Season 30, Week Four, Night Two: Disney Villains Night and a Double Elimination

Left to right: Carrie Ann, Len, Derek, Bruno. Not pictured (ever): Tyra Banks.

I’m just gonna say that I’m so over Tyra Banks. OK then.

Since there was no elimination last night (this is Dancing with the Stars Season 30, Week 4, Night 2, for those keeping score at home), there will be a double elimination tonight. *Gasp*

We have, of course, more footage of couples at Disneyland. Jimmie is “all in” on Disneyland.

Emma and Jimmie, jazz

They are dancing to Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” which is that Billie Eilish song that you know but don’t know the name of.  (Outfitted as Tinkerbell and Captain Hook, who for some reason are fighting). OK.

Look at this amazing set!!!! Two real waterfalls! Skull Island!

At the end, she looks like she’s about to throw a punch. :-0. Come on, Tinkerbell would NEVER do that. You don’t throw punches if you’ve got magic, and fairy dust. And if she did, he’s got a HOOK for a hand. Emma’s a great dancer and choreographer, but man, she’s not big on lyrics or story. OK, this went WAY outside of plausibility for me. But it was a fun dance. And I couldn’t figure out how they kept lighting her (in the way that Tinkerbell is incandescent…at least the set and lighting and costume people are paying attention to the actual story…), cause she just glowed. (As Tinkerbell does.)

Len: “I liked the concept, the story within the dance. Captain Hook, fighting little Tinkerbell… I thought the lifts were right in character. You’re surprising me each week, because your dancing is coming right on point.” Derek: “Jimmie, I’m so impressed with you, my man. That side by side, when that kicked in! It had so much oomph to it, so much energy. Some people transform on this show, and you are definitely one of those people. I’m loving seeing your progress, man.” Bruno: “That was a badass jazz routine. You gave it your own style. You were totally in character. You never dropped it. Your strongest performance to date.” Carrie Ann: “Jimmie Jam. Disney is totally your jam. I can tell how much you love it, because it came through in both of your dances. Last night and tonight. That was amazing.”

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Cheryl and Cody, Viennese waltz

They are dancing to “Gaston” from Beauty and the Beast (thank goodness it wasn’t “Be Our Guest” again). The dancers may not be clued in to the story, but man, the set designers sure are. Look at this one.

Note Pasha (eliminated last week) and Britt among the troupe members on the stage in this dance.

Another lack of continuity. This song is sung to Gaston by his buddy. So who’s Cheryl’s character supposed to be? Gaston’s alter ego or something? Ugh. I’m not liking the story presentation of the dances so far. But that said, I did like the dance. 

Derek: “Not a lot of people know this, but you guys had the least amount of rehearsal time this week. So, well done for getting two routines in this week. You had the flaring of the gusto of Gaston. You always are such a great performer. Technically, there are still some things to work on: getting the frame up, and the natural turns, the reverse turns, and get lower in the legs, it will help you get a little more balance. Overall, great performance.” Bruno (who has his gold sparkly pants on): “Gaston, so irresistibly dashing, is a curse. I know the feeling, Cody. You know, very very hard. But I actually have to say, I’m so happy to see you in a full production, able to really exploit your talent, because you’ve got it. He’s right, a bit of polishing, but you can work a stage.” Carrie Ann: “Cody, thank you, thank you, thank you. All the moves were finished, you were bold, you were polished. You were so animated. Cheers to you.” Len: “Cheryl, I congratulate you, natural reverse turns. You even put a freckle in there! And that was fantastic. Well done to both of you.”

JUDGES: 31 (Out of 40)

Gleb and Melanie, Viennese waltz

Since Sleeping Beauty was also an animated movie (without song), they are dancing to Lana del Rey’s “Once Upon a Dream.” (And Mel C. is playing Maleficent.)

Sets, costumes, lighting!

I’m sure Len will say this, but there wasn’t much of a Viennese waltz there.

Bruno: “Magnificent Maleficent, you’ ve got plenty of drama, mama. It was so haunting. But there was a quality I really liked, it was like suspended animation. Like you were weaving a spell all around you. I loved it.” Carrie Ann: “That was your best dance, by far. There was the transformation that we’re looking for. You went from Sporty to the Queen of Evil. Sensual, powerful, the continuation of the movement was so languid and sensuous.” Len: “I liked the mood. You created a fantastic atmosphere. I don’t wanna be glib, Gleb, but you could’ve had a little bit more Viennese waltz in the Viennese waltz. (Knew it!) What was on the label, not on the table.” Derek: “Big props for navigating those horns. Sometimes that can throw people, but you handled it beautifully. That was ominous and forbidding performance. Gorgeous.” 

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Jenna and JoJo, paso doble

Courtesy of Just Jared and ABC.

They are dancing to “Ways to Be Wicked” from Descendants 2. (?) The song is terrible, but the costumes and hair are fantastic. (It’s hard to take a song seriously, especially as a “Villain” when one of the lyrics is “W-I-C-K-E-D.” Ugh.)

Carrie Ann: “JoJo, you are a fantastic performer, always I love the energy you bring and the dedication. This week, I didn’t think that was your best dance. I thought it was a little hectic. What I’m looking for, always, is transformation. That’s what keeps the playing field level for everybody. This week, I felt like we kinda went back to old tricks and old habits. I like when you have a little bit more elegance.” Len: “It possibly could’ve been hectic, but for me, what I loved, it had control. That wasn’t just all the time right on point. You’ve done two dances: Viennese waltz, paso doble. Both ends of the dance spectrum. Both fantastic.” Derek: “I actually feel like maybe the hecticness was just the hair flying around. You look at the dancing, I agree with Len, it was super in control, had so much content in it. Had the power, had the oomph that I love to see in paso doble.” Bruno: “My shielding beauties. Equally strong, equally gifted. It was like watching two supervillains battling for supremacy. And you both won. A paso doble like no other.”

