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Week 8 – Couple’s Choice

If last week felt like a rollercoaster, then the ride’s not over yet – the thrills keep coming! In the rarefied reaches of these higher weeks of Strictly, the excitement keeps building – and there are even new dance experiences to boot! I’m enjoying this series as though it were my first. Thrilled with Emma’s dedication and progress… ever grateful for the viewers’ votes and support… and simply over the moon to be heading off to compete in Blackpool!

There’s a first time for everything, and last weekend brought my first ever Couple’s Choice routine on Strictly. Introduced just last year, unfortunately Susannah and I left the competition far too early to be able to give it a whirl, but this year, to have been given the opportunity with Emma was just a dream!

Choosing between Contemporary, Street/Commercial and Theatre/Jazz, it allows the couples to try something outside the ‘frame, hold and lifts’ rules of the Ballroom and the current 12-dance repertoire. It also provides a wonderful opportunity to choose a dance which plays directly to our partner’s strengths – high scores for these dances are, as a result, not uncommon!

For Emma, having played the role of Roxie in ‘Chicago’ back in 2009, and being no stranger to treading the boards, it simply had to be theatre/jazz. It’s a musical theatre style, blending elements of modern theatre, soft shoe, tap and perhaps even burlesque. It’s something of a favourite genre of mine too – for those of you who’ve come along to my annual tour with Erin Boag, we always include a number in this style and it goes down a treat. You can have real fun with the staging, costumes and choreography and they’re such great fun to perform. You can imagine how excited we both were, after the Rumba, to learn that this was our next dance… just the tonic!

As is customary with Couple’s Choice, the producers bring in specialist choreographers to help us perfect our routine. We were gifted the remarkable talents of Alan Burkitt assisted by fabulous Sarah Faith-Brown and together we devised a marvellous, sophisticated, modern dance number with cues and inferences from the work of Hollywood legends, and multi award-winners Bob Fosse and Gwen Verdon. Fosse, you may already know, was the director and choreographer of those incredible classics ‘Cabaret’ and ‘Chicago’ – and Verdon had been his third wife and somewhat unsung collaborator. We were in our element!

Rehearsals were a joy, and so much fun. Ian Waite’s Gold Star for Emma’s progress in It Takes Two was the perfect boost to banish nerves as show-day approached, and excitement continued to build as we tried our fabulous matching costumes – including sparkly bowlers – in the dress run.

On the night, we were sixth in the running order, and watching so many high calibre couples perform before us – and with Blackpool at stake, the pressure really was on!

Set to ‘Right Now’, the Pussycat Dolls version (though I’ll admit, I was more familiar with Mel Tormé’s fabulous version from 1966) it was a perfect choice for a modern blend of 1930s styling with contemporary production. And with Strictly set magic and a finger-clicking spotlit intro, we tipped our hats, locked arms, and stepped to the floor in sync!

What fun we had on the dance floor! I particularly enjoyed the mirroring elements, but I also enjoyed watching Emma as she performed – and what a performance she gave. Sharp, sassy, stylish, wonderfully in character, and a master with the hat – and the leg extensions too – she had me wowed.

So impressive, I thought, how she kept in time independently when I was out of sight behind her – her confidence had clearly grown in leaps and bounds with this week’s dance. Plus, I’m sure having her parents in the audience must have made it all the more special.

It's as clear as black and white: @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke were made for Theatre/Jazz. 👏 #Strictly pic.twitter.com/udySMA7jqg

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) November 9, 2019

Emma gave a truly fabulous performance, brimming with theatricality, dynamics and real flair – perfectly pitched to the subtlety of the routine. If the judges enjoyed it half as much as I had, we were surely on to a winner.

Bruno was very enthusiastic – “Great dance, loved the Fosse references, and the hat trick,” and went on to say that Emma was in her element and despite a few sync issues she did “a fantastic job.” Can’t ask for more than that! Even Craig ‘got it’ too: “Understated, stylised – your dance, my darling.” Music to our ears! Motsi said she really loved it – the timing, the music, the subtle movement, and even Shirley said it was “one of [our] better dances” and remarked on the detail included.

Eights from Craig, Shirley and Bruno, plus a very welcome 9 from Motsi give us a triumphant 33 points – 11 points more than last week!

At that stage in the show it placed us second in the scoring… but with two excellent dances to follow ours, we slipped a little and ended the show in 4th place. Dangerous middle ground, with just 8 couples now left!

Sunday this week was Remembrance Sunday and the Results Show was particularly poignant. After a wonderfully emotive group number, followed by a haunting rendition of ‘Bring Him Home’ from Luke Evans, I don’t think there was a dry eye in the house. Wonderful tributes to those whose memories we honour, and to whom we all owe so very much.

In regard to the results, I don’t think there’s ever been such a demonstration of the power of the viewers’ votes: everybody at home must have been assured that Michelle & Giovanni were safe having reached 2nd place on the leaderboard – but there was a gasp of astonishment in the studio as it was announced they were in the dance off.

They were to dance against Mike & Katya who had likely braced themselves for this fate, having placed last in the live show. Nobody had expected this duel… but the outcome reflected the Saturday scores as the judges voted Michelle & Giovanni through, and Mike & Katya took to the floor for their last dance. In true Mike style, he launched into a conga and we all joined in! Tremendous!

Well, my loves, Emma and I were absolutely thrilled to bits to make it through – and each week it all hinges on your votes – for which we are so incredibly grateful! This week, of course, we have the huge bonus of making it through to Blackpool! What a landmark!

