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PureDWTS Exclusive! An Interview with Randall Christensen, Part I

A few months back, we asked you guys to submit questions for Randall Christensen, the costume designer for DWTS from seasons 2-12.  Well now that the holidays are over and we’re starting to get back into the swing of things, we’re sharing Randall’s responses 🙂

We’ve been lucky to get a chance to chat with Randall, since he has kept very busy since moving on from DWTS! He’s currently working a couture swimwear line with MiracleSuit (check out Vogue’s post on the Macy’s MiracleSuit fashion show last summer!), is working on a sportswear/ready to wear collection, and is still designing dancesport costumes for Randall Designs, Inc., his costume design company for the past 30 years.  Let’s see what this dancewear icon has to say in response to some of your burning questions 🙂

At what age did you start designing?

Randall Christensen: I started designing for my professional partner and students back in the early ‘80’s, learning the craft with “hands on” experience.  I am self-taught.

Who were your mentors?

RC: My first mentor (and still most influential) was Bob Mackie.  He was designing for Carol Burnett as well as Cher for their (respective) shows.  I was a pre-teen and tried to NEVER miss a single one of their shows, as I was mesmerized by their costumes!

Seems like things at DWTS run on a pretty hectic timetable. Can you descibe what a typical week was like for you at DWTS?

RC: A typical week at DWTS starts new on Monday/Tuesday with new designs for each couple.  If we are lucky enough to get the music by Monday (instead of typically Tuesday) I try to get the couples up to the wardrobe department to discuss concepts for the next week’s costumes.  I only get 15-20 (30 mins. tops) to listen to the music, research ideas, discuss, design and finalize.  Then the entire show is shopped Wednesday by 5pm and delivered back to the studio, where I go over every women’s design with our cutter/fitter (the mens’ costumes are done off site, by our dance tailor in downtown Los Angeles).  The costumes are cut/sewn/preliminarily fitted on Thursday, then I have celebrity fittings all day Friday. My assistant helps on Saturday with the professional women’s fittings, they’re altered and ready for the final fitting on Sunday, after the couples do their blocking for the camera.  Adjustments are made and then are trimmed, beaded, crystallized and trimmed out to completion.  Monday morning is time to review each costume before setting them in the individual dressing rooms.  We have dress rehearsal only a few hours before we go LIVE on the east coast.  During that time any last minute adjustments are made and redelivered to the couples’ dressing rooms, sometimes just minutes before they’re to go to the top of the stairs for their walk down – live!  We have to design/shop/fit/finish each and every costume in 3.5 to 4 days!!  Whew!

What types of fabrics are the best for ballroom costumes?

RC: Thank goodness for stretch fabrics, jerseys, lycras, etc.!  These help the costume to be quite comfortable as well as flexible.  We can then get a terrific fit with little to no wrinkles in the fabric.  Chiffon (both silk and polyester) are great for the ballgown skirts, due to the wonderful movement.  Charmeuse satin is a terrific vintage type fabric, reminiscent of some of Ginger Rogers’ gowns.

Are there limitations, or can you work with pretty much anything?

RC: I push the limits every chance I get!  How else can you continue to come up with fresh ideas?  That being said, some fabrics are VERY challenging!  I try not to use brocades, as they are just to stiff and unforgiving for costumes.  Not to mention the fact that they do not flow at all!  I love using natural trims, for an organic vibe, still mixing in crystal rhinestones of course.  We have to have a sparkle on almost everything.

What is the most extravagant costume you’ve ever designed for the show, and who wore it?

RC: I would say the most extravagant costume would have to be Toni Braxton’s Marie Antoinette-inspired Viennese Waltz gown (complete with powdered blonde wig and all).  To be as authentic as possible, we went to a costume house and purchased a “cage” to make the silhouette as close to the look of the era as possible.  It was almost all completely sewn by hand, on the dress form as there is no way to get that wide cage (for the hips) on the sewing machine to work on.  Quite labor intense, but what a gorgeous look!  And still, we did it in just under 4 days……I still break out in a sweat thinking about that one!

*photo courtesy ABC/Kelsey McNeal

If you could only pick one DWTS costume as your “all-time favorite”, which would it be and why?

RC: Besides Toni Braxton’s Marie Antoinette gown, I would have to say Joanna Krupa’s “Futuristic Paso Doble.”  We pushed the limits (again) of what we could do in just 4 days.  The silver silk lame with electric lights (all wired into the dress) was sensational, but a nightmare to get done in such a short time.  We had a lighting specialist up from San Diego for 3 days just wiring the darn thing.

*photo courtesy of ABC

Everyone has regrets. Have you ever looked back at a costume you’ve designed for the show and thought “What was I thinking???” If so, which one & why?

RC: Oh, I’m sure we ALL have regrets, but I have to say, we have a really good track record if you consider that from concept to completion is 4 days maximum.  The discipline the couple has to have to stick with the original design, in spite of choreographing after the design is done, a procedure which is completely backwards! That being said, each and every week I look at the costumes, making mental notes as to what we could have done better, or what I would have done differently.  The beauty is I get another chance 4 days later.