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Brendan and Kenya, Viennese waltz

She is the Evil Queen in Snow White, and they are dancing to “Dangerous Woman” by Ariana Grande.

Well, once again, the lyrics don’t fit the story. The Evil Queen always knew she was a “dangerous woman.” But I liked this Viennese waltz enough to go with it.

Len: “Well, the bars you did in hold were appreciated. The technique weren’t great, however, basically it was a lovely dance in 3/4 time, done very very well, so congratulations.” Derek: “Kenya, this Evil Queen was a vibe. I loved it. Just like sultry, sensual, seductive. I was so into it. It was so good. You are fierce, you really really are. I just want you to believe that a little bit more in the dance. I want you to own that fierceness within you, cause you definitely have it. There it is.” Bruno: “Oh, sassy madam. No mirror can do justice to your regal beauty. I loved the way she played with the boy. You would tease him to death. Use them! I had enough. Next!” Carrie Ann: “I am so impressed with the way you kept on your center, because there are moments when you almost got pulled off, and you were just ‘I am not letting go. Not tonight.’ That was your best dance.”

JUDGES: 30 (Out of 40) 

Daniella and Iman, Argentine tango

Daniella and Iman are dancing to “Arabian Nights” from Aladdin, and Iman is Jafar.

Wow. Some amazing lifts in that Argentine tango. Pretty incredible.

Derek: “Yo! That opening and ending lift was iconic. Seriously. There was no momentum there, from a static position. A lift with that control. That was a moment. I just felt that in the room, that whole routine. I’m kinda speechless. That was really, really good.” Bruno: “People are told: ‘No special effects. No wires.’ A feat of magical strength. She was in the air more than a commercial airliner. I don’t know how you did it. Impressive.” Carrie Ann: “I’m truly blown away. That was one of the most magical performances I’ve ever seen on this show. There was something about the different levels of the tone.  Like you could see the different chapters of the story. It was poetry in motion. It blew my mind.” Len: “Congratulations, that was your best I’ve seen.”

JUDGES: 33 (Out of 40) 

Artem and Melora, jazz

She’s playing the villainous mother from Tangled. In their package, they show Kate Flannery (who should’ve won with Pasha in her season, IMHO) visiting their rehearsal.

It’s kinda weird because Tangled is all about Rapunzel and her long hair, and Artem is now playing… her son? #Bizarre With an eye patch? The entire song is vocals that Melora reacts to with grand gestures. (Not so much dancing.)

We learn that the vocals that they used were actually Melora’s! Wow. Nice voice.

Bruno: “When it comes to deliver wickedly delicious dancing musical comedy, nobody does it better.” Carrie Ann: “You’re a little cray-cray. It all came out today. I love it. You’re so theatrical. This is the kind of thing we wanna see. We wanna see everything big and bold at the fifth night of competition. You were amazing. It was a little safe.” Len: “That had wit, it had charm. It was truly delightful.” Derek: “Boy, that was an absolute clinic in storytelling, and absolute theatrical performance. You were magnificent. Beautiful.”

JUDGES: 37 (Out of 40) Len gives a 10, the first 10 of the season.

Witney and The Miz, Argentine tango

The Miz talks about he likes being a villain in WWE, and he likes being booed. He’s playing Scar from The Lion King, whom he says is “the worst of the worst villains.”

I liked the dance, but mostly it was Witney doing all the Argentine tango, and The Miz lifting her up.

Carrie Ann: “The men are on fire tonight. What is happening? That was incredible. What I loved was the way you channeled all your energy into focus and intimacy. And the specificity of movement tonight was on fire.” Len: “I wasn’t prepared for that. I liked the lifts, they were in character. Lovely moments of Argentine tango. All mixed up with a really theatrical performance.” Derek: “It’s 10s across the board for your commitment to the costumes, for both Disney nights. You win, you win. Even through the costume and the makeup, I could still see the articulation in your body and your movement. It was so fantastic. Brother, great, great job.” Bruno: “Very scary. Don’t bug me. I have some catnip, just in case. I have to say, in spite of the scary appearances, there was so much content there, and in general, very very good. Great performance.”

JUDGES: 34 (Out of 40)

Sharna and Brian, paso doble

They are doing Pirates of the Caribbean. He is playing Captain Barbosa and she’s Jack Sparrow. Sure, why not? It’s not really explained why these two characters would get into hold and dance, but ok.

A very fun paso, with Sharna’s usual great choreography.

Len: “Well, I liked the aggression that you showed in that. I liked the fight scene. That was really lovely.” Derek: “I loved the dance/fight choreography. It was so entertaining to watch. I’m not gonna lie. I definitely had a heart attack for some of those explosions in there. Well done for staying focused during that. Cause that was a lot.” Bruno: “You had more firepower. You’re fully loaded.” Carrie Ann: “I know it’s hard for you, but what I love is that was a valiant effort. I definitely saw you in it to win it. You’re going for it, you’re doing the moves. Very proud of you.”

JUDGES: 27 (Out of 40)

Lindsay and Matt, paso doble 

They are dancing to The Jungle Book, and Matt is Kaa the Snake. Lindsay is playing Shere Khan, the tiger. Ugh. I hated that dance.

