards?

From week three the series will move to Saturday nights only in a bumper show with the dances, voting and the results in one episode.

I’m posting this on Thursday night as I’m away all day Friday on a training course.

A good selection this week. The pro dancers feature more prominently than last week and I’m pleased to see Joe Calzaghe makes his first appearance on the list.

You can follow me on twitter at twitter.com/thisismattball. And you can view all the tweets that I mark as favourites by using this link twitter.com/thisismattball/favorites.

My Strictly Come Dancing tweets of the week
NB: the most recent ones are at the top so you might want to start at the bottom and scroll up.

1. ErinboagDoing a group dance tomorrow....look out for Ricky's moonwalk!!about 3 hours ago from web

2. _WeavaKatya- Lithuanian Canadian speaks Russian & Hebrew- anyone else immediately think SPY! #scdabout 3 hours ago from web

3. strictlyblogAnton looks so funny doing the cha cha in a shirt and tie! No sign of the infamous crotch-grab tonight...maybe I did imagine it...about 4 hours ago from web

4. RegNomDoes Katya know that Tuffers is 'The Cat' and he needs his naps? #scdabout 4 hours ago from Power Twitter

5. RwildThingKnee is not so clever, just had physio lots of work needed to get it working again. Not good with group dance just 24 hours awayabout 10 hours ago from TwitterBerry

6. rachyrachyrooI HAVE THE BEST BOSS EVER! She just gave me her 2 tickets for this Saturdays Strictly Come Dancing!!! OMG!!! #SCDabout 10 hours ago from web

7. SusiecuteFinally watching Sky+'d #SCD from Saturday - Ricky Groves is hilarious! What's with his mouth, he looks like a blow-up doll!9:47 PM Sep 23rd from Echofon

8. caronmlindsayOh my! Anton has a lovely partner and it looks as if she can dance. Could this be his year? #scd8:20 PM Sep 23rd from UberTwitter
   
9. RealJoeCalzagheHad fun on Paul O'Grady show earlier - and nice and relaxed now for more dancing after the on air neck massage from one of the Nolans :)7:16 PM Sep 23rd from TweetDeck

10. ianwaiteJust finished our last group training session today and I must say Karen has done a brilliant job. You will love it!!!5:12 PM Sep 23rd from Tweetie
    
11. BimboBlonde007am defo thinking about dyeing my hair the same colour as Aliona off #strictly #scd7:40 AM Sep 23rd from web
    
12. AntMclSo what's the fuss about #Strictly being on at the same time as XFactor? I'd rather stick pins in my eyes than watch xfactor, personally.8:59 PM Sep 22nd from UberTwitter

13. strictlydancersIs Aliona going to become the female Brendan, arguing about illegal lifts? #scd #strictly7:11 PM Sep 22nd from web
    
14. philtufnellGood day training just want to get it done now4:20 PM Sep 22nd from Echofon

15. KRihanoffThank you for all your birthday wishes, I am so touched by all the messages and continued support!3:58 PM Sep 22nd from web

16. strictlyblogRicky Whittle now bookies favourite (er, he hasn't danced yet!), Ali second. Joe now with odds of 25/1 - good to see they watched the show!3:42 PM Sep 22nd from web
    
17. mollypinnerbeen watching old videos of Alesha in #Strictly to try & fall back in love with her. I'd forgotten quite how annoying Arlene could be! #scd12:58 AM Sep 22nd from web

18. philtufnellTime for bed ice pack on knees whiskey in hand medicinal of course very similar preperation when I played cricket11:58 PM Sep 21st from Echofon
    
19. ClaudiaWinklethank you for lovely messages. apart from the one that said I looked repulsive. um. It Takes Two. Every night at 6:30. 63 shows left...8:15 PM Sep 21st from web
    
20. strictlydancersIs it just me or are Brendan and James having a full-on bromance this year? #scd #strictly7:00 PM Sep 21st from web

21. RealJoeCalzagheStill got a lot to learn about dancing - but I am no quitter!!! Spending all my time looking to improve - and fast :)5:51 PM Sep 21st from TweetDeck

22. RwildThinggroup dance tomorrow its 50/50 who is first on to go on the naughty step out of Joe C and i....9:58 PM Sep 20th from web
    
23. ErinboagSo proud of Ricky, he danced his little heart out last night!!!!! Thanks to everyone who voted; onwards and hopefully upwards!11:34 AM Sep 20th from web