Who have been your favorite celebs and/or pros to design for, and why?

RC: I count myself quite lucky to have such a great rapport with the pro dancers, and we have such fun with (and trust in) each other.  Our design sessions are quite intense and rewarding. I have enjoyed the trust that almost all of the celebrities have shown to me.  I honestly think that they put their trust in me (and their pro partner) due mainly to the fact that they are in such a foreign and vulnerable area.  They have not danced like this before, and really have to rely on our experience and expertise.  The trust that Susan Lucci, Jennifer Gray, Florence Henderson, Chelsea Kane and Kirstie Alley (to name a few) showed me was quite humbling and really rewarding!  This definitely impacts how wonderful their costumes showed on them.

Do you have an all-time favorite? 

RC:  I would have to say that as far as professional dancers, Edyta Sliwinska made ME look good!  I wish I could take credit for her beauty, but she came that way!!  That being said, I have to admit that Edyta was remarkably prepared each week, knew what looked good on her, and above all else, she left me to interpret her ideas and trusted me completely.  What a dream lady to work with!  Toni Braxton and Brandy both were appreciative, trusting and so lovely to design for.

What happens to the costumes after they’ve been worn?

RC: The celebrities have the option of purchasing any of their costumes, once the season is over.  Kristi Yamaguchi and Shawn Johnson purchased all of their costumes, along with several celebs. buying their favorite one(s).  We keep a great majority of the costumes from past seasons in a storage facility quite close to the studio.  We also keep a few on hand right in the workroom, in case we need a last minute “fix.”  We have NEVER had to use one of those yet!

We’ve noticed some get reused and others don’t. How do you decide which ones get reused?

RC: We reuse costumes based on the producers’ requirements/suggestions, as well as our guest choreographers’ ideas.  Many times (most of the time) we re-work them so that their silhouettes more readily coordinate with each of the other dancers’ looks, for a more cohesive themed look. There is just not enough hours in the week to make ALL the costumes seen on Monday’s and Tuesday’s shows.  That said, we ALWAYS make something new for our couples for Monday’s show.  The pro numbers and (pro) group numbers may get previously worn costumes, but NEVER on celebs nor their partners for Monday’s competition!

*photo courtesy ABC/Adam Larkey

Do certain pros want specific kinds of alterations (i.e. shorter hems, lower necklines, mesh inserts, etc) on costumes that have been worn before by someone else?

RC: Again, it’s all about the overall theme/silhouette desired.  Our pro dancers do have their specific preferences, and if we could accommodate them, we most certainly would.  Some of those preferences are just going to be kept secret – no use spoiling the illusion……

Tune in later this week when we reveal part II of our exclusive interview…and Randall talks theme nights, panic attacks, and his love of princess seams (?) 😉 You won’t want to miss it!!!

January 9, 2012 I Written By

Ultrasound sales specialist by day, semi-knowledgeable DWTS fan by night...with a smattering of hair & makeup enthusiast, occasional model, baker, and crazy cat lady peppered in to make things REALLY interesting ;-) I might pee my pants in happiness if Donnie Wahlberg ever does DWTS - or if they ever use "Sunglasses at Night" as a paso doble.

DWTS13 Casting Rumors – The Typecasting of Season 13, Part I

It’s that time of year, again – time to take all the wacky rumors and all the wacky casting patterns we see from season to season and hypothesize who we might actually get to see 🙂 This year is interesting, in that we already definitely know one of the celebs, are fairly certain about two others, and have got definite suspicions about another two – almost takes a bit of fun out of the guessing, no? 🙂 But I’m sure there will be at least one celeb who’s name we haven’t heard – and at least one we’ve never heard of, too…thankfully, even unpredictability becomes predictable after awhile! But let’s get it on with it, shall we? Oh, and if you’re feeling nostalgic (and want to see how effective using these cast types as a template can be), check out the typecasting of season 10, season 11, and season 12 🙂

The Olympian

Previous examples: Kristi Yamaguchi, Shawn Johnson, Apolo Ohno, Natalie Coughlin, Misty May-Treanor, Maurice Greene, Louie Vito, Evan Lysacek

Advantages: The winningest of the 12 types, their obvious advantage is their athleticism – you won’t see these guys struggling with strength or endurance moves.  In addition, the same tireless work ethic that helped them medal in the Olympics will likely carry them through the toils of the competition. They also seem to be adored by the masses, as many are seen as “hero” figures – which translates into a formidable voting fanbase.

Disadvantages: For those specializing in sports that are less “artistic” (i.e. swimming, running, volleyball), it might be a bit hard to really get into the character of the dance and truly perform to the crowd.  Previously incurred injuries (or the fear of incurring an injury that might hinder their participation in subsequent competitions in their sport, a la Misty May-Treanor) may also slow them down & limit their mobility. Read more..

