Strictly Review: Sarah Hadland and Vito Coppola

Last Saturday, Strictly Come Dancing presented their Night at the Musicals, where we were treated to all things theatre; ranging from a Mary Poppins themed Viennese Waltz set to the tune Let’s Go Fly a Kite, to an Argentine Tango to the track Ex Wives from SIX the Musical!

This week’s Charleston routine was choreographed by Tommy Franzén and Lizzie Gough, and it was Actress Sarah Hadland and her professional partner Vito Coppola’s turn to celebrate all things Jazz Hands, with a Charleston set to the tune ‘Popular’ from the West End stage show Wicked!

TV presenter Tess Daly, said there has “Never been this many 10s from the judges going into the quarter final before.” So will this theatre themed Charleston add the number and make it increase, or will it be banished away on a broomstick- never to grace the Strictly Ballroom again?

Let’s find out...

The routine opens with Sarah dressed as the Good Witch Glinda, sat in her bedroom quoting a line from the West End performance- perfectly setting the scene for the audience. After a few bars of music, she joins Vito sat on the bed- further establishing the characters and the scene.

The opening was just perfect, with the magic wand being wafted causing Vito to move in time with the music; further adding to the Musical’s theme!

At 0:45, the pair use their character as Glinda and Elphaba to fly straight into the Charleston spirit, with Basic 20s Swivels, Heel Flicks, and a Jazzy walk. Soon after, the pair came together for their first of many impressive lifts- where Vito sweeps Sarah off the ground and tumbles her through the air; perfectly emulating the scene from the stage show.

Later on, at 1:14, the couple complete a further complex lift- leaving the audience screaming with excitement.

After a few hair flicks Sarah completes a series of solo 20s Charleston steps, Birdie Flaps, Suzy Qs, Kicks, Flicks, and a Squat Charleston. (you can learn how to Squat Charleston here).

Further on, the couple simultaneously complete a mini comedic sketch; adding to the classic Charleston vibe, before Vito swings Sarah up-side-down in one swift motion!

Nearing the end of the routine, Sarah and Vito come together to complete another spell-bounding lift, where Sarah is swung from side-to-side imitating a pendulum; after which they had just enough time for a few 30s style Charlestons before Vito Leap-Frogs over Sarah’s head, and they resume their final poses; where they were met with an eruption of applause from both the audience and their fellow contestants.

To begin with, I was sceptical about a Wicked theme Charleston, because I just really love a traditional Jazz song. However, I was blown away by the standard and finesse that this routine possessed. It was clear from the outset that Sarah’s passion and drive to do well, really were at the forefront and her energy was just infectious– making it impossible not to smile throughout. The lifts were also crazy cool- I LOVED every second!

It is clear that I was not alone in my opinions, as one critic exclaimed that they are “Absolutely obsessed with this couple” and another “Could not believe” how the pair managed to dance a Charleston that was “Unconventionally conventional” with regards to partnering music and style.

It seems the Judges were also in agreement with this as Motsi Mabuse shouted “Yes, yes, yes- what a way to open the quarter finals. Thank you for setting the standard today” which Head Judge Shirey then echoed when she exclaimed “Your lifts were flawless.” Anton Du Beke also shares how this routine was a “Wonderful piece of musical theatre, and if [they] were to lift this Charleston into the Show, it would fit right in” which is a wonderful compliment to receive this far into the competition.

Due to this high praise and the fantastic comments that the couple received, they have managed to successfully swivel their way into next week’s Semi-Finals. Whilst Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe found themselves in the bottom two for the second week running and were unfortunately the next couple to leave the competition.  

Scores:

Craig Revel Horwood - 9

Motsi Mabuse – 9

Shirley Ballas – 10

Anton Du Beke – 10

MyCharleston – 9

By: Eleanor O’Donnell

Strictly Review:JB Gill and Lauren Oakley

With only one week to go until the Quarter Finals of the series, last Saturday, it was 2000s boyband member of JLS; JB Gill, and professional partner Lauren Oakley’s turn to dance a traditional Charleston set to the tune “Yes Sir That’s My Baby” by the Firehouse Five Plus Two (an iconic track for an iconic dance!!)

The routine was choreographed by the wonderful Jenny Thomas (check out her Instagram  here) and click this link if you would like to sign up to our Charleston Masterclass with Jenny on the 22nd and 23rd March in Brighton and Hove.

This Charleston routine had everything a 1920s fan could ask for. From the choreography and the music to the cheekiness in its style; Craig Revel Horwood could not praise it higher.

