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Dancing with the Stars Winter Tour 2020 VIP Experience Blog

Dancing with the Stars Winter Tour 2020

VIP Experience

#dwtstour My apologies on being absent from the blog for a while. My sweet heart dog, my one in a million got cancer last year and we fought so hard but, she passed away the day before Thanksgiving. I have been in such a sad place overall and been trying to pull myself out of it which hasn’t been easy. Honestly, the first show I went to I wasn’t even excited to go but, only because I just was finding it a struggle to get excited about anything. Once I got there for both shows I so appreciated that I could smile, enjoy the performances and forget my reality for a few hours.

I wanted to wait and go to at least 2 of my shows before writing this to see if some of the kinks got worked out.

Pre-Show:

You receive your email a few days before telling you when to arrive, giving you the link and password for the photos, the waiver etc. One thing that has been confusing to people this year is it says no personal cameras/phones allowed. I think they need to be more specific and say no cameras/phones allowed in the photo area because several have thought it also meant in mingle.

Check-in:

Check in was so slow at the first event I went to at Mohegan. Even after they started checking people in the line moved extremely slow. They also had us in such a small room at Mohegan in my opinion too many people for such a small room. The second show I went to in Durham was much faster, they had us in the usual area for VIP at DPAC which is always great!

VIP Swag:

I honestly didn’t keep any of mine, I gave it away at both cities. It really seems like they continue to increase the prices and give fans less. I always liked when they at least gave you a tote bag.

VIP Photo & Mingle:

I didn’t want to comment on this until after I saw if things were better at the 2nd show but, this VIP Host will not go down on my list of great ones. At Mohegan she was not very polite, she would only post 1 of the 2 pics. I let her know we have always received both and she sarcastically responded that she would only post 1 and she would decide which one to post. I emailed VIP Nation after that show and was very pleased that they backed the fans up and are now posting both pictures. The photo experience is way too fast, they are taking away the personal aspect of it that used to make this so great in the early tours. I barely had time to say hi and hug the pros before the host was saying look here. It’s disappointing because you spend $300-650 of your hard earned $ for a rushed experience. I am not saying give each person 5 minutes but, at least let them say hello and if they have something quick to say allow that like you used to. That almost always comes down to the host though because all the pros are awesome and engaging. I miss the host Anthony Jones a lot, he was one of the best they have had, he got the job done but, truly understood the fan experience. There was also another girl a few tours ago that was really good. Both of them posted pics within 24 hours, were very friendly at all times, didn’t rush you in the photos, checked the photos before you walked away etc.

#dwtstour She also doesn’t post the pictures very fast, I have seen it take almost a week for some cities. My last show in Charlotte it took 6 days and then she only posted 1 of my pictures. Pictures are not all being checked again. That happened to me two years ago when both of my pictures had my eyes closed. One girl shared with me that only 1 of her pics was posted on a recent show and it was blurry and when she emailed and asked about the 2nd pic which she did a special pose with her fav pro she was told it would be posted when the host had a chance and she still didn’t have it. The hosts should understand that fans are super excited to see their pics and everyone understands you cannot always do it same day but, a week…

#dwtstour Mingle: This also seemed faster than usual. At Mohegan the pros were mobbed so they tried to say wait and let them come to your table. Durham it was better but, the only issue with wait until they come to your table is if your photo group # is called when they are almost at your table and then you come out and missed them.

This is another fan’s experience this year that goes every year:

“They did it differently this year bc they have the pros come to your table for the mingle so no lines and stuff. For Rochester it’s super small and there’s only a few tables and the vibes are really awkward and quiet. So my brother and I were in the booth in group 1 and by that point Daniella and Lindsay were gone and there were a lot of people who hadn’t met them so I asked the tour hostess if they can come back and a few minutes later Lindsay and Daniella came back and met the latecomers. The VIP goes from 5;30-6:30 and they were in late and out early. It won’t be the same for Verona bc it’s bigger and better vibes so they’ll stay longer but like, people paid for the experience so give them what they asked for and don’t come out early. And I just wanted a quick picture with Daniella and I don’t mean to be a bother I just wanted to say hi and stuff.”