Derek: “Matt, I was feelin’ ya, man. Your face. Where you were just like into it, man. I loved it so much. Great job.” Bruno: “That was a solid performance. Power, intent, content. You can do it, Matt. You have to refine now. Extend, maintain and refine.” Carrie Ann: “This is the first time I really felt like you gave us all. You left nothing behind.” Len: “Well, in the paso, you look for three Ps—you want posture, you want passion, you want performance. I saw that a little bit, but really, you could give me so much more. Now come on!”

JUDGES: 31 (Out of 40)

Val and Olivia, jazz

They are dancing to “Remember Me” from Coco. Which is kinda bizarre, since Coco doesn’t really have “villains” per se. But Val changed it to be more a husband-wife fighting with each other for attention, which kinda worked. The dancing was kinda minimal though. Mostly just dramatic faces. Still, I love anything Val does.

This is not Olivia and Val, these are the troupe dancers.

Bruno: “I’m having so much fun, I’m going Coco-loco. (*eyeroll*) Really, you captured the spirit of the movie. Perfectly. We know you’re getting better and better and better as a dancer. But you can act as well.” Carrie Ann: “I’m impressed with the acting and it felt a little safe for me. I’ve seen you dance in the pocket. Tonight I felt like you were just a hair in front of it. You are growing every week.” Len: “There’s a saying: ‘I could’ve danced for joy.’ This was such a joyous performance.” Derek: “I could hear Len during that whole performance, ‘I love it!’ The whole time. Listen, I can’t believe you’ve never danced before, because you are a natural-born performer.”

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Sasha and Suni, Viennese waltz

Sasha and Suni are dancing to “I Put a Spell on You” from Hocus Pocus.

Carrie Ann: “Suni! You’re finally really going there. The articulation, I could feel your energy, I could feel the energy move. So when you dance beyond your body, I could feel you do every move. Finally, I feel the performance has met the technique.” Len: “You look so good in hold, Sasha, next ballroom dance, let’s get a little more in hold. She looks great.” Derek: “I’m still recovering from Sasha running off like a little cat. I’m dying. Suni, you’re beautiful, you’re magnificent. You have beautiful, beautiful arms. Like Carrie Ann said, your performance is starting to come out, and we absolutely love that.” Bruno: “Bewitching, my darling. The flow of the movement, those long lines—keep it going, it’s working.”

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Alan and Amanda, paso doble

Courtesy of Just Jared and ABC.

They are dancing to “Call Me Cruella” and she, of course, is Cruella.

Len: “It had a feeling of menace, which I liked to see. Lovely interpretation from you, Alan, for the music.” Derek: “Amanda, you look unbelievable. You played the part to perfection. You were so good that sometimes the little details catch my eye. That was a phenomenal paso doble.” Bruno: “It was devilishly stylish, with a hint of danger and a lot of aggression. It was going so well. There was a slight misstep. Otherwise, it could have been perfection.” Carrie Ann: “That was powerful and masterful, and so divine. I have to say, a beautiful way to end an incredible night. Bravo to everyone who worked on these shows.”

JUDGES: 36 (Out of 40)

These are the scores from both Disney nights, plus our votes, plus the Mickey Dance Challenge points.

I have to say that I thought the Disney Villains night overall was a #FAIL because it was just all over the place. The music from the movies (by and large) wasn’t very good. The Villains weren’t villainy enough. One Disney night is enough.

So, who’s going home on this Double Elimination night?

The Bottom Three:

1. Sharna and Brian

2. Lindsay and Matt

3. Brandon and Kenya

are in the Bottom Three.

Brian and Sharna have the lowest totals and are eliminated. Judges decide between the last two.

Len decides to save Kenya and Brandon.

Miche’s Favorites of Villains Night

1. Daniella and Iman, Argentine tango

2. Artem and Melora, jazz

3.Sharna and Brian, paso doble 

4. Val and Olivia, jazz

5. Sasha and Suni, Viennese waltz

6. Brandon and Kenya, Viennese waltz  

7. Cheryl and Cody, Viennese waltz

8. Alan and Amanda, paso doble

9. Emma and Jimmie, jazz

10. Gleb and Melanie, Viennese waltz

11. Jenna and JoJo, paso doble 

Can Go Home Anytime Now

1. The Miz 

****************************

Season 30, Week Four, Night One: Disney Heroes Night and No One Goes Home

It’s Covid times at Dancing with the Stars, so we still don’t have a proper opening number, but we do have our couples at Disneyland, each doing a few steps. Well, it’s better than nothing. They danced to “Zero to Hero,” which is fitting because it’s Heroes Night. (Cheryl and Cody were not included, neither were Sasha and Suni for some reason. Perhaps because Sasha and Suni didn’t go to Disneyland. They got to view the new movie, Encanto, instead.)

And we have one of the stupidest things they’ve ever done on #DWTS tonight. They have a series of moves (shown by Mickey Mouse) that our couples (well, pros) must incorporate into their choreography, no matter the dance style. Ugh. Who comes up with this nonsense?

Jenna and JoJo, Viennese waltz

Courtesy of Just Jared and ABC.

Well, you knew it was going to happen: that two women dancing together for the first time as competitors on DWTS meant that one of them would be dressing in drag at some point. Well, here it is. JoJo as Prince Charming. And it’s wonderful. Just sublime.

Can I just say how stunning Jenna’s Cinderella costume is? Bravo to the costume team.

They are dancing to “A Dream Is A Wish Your Heart Makes” from Cinderella, of course.