It seems that JB and Lauren had a very successful night, with a high score of 39, and being the winners of Sambathon!

But what did you think? Do you prefer the traditional 20s Charlestons, or are you more of the mindset that the previous, more unconventional ones worked best? We would love to hear your thoughts!

The routine opens with a hologram scene of New York taxi cabs, with JB and Lauren flagging them down- really setting the American 20s vibe from the outset.

After a few opening bars of music, the pair spring into action, and immediately break into classic 1920s Charleston Swivels in perfect unison, followed by Silly Runs, and Charleston Kicks- all the classic moves that we all know and love!

At 0:30, without hesitation, the pair complete a rather impressive lift, swiftly followed by a short-Partnered Sequence consisting of further Kicks, Suzy Qs, Knocky Knees, and a Windmill (also known as a Helicopter- you can learn to dance this move here).

Later on, the couple complete a Fall-Off-The-Log, another impressive Lift, and a momentary pause for a quick ‘Break Dance’ break!

At 1:04, Scarecrows, Pushes, Kick Charlestons are completed; after which JB throws Lauren high into the air and over his shoulder in a complex lift- leaving the audience ecstatic. Then the couple seamlessly come into further Basic Charleston Swivels in hold, Birdie Flaps, the Running Man, and an Assisted Cartwheel.

Nearing the end of the routine, the pair then complete a series of flawless Side-To-Side Charlestons (My favourite move EVER!), Tick-Tocks, and a quick Spin before coming into their final pose- not forgetting the Jazz Hands!

In my opinion, this routine was full of authenticity, and it has to be up there with one of my favourite Charleston routines ever- it was just pure joy and I sobbed throughout! The choice of song was also incredibly nostalgic for me, as this was one of the first songs that I danced to when I first joined MyCharleston 5 years ago (watch the routine here). It is clear that I am not alone in thinking this dance deserved top marks, as one critic commented that this routine was, “Full of joy and using traditional music makes all the difference- JB looks like a winner” and another exclaimed, “Yes Sir, That’s my JB!”

It seems the Judges also enjoyed JB and Lauren’s Charleston as Head Judge Shirley commented on how the “Synchronicity was off the charts” and Craig agreed, stating it was “Pure class.” Motsi Mabuse echoed this stating the routine had the “Right Swag,” and Anton Du Beke thought the “20s American style [was] brilliant and stylish!”

As a result of these positive comments, and high scores; the pair have successfully swivelled their into next week’s Quarter Finals!

Scores:

Craig Revel Horwood - 9

Motsi Mabuse – 10

Shirley Ballas – 10

Anton Du Beke – 10

MyCharleston – 10

By: Eleanor O’Donnell

Strictly Review: Wynne Evans & Katya Jones

Last Saturday, Strictly Come Dancing aired their annual Blackpool special, where we were treated to the 3rd Charleston of the series. With all the glitz and glamour of the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, Welsh Opera Singer and ‘Go.Compare’ Man Wynne Evans and professional partner Katya Jones’ danced an alternative Charleston set to the tune “Carmen Suite No. 1: 5. Le Toreador” by Georges Bizet.

The routine was choreographed by the wonderful Jenny Thomas (check out her Instagram  here) and click this link if you would like to sign up to our Charleston Masterclass with Jenny on the 22nd & 23rd March in Brighton.

Although this routine was unconventional in style, what with it being a Spanish inspired piece, Motsi Mabuse thought it  “[told] a story of dance.” But what did you think? Do you prefer these alternative, more unconventional themed Charleston routines, or are you more of the mindset that 20s/30s is best? We would love to hear your thoughts!

The routine opens with Katya and her back-up dancers walking to their opening positions, adorned with traditional red outfits and giant fans, before Wynne brings the comedy with his debut entrance riding upon a hobby horse- wearing the biggest smile the Strictly Ballroom has ever seen!

At 0:19, still riding on his horse, Wynne completes a series of basic Charleston Swivels, before Katya and her entourage of dancers join him for a Partnered Charleston in hold, heel flicks, and a Paso Doble-esque inspired dance break.

Later on, the pair then complete a rather impressive lift, after which Katya is briefly set upon the ground, before being hurled into the air once more-much to the delight of the audience.

At 0:55, the pair use the backing dancers for their Assisted Cartwheels, as Katya is thrown upside-down, and passed along a row of dancers where Wynne lifts her up to yet another astonishing height. At this point, the audience has erupted into a crescendo of applause in support of the entertaining element of this dance.