24. RealJoeCalzagheNeed a stiff drink after all that :) phew!!9:29 PM Sep 19th from TweetDeck
    
25. RealJoeCalzagheOMG!! That wasn't tense waiting for the #scd results9:21 PM Sep 19th from TweetDeck
    
26. richarddunwoodyGreat craic last night despite the stick Bruno gave me. Lots to do as Lilia is not sure Craig will have a card low enough to mark me ..!!!12:41 PM Sep 19th from web

27. ianwaiteWell spray tan developed very well! Now shower and off to studio to show of my body!12:16 PM Sep 19th from Tweetie

28. richarddunwoodyCan't believe someone has called me Richard Dancewoody!!11:59 AM Sep 19th from txt

29. philtufnellWell that was an out of body experience9:01 AM Sep 19th from Echofon

30. RealJoeCalzagheI've had big fights on both sides of the Atlantic, but can't believe how nervous I was tonight.10:56 PM Sep 18th from web

A simple, straightforward It Takes Two show on Thursday.

We saw training footage of all the eight couples who are competing this weekend – both their ballroom and their Latin.

Ricky Whittle and Laila Rouass looked good in training. The best moment was Laila’s pro partner Anton laughing during their training. He was amused by the fact that Laila was dancing so well. That was not a reflection on Laila it was, as far as we could see, more of a reference to some of the duff celeb partners he has previously endured.

We were also shown the hours that each couple has trained so far. Here is the full table: 

The new pro dancers Natalie, Katya, Aliona turned up to do a quick interview with Winkleman.

And we also had a video diary day following around Rav Wilding while he spent most of the time doing things (voiceovers and a photo shoot with Pudsey Bear) that weren’t training with Aliona.

And that was that.

How many guests on Wednesday night’s It Takes Two? How many?

Ten, that’s how many.

Here’s what happened.

Camilla and Matthew
Pro dancers Camilla Dallerup and Matthew Cutler turned up to give their views on some training footage of four of the couples. This can provide useful pointers to how well it is going to go at the weekend so is always an interesting feature. Here’s what they said:

Jo Wood and Brendan Cole
Camilla: Jo looks too sweet. She’s not getting into character. It’s not aggressive enough, it looks like a waltz [they were trying to tango].

Matthew: Her top line is a little loose and she does look a bit happy.

Laila Rouass and Anton du Beke
Matthew: I’m impressed by her footwork. She needs to perform it a bit more.

Camilla: I think she’s very natural but she’s got to go out and sell it.

Richard Dunwoody and Lilia Kopylova
Camilla: Richard is concentrating so much he doesn’t look comfortable yet. He’s sticking his bum out and the judges never like that.

Matthew: He has to be careful of his footwork.

Craig Kelly and Flavia Cacace
Matthew: For me, he’s doing a good job.

Camilla: For the man in the rumba it’s all about looking good while you are standing still. Craig is doing really well.

And that was that.

Here come the girls
Then along came the four female celebs who are competing this weekend – Jo Wood, Zoe Lucker, Natalie Cassidy and Laila Rouass.

They expressed their surprise at the tough words the judges doled out in week one. Their point being that it’s so early on and the couples have been rehearsing for only three weeks (my point being that they can’t have watched week one of any previous series, then).

Zoe said she found the training tough in the first two weeks but is “really enjoying it now”. For me, that’s a sign that she’s going to do well this weekend.

Winkleman told Laila that she and Anton had trained the most hours out of all the eight couples competing this weekend.

Jo Wood said that she’s pleased expectations are low because she’s “not a dancer” (yes, we know) and Natalie talked about giving 110% (I’m putting 111% into this blog post, just so you know).

And that was that.

Back stage at the title shoot
We were treated to a behind the scenes look at the filming of the Strictly Come Daning title sequence. The line-up hadn’t been announced at the time the filming took place so each couple was kept apart from all the others. The celebs all had codenames that the back stage crew were using. Phil Tufnell was squirrel, Joe Calzaghe was dragon, Craig Kelly was Ibiza and Ali Bastian was actress. Ricky Whittle was revelling in his codename as he tried to play it cool in front of the camera: “MFI…D’oh! MI5, oh, don’t show that bit.” Brilliant.

Here come the boys
Phil Tufnell, Ricky Whittle, Craig Kelly and Richard Dunwoody draped themselves onto Winkleman’s couch and talked about spray tan and how tough their pro dance partners have been.

Winkleman advised Ricky that “if all else fails, take your top off”. Wise words indeed.

And that was that.

I’m sooooooooo happy It Takes Two is on.

Blogger’s wife and I enjoyed watching The Wire and now that’s over our BBC2 treat is the totally brilliant Winkleman and her antics.

And what antics they were on Tuesday.

Winkleman antics part one
Wear the world’s most bizarre shoes.