Len: “You danced a couple of bars of reverse turns, a couple of bars of natural turns, in hold, which to quote another song is just about the bare necessities. However, having said that, it was beautifully danced. Your footwork was fantastic. And I enjoyed watching you so much.” Derek: “Last time I was judging you, I mentioned that More isn’t more. Tonight proved that. You were so clean, so elegant. It was a breath of fresh air. Beautifully danced.” Bruno: “JoJo, Jenna, you two are a dream come true. This was a Viennese waltz for the 21st Century. Full of charm, grace, elegance. All was so beautifully executed.” Carrie Ann: “JoJo, I am so proud of you. You just showed the whole world that you can do anything guys can do, and sometimes maybe even better. That was amazing what you’re doing. What I loved the most was that you toned it down and you were the frame for Jenna to shine tonight.” 

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Gleb and Melanie C., jazz

It’s great to see Melanie C. as Mary Poppins. Also great to see her do a few cartwheels. I thought there was more to the song than just “Step in Time” over and over again, but it was a fun dance.

Derek: “Melanie, I actually had the privilege of dancing ‘Step in Time’ with Dick Van Dyke a couple years ago, and I know if he saw this, he absolutely would have loved this. This was like a full musical production: you had the props, you had the set. You danced it so well, so acrobatic. Some of the transitions were a little hectic here and there. But overall, fantastic.” Bruno: “That was so difficult, because the tempo sped up. It wasn’t even. You wove in the Mickey Challenge very very well in the structure, as an introduction of the routine. You lost sync a little bit.” Carrie Ann: “Oh my god, that was jam-packed. Move after move, it was like a stunt show, an action adventure come to life. It was a little bit out of sync.” Len: “That was just like Disneyland. It was full of fun, joy and it was enchanting.” 

JUDGES: 31 (Out of 40)

Lindsay and Matt, quickstep

Everyone tells Matt he should be Frozone for Halloween, so here he is, living the dream. This was my favorite of their dances so far, although I think he botched a spin at the beginning.

Bruno: “Mr. Frozone, it looks like you’re defrosting nicely. The quickstep is all about feet. I have to say: they are getting better.” Carrie Ann: “Listen, we’ve gotta still work on your technique. What I loved is, I smiled the whole time. Anyone who can do that in a unitard and still make me smile like that, God bless you, Matt James.” Len: “I admire your tenacity and your work ethic. Quickstep’s not an easy dance. Your technique wasn’t great. But it was fast and it was energetic. I enjoy watching you every week.” Derek: “First of all, I just love the commitment, going full out with the outfit. It was stressing me out a little bit, with the glasses, I was like: can he see? I don’t know, is he gonna fall over, OMG. It was really entertaining.”

JUDGES: 26 (Out of 40)

Emma and Jimmie, paso doble

They take a page from Mulan, and Jimmie dedicates it to his dad. They are dancing to “I’ll Make a Man Out of You,” which is kinda weird with Emma dancing it with him, but ok. Sometimes these dancers just don’t listen to the lyrics…

Carrie Ann: “That was incredible. There was dignity, there was passion. I loved how you did the Mickey Challenge. Everything about that dance was delicious. I loved it.” Len: “You got into the paso doble feeling for the dance. It was a little bit of walking about going on, which I wasn’t too keen on.” Derek: “Jimmie, what I’m so impressed with you about is your texture. Your texture and your movement. It looks just wonderful.” Bruno: “Great! I loved the menacing warrior. I loved the touches of martial art.”

JUDGES: 30 (Out of 40) 

Alan and Amanda, rumba

Wow. Didn’t like these costumes at all. Guess they can’t all be winners. What is that scarf thing? Ugh. Well, in the movie, she was a gorilla, so I guess the costume could be anything.

They dance to “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan. They talk about how (in the movie) it’s a mother talking to her son. But they are dancing a rumba. Ick.

I didn’t like anything about this dance, and Alan’s bizarre hair was really distracting.

Len: “Well, in rumba, you need control, you need romance, you need chemistry. You need your hips to show us the rhythm of the dance. Your arms should show us the melody of the dance. All of that you got. I thought it was brilliant. It was so beautiful. I loved it.” Derek: “Hold on, hold on. I didn’t think you missed the Mickey Dance Challenge at all. It was like a contemporary break in the rumba. I disagree with you, Len. Here’s the thing I love: every fiber, every muscle in your body is working. You can really see the articulation in your feet, using the floor, into your feet, into your arms.” Bruno: “Both of you, thank you for the eye candy, btw. And your pants have shrunk. Let’s talk about the rumba: effortless, easy, natural. You really made it look easy.” Carrie Ann: “Amanda, real quick, I just wanna say, you seemed a bit cautious. But what I love is that you actually attempted proper rumba, and you didn’t hide behind anything. So I really appreciate that.” 

JUDGES: 32 (Out of 40) *overscored*

Val and Olivia, samba

These costumes are a little better. Although getting The Lion King from this is a bit of a stretch. They are dancing to “I Just Can’t Wait to Be King.”

It was a really fun dance. I love Val’s choreography so much, even when he has to incorporate that stupid Mickey Dance Challenge, and go back into samba. It was beautiful. And they did samba rolls.