Later on, a further Paso Doble sequence is completed, shortly followed by a series of Charleston Kick and Flicks in hold, Trucking, and Tick Tocks- therefore brining some authentic Charleston flare!

Nearing the end, Wynne and Katya come together for a rather theatrical lift- to which a not-so graceful ending occurs as Wynne plonks is partner onto the floor.

Finally, Wynne grabs Katya by the ankles causing her to fly higher and higher into the air as they spin at great speed before coming together for their final pose!

It is clear that the pair really enjoyed performing this routine in the Blackpool Tower Ballroom, and many members of the audience loved it too- so much so that many gave a standing ovation.

In my opinion, although it was super entertaining enough and the choreography was beautifully pieced together, the whole routine did not scream CHARLESTON! However, it seems that I am alone in my thinking this as one critic explained that it “Felt like a funny Paso Doble parody routine for comedy- I LOVED it!” and other stated that there was “Nice Flapper action throughout, the lifts were crazy, and I am literally obsessed!”

It seems the Judges also enjoyed Wynne and Katya’s Charleston as Head Judge Shirley commented on how it is a “Katya Special [with] all the lifts and tricks- it was highly entertaining” and Motsi and Craig were also in agreement with “An extra mark [needing] to be given for the high energy all the way through!”

 Despite these positive comments from both the Judges and the Critics, Wynne and Katya found themselves in the bottom two of the leader-board with a score of 31, and as a result, found themselves in the dreaded Dance Off against Montell Douglas and Johannes Radebe.

Unfortunately, due to a few issues with his technique, Wynne and Katya are the next couple to leave the Strictly Come Dancing Competition, 2024.

Scores:

Craig Revel Horwood - 7

Motsi Mabuse – 8

Shirley Ballas – 8

Anton Du Beke – 8

MyCharleston – 7

By: Eleanor O’Donnell

Videos: Watch our Musicals Routines

We love a musical and we're taught many routines on our course from shows such as Chicago, Cabaret, Anything Goes, Thoroughly Modern Millie and West Side Story. You can take a look at past routines to get an idea of what we've taught and how fun they are! We’ve a whooping 14 routines to date!

Rhythm of Life - Sweet Charity

All That Jazz

America - West Side Story

Bad Guys - Bugsy Malone

Mein Herr- Cabaret

Hot Honey Rag - Chicago

Thoroughly Modern Millie

Fat Sam’s Grand Slam

All I do - Singin’ in the Rain

Jet Song - West Side Story

Rich Man’s Frug

Anything Goes

One, Singular Sensation - Chorus Line

Me Ol’Bamboo - Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

Tea for Two

Strictly Charleston Review: Nick Knowles & Tasha Ghouri

After a yearlong wait, Strictly Come Dancing has finally returned to our screens for their 22nd Series and last Saturday we were treated to not one but two Charleston routines! Both dances have received mixed opinions from both the audience and the judges, but which was your favourite?

NICK KNOWLES AND LUBA MUSHTUK

First up we have DIY SOS presenter, Nick Knowles and his professional partner Luba Mushtuk, who danced an entertaining number to “Rain on the Roof” from Paddington 2. Although this week is not Movie Week, the couple were unable to perform the previous Saturday due to Nick’s injuries.

It appears that marmalade sandwiches are not everyone’s cup of tea, as the couple’s Charleston sparked controversy amongst the Strictly fandom; witch mixed opinions being shared. Even though some agreed with the lower scoring, others were quick to defend the pair, with one stating that Nick should be ‘given some slack due to his recent injury.’ But what do you think?

Watch their full routine here:

The routine opens with the couple setting the scene, with Luba emerging from the laundry basket- making direct reference to the film. The camera then pans to Nick and his Jazz Hands, completing a basic Charleston step, before the pair come together to complete Kick Charlestons, Inverted Scarecrows, and Bunny Hops. At 0:30, the couple continue with a sequence of ‘Mop-Ography’- adding comical value to the dance. At 0:58, some further partner work occurs, with a Side-to-Side Charleston, and a small lift. Later on further Kicks, Umbrella-Ography, and Jazzy celebratory runs occur before the pair come together for their final pose; and Nick enjoys a sandwich.

In my opinion, although it was entertaining to watch, this Charleston lacked substance and, as a result, it was a little bit boring as I felt Nick could have used his facial expressions to bring a bit of cheekiness to the Charleston. However, with that being said, I think Nick did extremely well to perform despite his injuries.