August 26, 2011 I Written By

Ultrasound sales specialist by day, semi-knowledgeable DWTS fan by night...with a smattering of hair & makeup enthusiast, occasional model, baker, and crazy cat lady peppered in to make things REALLY interesting ;-) I might pee my pants in happiness if Donnie Wahlberg ever does DWTS - or if they ever use "Sunglasses at Night" as a paso doble.

DWTS Season 12 Casting Rumors – The Typecasting of Season 12, Part I

Whenever the time comes to start speculating about the next season’s cast, one useful “tool” we all seem to use is the patterns in typecasting over the seasons – we know there will likely be at least 1 athlete, perhaps a reality TV star, a singer or two, etc.  But when you REALLY take a good look at the casting “types” over the seasons, it becomes clear that each season has been a carefully-crafted combination of celebs to appeal almost every demographic…and I think we’ve cracked that code 🙂

Prior to the cast announcements, I’ve done a typecasting analysis for both season 10 and season 11, and both casts have fulfilled almost every subtype (with some celebs fulfilling more than one “type”).  So why not take a look at the casting rumors for season 12 and see which might fit into the casting equation, shall we? 🙂

The Olympian

Previous examples: Kristi Yamaguchi, Shawn Johnson, Apolo Ohno, Natalie Coughlin, Misty May-Treanor, Maurice Greene, Louie Vito, Evan Lysacek

Advantages: The winningest of the 12 types, their obvious advantage is their athleticism – you won’t see these guys struggling with strength or endurance moves.  In addition, the same tireless work ethic that helped them medal in the Olympics will likely carry them through the toils of the competition. They also seem to be adored by the masses, as many are seen as “hero” figures – which translates into a formidable voting fanbase.

Disadvantages: For those specializing in sports that are less “artistic” (i.e. swimming, running, volleyball), it might be a bit hard to really get into the character of the dance and truly perform to the crowd.  Previously incurred injuries (or the fear of incurring an injury that might hinder their participation in subsequent competitions in their sport, a la Misty May-Treanor) may also slow them down & limit their mobility.

Possible candidates this season: Since we didn’t get an Olympian last season, I can almost guarantee we’ll get one this season – and the most likely candidate seems to be Nastia Liukin, who has been a rumor for a few seasons now and has started following Mark on Twitter within the past few days.  Other possibilities: Greg Louganis, who seems to have been trying for several seasons now to get onto the show; and while it may be a long-shot, Johnny Weir fans are still campaigning for a “Team Weirnoff” partnership.

The Athlete

Previous examples: Chuck Liddell, Warren Sapp, Emmitt Smith, Michael Irvin, Helio Castroneves, Laila Ali, Floyd Mayweather, Ty Murray, Evander Holyfield, Jerry Rice, Clyde Drexler, Monica Seles, Jason Taylor, Lawrence Taylor, Chad Ochocinco, Kurt Warner, Rick Fox

Advantages: As with the Olympians, their athleticism & work ethic make them well-suited to the competition.  An edge they might have over their Olympic counterparts: sports like football, auto racing, & mixed martial arts tend to have a larger, more mainstream following than some of the Olympic sports.

Disadvantages: Again, a lack of “artistic” experience & previous injury (especially with the football players, who have really taken a beating over the years). Some of the more muscular athletes in hard-hitting sports may also have difficulty with the refined, precise moves of some of the dances.

Possible candidates this season: This category has been oddly devoid of really “solid” possibilities this season, aside from the Brett Favre debacle – doubtful, but stranger things have happened on the show! Chris Jericho was also kicked around as a possibility again this season, and it looks like WWE Diva Maria Kanellis is still gunning for a spot on the show.

The Model/Playmate/Beauty Queen

Previous examples: Kelly Monaco, Rachel Hunter, Tia Carrere, Shanna Moakler, Paulina Porizkova, Shandi Finnessey, Josie Maran, Albert Reed, Shannon Elizabeth, Brooke Burke, Holly Madison, Kathy Ireland, Joanna Krupa, Pam Anderson

Advantages: All the costumes seem to look fantastic on them (and they can get away with wearing the really skimpy ones) and so do their pro partners – easy to imagine a “showmance”, which always seems to grab votes.  Also seems to have cornered the votes of the small population of male viewers, for obvious reasons

Disadvantages: Despite making a career out of looking great posing & strutting down the runway, many of them have proven to be rather awkward movers outside of that context, and some seem to have a hard time carrying around their taller than average stature.  They also run the risk of getting lost in the shuffle among attractive male competitors, who seem to draw in more votes from the predominantly-female viewing population.

Possible candidates this season: A strong possibility seems to be Kendra Wilkinson, who would be following in the footsteps of her Girls Next Door co-star Holly Madison.  Rumored contestant Lee Meriwether is also a former Miss America.