Derek: “Wow. Olivia. I am not a cat person, and you do not look adorable in that makeup. Listen! That samba? You are like becoming one of my favorite performers on this show. There’s like an effortless fun to when you dance, every time you dance. It’s just so fun to watch you. The samba rolls, the stationary samba walks, the promenade runs, you had it all in there.” Bruno: “Look at you. The spirit of a wild cat, with the sprint of a cheetah, and yet, she maintained the lightness of a gazelle. You’re so versatile. You have such range. What more do you want? You’ve got it.” Carrie Ann: “I loved almost everything about that. What was the most impressive though, was dealing with the music change. Hard music change, and you’re not an experienced dancer. To be able to come back in like that, shows the trust. What I love most about this couple right here is the chemistry and trust that you guys have. It’s gonna take you so far.” Len: “Zippity do dah. Lots of zip, and no do dah anywhere.”

Courtesy of Just Jared and ABC.

JUDGES: 35 (Out of 40)

Witney and The Miz, quickstep

They are dancing to “A Friend Like Me” from Aladdin. 

Now these costumes rock. So beautiful. To say nothing of his makeup!

Bruno: “I really appreciate the fact that you really go for it. You work very hard. You give everything you have. And we love your performances.” Carrie Ann: “What I love most about this performance is that you’re really honing your energy in to match the specifics of each dance. That’s something that you struggled with from the beginning. You bring and you elevate the mood of the room every time that you step out in this ballroom dance floor. You are so much fun to watch.” Len: “You didn’t just take off and fly, as you quite often see. You danced it with control, which I thought was terrific. You’re really light on your feet for a great, big bruising guy. I thought you did a terrific job.” Derek: “You gotta hand it to you. You’re always full out, fully committed to whatever you’re doing, and we appreciate that. I think everyone appreciates that. I would say a little bit more body contact, but I’m afraid you’d get a little bit blue on Witney. So, let that slide.”  

JUDGES: 31 (Out of 40)

Brandon and Kenya, contemporary

I gotta state my dislike for Contemporary right up front. They dance to “How Far I’ll Go” from Moana.

These costumes were amazing, and the lights made them even more magical. The dance was ok.

Carrie Ann: “I’m frustrated because Kenya, there was such a freedom in your expression tonight. This was like the most open and joyous and open-hearted I’ve seen you, which is tough coming back, after last week (they were in the Bottom Two). So I have so much respect for that. I thought it was beautiful.” Len: “It was beautiful, and I compliment you on the way that you performed that. I thought it was a first-class performance.” Derek: “I feel like you started off, and it felt a little timid at first. You just started smiling, and I got chills. You did the little hula moment. Oh, I loved that.” Bruno: “Kenya, my darling, don’t worry. I felt it all. I felt the motion of the water, the beautiful waves rolling, the Polynesian hula. It was just lovely. Until he hit the rock. Watch it next time.”

JUDGES: 29 (Out of 40)

Sharna and Brian, waltz

He’s Prince Charming, and she’s Snow White. And they are waltzing away (*swoon*), and I’m here for it. Oh, how beautiful.

Len: “I don’t know about ‘Someday, My Prince Will Come,’ I never thought the waltz was gonna come. (Len hates frou-frou stuff at the beginning.) It was so much kissing and cuddling and messing about, then you did a little bit of waltz. Then, there was too much wafting going on. I would’ve liked to have seen a much more traditional waltz…”

Val’s reaction to Len’s comment: 

“…But that would please me.” Derek: “Not at all. I think the opening image (when the Prince leans down to kiss Snow White on her bier) was as pretty as a picture. It was a screen shot taken right out of the film, so magical, beautiful, and when you are in frame, your frame is fantastic, brother. That was beautiful.” Bruno: “Darling, don’t worry. It looks like you’ve got your prince under control. I’m getting all the sweetness and niceness, but sometimes too much sweetness gives you a toothache. You need more traction, more action, more involvement. Give it light and shade. You know, you’re an actor. Portray all those qualities. I know you love each other. I love it, and I love you two. Come on, more sweeping vibe, more power.” Carrie Ann: “There was a little lift. Just a little. I gotta do it. I have to be fair to everybody. It’s part of the rule. We’re not supposed to lift in waltz.”

JUDGES: 25 (Out of 40)

Sasha and Suni, salsa

They are dancing to “Columbia Mi Encanto” from the movie Encanto. (And why didn’t anyone give them popcorn? Come on now, Disney!)

She does so many flips! Guess that’s what you do when you have a gymnast as a partner. Wow. Wonderful salsa, I loved it.

Derek: “I’m still digging it. I love seeing you open up more and more each week. I had so much fun. That was so great. So much fun.” Bruno: “It was a fiesta of a salsa. You’re getting freer, and able to express more every week. A delicious salsa.” Carrie Ann: “What I love is every single move you do, you could take a snapshot. It looks perfect. Everything’s so perfect about the way you move.” Len: “That was the most expressive that I have seen you. You really came out of your shell.”

JUDGES: 33 (Out of 40)

Artem and Melora, quickstep

They are dancing a quickstep to “I Wanna Be Like You,” from The Jungle Book. Melora is playing Balou. She says it’s one of her husband and kids’ favorite movies. 

I love her costume so much. I don’t know if she looks like a bear, but she looks fabulous. I mean, come on! Look at that fringe flying.

Bruno: “The Queen of the Jungle is in delightfully good form tonight. She’s becoming the Queen of the Ballroom. The best quickstep I’ve seen so far this season. You managed to put a lot of comedic slapstick Charleston, but the actual content was brilliant.” Carrie Ann: “You bring all these textures and styles, and then you always bring something that’s sort of unexpected. We’ve been watching dance for a long time. You bring something unexpected to every dance floor. That’s what makes you special.” Len: “That was, by far, your best dance. It was great. Your technique in hold was great. You had personality. Never doubt yourself. You are a dancer.” Derek: “When you did this part (he recreates it), for me, that was the best dance of the night.”