It seems I am not alone in thinking this, because one critic stated that the dance “needed more energy and more life,” however, opposing this; another stated “[His] efforts deserved that marmalade sandwich.”

It is clear that the Judges had the same view as Head Judge Shirley commented on how “[He] missed out on the sense of freedom” and Craig (who choreographed the routine in the film) stated that there was “no comparison unfortunately.”

Due to these comments, Nick and Luba found themselves in the dreaded Dance Off on Sunday evening, and although Nick took the Judges comments into consideration, it wasn’t quite enough to save them from leaving the competition.

Scores:

Craig Revel Horwood - 4

Motsi Mabuse – 6

Shirley Ballas – 5

Anton Du Beke – 6

MyCharleston – 5

  TASHA GHOURI AND ALIAZ SKORIANEZ

Next up, we have Social Media Star and Love Island contestant Tasha Ghouri and her professional partner Aliaz Skorianez, who closed the show with a Coachella- themed Country Charleston set to the tune “UNHEALTHY” by Anne-Marie and Shania Twain and choreographed by the wonderful Jenny Thomas (check out her Instagram here.) Although unconventional with regards to theme and song choice, the audience seemed to really enjoy this Charleston, with one going as far to say that “it was perfection, [and] it is nice to have a break from the usual Jazzy routines.”

Do you prefer a more traditional Charleston, or are you in agreement with the critics relief from Jazz and though this routine deserved it’s high score? Let’s take a closer look…

Watch their full routine here:

The routine opens with the pair posing for pictures with selfie-sticks, and after only a few bars of music, they immediately go into a lift, followed by Charleston swivels, partner sequences, and a twirl. At 0:46, the couple then come together for some ‘Selfie-Stick-Ography’ and a further impressive lift; leaving the audience erupting with applause. Later on, the couple are in perfect synchronisation with their country-inspired moves, Suzy-Qs, Charlie Chaplin’s, Hitchhikes, and the SPLITS!

To conclude the routine, the pair have just enough time for a few Trucks, Side-to-Side Charlestons, and a lift before coming together for their final position.

I must admit, when I first heard about the theme of this Charleston, I was a little sceptical because I worried that the authenticity of the original Charleston would be lost. Whilst I felt this was the case for the theme, I think Tasha is an incredible dancer, and I LOVED the routine and the choreography as it really captured the fun and cheeky Charleston that we all know and love. It is clear that many others shared similar views, with one critic sharing that it was “the BEST dance of the series so far!”

The Judges also enjoyed this number as Tasha and Aliaz were the highest scoring couple of the night, and left Head Judge Shirley exploding with complimentary remarks, exclaiming how she “Could not fault it” and Motsi sharing a similar view with “FAB-U-LOUS!”

As a result, this highly scoring routine of 39, sent the couple safely swivelling into next week!

Scores:

Craig Revel Horwood - 9

Motsi Mabuse – 10

Shirley Ballas – 10

Anton Du Beke – 10

MyCharleston – 9

By: Eleanor O’Donnell

Videos: Watch the 'Sugar Foot Stomp' Routines

Watch the ‘Sugar Foot Stomp ‘ routine by all our groups over the third term the year 2024. This routine was taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, Holland, the Midlands and Online. Take a look at the final performances in class.

Hove Morning GROUP

hOVE Evening GROUP

Brighton GROUP

Lewes gROUP

EASTBOURNE gROUP

PORTSMOUTH gROUP

Online gROUP

Midlands groups

Speakeasy Performances 2024

The MyCharleston Speakeasy is a dress-up and dance event where we transport you back to the Roaring Twenties. Our Hot Jazz band gets your toes tapping while the flapper dancers are knee-slapping, with group-led dances and performances. As part of the performances this year, we had 4 different groups of students from our classes perform group numbers throughout the afternoon. Take a look below at each of the group routines.

Partner Charleston - Puttin’ on the Ritz

Opening the show was our 1920s Partner Charleston routine set to the tune ‘Puttin’ on the Ritz’. The routine included a mixture of iconic Charleston steps in hold, turns and a tiny bit of 1930s Charleston too.

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Hot Honey Rag- Musicals group

Our dancers from our musicals group brought the stage alive with reenacting the closing number ‘Hot Honey Rag‘ from the musical Hot Honey Rag. The choreography was inspired by the 2002 film adaptation.