Effortlessly she slipped into her trademark interviewing style. This is characterised by:

1. Asking questions and then answering them herself.
On Tuesday’s show Winkleman asked Jade Johnson: “How terrified were you?” before immediately adding: “Out of your comfort zone.” Jade could reply with little more than: “Out of my comfort zone.”

2. Making statements rather than asking questions and then checking that the interviewee agrees.
On Tuesday’s show she said to Jade: “You’re going to love the Latin and hate the ballroom. Do you feel that too?”

3. Making statements that the interviewee contradicts.
On Tuesday’s show she said to Lynda Bellingham: “Everyone who is paired with Darren [Bennett] has the time of their lives.” Lynda replied; “Well, I’ve not seen it.”

We also enjoyed the quick extraction of sound bites before shoving the interviewees off to make way for the next ones.

Rav Wilding was able to say he was expecting to be voted out in the dance-off. He said he felt Bruno’s vote was going to be a token one.

Then Aliona took over to talk us through the blatant illegal lift in her tango routine. She defended it by cheekily suggesting it was a jump. “I can see how it could be viewed as a lift. It was a jump, really,” she said, before rather destroying her argument by adding: “He helped me go up in the air.” Which is, er, the definition of a lift.

Oh, I forgot to mention that Rav is so strong that Aliona feels like “a squeezed lemon”

And that was it. Cheerio, Rav and Aliona.

In this section we cheered back the return of Choreography Corner. What could be better than Karen Hardy trying to explain to WiInkleman what makes great choreography? I shall now attempt to summarise the rather long answer: match your body movements to the music.

Winkleman antics part five
The key to this section was surprise. Winkleman introduced someone good and let them provide some insight. Brilliant.

I’m pleased to say the “someone good” in this case was Latin dance legend Shirley Ballas. She choreographed the mambo group dance that we saw last weekend. That isn’t her main claim to fame, she was a rather good dancer in her day but let’s put that to one side and get to the insight. Shirley gave her views on some of the celebs we’ll be watching compete for the first time this weekend:

Ricky Whittle – “Immense amount of rhythm…extremely naturally gifted.”

Natalie Cassidy – “Gifted, totally dedicated.” [Winkleman added that Natalie is “the biggest fan of Strictly ever”]

Phil Tufnell - “Hard worker. Has got some rhythm.”

Zoe Lucker and James Jordan - “Nice chemistry, they work well together.”

Jo Wood - “Hard worker, very passionate. She struggled a bit but she did try.”

I have to say that a glimpse at the training footage suggested Ricky Whittle and Zoe Lucker could both be rather good.

Oh, did I mention Ricky Groves was also on the show? He danced with his mouth wide open on Saturday, you know. AND we got a behind the scenes look at the making of the Strictly Come Dancing trailer.

What next?
Who knows? Who cares? It’s pure genius from start to finish. Bring it on.

Yes, it’s time to review the hairstyles sported by The Tess Daly (she’s everyone favourite newspaper) on Friday and Saturday of Strictly Come Dancing series seven week one.

Friday September 18 – not quite classic Tess but she came out of the blocks with a good starter.

Saturday September 19 – the swept back over the top look with dangly right ear jewellery occasionally on display. Not a look to trouble the judges’ 10 paddles, I felt.

OK that concludes this week’s Tess Daly hair update.

A warm welcome back to Winkleman’s show.

Her hair has gone away from the fringe-based offerings of yore to a more swept-based solution (for now) but the high heels continue to play their part.

We were treated to a bumper show with the eliminated couple, two and a half judges and the best two couples from the weekend along with a full review of Friday and Saturday presented with back stage deftness by one Ms C Dallerup.

Hardly surprising, then, that each interview was so short. Ah well, that’s part of the show’s charm. Interviewees need to get their soundbite ready and find a way to weave it into the conversation, such as it is, before their time runs out.

And the show still refuses to take itself too seriously for which we continue to applaud.

Right, that’s enough faffing about, here’s what happened:

Martina and Matthew
The eliminated couple were first up and had little opportunity to say anything more than being in the middle of the leader board can be a dangerous place, nobody is ever safe etc etc but eventually Martina cracked and said they had got better scores than Rav and Aliona in both dances.

One final glimpse of those Hingis teeth and it was all over.

Shame but life goes on.

Judge-mental
Two current judges – Craig and Alesha – and one judge in waiting – Darcey Bussell – turned up to offer their view of the weekend’s proceedings.

Judge Alesha said she felt more relaxed on the Saturday and brushed aside the controversy about her judging abilities as a “storm in a teacup” adding: “I do know what I’m talking about.”