The Legend

Previous examples: Cloris Leachman, Wayne Newton, Donny Osmond, Tatum O’Neal, Marie Osmond, Jane Seymour, Marlee Matlin, Susan Lucci, Florence Henderson

Advantages: These individuals are extremely well-known & respected in the entertainment business, with many years of experience (and fans) under their belts, as well as an award or two. Also masters of the stage & screen – perhaps the best at emulating the emotions of the dances.

Disadvantages: With many years of experience comes an older age than many of their competitors – which comes with an increased risk of injury & fatigue that could limit the difficulty of their routines.

Possible candidates this season: We’ve got two ladies with quite a sterling reputation in show business – Faye Dunaway & Lee Meriwether. One was the original “Bonnie”  of Bonnie & Clyde; the other was the original Catwoman.  Who do you think we’ll get? 🙂

The Soap Star

Previous examples: Kelly Monaco, Cameron Mathison, Lisa Rinna, Susan Lucci, Aiden Turner

Advantages: The demographic of soap opera viewers overlaps heavily with the demographic of viewers of DWTS, and most soap opera viewers have been watching those shows for years (I started watching General Hospital when I was 6!), so they often have a fierce loyalty to their favorite characters (and the actors/actresses who portray them).

Disadvantages: This group likely has the most grueling schedule to contend with, as most soaps tape year-round, and some of them are taped in New York, forcing the stars (and sometimes their partners) to fly coast-to-coast several times a week to practice.  Many also have absolutely no background in any kind of sport, making them a real “project” for the pros to take on.

Possible candidates this season: The lovely Lee Meriwether could do triple duty this season, by fulfilling this category by virtue of her role of Ruth Martin on All My Children. From the online voting for this season’s cast, it looks like Colleen Zenk & Crystal Chappell are also big favorites.

The Comedian

Previous examples: Penn Jillette, Jeff Ross, Adam Carolla, David Allen Grier, Ashley Hamilton, Niecy Nash, Margaret Cho

Advantages: Let’s face it, they’re fun to watch, and they definitely inject some much- needed hilarity into the show. 

Disadvantages: They often come across like they don’t take the competition seriously, instead favoring their usual schtick over actual dancing. Some of their on-show humor (Jeff Ross’ in particular) can also be rather polarizing – hilarious to some, offensive to others. And again – often no background in any sort of sport, let alone dancing.

Possible candidates this season: None that we’ve heard of…but who would you like to see? I’m holding out for a member of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour to sign on – Ron White would be a hoot!

So do you guys think I’m onto something with this season’s rumors? Tune in for my next installment, where I dissect just who we might get this season from the teen idol, host, actor, reality star, singer, & wild card categories!

February 27, 2011 I Written By

Ultrasound sales specialist by day, semi-knowledgeable DWTS fan by night...with a smattering of hair & makeup enthusiast, occasional model, baker, and crazy cat lady peppered in to make things REALLY interesting ;-) I might pee my pants in happiness if Donnie Wahlberg ever does DWTS - or if they ever use "Sunglasses at Night" as a paso doble.

DWTS – ‘Naked Mom’ Brooke Burke’s Book Promotion: Good Morning America & Ryan Seacrest

Brooke has been out and about promoting her new book, “Naked Mom“. This morning she was on Good Morning America. She discussed her book some of which includes her experiences with “Dancing With The Stars”. There is a spot in the interview where she talks about Florence Henderson and what she learned from her last Season. She also talks on Derek and what they went through to win the Mirror Ball Trophy and counseling was one thing. More below.

Here she is on Ryan Seacrest as well;

I also just ran onto an interview with Brooke at Amazon (where you can order a copy if interested). Here is a take.

Teresa: Which DWTS judge would you like to see naked? And which judge would most appreciate a great read?

Brooke: Bruno, because regardless, he’ll make you laugh; he’ll perform for you and he’s full of personality to keep you interested! Len would not only appreciate a great read, but I think he’d make a great read. I’d love to hear Len’s story.

Teresa: You sell post-pregnancy belly wraps. Are those made with lavash or tortilla? I’m hungry!

Brooke: Trust me, you wouldn’t want to eat your way to the middle! Remember how yucky you felt right after birth, all that extra baggy baby skin! Don’t we give enough as mothers–why do they take our bods too! Tauts is a compression garment that helps your tummy get back in shape fast!

Teresa: If I had won the coveted Dancing With the Stars mirror ball trophy and I looked like you, I would stare at the trophy and thus myself all day. Where do you keep that thing?

Brooke: No, you wouldn’t! It’s too painful to remember all the pulled and torn muscles…I keep it in my closet; not hiding, on my vanity. It used to rotate through my girls’ rooms. Everyone who visits wants a pic with it, not ME!

Not sure what to make about her trophy comment? Could you put a Mirror Ball trophy in the closet? 😐 Loved her comments about Len and Bruno though. lol
Heidi’s Comment: Dude, please. When Brooke Burke talks about her closet she is likely talking about a room twice as large as my bedroom in my condo. It’s not like it’s hidden on a shelf somewhere.