Hats off to @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke! They'll also be dancing in the Tower Ballroom next weekend. #Strictly pic.twitter.com/PU9Bi2dCDT

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) November 10, 2019

I’m so proud of Emma’s progress and how she’s steadily growing in technique and confidence from week to week – and now for her to have the opportunity to experience dancing on the world famous Tower Ballroom dance floor, well, I simply couldn’t be happier! This is something each year I wish for all my partners… and when that wish comes true, I feel incredibly lucky and honoured to have had the partner, and support of the public, to get us there.

This coming Saturday we’ll be dancing an American Smooth at the Tower, and are already filled beyond words with excitement and anticipation. Emma’s doing simply marvellously in training, and I think this is the perfect number for such an auspicious night!

“Let’s Face The Music And Dance” is our song, and, all set to bring a Hollywood-style performance to the ‘Vegas of the North’, that’s exactly what we’ll do!

Tune in this Saturday, 7:05pm, BBC1 as just 7 couples take to the floor. Let’s hope the Blackpool lights shine down favourably on us as we edge ever closer to the Grand Final… have your votes ready, my loves!

Week 7 – The Rumba

With the competition getting ever closer and the coveted landmark, Blackpool, just around the corner, ‘rollercoaster’ is certainly the word when it came to our week 7 dance: the romantic Rumba. Perhaps the most challenging of all the dances, Emma and I hoped our scores would keep climbing after the solid performances of previous weeks, but hadn’t anticipated taking such a big dip!…

As we started our training for this new dance, we were mindful of comments from the judges in recent weeks regarding the chemistry and connection in the performances – or rather, the lack of it, in their eyes. We took this firmly to heart, and with a Rumba up next, this dance of love offered us the ideal opportunity to focus on these aspects and do our very best to show the judges how we could improve.

Connection and chemistry aside, there was still much ground to cover in the technique of this dance, too – and if ever there was a dance for stepping outside one’s comfort zone, it’s the Rumba. Emma, as ever, was up for the challenge!

Now, the Rumba isn’t everybody’s cup of tea. It requires much sensuality, a continuous flowing motion from step to step, phrase to phrase, with the careful shifting of weight from one leg to the other to to help create the coveted Cuban motion in the hips. As always, the devil’s in the detail too, with a sinuous action from tips of toes caressing the floor, to the graceful placement of fingertips! So much technique involved, so much to learn, and so much to concentrate on until the dance becomes second nature.

As it happened, show-day nerves did creep in and I’m sure Emma won’t mind me saying that those marvellous legs of hers had gone to jelly after our last run-through. It’s such a shift going from the training room to the studio and in such a slow, exposed dance, the slightest fault or unsteadiness will be magnified – especially to those looking for it.

Our dance went beautifully, to my mind, and felt incredibly moving indeed. I so thoroughly enjoyed it, and was sure that our efforts to convey chemistry would cause a positive reaction. For even more dramatic effect we’d been able to include the most marvellous développé – a move which arose quite by chance in training when Emma’s leg sprung up as though a doctor were testing her reflexes! “We’ll have that!” I said – in wonder at such balletic ability – and she delivered it like a pro on the night!

She is a Woman in Love with the Rumba, and we're right there with you @EmmaBarton. 💜 @TheAntonDuBeke #Strictly pic.twitter.com/WU0eQGCVUh

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) November 2, 2019

Our dance, to the Streisand classic ‘Woman In Love’, had passion, intensity, a sensuous storyline, and without doubt: chemistry. As the music drew to its close, the pair of us, in our matching midnight blue get-ups, arose from the final clinch to see a true vision of beauty: the audience on their feet!

The judges, however, didn’t share this appreciation. Without labouring, they all agreed we looked the part, but there wasn’t enough Cuban rhythm for Bruno – though he said we painted wonderful pictures, and Shirley took notable issue with timing. Then, although raising concerns over the free-hand and balance, Craig came to our rescue commending Emma’s développé and the storytelling. Some welcome acknowledgement, at least, for the hard work and progress this week!

It’s a difficult dance, that’s for sure, but the scoring did come across as somewhat harsh: fives from Shirley & Craig, sixes from Motsi & Bruno.

This had not gone at all to plan, and totalling 22, placed us squarely at the bottom of the leaderboard. Our hearts, once full from the thrill of the performance, had quickly sunk. We really thought our number was up.

I could say, “Imagine our surprise” when we found out we’d made it through… but no need – it was all captured on film in the Results Show! You can see what I mean in this clip from It Takes Two this week…

😂Reliving their priceless reaction on #ItTakesTwo tonight, when @TheAntonDuBeke and @EmmaBarton were saved on #Strictly this weekend! pic.twitter.com/DRfCUi9TXY

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) November 6, 2019

Our safe passage to week 8, my loves, could only have come about through your kind, generous, and clearly numerous votes! Votes for which Emma and I are truly grateful – thank you very much indeed! We were overjoyed to know that the viewers enjoyed our Rumba so much that it won their hearts. It was a wonderful boost for Emma, and we’re both thrilled that we’re able to dance again!

Of course, that meant couples who placed higher on the leaderboard were now in jeopardy and this week the red light landed on Mike & Katya once again, along with Emma W & Aljaz. The judges found Mike’s to be the better performance in the dance-off, and our charming and delightful Viscountess had to take to the floor for her very last dance on Strictly.

This week, I feel the tides have turned in our favour. Emma has had more time for rehearsals which has been a real boon, but most marvellously, our dance is a Couple’s Choice… Theatre/Jazz. And yes, it really is as exciting as it sounds!

Playing to Emma’s strengths, and with more time for rehearsal, I’m confident she’ll be able to master the technical and the emotional halves of the dance – the steps and the character – allowing her to become confident in the performance. She can then banish the nerves and deliver a real showstopper on Saturday night. I, for one, can’t wait for you to see it!