Judge Craig backed her up praising the insight she can bring and saying she had almost reached the standard of a professional dancer by the end of her four months on Strictly series five.

Judge in waiting Darcey said she would have voted to save Martina and Matthew.

We were then given quick post-show snippets from Saturday night. Judge Bruno said he voted to save Rav because of Rav’s “incredible potential” and head judge Len said Martina’s dance-off performance was “a little brittle and a little loose”.

Judge Craig commented on Ricky Groves’ cha cha cha, saying it was “technically a shambles. I missed most of his footwork because of the [open] gob.”

Judge in waiting Darcey got into the Revel Horwood spirit of things by saying she thought the choice of music for Joe and Kristina’s tango was “boring” and she called Joe’s footwork “ploddy”. She could be a good addition to the judging panel, I reckon.

Chris and Ola, Ali and Brian
The best two couples from the weekend closed out the show.

Chris and Ola sat a bit too far apart on the sofa, in my view. Chris said he spent the first weeks of training hating both the tango and the rumba.

Ali came across as quite nervous on It Takes Two (I recall one Mr M Ramprakash starting out like that). She said that the judges’ comments “absolutely blew me away. It was the best feeling ever.” Brian was cool and Winkleman promoted him to say some nice things to his uber-fans.

And that was that.

A good start.

Blogger’s wife believes Ali’s hair looks a lot better straight, which is how she wore it on Monday night, rather than curly, as she had it on the weekend. Just so you know.

Scheduling suggestion
Why not start It Takes Two a week before Strictly begins? Then we get to know more about the celebs and how they’re getting along.

You know it makes sense.

Well, well, well.

Alesha Dixon's performance on the Strictly Come Dancing judging panel this weekend has got everyone up in arms.

Here are a few of the press comments:

"Alesha Dixon has failed to inject the judging with any vigour." - Jim Shelley in the Mirror.

"Alesha for Arlene is pure dumbing down" - Philip Hensher in The Independent.

"Miss Dixon's no Arlene... Vote her off!" - Amanda Platell in the Daily Mail.

I will not quit Strictly Come Dancing, vows ‘banal’ Alesha Dixon - London Evening Standard.

Petition
Some Strictly fans feel the same way. There were plenty of comments on this blog about Alesha over the weekend as well as on other forums. If you feel the need you can even sign an online petition demanding former judge Arlene Phillips returns.

Arlene has her say
In The Sun Arlene is kinder: "They hired Alesha because they wanted a different opinion - a voice of the viewer - and that's what she does. She was never hired to give a technical viewpoint."

Alesha fights back
In an interview in the Mirror Alesha says: “My job is not to replace Arlene. My job is to provide a perspective that was maybe missing before and that is the understanding of the performance aspects and of just how tough it is to perform to the standards the viewers expect.“

My view
I agree that Alesha's comments did not add much to week one of Strictly. What I'm looking for from the judges is insight - something I did not know or notice. Alesha did not provide any meaningful insight for me.

However, I think it is unfair to demand Alesha should leave the judging panel, as some people are doing. Give her a chance.

When you started a new job how did your first week go? Were you nervous? Were you learning the ropes? Were you less effective than your more experienced colleagues?

It was the same for Alesha last weekend.

So let's see how she does over the next few weeks. If she is still providing no insight then, fine, the BBC made a mistake and they will need to fix it but I would not expect them to do so until after the series ends.

Let's face it, Joe Calzaghe was rubbish but the voting viewers have given him a second chance.

The judges’ scores
After the judges’ scores from Friday night and Saturday night were added together the leader board looked like this:

Ali and Brian 30 + 30 = 60

Chris and Ola 26 + 30 = 56

Jade and Ian 25 + 27 = 52

Ricky and Erin 21 + 26 = 47

Martina and Matthew 22 + 24 = 46

Lynda and Darren 21 + 23 = 44

Rav and Aliona 19 + 22 = 41

Joe and Kristina 16 + 16 = 32

The dance-off
After the viewers’ votes were added to the judges’ leader board Rav and Aliona and Martina and Matthew were left in the bottom two and faced the drama of the dance-off.

The judges voted as follows:

Judge Craig: Martina and Matthew

Judge Alesha: Martina and Matthew

Judge Bruno: Rav and Aliona

Head judge Len: Rav and Aliona

So out went Martina and Matthew.

(Our thanks to the ever brilliant Miss Bubbles for doing the live blog – you can read her comments in the previous post)

My full review of Saturday night’s performances:

Jade Johnson and Ian Waite – cha cha cha

Brucie: Come here, what a start. You’ve come out of your shell, haven’t you?