#dwtstour

The Maks & Val Tour & Derek Hough tours are run much better and they truly give you a great fan experience and understand and appreciate that you are spending your hard earned $ to do these experiences. In my opinion that comes from the top down. Maks & Val especially have always genuinely cared about and been so proud of their tour and really listen to fan feedback and work hard at providing a fun, genuine VIP experience for those that come to their event & pay extra for VIP.

The show: I will do another blog soon on the actual show. It really was fantastic this year. I liked the flow, I liked that the audience participation is back and the Pro’s just crush it every night. More to come on that.

Tour staff interaction/waiting by buses:

I was personally happy to see a different security guy in Durham than the guy that has done it for years that is absolutely is nasty to fans. The guy in Durham was very nice & respectful yet got his point across when he needed to and I am hoping he is now the regular security. The usual is always said to fans that wait at the buses that “we have a VIP M&G you can do if you want to meet them, we cannot guarantee who will come out etc”. The one thing I want to say on this is fans wait by the buses for mostly 2 reasons: 1. they might not be able to afford VIP and 2. They may be hoping for a chance to talk briefly to their favorite pros if they didn’t get the chance to in the VIP because its so rushed or maybe their favorite pros were not in the photo/mingle that day. I think that is something everyone needs to understand better and maybe one day my suggestion below will be taken. Nobody wants to wait outside on a winter tour and freeze waiting but it sure is appreciated when the Pros come out and do it for those reasons I just described.

Suggestions for tour management:

For several years I have been saying this but, it falls on deaf ears. For the Maks & Val Tour and the Derek & Julianne tours there was another top level tier package when you got pictures in the VIP and then got extra time with them backstage. I know the VIP photos are with “select” dancers (3 Pro’s and the Celeb guest star) at each city but, many fans have voiced their disappointment when their “favorite” isn’t in their photo since it’s a random rotation. I have heard many voice their displeasure at paying several hundred dollars but not getting a pic with their favorite. What if you added another ticket tier or made it with the front row packages or do an add on pkg that you get your pic with the rest of the VIP’s and then you are either taken down just before the show or just after and get a photo with the full tour cast? If you sold a very limited # of them it wouldn’t take that much extra time. That way those that truly want to meet them all would have the chance and it would then add another tier package for you. I know I & several other fans would sign up for that for sure!

If possible rotate the Pro’s if you are doing two shows in one city. Some of us like to go to both shows and it would be great to get pics with two sets of dancers since you are paying VIP at both. That used to be the way it was done but, the last year or two it’s the same Pro’s at both so it doesn’t make sense to pay for VIP for both and then the tour loses out when fans stop buying both.

Suggestion for VIP Nation: I would love to see a fan experience survey come out after shows and then have you all take the feedback and connect with your host to help them improve experiences. Make sure the hosts that you hire understand and appreciate the fan experience and make sure they are not only knowledgeable with a camera but, make sure they understand they must check the photos before the people walk away.

I have personally done so many VIP Experiences over the years and I can say I am being a lot more selective on what I am doing & spending $ on. It really seems to be that the VIP #’s are down and I think it’s because of what I have outlined. I am always happy to do a VIP, support a tour when you feel the lead(s) care, when you are getting a genuine, not rushed, quality interaction etc. Steven Tyler is amazing at this, he has 100’s yet he starts early and gives every single person a special, genuine interaction. Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban same thing. I have to believe most of the Pro’s want to do that for the DWTS fans and I continue to hope we will see positive changes for future tours.

VIP Experiences should always strive to improve the experience especially when prices continue to rise.

For photos from this tour and others I attend follow me on Instagram: @lightscmemories

February 23, 2020

Entertainment Blog

Maks, Val & Peta (MVP) Confidential Tour VIP Experience

Maks Val & Peta (MVP) Tour 2018: The VIP Experience

#MVPConfidentialTour

#maksandvaltour

The MVP Tour is a MUST see! This group truly knows how to make individual experiences super special and it was great to have Peta join this time. Many other artists could learn a thing or two from them and how to make a fan’s experience one they will never forget.