If you saw It Takes Two last night, you’ll have been treated to a glimpse of us in training for Ian Waite’s eagle-eyed scrutiny… and I’m delighted to say he loved it so much he gave Emma his Gold Star for best progress this week. My chest swelled with pride, and it was perfectly timed praise in the wake of last weekend.

Strictly really is a rollercoaster – we’ve had a dip but we’re back on the up …and the Tower’s in sight!

Here’s to this Saturday, my loves! Tune in to BBC1 6.50pm… and have your jazz hands ready!

Week 6 – The Tango

Strictly’s Halloween special this year was certainly filled with tricks and treats aplenty! For Emma and me – rival King and Queen from a haunted pack of cards – our dance was a classy Tango to classical Bach… but could we play our cards right to win all the judges’ hearts? Most importantly: which couple’s Strictly dream was to turn into a fateful Halloween nightmare?

The weekend’s thrills were matched with spills and I must start by wishing both Will and Neil swift recoveries from their injuries in training. Very sadly, Will announced yesterday that he must withdraw from the competition under doctors’ orders to allow his knee chance to heal properly. We all wish him the very best and hope that he continues to dance in the future – he’s been such an inspiration to so many in demonstrating that anything truly is possible. His incredible Couples’ Choice dance, beautifully performed and choreographed with Janette, is certainly a high to go out on.

For team #Emmton (to coin the lingo!), our training got off to a very good start as the excitement of learning the tango took hold of Emma. It’s one of the most iconic and popular dances for the celebrities to learn and one which always creates a thrill of excitement when they hear it’s up next. Strictly superfan Emma was no exception to this rule!

Now, leading on from the prior week’s Paso, there were elements which gave us some common ground in approaching the Tango: attitude and dramatics in particular. But returning to a Ballroom frame, with new posture, new rhythmic structure, and of course new steps all to be perfected, we were in many respects back to square one in learning this proper, classical Tango.

Classical’s the word, too, as our music was to be Bach’s Toccata and Fugue in D minor – the introduction of which sounds like the opening to a good Hammer Horror film! It’s a strongly rhythmic, almost hypnotic piece with a crisp driving beat and a tempestuous tempo. Perhaps the most challenging aspect of it, though, for Emma, was that there aren’t any words! That’s an interesting point: for us professionals, lyrics are useful in providing a context, a narrative, and even inspiring the choreography too, but for our celebs the words can be a useful aide memoire for keeping one’s place in a routine and remembering what comes next!

The Halloween theming gave us a framework within which we could create our characters and their story – not perhaps the typical ghouls and demons of traditional scary fare, but something a little more sophisticated, I like to think!

The routine was once again filled with technical content – it’s thrilling to see Emma pick up the steps so quickly and so naturally. The complexities of the routine, on a themed weekend, then go up yet another notch when it comes to wardrobe, hair and make-up. Emma, to my mind, took all these things in her stride – ever the professional, and by the weekend I was confident that our routine would deliver in spades and spare us any nasty surprises!

On the night, the treats kept coming as the running order revealed we were first up! There we were – me: Anton, reigning King of Clubs, on my throne, and Emma: Queen of Hearts by my side ready to contest me through dance! Cue the sinister organ introduction … Emma curtsied… and we stepped down to the floor together most regally to fight for the crown! The music then took off at a terrific tempo and we were off, in hold, spinning in time as we danced out our rivalry for this haunted card kingdom.

The Tango suits you @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke! An ace routine. ♥️♠️♦️♣️ #Strictly pic.twitter.com/rKbTzvPrDe

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) 26 October 2019

What a wonderful Tango Emma delivered – I have to say, I thoroughly enjoyed it! Her posture, frame, footwork, and remarkable drive through this dance were all to be applauded – a performance worthy of any competition dance floor, and I was incredibly proud of her! It really was a royal duel of a Tango… resolved as the music drew to its close with Queen Emma rising to the top of the pack, claiming victory, the throne, and rapturous applause from the audience!

I may have been deposed, but that mattered not when such an ace had been pulled from our sleeves!

The judges were, on the whole, enchanted; mostly. Shirley said Emma did very well – quite sharp, staccato, and she appreciated the technical content; Bruno saw classical beauty, grand production, and rhapsodied on the concept. Motsi commended Emma’s grasp of the complicated choreography, and her great posture and character but wanted her to push it even more. Craig, however, said he must have been watching a different dance as he thought it lacked aggression, drive, attack, and sufficient staccato. I’m sure for the first time everyone was agreeing with Craig – he must have been watching a different dance!

The scores were a mixed bag, starting low with just a 5 from Craig, 7 from Motsi and ending on more of a high with 8s from Shirley and Bruno.

A total of 28 is certainly a score to be proud of, even if I do think the dance was deserving of more – but with such a high calibre of performances that night, it placed us seventh from the top of the leaderboard… and therefore fourth from bottom – the danger zone!

Sunday night brought the Results Show to our screens, with no let-up in the shocks and frights. Thankfully, and thanks to you for your wonderful and generous votes, Emma and I were spared the dance-off spotlight’s grisly red glow…

The cards have been dealt… @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke will be back to join the pack next week! #Strictly pic.twitter.com/gnsVImLaaM

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) 27 October 2019

…But for two couples: Mike & Katya and Catherine & Johannes, the frights kept coming.

The Halloween weekend was certainly turning into a tale of the unexpected as the dance-off played out before us. Two thrilling repeat performances had the judges divided, and with both Craig and Shirley seeing more merit in Mike’s, it meant the nightmare became all too real for our wonderfully gifted ‘Aunty Cath’ – she and Johannes were eliminated and spirited out of Strictly. Not the first time this series that a serious contender for the title has fallen unexpectedly at an early hurdle, once again the result cast a spotlight on the viewers’ votes – every one vital to keep your favourites dancing!

