Strictly Speaking! Susanna Weeks 1- 6!

In the first of a new mini-series entitled ’Strictly Speaking’, Kevin invites you into the conversation around some of the greatest dances, partners and moments throughout his Strictly Come Dancing journey!

This week, Kevin revisits his beginnings on the show; 2013’s series, which saw him appear for the first time, and which saw him partnered with Susanna Reid. Listen as he talks about the creative process behind each dance, the behind-the-scenes stories of what really went on, and the impact of the show from a professional dancer’s perspective.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Perseverance was the key in the first year, where Kevin went from leading man of ‘Burn The Floor’, to the back of the room as a new Strictly Pro. Through hard work and determination, he eventually began to move forward.
• One of the main lessons learned was to be as memorable as possible, as quickly as possible, whenever a series began. It’s important to be the main part of the “coffee break” conversations on Monday morning.
• Techniques such as dropping to the floor, and making the partner seem higher, serve to emphasise their solo sections, and help to shift focus when needed.
• The audience of Strictly Come Dancing have never tuned in to see perfectly-executed examples of technique and ability. They come to be entertained. Entertainment should always be the priority.
• Even small factors, such as the order in which dancers appear, can make a huge difference to the reaction to a dance, and even to the popularity when it comes to the voting.

BEST MOMENTS

‘I feel like I had to pay my dues in that first year’

‘As soon as you enter that territory of “remind me which dance they did”, then you haven’t been memorable enough’

’This was my first taste of the show’s big production narrative pieces!’

‘Just go for it with energy, and commit to the craziness of the number’

‘It’s more important to be memorable than perfect'

VALUABLE RESOURCES

Week 1 - Jive - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iF5SvHjYPkc

Week 2 - Tango - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aepPe_Jpaf8

Week 3 - Viennese Waltz - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtK3YwjBrSs

Week 4 - Samba - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ff0g6P4slo4

Week 5 - American Smooth - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=at1Y_PoNCrI

Week 6 - Charleston - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AxJx_LGOJqw

The Kevin Clifton Show - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-kevin-clifton-show/id1475650764

ABOUT THE HOST

Kevin Clifton is a professional dancer who has been performing & competing at the highest level for over a decade. Kevin has worked on shows like 'Burn the floor' & 'Rock of Ages' to 'Strictly Come Dancing' one of the biggest TV shows in the UK which Kevin won in 2018.

CONTACT METHOD

Kevin Clifton Instagram

Kevin Clifton Facebook

Kevin Clifton YouTube