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Moten Swing

Intermediate Charleston and Solo Jazz

This classic tune is captured perfectly in this routine with each move expressing the musics with iconic Charleston and solo jazz moves. The routine was performed by MyCharlestons Intermediate group, who do a fantastic job of making complicated steps looked relaxed and smooth.

Shake That Thing - Open Level Charleston Group

Closing the show were our fantastic open level students who put together a grand finale with their Charleston routine ‘Shake That Thing‘. Students joined from all over Sussex and Hampshire. We even had our teacher from Holland fly over especially to take part in the day.

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Our next social is 30 June on Worthing Pier. Taking place in the beautiful Atrium overlooking Worthing Pier and beach, you’re invited to a Summer Dance full of Charleston Lessons, feisty flappers and live entertainment.

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Watch Jenny Thomas Masterclass

On 11th May, we were delighted to host Jenny Thomas for two Charleston Masterclasses in Brighton. This was a unique opportunity for our students to learn from one of world’s top choreographers in Charleston & Authentic Jazz. She has devised several top scoring Charleston routines for BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing and now it was our turn to try out some of signatures moves.

Open Level Group

Strictly Choreographer Jenny Thomas is an ambassador for keeping the Charleston alive and kicking. She is one of the world’s top choreographers in Swing, Lindy Hop, Charleston and Authentic Jazz. Her ability to create a dance routine for beginners and make it look amazing is a unique talent. In this workshop she takes classic moves and adds a modern twist to create a routine which celebrates the Twenties.

Intermediate Level

In our intermediate level group we worked on more technical steps including The Chase and Trickeration.

To join any of our upcoming weekend workshops click here

Videos: Watch the routines from spring term 2024

Watch the videos from our second term of the year 2024. Our Shake That Thing routine was taught across Brighton & Hove, Lewes, Eastbourne, Portsmouth, Holland, the Midlands and Online. Below we have also included our Musicals Course ‘Hot Honey Rag‘ , Partner Charleston and Intermediate Level performance of Moten Swing.

Hove Morning GROUP

hOVE Evening GROUP

Brighton GROUP

Lewes gROUP

EASTBOURNE gROUP

PORTSMOUTH gROUP

Online gROUP

Holland group

dARLINGTON group

Midlands groups

CHICAGO - Musicals Group hoVE

CHICAGO - Musicals Group zOOM

intermediate group - mOTEN sWING

pARTNER CHARLESTON

The Magic of Musicals New Cabaret Show

Musicals can transport us to different worlds and stir our emotions through the magic of music and dance. Brought to you by MyCharleston our performance is specially designed for Care Homes, bringing joy and entertainment to residents.  

This cabaret show takes you on a journey through time, from the Roaring Twenties up to the Swinging Sixties. It’s a celebration of Broadway and Hollywood’s rich tapestry of music and dance across the decades.

Our dynamic trio of dancers and singers love to put on a show, whatever the setting you are sure to be entertained. With dazzling costumes and quirky props these three performers create a show which offers a wide variety of styles and themes.

“The residents at The Queensmead, Polegate, were delighted to see the MyCharleston ladies dance and sing! It was a wonderful afternoon of amazing costumes, fun, and magic of the musicals.”

— Sarah, Activites Manager - Queensmead, Care Home

Our musical journey through time begins in the 1920s. It’s prohibition in America but at Fat Sam’s Grand Slam the drink is flowing and the flapper girls are dancing. From Tallulah and The Bad Guys we travel to 1920’s Berlin where “life is a Cabaret old chum, so come to the Cabaret!”

As we travel through the decades we add a touch of Hollywood glamour to our show. With classic songs by ‘Marylyn Monroe’ and iconic dances from Bob Fosse’s Musical ‘Chicago” These numbers are a celebration of the great Hollywood stars.

As the cabaret show comes into full swing, we invite the audiences to join in with us for a couple of numbers. With an easy to learn ‘call and response’ tune we encourage the residents to let go of their inhibitions and have a bit of fun. This is followed by a song and dance which has some simple actions so the audience can participate from the comfort of their chair.

The finale of the show brings us to a decade we all love and remember, the Swingin’ Sixties. It was a time when Hairstyles were big and Hairspray was all the rage. “You Can’t Stop The Beat” so get ready to groove, toe tap and knee slap as we end the show on an energetic high.

““We had an amazing afternoon at the Cabaret show! it felt just like when I used to perform on stage and took me back to happy times. The girls did very well and sang beautifully.”

— Daphne, Resident - Queensmead Care Home

How to Book

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Call: 07521 645 445

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