Dancing With the Stars has become a cult of pop culture, as demonstrated by the shrieks and screams from the fans during this sold-out show in St. Louis. The shrieks that accompanied the introduction of the professional dancers at the show’s opening were unnervingly loud. The unceasing cheering at times during the two-hour show sounded like an auditory illusion, as if voices were being dubbed in the music. The crowd’s rapture is as bizarre as it is amazingly unheard of.
The intro was a bit awkward, despite the audience’s enthusiasm. It had a few moments of showboating, semi-erratic basic steps, set to Gloria Estefan’s and Miami Sound Machine’s version of “Rhythm is Gonna’ Get You”, and a version Harry Belafonte’s song “Jump In The Line.” These dancers were amazing. They performed with grace, elegance, and athleticism. Skill set is expert. They delivered on their promises and understood the audience.
This show was less about dancing perfection or loyalty to a particular genre (such as the Tango) than it was about connecting with their fans. This show was about the love that dancers felt for their fans.
The storyline had the feel of an old-fashioned show, with lots of fake banter and sequins. Stephen Nedoroscik played a classic role as the co-host. He is the US Olympian, who won a Bronze medal in the men’s pommel horses in Paris last year and was on last season’s DWTS. He was a little shorter and gawkier than everyone else, but he played the classic role of co-host. It was great to see him do his pommel.
All of them were great, including Emma Slater, Alan Bersten as host, Brandon Armstrong and Britt Stewart. Also, Daniella Karagach was a standout. They performed all genres, from Fox Trot to Modern. The costumers deserve applause for their extensive array of costumes.
The crowd shrieked loudly at each theatrical thrust, leg kick, or dip that the DWST crew performed, which they deserved. The collective “Woohoos”, however, seemed to ignore the technically impressive footwork and this “dismount” of a lift. The performances of Queen’s Body Language and Britney Spears’ “Oops !…I did it again” were noteworthy. Grease’s Hand Jive was also a high point. Cha Cha is the best dancer in St. Bernadette’s but everyone at Rydell High School put her to shame.
The set featured long projection screens surrounding a platform and the main stage. The dancers used the stairs as props, in addition to their essential role of the riser. The music was upbeat and lively, maintaining the momentum of the evening. It would be great if a soundtrack was provided or sold.
DWTS is a great entertainment show for many reasons. It’s amazing that they’ve brought dance into every home. The show has a very vulnerable side that the celebrities demonstrate. It’s appealing and human. There’s also a fantasy that you could be one of them, and be able to have the freedom to be yourself. It’s also great reality television, full of nerves, anticipation and beauty.
