After eighteen long years, I’ve finally started watching Dancing With The Stars. It’s not that I’ve been avoiding it, I’ve just always been more of an America’s Got Talent and American Idol girl. As a singer, I’m basically Corbin Bleu in High School Musical 2: I don’t dance!
But that’s half the fun of DWTS. Watching non-dancers learn the ins and outs of dance from professionals is why the show has become a cultural phenomenon. There’s a relatability and freshness to it.
After countless celebrity appearances and nearly twenty years on the air, it felt like the right time to tune in. Okay, let’s be honest, it was because of Robert Irwin. My roommate, Lizzy, is planning on marrying him someday. Aside from their hypothetical wedding, here’s what I’ve been loving in season 34.
Before we even get to the dancing, I need to acknowledge the production value. Without the glitz and glam of the costumes, multicolored lights, elaborate sets, and live covers, the show just wouldn’t be as good. Behind all that sparkle, the dancers give the show life, and watching them kick ass every week is the best.
My favorite pairings from Season 34 are: Alix and Val, Jordan and Ezra, Whitney and Mark, and of course, Robert and Witney. Plus, an honorable mention for Dylan in week two. His arm movements looked like one of those car wash inflatable tube guys (it made me laugh out loud).
From the top of my list, Alix moves like she’s been dancing her whole life. I can’t speak on technical form, but she’s so comfortable and in-tune with her movements. Her “Pop Musik” routine and transformation into Maleficent for “Once Upon a Dream” were highlights.
The next pairing that I’m loving is Jordan and Ezra. Jordan Chiles is an Olympic gymnast, so I already know that she’s a force on the floor. What surprised me is her ability to be fierce and adorable at the same time. Her tango to “Anxiety” had a sharpness and precision that gave me goosebumps. The very next week, she brought so much fun and life to the stage with “Special Spice” from Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. I hope to see Jordan in the finals!
If Jordan and Ezra embody power, Whitney and Mark are bringing that performance magic. This week’s broadway-ready performance of “The Room Where It Happens” from Hamilton was insane. The choreography was engaging, sharp, and told a whole story. Impressed, I had to learn more.
After a quick search, I learned that Whitney has a degree in dance from Brigham Young University. Sure, some might call that an unfair advantage. But then again, wouldn’t that criticism extend to former contestants Charli D’Amelio and JoJo Siwa? Drama aside, this dance blew me away.
Now, saving the best for last, we have Robert and Witney. Australia’s (and now America’s) sweetheart, Robert Irwin, is a fan favorite. His jive to “Born To Be Wild” impressed the judges right off the bat, earning their praise as one of the best first dances they’d seen. The energy and personal touch made it my favorite performance of his so far.
I’ve loved watching DWTS this season and will be watching through the finals! May the best contestant win. If it’s Robert, Lizzy will never let me forget it.