February 1, 2011 I Written By

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul" ~ Martha Graham. That's what DWTS makes me think of every Monday night. To read more about me and my other interests, see Lisa Kay Photography. You can also follow me at Voguerista Twitter & Voguerista Soundcloud.

DWTS Season 11, Week 7 – Some Backstage Media After The Show

What an awesome show last night! I can’t say more good things about it. The couples and everyone interviewed seemed very happy in general too for how they performed. Here’s some video coverage backstage.

Here is Brandy and Maks ecstatic as ever! I love Brandy’s reaction over what Maks says on her;

Here is Jennifer and her family being interviewed (including Joel Grey)! I love what she says about being a “Warrior”. Her daugher is so adorable and looks just like her.;

Here are a couple of fun recaps and after party coverage;

Here’s a pic Maks tweeted at the after party.

Lastly, check out Derek as well on the Red Carpet. The photographer caught his amazing energy in just the right form.

Ok, that is all for now. More later and here’s to the Results Show tonight! 😉

November 2, 2010 I Written By

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul" ~ Martha Graham. That's what DWTS makes me think of every Monday night. To read more about me and my other interests, see Lisa Kay Photography. You can also follow me at Voguerista Twitter & Voguerista Soundcloud.

DWTS, Season 11, Week 7 – Las Vegas Odds, Who Will Win?

Interesting. I think the winner will be between Jennifer and Brandy too despite what happened last week with the Judges trying to railroad and control this competition. What do you think? From USA Players and Online Betting Guide, check out these odds;

Fans are eagerly awaiting week 7 of Dancing With The Stars. Each week we get closer to crowning the next champion of Dancing With The Stars. This week has indubitably been a very competitive one, and things will only heat up in the weeks to come.

Dancing with the Stars – Season 11: Who will win?

Jennifer Grey -120
Brandy +210
Rick Fox +400
Kurt Warner +1000
Bristol Palin +4000
Kyle Massey +5000

Jennifer Grey 1.67

Brandy 3.75

Rick Fox 5.5

Kurt Warner 14

Bristol Palin 67

Kyle Massey 81

November 1, 2010 I Written By

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul" ~ Martha Graham. That's what DWTS makes me think of every Monday night. To read more about me and my other interests, see Lisa Kay Photography. You can also follow me at Voguerista Twitter & Voguerista Soundcloud.

DWTS 11 – Hallows Eve And One More Day Until Show Time Media!

Just a few things to share with you on the “calm before the storm”. lol

First up, and special thanks to fan Moeynj, we have a new blog from Cheryl writing about last weeks dances and what’s to come this week. Here is a snippet from it from MSN Reality TV.

I was so proud of Rick this week. Our tango was powerful and intense. I also felt that the passion that the judges keep saying is lacking in Rick was really there. You could really feel it in the audience.

The dance marathon was fun to do. We all got the chance to be a little crazier in how we presented on the dance floor, and we also got to do lifts.

As far as the elimination this week, I’ve learned through all of my seasons on the show to expect the unexpected. It was sad to see Audrina leave. She really had so much more to show the audience with her dancing. You have to bring your all every week and let the audience decide your fate. I really don’t think Audrina deserved to go home at all.

Brandy and Max were in the number one spot again this week. They are doing really well. Brandy is improving each week, and that is what this competition is all about.

Next week Rick and I have the quickstep. For the 200th episode we’re all dancing to songs that were already used on the show, and that produced some of the most memorable moments over the last 10 seasons. We’re going to be judged by the contestant who originally danced to that song. It’s a little daunting, but I think Rick knows how to handle all that additional pressure. He has so many NBC Championships that if there’s one thing he knows–it’s pressure. We also have a team dance Cha Cha that we’ll be doing. We’re on Team Yamaguchi.

Mark also wrote more in his journal yesterday on USA Today. Here is a sneak peak into he and Bristol’s dance and the team dance. Be sure to see more at the link.

This week we have the Viennese Waltz! I had a suspicion that the VW would be our dance step this week.

After the group rehearsal Tuesday night, we spent six hours on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday getting the routine down. And because Bristol is doing well with it, I feel confident we’ll get the intricacies nailed down this weekend. All she needs is some polish on her toe-pointing, arm movements and head position, which is exactly where she was last week. If you pay attention to her feet and steps, she really is fantastic in that area and in fact, I’m willing to say her footwork is the best in the competition. Take that, competitors!

Speaking of group rehearsal, let’s just say that it’s good to see my old pal Kristi (Yamaguchi). I may or may not be on her team for the group routine, so you’ll have to tune in to see. Group routines typically are not difficult; they’re just quite time consuming. They are such a hurdle because it takes time away from our regular dance routine, which really puts a lot of pressure on Bris to get it all down and remember. We had the first high-intensive group rehearsal Tuesday night, as you know, and our next on is on Saturday.