JUDGES: 36 (Out of 40)

Cheryl and Cody, jive

They are dancing a jive to “Standout” from A Goofy Movie. Cody is definitely a big Disney fan.

Fun dance. It’s so good to have them both back in the ballroom, after their Covid travails.

Carrie Ann: “All right! Cody and Cheryl, welcome back to the ballroom! It’s so good to have you guys back. That was a great performance, I loved all your energy. But you’ve just gotta finish your moves.” Len: “Well, I don’t like to be a party pooper, but it was too much side by side. There wasn’t enough of what I would consider as a jive in there. There was a few hints of it. If I’m gonna be honest, I was a wee bit disappointed. Cause you’re a really fit guy, and the jive should be right up your street.” Derek: “Great energy. You’re such a great performer, especially in that opening moment. Incredible. I agree with Len a little bit, especially when it got into the partner work. Little bit more kicks, little bit more flicks. Overall, great job.” Bruno: “Your power surge nearly blew my fuses. He is right. Jive: kicks and flicks. But I understand you haven’t been able to work close together. Next week, you’ll sort it. Great performance.”   

JUDGES: 27 (Out of 40)

Daniella and Iman, foxtrot

Can we just take a moment for this incredible set? Wow. So beautiful.

They are dancing to “Let It Go” from Frozen, as you can imagine.

Wow. He is more than a full head taller than she is. Interesting choice. When she sings, “Let it go,” they get into hold. LOL Other than that, a beautiful foxtrot.

Len: “Well, it’s obvious you’re great at delivering (he talked in the package about delivering his two children), and you delivered a really elegant foxtrot. Listen, it’s wonderful to see a great big guy trying to show romance, trying to show movement. I thought you did a really good job.” Derek: “What I love about you is you can see your improvement. Your frame was beautiful, the way you glide across the floor, it was fantastic. So smooth.” Bruno: “Tonight I got the feeling that I really wanted from you. When you embrace your bigness and you extend your arms, at times you look like an eagle taking flight. You know this feeling of command in the room, and stretching and reaching all the way around. I could see it tonight. Tap into that feeling, because you’ve got it.” Carrie Ann: “I absolutely agree with you, Bruno, for sure. You know what’s so amazing? Tonight is Disney Hero Night. And we’ve seen heroes, and we’ve been inspired all night, but you’re a hero in real life, by getting out here and dedicating this dance. You could see and feel the love in every movement. And that’s what makes you stand out to me with our dancers.” 

JUDGES: 30 (Out of 40)

Who gets the two bonus points for the Mickey Dance Challenge? Emma and Jimmie.

Who goes home? No one, it’s Disney Heroes Night!

Miche’s Favorites of Heroes Night

1. Sasha and Suni, salsa

2. Val and Olivia, samba

3. Daniella and Iman, foxtrot

4. Jenna and JoJo, Viennese waltz

5. Artem and Melora, quickstep

6. Cheryl and Cody, jive

7. Gleb and Melanie C., jazz

8. Sharna and Brian, waltz

9. Emma and Jimmie, paso doble

10. Lindsay and Matt, quickstep

Can Go Home Any Day Now

1. The Miz

2. Amanda

3. Kenya

************************************

Season 29, Week 3: Disney Night Brings a Mix of Sublime and Sucky

Oh boy do they try to make something happen in this empty, audience-less ballroom. For the opening, they recreate (sorta) the famous Disneyland “Main Street Electrical Parade” with lights flashing, people waving glow sticks and a big caterpillar coursing the dance floor. And of course, the standard piped in audience applause that has been standard for this season. 

In the opening credits for the first time, they show each couple (together!) in their costumes and characters for the upcoming dances. Very nice. Although it did seem that there’s more than one Mary Poppins this week.

Alan and Skai, jive (“The Princess and the Frog”)

After last week’s catastrophic, messy fall, it’s hard to get back up again. She just looks so awkward in this dance. Lame kicks and flicks. Ugh.

Derek: “Last week, we had a bit of a heels over head moment, and I have to be honest with you, I’m not really head over heels with this performance tonight. In jive, you wanna have your nose over your toes. It was a little bit far away. Which made it look a little stiff sometimes. You have a lot of potential. It wasn’t my favorite.” Bruno: “That was a very difficult dance. It was tidy, crispy. You went for it with focus. When you do that, as a performer, you become tight. Very difficult to do.” Carrie Ann: “I know last week probably shook you up. At the top of the dance, you looked a little nervous. You weren’t really focused. Kinda like dancing to no one. I realize it’s harder without an audience to make eye contact with, but find something, so we feel like you’re performing for one person. That would’ve changed the whole beginning.”

JUDGES: 18 (out of 30)

Val and Monica, Viennese waltz (“The Little Mermaid”)

Val always has such stunning choreography. Plus, not everyone knows how to properly do a Viennese waltz. So, this was lyrical and beautiful to watch. Really enjoyed it.

Bruno: “You soared through it with such confidence and connection. It’s so good to see that. You were fluid, you were flowing. So much better.” Carrie Ann: “You were like a different person on the dance floor tonight. Did it feel different to you? (She says yes.) I could tell. When you have fun, we have fun watching you. Your body relaxes, all of the beautiful things happen when you relax.” Derek: “Actually beautiful. Watch the feet a little bit. This was so so much better than last week.”