If we don’t dwell on Craig’s 5 (and don’t forget, he did say he must have been watching another dance!) I think we’re doing incredibly well week-on-week: a steady overall climb in our scores and a flash of brilliance along the way with our Viennese which just goes to show what’s possible. And that’s exactly the attitude we’re taking forward with us: anything’s possible!

With the stakes ever higher, Emma and I are thrilled to be through to week 7 and we’re working on a beautifully romantic Rumba to win the hearts of all the judges this weekend… let’s hope!

Tune in this Saturday, 7pm on BBC1 – where I hope my wonderful Queen of Hearts will once again win yours!

Week 5 – The Paso Doble

How wonderful it was to start our training for week 5 high on the scores of our Viennese waltz! To have scored three nines was beyond our wildest dreams and placing third on the leaderboard was the icing on the cake. That sweet treat was, however, sadly short-lived as the judges didn’t warm to our Paso in quite the same way. Their comments weren’t ones to savour… one, in fact, was somewhat starchy indeed!

This was no easy week, and no easy routine either. With Emma’s Eastenders schedule commanding the early part of the week, we were on the back foot time-wise – and given there’s no real carry-over from Waltz to Paso to fast-track our training, we had a lot of ground to cover!

Nevertheless, still buoyed-up by our recent success, we embraced the challenge of the Paso Doble head on – and with Emma’s clear talent for dance, I saw no reason to go light on the choreography. Emma has a remarkable ability to absorb and master the steps, and it’s thrilling to craft a routine which packs them in!

By the end of the week, Emma had the routine under her belt having worked tirelessly and with such dedication: I thought she was able to get into the character so convincingly and had such a natural ability with the shaping, the posture and the intensity of this dance. I was very excited to perform with her and felt for sure we were on track to keep our high ranking on the leaderboard!

As we took our places on the podium by the band, it felt electrifying. The lighting, the costumes, the hair and make-up (I’d even had a facial spray tan to complete my look!)… and the driving pulse of the music to come – the stage was well and truly set with a wonderfully authentic feel.

Full of drama and intent @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke are bossing the dance floor tonight 🔥 #Strictly pic.twitter.com/9WtqFGX3dg

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) October 19, 2019

We began with a sequence of dramatic shaping, leading to a breathtaking back-bend from Emma, then interlocking arms and stepping down to the dance floor. And my word did we cover the floor in this routine. The pace and momentum seemed to lengthen and magnify all our movements – to great effect, I thought, this being a dance requiring strong gestures made with a driving sense of urgency.

High drama, passion, fire, attack, precision, and incredible timing – the tension between was palpable us as we powered through the dance – it was truly exhilarating! I was overjoyed with Emma’s performance – and those in the know could tell as I was quick to get us over to the judges – no need to shilly-shally on the dance floor to eat into their comment time!

We professionals generally know whether a dance has gone well or not – the steps, the timing, the overall sense of the performance. I thought this was a winner! Which is why the judges’ comments did come as something of a surprise…

Alfonso – our guest judge, standing in for Bruno this week – said we gave it our all, but that he wanted more passion. Ah, that wasn’t the start I’d hoped for. Craig, to my dismay, concurred, going on say that Emma’s free arm was ‘haphazard’, and finishing by comparing Emma to a bag of potatoes at the end. Well, I declare – and barely a fortnight after taking a dig at my teeth! Motsi was quite rightly wowed by Emma’s strength and flexibility in the opening section, and commended her energy and character throughout. But then Shirley was in agreement with the boys and said it lacked passion, fire and detail in the arms. Granted, she liked the shaping and said Emma was a great dancer with great potential, but felt there was something lacking between us in this dance.

It became clear that our reduced rehearsal time, whilst not overly compromising the dance ‘technically’ perhaps didn’t allow the ‘performance’ element to fully develop. The scores certainly suggested something was amiss, and came as something of a blow after the highs of last week. 5 from Craig and 7s from the others for a total of 26.

Certainly a downgrade, not least as it placed us 4th from bottom on the leaderboard – dangerous dance-off territory!

The Results Show got underway with a particularly memorable pro dance as all the professional dancers’ inner divas came to the fore and delivered a catwalk show unlike any other! I do like to pop up on the red carpet!…

Our #Strictly Pros and Judges came to SLAY! 💅 pic.twitter.com/wXsX7a2zNY

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) October 20, 2019

Excitement aside, it’s no wonder Emma and I we were on tenterhooks for the scores to be announced, and it came as such a very great relief to make it though. Thank you, again, for your appreciation and generosity in voting!

No dramatic ending for @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke. Their Paso has got them through to Halloween! #Strictly pic.twitter.com/k8L8DqEIC9

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) October 20, 2019

As always, two couples weren’t so lucky: this week, it was Mike & Katya and David & Nadiya who were plunged into the red light to face each other in the dance-off. Even being no strangers to the dance-off didn’t offer any advantage to David & Nadiya, as this weekend, their third was to become their final dance duel and their Strictly journey very sadly came to its end.

The competition is getting tighter now, and with another big weekend ahead: the Halloween special, the stakes are even higher! It’s going to be another incredible evening of dance, tricks and treats as the BBC will no doubt pull out all the stops… on which note, we’ll be performing a Tango to Bach’s masterpiece for organ: his Toccata & Fugue in D minor. The introduction alone is enough to give you chills!

And so, my loves, here’s to Halloween! We’re thoroughly enjoying our training and I’ve every confidence we’re going to resurrect our previous good scores. Our spirits certainly aren’t dampened – we’ll swap those potatoes for pumpkins and treat everyone – judges included – to a terrifyingly good Tango!