Here is a little interview Maks gave to E On-Line on this last week’s dances. Check out what he says on his leather pants. lol

First of all, what was up with those leather pants? Were they hard to dance in?It was the most uncomfortable I’ve ever been in my entire life I think, because there’s no breathing. It’s obviously pleather and it was not a pleasant experience. Lets just say that my thighs and above are a little bigger than your average rocker’s so I guess the tight leather pants are just not for me. It’s safe to assume it’s not going to happen again.

Brandy was very emotional this week. Is she going to have a nervous breakdown by the end of the season?She’s not a weak person. She’s a very strong person and she just expresses certain things her own way. It’s a hard show and a lot goes into it, and girls—I guess that’s what they do. Girls cry. It pains me to see her cry, and I try to be supportive, but it’s very, very difficult when I’m the only one trying to make her do stuff.

I saw Melanie Griffith in the audience. Have you met her or know anything about her being on the show?Jamie Lee Curtis a big fan of the show and she’s been coming every week. Yesterday, she calls me over and says, “Hey, I have somebody for you to meet.” I’m not going to lie, I almost crapped myself and had a heart attack at the same time. To introduce me to Melanie Griffith, I know exactly who she is. We had Martha Stewart there yesterday. She wants to be on the show. She’s been talking to Erin [Andrews]. It just feels like everybody wants to be on the show. (FYI: Stewart told E!’s own Ryan Seacrest on his radio show this morning she would need a year to prepare for DWTS)

How tired were you and Brandy doing the rock marathon right after doing your tango?I’m not going to lie to you, [it] cost me probably a liver and a kidney and a lung because this thing was just never ending. They did not make it simple, did they? I’m going to start a petition for next season to do a rumba marathon. Jesus! It was exhausting. We were tired. Where she pulled out the energy to finish, I don’t know.

Speaking of….here is a clip of Maks on “Celebrity Ghost Stories” last night. I’ve been watching You Tube closely and haven’t seen anyone post the full story yet. If anyone sees it posted, be sure to let us know. For those that missed it, it will air again today on the Bio Channel at 1:00pm ET. They will also have it eventually available to watch at Biography.com.

Ok, that wraps this up for now. Have a fun and safe halloween. I leave you with this Halloween vision. Kurt Warner posted this picture on his twitter of he and his wife all dressed up for the occasion. Special thanks to Heidi sending me this. We hope more of the dancers and celebrities will post more pics of themselves in their costumes. We’ll see. 😉

October 31, 2010 I Written By

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul" ~ Martha Graham. That's what DWTS makes me think of every Monday night. To read more about me and my other interests, see Lisa Kay Photography. You can also follow me at Voguerista Twitter & Voguerista Soundcloud.

DWTS Season 11, Week 6 – Odds & Ends Media Part 1

So much to report today! Good thing Heidi has collaborated with me on this one again!! 🙂

First up, more news on next week’s shows. According to Playbill, the 200th show, along with Rod Stewart and Taylor Swift, will include a broadway performance from the cast of “Mary Poppins”.

The 200th episode of “Dancing with the Stars: The Results Show,” which airs Nov. 2 at 8 PM ET on ABC, will feature the cast of Mary Poppins. Led by Caroline Sheen as Mary and Nicolas Dromard as Bert, the company will perform “Step in Time.” The performance will mark the second time “Dancing with the Stars” has hosted a Disney on Broadway musical. Last year, the cast of The Lion King performed “Circle of Life.”

Also, for you Damian Whitewood and Peta Murgatroyd fans like myself, stay tuned. She’s confirmed to me at facebook that the two will be dancing in the Results show again this week. They’ve been tweeting about it too. *dies* I love these two!! 🙂

There is also more news on Maks’ and Brandy’s special Halloween appearance on The Ellen Show today from The Examiner. Apparently, he’s going to be escorting Brandy as Prince Charming. Brandy will be dressed as Minnie Mouse. Be sure to tune in today on ABC. It’s an Ellen show you won’t want to miss.

Speaking of Maks and Brandy, more pics have been released of their “OK” shoot and the full interview has been released. Here is one of the pictures and a snippet from the article. Be sure to see and read more at the link. 9 photos in total.

What’s the most important thing being on Dancing With the Stars has taught you?Brandy: Staying in the moment. Dance is all about trusting the moment and letting the dance flow through you, instead of over analyzing.

It’s a lot of exercise. How are you feeling?Brandy: Great, very energized. I’m starting to develop some calf muscles and we all want those Britney Spears legs, so if I keep dancing and keep doing my lunges, I’ll have some killer legs. And my midsection is looking a little muscular. Not a six-pack yet but watch out, Janet Jackson!

What surprised you about doing DWTS?Brandy: The level of fear that comes with the show is unexpected. You are so
nervous on Mondays. There’s judgment, constructive criticism and being compared to other people. I’m really proud that I’m able to get out there every Monday.
Maks: I think she retains choreography quick, but she still gets nervous on Mondays and it can jeopardize our performance. But I feel like now, week by week, she gets more and more comfortable.