Our view: Much improved compared with Friday’s performance. There she fulfilled the potential most of us felt she had.

Blogger’s wife: Costume left little to the imagination, hands still ugly but fantastic performance and I really enjoyed watching it.

Head judge Len: Your feet were a little bit flat but your legs are strong which helps you with that hip action. Your posture is more bent than a politician’s expenses but overall I enjoyed it very much.

Judge Alesha: This really suits you: personality in abundance.

Judge: Bruno: Those legs could crack walnuts. I’m envious. I’m glad to see to you cranked up the performance.

Judge Craig: Your legs could have been a little bit straighter, arms obviously need attention but great splits at the end, full of exuberance and energy.

6 7 77 = 27

Ali Bastian and Brian Fortuna - rumba

Brucie: What about it? You two are so graceful.

Our view: Oh, yes, she's followed up last night with another very good performance.

Blogger’s wife: The costume department have given her a beautiful outfit, she acted it beautifully, she danced it well. I didn’t cringe and that’s unheard of for a first round rumba.

Head judge Len: For me there a lot of posing and posturing going on. I would have liked to have seen a little bit more dancing in it but on both performances you deserve to be back next time.

Judge Alesha: Stunning to watch, your lines are good.

Judge Bruno: You have moments in there of exquisite finesses. You could be one of the best dancers we’ve ever had.

Judge Craig: I absolutely loved all the posing. That made it for me. I had a few issues with it, a few balance issues, I’d have liked to see a little bit more rotation but it was confident and controlled; well done.

7 7 8 8 = 30

Lynda Bellingham and Darren Bennett – cha cha cha

Brucie: What about that? They loved you.

Our view: Well, she got through it.

Blogger’s wife: It lacked the energy required for a cha cha cha.

Judge Alesha: You always bring the spirit to the dance. To be honest I preferred yesterday’s dance.

Judge Bruno: It was like watching Carry on Strictly Matron.

Judge Craig: Very neat, precise, sharp and completely void of hip action. For me, unlike Alesha, it was a vast improvement on yesterday.

Head judge Len: I thoroughly enjoyed it. You’re out here to entertain and entertain you did.

5 6 6 6 = 23

Rav Wilding and Aliona Vilani - rumba

Brucie: Lovely, lovely. Very tempting both of you.

Our view: Some much better than last night’s effort but I don’t think Craig is going to be pleased.

Blogger’s wife: It wasn’t as painful to watch as it could have been but she did all the dancing.

Judge Bruno: Rav the image of smouldering hulk. What an impression you made on me. You tried to give a focused performance.

Judge Craig: Awkward and unnatural. That was a lot fo posing and posturing.

Head judge Len: A very difficult dance for the male celebs to do. To get that feeling of the rumba correct is difficult and by large you got it right. Craig’s right, there was a lot posturing

Judge Alesha: There was some hip action going on. I’m in the middle on this one, Rav.

4 6 5 7 = 22

Chris Hollins and Ola Jordan - rumba

Brucie: Chris, I don’t know what she’s done to you but I look at you in a different light.

Our view: Crikey, he’s done a great job with that.

Blogger’s wife: I have concerns about the lack of Ola’s outfit. I really, really enjoyed the performance. He danced (unlike Rav) and danced really well.

Judge Craig: That was actually rather brilliant. Fantastic story telling. Real emotional connection, nice gentle hip action. However, these fingers have to be cut off or changed

Head judge Len: It was good, Chris. You’ve got to get this masculine hand.

Judge Alesha: Ola you look amazing. You showcased Chris really well and he moved Ola round really well.

Judge Bruno: Chris you’re a dancer and that proves it. Ola you’ve done a fantastic job.

7 8 7 8 = 30

Joe Calzaghe and Kristina Rihanoff – cha cha cha

Brucie: Yes, come on. Well done Joe.

Our view: Oh dear. That was not ideal, was it? A lot of strolling about.

Blogger’s wife: It looked like he was walking those steps rather than dancing them.

Head judge Len: You’ve come back and given us a proper performance. At the moment you’re not right up there.

Judge Alesha: The boxing isn’t traditional cha cha but it showed your personality.

Judge Bruno: The footwork was poor. You have to listen to the music

Judge Craig: I do have two words: rigor mortis.

2 5 5 4 = 16

Martina Hingis and Matthew Cutler - rumba

Brucie: Come on, beautiful. Well done.

Our view: Some OK bits in that. Not the best rumba this evening and not the worst. I think I’m expecting more from her because of her background and sporting success, maybe that’s unfair at this stage.