Week 4 – The Viennese Waltz

Strictly 2019 is fast becoming a series unlike any other – at least from my perspective! My marvellous partner Emma and I are not only doing rather well performance-wise… we’ve already had some very memorable moments (for one or two reasons)! Following the success of our Austin Powers Salsa, #teethgate then added a certain frisson to proceedings. And last weekend, well, I wasn’t just in seventh heaven, I’d say Emma and I truly took flight – we’re both on cloud ‘nine’!

Teaming up a beautiful piece of music like Sondheim’s masterpiece in understatement, ‘Send In The Clowns’, with the swirling grace of a Viennese waltz, we had a winning combination from the start. I’ve wanted to perform this piece on Strictly for many a year, and was therefore determined to get it spot on, to make it special.

From the outset we worked collaboratively on the layers of our performance: the lyrical highs, lows and twists had to be conveyed in the dance – not just through movement, but through us both acting out our parts. Emma was instrumental in this aspect, and her mastery of interpretation paid dividends. Packed with regret, anger, heartbreak, sorrow, longing, resignation – so many emotions for us to portray in telling this story. I loved it!

Marvellous outfits, beautiful arrangement, atmospheric lighting – we were both in our element. And as the music began, those gently rippling quavers, we’d worked out a short dramatic introduction to set the scene before taking to the floor in our dance.

We didn’t skimp on technical content either – straight in with a Fleckerl, double pivot, natural turns – step after step after step – and spins galore. What was particularly special about this routine, for me, was the level of choreography Emma’s growing ability allowed me to include – it’s actually quite a thrill. In fact, it felt like the dramatisation came to the fore, and the dance was there to support it. Magical, really, and I think that’s why it connected so strongly with the audience. Every dance can’t be like that – it’s not always appropriate or relevant of course, so firstly to have the opportunity to dance this number… and then to be able to really deliver, these were rewards in themselves.

No clowning around. It's an emotional routine from @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke tonight. 💖 #Strictly pic.twitter.com/V04gq0LLqh

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) October 12, 2019

There were more rewards to come.

Bruno said it was our “Best dance yet!” and even admitted to having goosebumps! Craig more than made up for any indiscretions last week: “Classy, super stylish, loved the storytelling – gorgeous!” Motsi concurred: “She has arrived – the Queen!” And Shirley raved about Emma’s frame and said the dance was “Beautiful, atmospheric, stunning – best dance so far!”

I couldn’t quite believe my ears – what simply tremendous feedback, I couldn’t have wished for better!

Still more rewards to come in the form of the scores. We’d secretly hoped for a couple of 7s and perhaps an 8, but Craig started us off with… an 8! “Hello,” I thought to myself, “now there’s a start!” And then 9s came in from Motsi, Bruno and Shirley. Just remarkable! Three nines… 35 when all totted up – a magnificent score which had us finishing 3rd *from the top* on the leaderboard. I haven’t scored more than 35 in all my years on Strictly… I achieved it most recently with Katie Derham for our Foxtrot in week 11, but never before have I ascended to such heights so early in the game! This could be a record-breaking series for me!

The Sunday night Results Show, by contrast, was sobering and a clear demonstration of how important the public votes are: proof that you can be at the bottom of the leaderboard and still escape the dance-off (mind you, I do speak from much personal experience!).

Emma and I were overjoyed to make it through…

Aaaand breathe… You're through to next week @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke! #Strictly pic.twitter.com/HUZOaJu4yi

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) October 13, 2019

…and once again, thank you all so very much for your support – it really is invaluable and so important to us.

Nobody had expected Emma & Aljaz and Dev & Diane to be in the dance-off. I think that was when the precariousness of our positions on the show really hit home. After dancing again, the judges saved Emma & Aljaz and our Red Devils Dev & Diane had to take to the floor for their last dance. None of us wanted to see them go. Such can be the nature of Strictly – even if you think you’re safe on the scoreboard, it can all too easily turn on its head.

On to week five: it’s been a particular whirlwind – not least with Emma’s busy schedule, but also with the launch of my second novel, ‘Moonlight Over Mayfair‘ – read all about it here on my website… and a quick appearance on ‘This Morning’ today too!…

Thank you for having me @hollywills and @Schofe on @thismorning to talk about my latest novel #moonlightovermayfair #outtoday pic.twitter.com/pe0dmxqXju

— Anton Du Beke (@TheAntonDuBeke) October 17, 2019

…But we were straight back to rehearsals afterwards and working hard on our dance for Saturday. Dramatics are needed once again, and a whole new gamut of emotions and characterisations from last week… it’s the Paso Doble!

Now, if you’re in the Ely area on Sunday evening, do come along to my book signing at Toppings, 7:30pm – details here.

…Otherwise I’ll see you on the Strictly dance floor on Saturday – 6:40pm, BBC1 – let’s hope we can extend our stay on cloud nine, I rather like it!

Week 3 – The Salsa

Well, where do I begin?! What a weekend – I don’t know what made more of a lasting impression: our snazzy psychedelic Salsa… or teethgate! Either way, Strictly Movie Week 2019 was surely the biggest blockbuster episode to date… and as for getting into character, I’d say ‘Mission Accomplished!’ – wouldn’t you agree?! Yeah Baby!

Strictly’s themed shows are always a favourite among us dancers, the celebs, and the production team alike. Not only are they great fun what with all the fabulous hair, make-up and wardrobe, they add an extra sparkle to the dances, an added dimension if you like – one which gives our celebrities an opportunity to connect more strongly to the audience. And in this competition, every advantage counts!

Of course, if your partner happens to be a professional actor, all the better!