Are you enjoying the costumes?Brandy: Oh, when I wear the costumes I feel like a completely different
person. With the hair and the makeup — I feel like a real-life Barbie doll. My favorite so far was the one for the samba. It was really tight at the top and flowy at the bottom. I felt really sexy in it and I don’t feel sexy a lot in my real life!

In other fun interviews out there, Lacey talks to TooFab. Here is a take from that interview.

On her chances of winning with partner Kyle Massey …“You never have any idea with this show. Obviously, we ‘d love to be at the end, but at the same time we’re happy we’ve made it this far!”

On Audrina’s elimination …“She’s so lovable and so sweet and was doing amazing on the show. I was definitely shocked to see her go. At this point in the game though, we’re shocked no matter what. We’re like a family, we never want to see anybody go. She’ll be really missed.”

On why Bristol Palin’s lasted so long, despite low scores …“She’s more of the underdog and she knows she’s the underdog. She’s working her butt off, she’s sweet and such a great girl, she’s having a blast.”

On dancing with Kyle …“He’s like a little brother. He’s super fun at all of our rehearsals. And I totally understand how my mom felt raising me and my brother.”

On what we haven’t seen on the show …“Kyle has a basketball he named Jacko Wilson. It can’t leave his sight during rehearsals. He’ll go talk to it for 5 minutes. We play basketball, kickball with Jacko. It’s really fun.”

On their toughest competition …“At this point, it’s hard to say. We’re all really consistent at this point, but there are ones that will definitely make it to the finale, like Jennifer [Grey].”

And YOU GO William Shatner on Jimmy Kimmel!! Check out who he thinks is “America’s Greatest Dancer” and even compares him to Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly in one. I have to say he’s pinned it about Derek. What do you think? He loves Dancing With The Stars. See why here.

More coming up Guys. So, stay tuned!! 😉

October 29, 2010 I Written By

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul" ~ Martha Graham. That's what DWTS makes me think of every Monday night. To read more about me and my other interests, see Lisa Kay Photography. You can also follow me at Voguerista Twitter & Voguerista Soundcloud.

DWTS, Season 11, Week 6 – Recovering from the Aftershock and Media

As most of you know, next week, Dancing with the Stars will celebrate its 200th episode. Associated Content is reporting that each celebrity will perform a dance they have not learned yet as well as a team dance. To celebrate the 200th episode, past DWTS contestants will return. Among those confirmed to return to the ballroom are Helio Castroneves, Kelly Osbourne, Emmitt Smith, Drew Lachey, Mel B. and Gilles Marini. There will also be two group dances, led by “DWTS” winners , team captains Kristi Yamaguchi (season 6) and Apolo Ohno (season 4). Musical guests include Taylor Swift and Rod Stewart.

Right now, this is all very confusing to me and messy. I hope that isn’t the case next week. We are all confused enough by what happened this past week with the elimination of Audrina and Tony which I still haven’t recovered from. lol (Heidi: It didn’t confuse me. 😉 )

Speaking of….Erin Andrews dished to Movie Line on her thoughts on the devastating elimination. Here are some snippets from that interview. Be sure to see the link for more.

In fact, it’s probably good to have a bad week. Then people remember to vote for you. Otherwise you end up like Audrina did yesterday!I’m… stunned. Are you stunned?

Traumatized!Ha! I was shocked. I was actually flying back from LA, and I hadn’t gotten to see the show. When I landed, I read Maks’s Twitter, and it said, “America got it wrong.” And I was like, “What?!” They were the last people I thought would be eliminated. I was with Tony [Dovolani, Audrina’s partner] at dinner the night before. Let me tell you, there are some nights you think you’re going home. But that was not the vibe any of us felt about those two.

Ouch, you got to talk to them the night before? Were they at all pessimistic? I mean, they tied for second place this week.Second place. It was unbelievable. I don’t think either one of them had the sense they’d be leaving at all. I think everyone kind of thought, “Ehh, maybe this person will go, that person. Maybe it’s time for that person to go.” But not those two!

On Maks, Brandy, and Bristol, she said this…..

Yeah, you got to witness the Brandy-Maks dynamic firsthand. What did you think?I liked it! You know, I thought their dance was great. I thought he kind of stole the show with the leather pants — no offense to Brandy. I mean, he comes out in those pants and it’s like, what else are you supposed to focus on? But I loved meeting her. She was great. You can tell she really, really, really wants to win this thing. She kept saying it over and over. She kept saying, “I really want to win this. I really want to win this.” She said she was glad I was came and she appreciated the support. So I enjoyed meeting her.

I know you said Bristol did better this week, but how optimistic are you for her future on the show?I don’t know. It’s just going to get harder. Obviously the night of the dance marathon that night, I was there. But they’re going to have to start doing two dances. It’s going to get worse. The competition will get more difficult. I mean, if she can stay in it, and I know she wants to, I’m all for it. Good for her. But it’s just going to start getting harder. I don’t remember what her criticism was that night, but I thought she did have the technique. Her technique looked great. She’s just got to let herself go, emotions-wise. I don’t know what dances she has coming up, but it’s not going to be any easier. And the judges aren’t going to get any easier as well.