Blogger’s wife: Loved her dress. It was enjoyable. I wasn’t cringing I wasn’t wowed.

Judge Alesha: I think you need to work on controlling your arms but there was lovely sensuality to that, well done.

Judge Bruno: You can hit some beautiful shapes but if falls apart in the transition

Judge Craig: I liked the routine very much. The transitions were very blocky and square. Very flat footed but nice rondee and I thought your hand shaping was absolutely gorgeous.

Head judge Len: You lack toning but very nice to watch and well done.

5 6 7 6 = 24

Ricky Groves and Erin Boag – cha cha cha

Brucie: Come on what about it?

Our view: Got better as it went along. Early on the footwork was heavy and lacked energy. He’s made up for it by giving it a go in the second half of the routine.

Blogger’s wife: I kept getting flashbacks to Matt and Flavia who did this a lot better. I do know it’s week one by the way.

Judge Bruno: Ricky did you have rocket fuel for lunch. Steam coming out of your ears. Not a master class but the rest of it was fun.

Judge Craig: That mouth: you could have eaten a whale it was so open. As awkward as the whole thing was you gave it welly and danced the spirit of that dance brilliantly.

Judge Len: You gave it a really good go. You messed it up a bit and I didn’t care, better than last night.

Judge Alesha: Most entertaining dance of the night by far. And he should get points for wearing pink.

Brucie: You’re my favourites.

6 7 7 6 = 26

My pick for elimination was Ricky Groves (when I wrote the preview blog post on Friday afternoon) but he pulled a rabbit out of the hat with the energy of his cha cha cha. It’s interesting to note that all the Latin scores on Saturday were at least as good as the ballroom scores on Friday and in some cases even better. You wouldn’t normally expect that as the celebs tend to struggle with the Latin early on but it just shows how nervous the celebs were on Friday.

Your views
What do you think about the result? Should Joe Calzaghe have been in the dance-off? Should Martina have stayed in or did she fail to charm the viewers? Are you pleased Rav and his amazing torso are still in?

Show kicks off:

Brucie comes out with his little dance. Nifty mover for an 80+ year old. Tess looks fabulous and, of course, Brucie cracks a groan-inducing joke. Once again, we meet the dancing celebs.

Jade Johnson and Ian Waite - cha cha cha

You can tell she's an athlete - look at those toned legs. My goodness, they're long, long, long! I envy her for those legs. Her dancing today has definitely improved.

Judges' comments:  Alesha says that the dance really suits her. "Your arms are a bit throwaway," she adds. Bruno Tonioli says she's got legs that could crack walnuts. Ha, ha!  

Judges' total score: 27.

Latin and ballroom score: 52

Ali Bastian and Brian Fortuna - rumba

I was excited about seeing Ali's Latin dance but watching her move across the floor, I have to say her waltz was much better. She's dancing well, but I expected more after last night.

Judges' comments:  Len says there was "a lot of posing and posturing". I agree. 

Judges' total score: 30

Latin and ballroom score: 60

Lynda Bellingham and Darren Bennett - cha cha cha
 
Mrs Oxo is probably the Mrs John Sergeant of this year's Strictly. But she keeps a smile on her face the entire way through her dance and I enjoyed it on that basis. She's trying and you can't knock that.

Judges' comments:  Oh heavens! I'm on the floor laughing. Bruno Tonioli called it: "Carry on Strictly matron!" That is so funny! 

Judges' total score: 23

Latin and ballroom score: 44

Rav Wilding and Aliona Vilani - rumba

He's got the look for this dance (excuse me while I fan myself!) but he's not moving his feet as much as he should. However, it's a massive improvement on last night's dance so I hope he stays.

Judges' comments:  With the exception of Craig, most of the judges think he did OK. 

Judges' total score: 22

Latin and ballroom score: 41

Chris Hollins and Ola Jordan – rumba

Chris is wonderful - very expressive in his face and movement and Ola looks fantastic. He's definitely the best on the night so far.

Judges' comments:  Alesha said it was a  great performance

Judges' total score: 30 

Latin and ballroom score: 56

 

Joe Calzaghe and Kristina Rihanoff - cha cha cha

They look great together but it's not coming off on the dancefloor. Kristina’s got another John Sergeant it seems. 

Judges' comments:  Alesha said it was good and that Joe showed his personality.

Judges' total score:  16

Latin and ballroom score: 32

Martina Hingis and Matthew Cutler – rumba

Judges' comments:  Alesha said that Martina needs to work on controlling her arms. Craig seemed to contradict Alesha’s remarks.