From the moment we were told our movie – ‘Austin Powers’… and heard the music… ‘Soul Bossa Nova’, its fabulous theme tune – that was it, we were off! I challenge you to listen to it and not crack a smile and our week of training was simply a laugh a minute! We worked together on our routine, ensuring all the required steps were covered, but also that we were able to bring our characters faithfully to the dance floor. We had to channel them, embody them, fill the routine with groovy 60s salsa steps – and jump in with both feet!

Mind you, it wasn’t until the dress run that Austin Powers and Miss Kensington truly materialised on the dance floor (you can imagine), and I could tell Emma was in her element. Again, getting into character like this is such a good way to bring out our celebs’ inner dancer – it’s no wonder there was so many incredible performances that night!

The first of which was the fabulous pro dance commencing with yours truly as ‘Mr Incredible’ – ah the type casting! What a triumph though, I hope you enjoyed watching it as much as we all did performing it!

Now, the VT prior to our dance touched upon the nerves which crept in during last weekend’s Foxtrot, but this time we felt we were on a different footing. Not just because of the different dance and styling, but largely because our routine was so much fun that we both couldn’t wait to get out there and perform it!

The lights were dimmed… I lounged on a large pair of lips in my velvet and ruffles, and Emma, or should I say Mrs Kensington, gave the most marvellously slinky solo intro on the podium under the spotlights as those hypnotic Brazilian rhythms began.

How we kept our faces straight, to this day I do not know. A squirt of the ol’ secret weapon breath freshener, into positions, and we were off. What a hoot! All those trademark moves from the movie, not to mention the armography, our side-to-side synchro section, the lifts… and of course – the facial expressions! Just brilliant – pure exuberance!

Groovy baby! ☮️ @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke's Salsa is certainly swinging. #Strictly pic.twitter.com/Vc5WPuiR6J

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) October 5, 2019

It was all over far too soon! The audience were on their feet… and even Tess couldn’t hold her laughter back, saying “pure perfection” as she handed us over to the Judges. “Hello,” I thought to myself, “we’ve done it!”

After last week’s memorable comments I had high hopes for this week’s critiques. Little did I know how even more memorable they’d be…

Shirley said she enjoyed it very much, admitting she’d presumed Emma would fare better in Ballroom over Latin – but she said the rhythm and rotations were all spot on! Bruno, once he’d got past my barnet, said Emma gave a stylish swinging 60s salsa – and that she could “Go for it, Honey!”

Craig – here we go – said he was distracted by my wig… and teeth! Hang about… the teeth were mine – not prosthetics! The cheek! I, ever the professional, thought it best not to make a fuss, live TV and all, but I was pleased that Tess stepped in to clarify and put Craig right on the matter…

‘They’re not fake?’ he said, now realising his mistake, and unable to hide his embarrassment! You see, I’ve always doubted Craig’s eyesight, given the way he marks, so this all came as little surprise. But that was it – Tess, the judges, and the audience all broke into fits of laughter. How I managed to maintain composure I do not know, save for the stinging barb of the insult 😉

🤣The teeth are real. The moment Craig Revel Horwood thought Anton Du Beke had Austin Powers pearly whites. pic.twitter.com/X35J6dHFW8

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) October 5, 2019

The whole sorry affair has since been aptly coined ‘teethgate’ and has gone viral, as they say, on the internet. My orthodontist is furious. I console myself in that it’s most likely Craig’s apology being caught on film which had everybody clicking!

Motsi had a job to bring things back on track (whilst Craig wiped his eyes) but was thankfully complimentary – “You are fine… sensual… quality… push, push, push!”

On to the scores, and whilst Bruno, Shirley and Motsi all give us 7s, Craig only scored us a 6. You’d think his mark might have reflected some degree of remorse but alas, no – there was no getting Craig out of character this week!

Still, 27! 3 up from last week, and keeping us steady in 7th place overall on the leaderboard.

Even the Hollywood highs of Movie Week couldn’t keep the mood aloft backstage as the Results Show was upon us. Remarkably however, Emma and I were the first couple to be announced as safe! Now there’s a novelty!

Happy doesn't even cover it! @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke are overjoyed to be through to Week Four. 🙌 #Strictly pic.twitter.com/QLlnDMGZwc

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) October 6, 2019

No such reprieve for Kevin & Anneka and, once again, David & Nadiya, who had to take part in this week’s dance-off. Even with the fabulous staging and costumes of Movie Week, the prospect of dancing their routines again was surely not relished by these couples. Despite both showing greater confidence second time around, the judges were unanimous in saving David & Nadiya, with worthy challenger, Anneka and reigning champ, Kevin, making an early exit. Looks like the hunt for the glittering treasure was a challenge too far for our lovely Anneka, who will be very much missed on the show.

Mention must be made of the fabulous performance by Harry Connick Jnr – ‘Anything Goes’ – to which Nadiya and I had the very great pleasure of dancing along to. Here it is again – enjoy!

And so, thrilled, delighted, and relieved, Emma and I embarked upon another week of training – this time, the Viennese Waltz – and if the footwork doesn’t put Emma in a spin, the spins will!

As ever, thank you all for your votes each week – they really do mean the world and are absolutely instrumental to us making real progress in the competition – we simply couldn’t do it without you!

See you back on the dance floor – Saturday, 6.40pm, BBC1!

Oh, and don’t forget to visit Anton & Erin – Dance Those Magical Movies for details of my movie-themed 2020 tour with Erin Boag – some fabulous photos too, Du Bond being a personal favourite!