Mark Ballas has blogged a little about the next week’s dances and Bristol at USA Today. Here’s what he wrote;

Time to kick it into overdrive!

The results show just wrapped and I only have about 20 minutes before the remaining cast hops into a minibus and heads to rehearsal for three hours tonight. We have two dances next week: a partner dance like we always have, and a group dance. For the group dance, we’re separating into two teams of three couples, each headed up by either (former season champs) Apolo (Ohno) or Kristi (Yamaguchi) my partner when we won Season 6. I really hope I’m with Kristi, as we’re close friends and work very well together.

It might sound redundant by now, but I’m really proud of Bristol. After getting the poor scores and doing our worst last week, getting the encore performance this week was incredible! I knew heading into Monday’s show that Bris would do well, and she killed it. I wish (judge) Len (Goodman) hadn’t docked us the point for separating, but it doesn’t matter because Bristol is coming alive on the floor!

Have you noticed how she’s really owned the judges’ critiques of more emotional performing, playing a character and enjoying the dance? The more comfortable she feels, the better I think we’ll do. Isn’t it fun watching Bristol get better every week? I know I love it, and I get a front-row seat. Each week, this competition will get more heated. The dancers are a close bunch, and we become like a big family with the celebs. But on show days and with someone going home on results shows, backstage gets really tense. I mean awkward tense. Everyone is working hard, and no one wants to lose.

We hope to have more blogs coming up. So, stayed tuned.

Thanks to Heidi and Pure Derek Hough for this interview of Derek at Popwatch. He may like the “Theme Nights” but, I think it’s safe to say from the reaction here, fans of the show are over them. More at the link.

Does anyone on the show take the “in jeopardy” thing seriously at this point? Were you and Jen shaken at all to be “under the red light”?You forget while it’s happening that it may not be a real bottom two. That red light is like the warming light at a diner. You hope that something good comes out of it, but you never really know.

How important do you think is the order in which couples dance on Mondays? Any idea how the order is determined? Are you relieved whenever you find out you’re dancing near the end of the show?
Every couple is different. I’m not sure how they choose who goes first and last, but I’d prefer if we always went in the middle somewhere.

So many theme nights this fall! Are you tired of shaping dances around themes, or do you think themes are necessary to keep things interesting after so many seasons?
The themes present new challenges. I like that aspect of it — we get to think even more creatively about choreographing and props.

Heidi’s Note: Found an article about Audrina’s elimination and the guest judges next week at Access Hollywood:

Next week’s “Dancing” episode will mark the show’s 200th episode and more than 50 former celebrity contenders will be back for the monumental event.

Helio Castroneves, Kelly Osbourne, Emmitt Smith, Drew Lachey, Mel B and Gilles Marini will all return to serve as guest judges, while Apolo Anton Ohno and Kristi Yamaguchi will also be back to serve as head team captains for a group dance round with the show’s current contenders.

On Tuesday, Kristi, who returned to the ballroom, said she’s ready to take down her fellow skater after seeing him land a couple of his “Dancing” numbers in the Viewer-Voted All Time Top 10. (Click HERE to see which dances made the list)

“He had two dances in the top 10 and that just stoked my fire because I want to turn the heat on now,” she said. “I want my team to beat his.”

In TV Alerts out there: Be sure to watch The Ellen Show on Friday. Maks and Brandy are making a guest appearance on Ellen’s special “Halloween” show. Should be good.

Lastly, just a reminder that today is the last day you can vote in the “Design a Dance” competition for your favorite dancers. So be sure to get your votes in if you want to see your favorites dance.

Ok, that is for now All!! More later if you are good. 😉

October 28, 2010 I Written By

"Dance is the hidden language of the soul" ~ Martha Graham. That's what DWTS makes me think of every Monday night. To read more about me and my other interests, see Lisa Kay Photography. You can also follow me at Voguerista Twitter & Voguerista Soundcloud.

DWTS 11, Week 5 – Stuff Off My TiVo

That’s the title I’m going with from now on for random bits of DWTS that I find on my TiVo. 🙂 Not everything that’s on my Tivo, only the things I like or find interesting, for one reason or another.

The first bit of this one you’ve seen before, but it’s the Kristi Yamaguchi impersonation that gets me – how does one do that spin on a dance floor??

A bit from Extreme Makeover, followed by a DWTS Champions – Where are they Now?

I think it’s Barry Williams that sent Florence home.

And for you Situation Fans. 🙂

October 24, 2010 I Written By

I'm a nerd and proud of it. Two degrees in geology also means I love BEER. :-) I'm also a Derek lover - proud of that too. So don't scream at those of us on this site and call us a bunch of "biased Derek-lovers" - it's just ME. :-) It may sound like I hate DWTS at times, but really, I'm just a snarky nitpicker from way back. And I'm cynical and jaded too. But I do love DWTS. :-)