JUDGES: 21 (out of 30)

Sasha and Justina, Charleston (“Mary Poppins”)

 While Val’s ace in the hole is the Viennese waltz, no one does a Charleston better than Sasha Farber. Largely because you can do more of the acrobatic tricks that Sasha likes to do in a Charleston. 

Loved this dance so much. Sasha and Justina are sincerely one of my favorite couples this time around. So much fun to watch. Love them.

Carrie Ann: “I loved it! What’s so incredible about you two specifically is the way you match each other. You guys are perfectly in sync. It’s very sharp and clean. I think it could’ve used a tiny bit more energy, but very nice.” Derek: “When I heard you were going to dance the Charleston, that was like: Man, she’s gonna crush this routine. Because it just matches your personality so much. However, when you think of Charleston, you think of the swivels. You think of the footwork. And I didn’t feel like I got that. Just steps, unfortunately. It could’ve been more energy, a little sharper for this performance.” Bruno: “You’re so sweetly delicious. You’re almost addictive. And you can sell anything. What this was like was a wonderful Vaudevillian musical performance. Lovely slapstick. But he’s right. Charleston is about the scissors action.”

JUDGES: 19 (out of 30)

Cheryl and AJ, quickstep (“Aladdin”)

Don’t really like this song (“Prince Ali”), but Cheryl’s stellar choreography goes a long way toward making this a fun dance. Plus, the costumes are rocking.

Derek: “I can always rely on you to put a smile on my face. You are always committed to every performance. So much fun. Actually, your frame was pretty good.” Bruno: “I loved it. I was cracking up. But you actually kept that quickstep going very very well. You’re improving and you’re refining every week. That’s what you do to win this competition.” Carrie Ann: “I liked you put your own spin on it. Now you’re starting to feel comfortable. You had the foxtrot last week. You did the quickstep, you were more comfortable in hold this week. I liked your own style. You kinda made it funky, a little bit in the middle.”

JUDGES: 21 (out of 30)

Keo and Anne Heche, quickstep (“Hercules”)

Keo is certainly my least favorite dancer on this show, and Anne Heche isn’t one of my favorite actresses, by any means. So I’m not thrilled about this couple at all. They are dancing to “Zero to Hero” from “Hercules.”

Bruno comments by saying some nonsense about Hercules and Hippolyta. Carrie Anne: “I loved the start. And then, you lost stuff… You need to recalibrate the partnership. You really lost control. I’m so bummed, cause you started out so strong. Keo, watch those lifts. I know it’s an intro, but I’m gonna be strict.” Derek: “I have a suggestion. In rehearsal, I would love for you to be able to dance the entire routine by yourself. So that way, you’re on your own feet. Even when you’re in hold. Dance it by yourself.”

JUDGES: 15 (out of 30)

Brandon and Jeannie, Viennese waltz (“Up”)

To their credit, Brandon and Jeannie do dance quite a bit of this Viennese waltz in hold. And the Viennese waltz is always beautiful, so is the story of “Up”—so they have a lot going for them in this dance. 

So many balloons, though. Len would not be pleased.

Carrie Ann: “Jeannie? What’s going on? You’re great as a little old lady! You’re like adorable. You’re smooth, you found your pace. As a partnership, the balance is incredible.” Derek: “The first 10 minutes of “Up” is the most heart-wrenching I’ve ever seen. But this was beautiful. You breathed through the movement. Your frame was fantastic. Honestly, your best performance.” Bruno: “You really have captured the essence of the film. It was pure storytelling. That’s what a performance art is all about.” 

JUDGES: 22 (out of 30)

Jeannie, in her excitement, stole Bruno’s “8” paddle. Tyra got it back for him.

Daniella and Nelly, foxtrot (“Soul”)

At this point, “Soul” hadn’t been released to the general public yet, so Nelly and Daniella go to a special screening (aka just for them). They dance to the song “Follow Your Dreams,” and Nelly talks about how he followed his.

Lovcd their costumes.

Derek: “I thought it was more than alright. I thought it was great. This is your first ballroom dance. I wasn’t sure what to expect. But you came in here, you got that frame moving, it was smooth. BTW, I’m starting to like these shoes.” Bruno: “Charming. And you behaved like a real gentleman with your lady. For the first time this season, we saw a proper, slow foxtrot, which is so hard to do, so difficult.” Carrie Ann: “There’s a naturalness to you that is really enjoyable to watch. The next step I wanna see from you is a breakout. It’s all a little safe, but now you know you’re good in the ballroom.”

JUDGES: 18 (out of 30)

Pasha and Carole, samba (“The Lion King”)

Poor Pasha. They’ve got him dancing to every cat/tiger/lion song around, dressed up in the hokiest costumes. But what a trooper! They actually do/attempt samba rolls!

Bruno: “I am stunned. I have never ever seen a samba like this one. If you were dancing with the Brooklyn Bridge, you could get more bounce. You just walked through it. Samba needs life, bounce and energy.” Carrie Ann: “You look beautiful. What I noticed about your dancing is that you danced that dance with a lot of love. I could feel it. You’re very tender. You have of the most beautiful hands when you dance. However, the samba is much more than those things. And it was lacking most of the other things. I really want to salute you for the love that you put into that dance.” Derek: “Thank you for loving big cats and taking care of them. Also, a 10 for costume and makeup. The dancing—there wasn’t a lot of bounce, there wasn’t a lot of rhythm, which is what samba is.”