Week 2 – The Foxtrot

Hot on the heels of our week 1 Jive, it was back to ballroom basics with our week 2 dance – the Foxtrot – my all-time favourite, as many of you will know! But were we a week 1 wonder? Would we be able to transition from Latin to Ballroom in mere days?… This was to be a pivotal week in our training and our progress could so easily suffer under the quickly mounting pressures!…

After our first competition dance, to sit safely in the middle of the leaderboard was in fact an enormous confidence boost. No overbearing expectation to repeat a leaderboard-topping performance, and barring a dancefloor-disaster, very slim chance of leaving the show in the first elimination; the mathematics were on our side.

That’s no reason, however, to rest on laurels… indeed, there was very little time for any kind of rest! In many ways, this second week generally proves to be one of the most challenging weeks of the competition. The celebrities have a good lead-up to week 1, perhaps two weeks to get the first dance under their belts. Then it’s all change, things ramp up a gear and the pressure’s really on with less than a week, perhaps 5 days, to learn dance number two. No mean feat, particularly when it involves a novice switching from a Jive to a Foxtrot!

Of course, everyone’s in the same boat, but I must doff my hat to Emma for juggling her Eastenders commitments with her Strictly training – and not skimping on either. What a professional!

Now, the Foxtrot is a tricky dance, and there was a lot of ground to cover in getting those ballroom basics ready for the judges’ scrutiny.

Day 3…. (with sound this time) @TheAntonDuBeke @bbcstrictly #bartonsballroombulletin#bartonsballchange#teamemmton pic.twitter.com/GYj1UsMd6Y

— Emma Barton (@EmmaBarton) September 25, 2019

I was keen for us to perform a beautiful, classic, flowing Foxtrot … but of course, for our dance to look simple and elegant on the surface – and to score good points – would require a full complement of judge-pleasing steps.

Emma, I’m delighted to say, took those steps in her stride (even if she didn’t realise at the time!), and by the end of the week’s dress run, we had the routine off pat and ready to perform!

What you can’t prepare for are those last minute jitters, and on the night, any slight slips were I’m sure, simply a result of those. But from start to finish, I thought Emma gave a wonderful, confident performance. The music, the theming, the costumes – all were perfect for staging a timeless dance: and every second of it flowed beautifully as we traversed the floor in hold. What I particularly loved were all our turns and spins, especially Emma’s heel turns which to her credit, didn’t go unnoticed by the judges. Emma was elegance personified, and gave a Foxtrot to be proud of!

Putting the FOX 🦊into Foxtrot @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke creating fireworks on the #Strictly dance floor pic.twitter.com/9XZfmzBIKL

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) September 28, 2019

The judges, I’m delighted to say, were particularly encouraging! It’s to be expected that they picked up on slight lapses with gapping, flow, top line, rhythm and so on, but what about this…
Bruno: “You have the right feel and potential for ballroom.”
Craig: “You have real dance talent and it’s wonderful to see.”
Motsi: “I see a dancing queen when I see you.”
Shirley: “You actually had flashes of brilliance.”
All my Christmases had come at once! Can we have those comments every week please?!

The scores came in as sixes across the board for a total of 24 – one more than last week – we’ve improved! And to hear that, my loves, is like music to my ears!

After all the scores were tallied-up from 14 other sterling performances, we finished in seventh place once again, firmly in that leaderboard middle-ground.

The tension among the couples was truly palpable as the results show got underway, as you can imagine. The reality of the first elimination struck our celebrities and the backstage exuberance of the main show was gone.

After last year’s early exit, I wasn’t counting any chickens and, I’m sure, was more relieved that Emma to make it through to week 3! Thank you all for your votes and support!

Yes, it's true @EmmaBarton you've made it through to #Strictly Movie Week with @TheAntonDuBeke! 🎩 pic.twitter.com/rdSYbh8iv7

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) September 29, 2019

David James and James Cracknell however didn’t fare as well and had to face the first dreaded dance-off of the series. After valiant reprises of their routines with respective partners Nadiya and Luba, the judges unanimously saved David, and our sporting hero James became the first to leave the show; a bittersweet moment for us all.

The show must go on, of course, and week 3 is… drumroll please… Movie Week! Now, this is particularly exciting for me as my 2020 Tour with Erin Boag is based around our most favourite movie themes – “Anton & Erin – Dance Those Magical Movies“, and I’m very partial to getting into character! I’ll let you into a ‘top secret’… this week, I am to become that fabled International Man of Mystery, Austin Powers… and Emma and I will be dancing a Salsa to the movie’s Soul Bossa Nova theme tune.

I think the word you’re looking for is ‘unmissable’!

See you on the dance floor, BBC1, Saturday 7.10pm my loves… it’s going to be ‘Groovy, baby!’

Strictly 2019 – The Week 1 Jive!

Strictly Come Dancing is back on our screens for its seventeenth series and may I say I’m overjoyed to be taking part once again and having another shot at the ever-elusive glitter ball! Moreover, something in my waters is telling me this could be a very special series, with everything to play for. As you’ll know, we’re already off to a rocketing start, so, positions everyone… let’s dance!

It all kicked off just over two weeks ago with the BBC pulling out all the stops – and more – in devising the most marvellous launch show to get the nation’s feet tapping. With spectacular group dances featuring us Pro dancers holding court along with the quintessential Queen of Pop herself – Kylie Minogue…

…a fabulous Pro number introducing our new girl, Nancy Xu…

…a very inventive Latin mega-mix to introduce the Judges – including our newly appointed and very warmly welcomed Motsi Mabuse…

…and later in the show, a true feat of choreography as our 15 celebs – the Class of 2019 – joined us all in the most tremendous group finalé.

Each of these a blockbuster performance in itself, the night’s main event was of course… the pairings! I’d been posting the celebrity announcements on my social media channels as they were released over the days prior, so everyone was up to speed on this year’s line-up of hopefuls. In order of announcement…

Our male celebs are David James; Chris Ramsey; Mike Bushell; Karim Zeroual; Will Bayley; Dev Griffin; James Cracknell and Kelvin Fletcher, who replaces Jamie Laing after an unfortunate injury early in training.

