As part of our work with the BBC on supplying the shoes for 'Strictly Come Dancing' we thought we'd invite one of our sponsored dancers to give us their thoughts on the show that will dominate television screens across the country between now and Christmas.
This week Neil Jones, who along with partner Katya Jones are choreographers on the show, gives us his thoughts on an opening week which was full of quality and shocks. Here's his thoughts couple by couple!
Kellie Bright and Kevin Clifton were first up on the show and I thought it was a great Tango to open up the series and I loved the fosse style introduction. I think she could work on her frame a bit more, but it's week one and I'm sure she'll get better. Great job from Kevin. Rated: 7.
Next up was Anthony Ogogo with Oti Mabuse with their Jive. I think it was a great song choice and a great start for him. Sometimes it was a little bit messy but we'll let him off as it's only week one. The judges commented saying that he should have a straight leg, but it's a Jive not a Rumba! The legs need to be flexible! Rated: 6.
Helen George and Aljaž Skorjanec set the mood. They were a little wobbly at times and they need to get busy with the leg movement to soften the movement. It's a great start though because the Waltz is a tough dance but Helen is in great hands with Aljaž. Rated: 7.
Carol Kirkwood and Pasha Kovalev up next and I'd say well done to Carol. The ChaCha is not an easy dance but she was a bit too stiff and needs to relax a bit to let the musicality come through. I think a 2 from the judges was unfair. Rated: 3.
Daniel O'Donnell and Kristina Rihanoff were one of the shocks of the weekend. I think Daniel had a strong frame, he just needed to change the position to make it look better. Technically I think he was better than Helen, but her energy and performance was stronger which makes her look a better dancer. Rated: 5.
Anita Rani & Gleb Savchenko. I've been looking forward to seeing new-boy Gleb and I think he's really bringing some fresh new moves to Strictly! It was a good job with a few mistakes but overall a good ChaCha, and the legs will improve over time. Anita was my dancer of the night and I can't wait to see her improve. Rated: 7.
Jay McGuiness & Aliona Vilani were first up on Saturday night and it was a great ChaCha! Boom! I thought he looked nervous. I don't agree with the judges 5 for this one. Rated: 7.
Next up was Kirsty Gallacher & Brendon Cole. There was some great choreography from Brendon here but I think nerves got the best of Kirsty, as I have seen her dance better before. She needs to work on her posture and usage of her standing leg. Rated: 5.
Jeremy Vine & Karen Clifton were up next and Jeremy seems to have no problems with nerves. I think the performance deserved a 10 but it reminded me of a well trained Dad Dance! He needs to work on connecting his whole body so that his movement becomes clearer, though he is in great hands with Karen. Rated: 4.
I thought Georgia May Foote and Giovanni Pernice did a good job. I think Georgia became a bit tired toward the end that's because she needs to think down and not up. She just needs to think more about her posture and ensure she doesn't dance with turned in feet. Rated: 6.
Next up was Ainsley Harriott and Natalie Lowe and they did a good job in what was probably the funkiest Tango I've ever seen. He needs to do a lot of work on his frame and I think he will suit the Latin a lot more. Rated: 5.
I'm really happy to see Katie Derham and Anton du Beke partnered together as it's great to see Anton get a great partner. I think at times Katie relied a bit too much on Anton but I'm sure they'll do well. Rated: 5.
Iwan Thomas and Ola Jordan next and I think we should let Iwan off a bit such is the lack of practice they've been able to get in. He needs to work on his technique and frame but I think he'll improve. Ballroom styles won't be too easy with their height difference. Rated: 4.
Jamelia & Tristan MacManus didn't deserve the low scores that they got and I think Jamelia has the best frame so far but she needs to work on her feet. Less flicks please. Rated: A high 6!
I love the choreography for the Peter Andre and Janette Manrara performance. I can see that it'll get better and better each week too. Rated: 10 for performance, 7 on dancing!
I think everyone can be proud of their first performances this weekend - it's a very strong competition this year! With the performances and quality on show I can't believe it is only week one!
Follow my live tweets next week by following me: @Mr_NJones. Also, follow me on Periscope for my thoughts after each show! Follow me (@Mr_NJones) by clicking here!