JUDGES: 12 (out of 30)

Artem and Kaitlyn, rumba (“Moana”)

This song has been danced to on many a Disney Night, but I don’t think ever as a rumba. For me, it was a bit fast for a rumba. But it was nice. She is clearly dancing barefoot because of her injury from last week.

Carrie Ann: “OK, so for me, so far, best dance of the night by miles. That was so good. The way you brought together the elements of Hawaiian, dancing barefoot, as we would do for the hula. It had the essence of the rumba. You just brought it all together. You told the story. I was elated watching it.” Derek: “You are a beautiful dancer. Such fluidity in your movements. So lyrical. I kinda disagree a little bit though. It’s a rumba.” Bruno: “You really reminded me of the shape of water. Breaking waves, a wonderful swell, continuous movement. Total flow. It was wonderful.”

JUDGES: 23 (out of 30)

Can I just remark about how sullen and boring Tyra’s comments are? Ugh.

Peta and Vernon, quickstep (“Beauty and the Beast”)

Here’s another song that they do every Disney Night (it seems)… “Be Our Guest” from “Beauty and the Beast.” Vernon is not exactly happy that he’s the Candlestick, instead of being the Beast.

Derek: “Real men play candlesticks. You’re radiating so much joy when you dance. I just love watching you dance. I really enjoyed it.” Bruno: “You had such light and easy action. You exude confidence. You were connecting with her, you were connecting with us. And much lighter on your feet.” Carrie Ann: “What is amazing is that you guys have found your balance in the partnership. You slowed down your energy to meet Peta perfectly. What you created out there was one of my favorite dances of the night. I loved it. It was happiness.”

JUDGES: 22 (out of 30)

Jenna and Nev, Argentine tango (“Pirates of the Caribbean”)

This is another oldie but goodie that is always trotted out during Disney Week/Night. Sometimes it’s a paso doble. Here, it’s an Argentine tango. Jenna has them both playing pirates, which gives it a jaunty spin.

Bruno: “What’ve we got here? The Pirates of Argentina! You managed to maintain the slightly camp, inebriated mannerism, yet you maintained the Argentine tango all the way through. The footwork, the ganchos, everything was there. I loved it.” Carrie Ann: “I really loved the way you were able to balance out from character back in. I also appreciated that your lifts were appropriate, and you didn’t hide behind doing lifts, because a lot of people do that once they get to the Argentine tango.” Derek: “Now we’re cooking with some hot sauce, baby! That was so good. Really, really really strong. I loved the embrace. I loved the ganchos, all the footwork. And of course, the character: you nailed it, brother.”

JUDGES: 24 (out of 30)

Britt and Johnny, rumba (“Mulan”)

 Britt is just fantastic, but there wasn’t much body contact for a rumba. Still, I really liked it a lot.

Carrie Ann: “I believe in you so much that tonight watching you dance like that felt so good, because I saw you make the transition from being an ice skater to a ballroom Latin dancer. You’re using your feet, you’re using the floor. It was epic.” Derek: “That was beautiful. Your arms, your lines. You arrived on a straight leg.” Bruno: “Johnny, as always, your shapes, your extensions are exquisite. What I really really loved, I was really impressed, is that you started to project emotion. I could read that you were actually playing a character. Keep on that way.”

JUDGES: 24 (out of 30)

Sharna and Jesse, jive (“Newsies”)

Way fun dance. Great kicks and flicks, IMHO.

Derek: “First of all,  I love me some “Newsies.”  I feel like you didn’t feel as comfortable with this routine, timing-wise. There was definitely a moment when you got ahead of the music. For me, I didn’t really feel this one as much from you.” Bruno: “I felt it big time. I did. You actually played the role brilliantly. I thought your footwork was very very light. Very nimble. But you were moving much much better than you every have.” Carrie Ann: “I agree with Bruno. I think you told the story beautifully. But I also agree with Derek. Your musicality was less than favorable. You have got to tap into the music, deep in your soul. You were like surface floating over the music. And that doesn’t allow us to connect with you, and what you’re doing.”

JUDGES: 20 (out of 30)

Gleb and Chrishell, waltz (“Cinderella”)

The costumes are stunning. Luckily, they hide her feet a lot. They are waltzing to “A Dream Is a Wish Your Heart Makes” from “Cinderella.”

Bruno: “The belle of the ball. Gorgeous. You really look like the ultimate Disney princess. I could feel the romance unfolding.” Carrie Ann: “Princess Carrie Ann approves of Princess Chrishell. You were together. Together, you guys are stunning. Work on your shoulders.” Derek: “You guys are absolutely stunning. A beautiful dance.”

JUDGES: 22 (out of 30)

So who’s going home on Disney Night?

The bottom of the leader board is Carole and Pasha, with Anne and Keo above them.

So who’s the bottom two? The very same.

Going home?

Darn! All those cat songs they’ll never get to! :-(

MICHE’s Favorites of Disney Week

1. Jenna and Nev, Argentine tango

2. Sasha and Justina, Charleston

3. Val and Monica, Viennese waltz

4.Sharna and Jesse, jive

5. Britt and Johnny, rumba

6. Artem and Kaitlyn, rumba

7. Cheryl and AJ, quickstep

8. Daniella and Nelly, foxtrot

9. Brandon and Jeannie, Viennese waltz 

10. Pasha and Carole, samba

11. Gleb and Chrishell, waltz

12. Peta and Vernon, quickstep

Go Home Already!

1. Anne Heche and Keo, quickstep

2. Skai and Alan, jive (every cutaway to Skai during the show, she looked so very bored…)

****************************************************************