Judges' total score:  24

Latin and ballroom score:  46

Ricky Groves and Erin Boag  - cha cha cha

His cha cha cha looks really comical…why do I keep thinking of Norman Wisdom?

Judges' comments:  Craig said that he could net a whale with his mouth cos it's so big but he was reasonably impressed that Ricky had tried. 

Judges' total score: 26

Latin and ballroom score: 47

My favourite celeb tonight: Chris Hollins. I loved watching him dance

My least favourite celeb tonight: Joe Calzaghe. Sorry, but if he'd fought how he dances, he'd be brain-damaged by now

All the celebrities have danced now and we're being reminded of how they did over the two nights. It's nearly time for the dance-off! It's a shame someone has to go. It should be Joe Calzaghe by rights - but will the public vote him out?

While the voting's going on, we see a couple of dances by the professionals. It's a Latin performance to One Thing by Amerie and Here Come The Girls which is used on the Boots advert.

The Judges talk about the celebs that are impressing them: Ali, Chris and Jade get high praise and Ricky is singled out for entertainment value. Alesha ducked her question by involving the audience.

Another group dance - this time to classic musical Sweet Charity which starred Shirley Maclaine. Special treat as 2008's Strictly winners Tom Chambers and Camilla Dallerup reprise their fun and fabulous routine from last year which is from this film. I LOVE this dance! It's wonderful.

Tess talks to the celebrities who’ll be dancing next week. Katherine Jenkins performs I Believe… She looks absolutely  stunning… and what a beautiful voice.

The celebrities are now pleading for our votes. We’re just about to find out who's in the dance off.

The Dance-off

Shocking result! Joe Calzaghe is through. He shouldn't have been through! Anyway, it’s Rav Wilding and Martina Hingis to battle to stay. 

Rav dances first and I'm gutted as he'll probably be going. Such a shame.

Martina dances again and I'm sure she'll be saved.

Judges' decisions

Here we go...

Craig saves Martina

Alesha saves Martina

Bruno saves Rav

It's all down to Len and he saves....RAV!!!!! Rav's still in! Martina's out. What a shock!

And that's a wrap! What did you think of tonight's show? Has the right person gone out? We'd love to hear from you so please have your say. That's it from me, I'm out of here. Join MSN's Strictly blogger Matt Ball for his full recap of tonight's show. I'll be back next week for another live blogging session.  

Goodnight from Miss Bubbles.

Here is the leader board after a fun Friday night of action on Strictly Come Dancing series seven week one.

Below is our full review of the Friday show.

As usual we offer our view, blogger’s wife’s view, a summary of the judges’ comments and the scores (the order of the scores is: Craig, Len, Alesha, Bruno)

And we provide My Forsyth’s enthusiastic reaction as each couple comes off the dance floor.

Rav Wilding and Aliona Vilani - tango

Brucie: Well done Rav, what a good opener.

Our view: Not sure what that dance had to with the music but give him credit he carried out it off confidently.

Blogger’s wife: Didn’t like the music. I expect he’s got many more weeks to go as he’s very entertaining. I will enjoy watching him but not on the dance floor.

Head judge Len Goodman: First show, first dance would like to say first class but I can’t. However, you came out and attacked it. Like most men it had a good start but a disappointing finish. You shouldn’t do lifts.

Judge Alesha Dixon: He certainly looks the part. It’s tough being the first one out but it was a little bit stumpy.

Judge Bruno: You managed to ravage the tango. You went for it but you need refinement and you need to listen to the music.

Judge Craig: I was rather excited when you first came onto the floor but sadly your hands were flat and spatulistic. Lots of gapping. I think there’s an awful lot of work to do.

3 6 5 5 = 19

Ricky Groves and Erin Boag – waltz

Brucie: Absolutely beautiful, well done.

Our view: I found a little bit of charm in it on occasions but it also looked a touch awkward.

Blogger’s wife: A lot better than I expected. Nice choice of music. His posture was terrible but he moved around the floor nicely.

Head judge Len: You did look elegant. You had great control throughout the dance; you need to lift that ribcage.

Judge Alesha: My heart is still beating for you, you looked so nervous. You tried very hard. Relax your shoulders and use your acting face.

Judge Bruno: The major technical problem was your shoulders. I saw more romance between DC and GB than I saw here. You have to get into the character and sell it.

Judge Craig: I thought you looked like a terrified spare part. That’s because there’s no relationship between you.

4 6 6 5 = 21

Chris Hollins and Ola Jordan - tango

Brucie: There you are Chris. You've done the first one. Wonderful, well done.

Our view: Wow, well done, Chris. A very good start. Dodgy hands, though. We all know Arlene would have picked up on that, don’t we?