Our females this year are Emma Barton; Saffron Barker; Catherine Tyldesley; Emma Thynn, Viscountess Weymouth; Michelle Visage Alex Scott and Anneka Rice.

A fabulous assortment of leading lights from such a diverse array of fields! Quite how their respective expertise will translate to the dance floor… well, the coming weeks will tell!

Naturally, speculation abounded as to who would be partnered with whom, not least on my part! As you’ll recall, my time on the show was so very short-lived last year and I’ll admit, my heart was in my mouth as this year’s pairings began. I had my inklings – we all did… but you don’t need to imagine my surprise when Tess announced that this year I’d be dancing with Honey Mitchell from Eastenders, a.k.a. the magnificent Emma Barton!

That moment when you're paired up with a #Strictly legend…

Huge congrats @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke! pic.twitter.com/pm0WXgpNSc

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) 7 September 2019

Not to diminish my achievements with previous partners – having reached the final with the sparking Katie Derham in series 13, the semi-final with lovely Lesley Garrett in series 1, and regularly reaching week 8 or beyond with a number of my celebrity belles – it came as something of a shock to be paired with someone I’d considered from the outset to be capable of reaching the final! What a result!… And the competition hadn’t even begun!

Welcoming Walford's wonderful @EmmaBarton to #StrictlyComeDancing as my 2019 partner! I couldn't be more excited — first impressions… she's brilliant!! #InItToWinIt 💃🕺🤞🏆 pic.twitter.com/uiocSIycHJ

— Anton Du Beke (@TheAntonDuBeke) 7 September 2019

Now, bear in mind that Emma has her day job of running the Minute Mart on Eastenders – with cliffhanger storylines to boot – fitting in a strenuous dance training regime was going to take some planning… along with regularly scheduled hot-beverage-and-bun breaks for sustenance! Not least as our very first dance was to be … the Jive.

"I can't imagine things going any better." @TheAntonDuBeke is seriously impressed with @EmmaBarton's #Strictly progress. Or it could just be the Jive talkin'
" pic.twitter.com/lrjLCYQZns

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) 16 September 2019

The Jive, as we all know, is something of an energetic dance! Fast paced, technically challenging, demanding of rhythm, precision and stamina – it’s not for the faint of heart! Ideally braved later in the competition, we were straight in at the deep end, it really was sink or swim.

Such were the exertions, that at one point I resorted to wearing shorts – which when broadcast in the VT on the live show, became something of an internet sensation in itself.

Nevertheless, it quickly became clear that Emma was a natural and I was able to craft a routine packed with content to enable her personality, ability – and gleaming smile – to shine through.

I knew she’d be brilliant… and indeed, she was.

On the night, last Saturday, the running order placed us last in the line-up. Fifteenth to go on. This, you’ll appreciate, can have the unsettling effect of magnifying one’s nerves – and my reassurances of saving the best till last became less and less effective watching 14 other stupendous routines play out before us. I felt for Emma – this really had been a marathon week and the adrenaline can only last so long.

And then, finally, we were on. I, cover-star pin-up of the Minute Mart’s latest celeb gossip magazine, saunter in to pick up a few essentials and Emma, the eagle eyed assistant clocks me, sashays over, and wastes no time in erupting into a jive! Powerless to resist, it’s off with her tabard and we rocket round the aisles faster than a supermarket sweep.

The tabard is off and the Jive is ON! Fantastic kicks and flicks from @EmmaBarton and @TheAntonDuBeke. #Strictly pic.twitter.com/EndKZEzRaz

— BBC Strictly ✨ (@bbcstrictly) 21 September 2019

That was one fast jive! …And Emma didn’t just keep up, she really sold it! Sass, synchronicity, showmanship – Emma had them all! I couldn’t have been more proud of her, she was truly brilliant, and delivered a sterling debut performance on that dancefloor.

As for the judges, well, Craig felt it was “laboured” but did concede that Emma has “amazing potential”. Our new judge Motsi, was far more appreciative – “great posture, great legs, controlled arms” and said that with “more of the good stuff you’re going to be splendid.” Marvellous, constructive, and encouraging indeed – Motsi gets my vote! Shirley wasn’t quite so agreeable, unhappy with Emma’s posture, connections, and technical elements, summing up with “otherwise quite nice,” – though she did acknowledge Emma as “a natural born performer.” Bruno, ah Bruno… “Yes, a few issues, but a wonderful crowd-pleasing performance.” We’ll take that! A generally positive end to a mostly positive critique. (I’ve known far worse!)

When the scores came in: sixes each from Craig, Motsi and Bruno, and a five from Shirley, giving a total of 23 points, you didn’t need to be a maths whizz to tally-up three weeks’ worth in one, based on some past years! We placed 7th out of 15 – a very solid start, not bad at all… with plenty of room for improvement. We are, after all, planning on playing the long game this year!

All told, what a fantastic night. This really is going to be a closely fought competition, but I’m very much of the opinion that #TeamEmton is firmly in the running!

Now, for week 2 – the first of the elimination weeks – we’re dancing my all time favourite: the Foxtrot. This has to be ballroom at its best. It’s a big shift from the jive – there’s a lot of new ground to cover technically but Emma’s doing tremendously well in training and our performance is going to be pure class. I can feel that in my waters, too!

Make sure you’re tuned in from 6:40pm on Saturday night, my loves, and we’ll see you on the dancefloor – and don’t forget to vote!

Keeeeeep dancing!

Moonlight Over Mayfair – the sequel!

For more information now that the book has been released, please click through to this page.