Blogger’s wife: I liked it, had some great tango elements in it. It was a bit unrefined but I enjoyed it.

Brucie: Well done.

Judge Craig: Wild, passionate and sexy it wasn’t. But I think it was a fine effort.

Head judge Len: I agree with nothing Craig said. You had great body contact. The first week you’re just happy to get through the dance. I thought you did a very good job.

Judge Alesha: You really surprised me, Chris. You had the arrogance, very good start.

Judge Bruno: Apart from the fact you looked like you were sucking a lemon, but you were sharp and your timing was good.

6 7 7 6 = 26

Jade Johnson and Ian Waite - waltz

Brucie: All right, Jade? It's over. Well done, darling.

Our view: Not great but enough to suggest she can go some way.

Blogger’s wife: Loved the choice of music unfortunately she had ugly hands and it kind of distracted.

Judge Alesha: You two look great together. You’ve got great potential

Judge Bruno: I can tell you can go very far. But you have to extend your arms

Judge Craig: You have long elegant lines but they were little bit hampered by hands which were floral and flippy. All in all I thought the routine was absolutely first class.

Len: Great musicality, good movement, you were elegant throughout the dance. You’ve got to relax your upper portions.

6 7 6 6 = 25

Martina Hingis and Matthew Cutler - waltz

Brucie: I’ve admired you so many times on the tennis court, Martina.

Our view: Great teeth. Looked good. I enjoyed it.

Blogger’s wife: I thought she looked stunning and elegant but I agree her frame wasn’t there yet. If she gets through this week I think she’ll go far.

Judge Bruno: Martina you’re so elegant but you’re still a bit tight. It looks like you’re pushing him away. You have to learn to act.

Judge Craig: For me you’re not dancing as a unit yet. Little bit mean with your lines. For a first attempt, gorgeous.

Head judge Len: A donut with no jam in it. It looked tasty but it disappointed.

Judge Alesha: I thought it was really lovely. You are in very safe hands, come back tomorrow a little more confident.

4 6 6 6 = 22

Lynda Bellingham and Darren Bennett - tango

Brucie: Oh my goodness. Lynda: absolutely wonderful.

Our view: She looked petrified but Darren’s cleverly choreographed a routine she could handle.

Blogger’s wife: It had some good tango elements. It showcased Darren’s dancing beautifully but it was lacking in dance steps from Lynda.

Head judge Len: It was a bit scary. It had a bit of drama. You need more movement. It was like both legs were down one hole in your knickers.

Judge Alesha: One word : fierce.

Judge Bruno: Plenty of facial expression but a bit more dancing would help.

Judge Craig: That was the longest one minute 30. Full of vacuous looks.

3 6 7 5 = 21

Ali Bastian and Brian Fortuna - waltz

Brucie: What about that? Well done indeed.

Our view: Wonderful. Wow. What poise.

Blogger’s wife: Beautiful dress, beautiful dance.

Judge Craig: the top line needs some minor adjustments but I thought it was absolutely fabulous.

Head judge Len: A fantastic waltz best dance so far.

Judge Alesha: Definitely the most naturally gifted dancer I’ve seen so far.

Judge Bruno: you have potential for magic but did you slip in the corner I can’t wait to see you again.

7 8 8 7 = 30

Joe Calzaghe and Kristina Rihanoff - tango

Brucie: Kristina you’ve done well.

Our view: Kristina’s dress was a bit Cadbury’s Dairy Milk foil-esque in colour but blogger’s wife will like it. With the music and the opening bit at the top of the stairs I had high hopes. These hopes were dashed nanoseconds later.

Blogger’s wife: Liked choice of classic tango music but that’s about as much as I can say well apart from Kristina’s dress which I liked [see, I said she’d like it].

Judge Alesha: you looked a bit petrified. You are a very sexy couple but tomorrow come out with a bit more personality.

Judge Bruno: The champ and the vamp. That was the most boring tango. Use her, get down on her, use what’s she’s got.

Judge Craig: Passionless. Lacked any sort of aggression or attack.

Head judge Len: you look the part and you have potential to go a long way but it was dance only a mother could love.

Brucie: you’re my favourites.

2 5 5 4 = 16

Get ready for Saturday night’s action
The same eight couples return to perform a Latin dance and one couple will be eliminated after the dance-off.

Our thanks to Miss Bubbles for her excellent live blog. She’ll be back on Saturday night with more of the same and I’ll post my full review once the show’s over.

Your view
Who do you think should be eliminated? Can Joe Calzaghe raise his game? Or will he be knocked out in round one?

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