This blog will be on the Front Row Package which included:

*One front row ticket

*VIP early entry into the venue

*Exclusive preshow meet & greet with Maksim and Valentin Chmerkovskiy & Peta Murgatroyd

*Personal photograph with Maksim and Valentin Chmerkovskiy & Peta Murgatroyd

*VIP access to the official Maks & Val & Peta preshow reception

*Champagne toast

*Collectible tour program autographed by Maksim and Valentin Chmerkovskiy & Peta Murgatroyd

*Maks & Val & Peta photo frame

*Exclusive Maks & Val & Peta VIP merchandise item, & more!

Right away it started off good, I received my instructional email about 5 days ahead of the show and we have to arrive 3 hours ahead for both of the shows I attended. It was very detailed and included all the important details. I appreciated that because it showed they were respecting your time, some VIP events you have to get there 4-5 hours ahead and you stand and wait. Maks, Val & Peta did this right!

Upon arrival the process was very organized, you sign in get the appropriate package and laminate and you were directed to the VIP party area. Once everyone was checked in I was thrilled to see everything started happening, there was not a lot of stand around and waiting. Maks, Val & Peta came in 10 minutes later, stopped and did the Champagne toast and headed to the designated photo box. This automatically got a thumbs up from me. I loved that they had a nice private area so you didn’t have 200+ people all staring at you while you had your photo/meet & greet.

Once it was your turn you entered the photo box were able to step in and have your moment with them and then take your photo. I know I am always saying it but, they are truly the absolute kindest, sweetest, talented and most humble people. They put in the effort to make each fans experience special and they do not rush it. It’s not a photo assembly line type of thing it’s a genuine interaction. A few people in Raleigh felt it was more rushed than last tour but, I didn’t think so, these experiences are what you make of them in so many ways. This is something all the VIP packages were able to do which is great!

After the photos were done you could take advantage of the crowd free merchandise shopping or just hang out at the party. If you had the upgrade package you were escorted by the VIP host & security down to Maks, Val & Peta’s dressing room. I was so incredibly happy they added this back in this tour. This was such a small intimate group which makes it truly special. You enter the room, sit down, receive your champagne flute and just sit and visit with Maks, Val & Peta for 20 minutes. I seriously cannot say enough of the experience and the fact they would provide individuals with this type of access. They genuinely want to get to know their fans and it shows in all that they do. While you are in the room they autograph & personalize the tour program for you and this time they added selfies on your personal phone which I thought was great! After the time is up the VIP host takes another photo of you and Maks, Val & Peta and that gets posted on the tour social page.

As far as the show itself I literally cannot say enough good about this tour, how it was put together the amazing staff/tour family and you are left wishing it wasn’t over. I will be doing another blog on the actual show shortly I want to see it again to be sure I don’t miss anything.

Final thoughts are this is how a tour and VIP program should run. Your time is respected, you are treated with kindness & respect and you receive a genuine interaction and in the upgrade package a chance to really sit down and get to know Maks, Val & Peta. You absolutely receive value for your hard earned dollars that you spend for the experience.

Buy your tickets here! http://maksandvaltour.com/

Fun concert wear!

Bebe: http://www.bebe.com/

Nordstrom: http://shop.nordstrom.com/

White House Black Market: https://www.whitehouseblackmarket.com/store/

Coach: http://www.coach.com/shop/women-wristlets

Until next time,

Xoxo

Heather

April 5, 2018

Entertainment Blog

Dancing with the Stars Season 25 Disney Week!

#dwts

#dwts25

It’s DISNEY week!!! Loved the opening # it was so cute!

Victoria Arlen & Val Chmerkovskiy

#teamViVa

Jazz-“Steamboat Willie” from “Steamboat Willie”

Victoria’s personality totally matches Disney! First of all how cute were their costumes. I love seeing Val during week’s like this! I thought the dance was so creative and fun. Victoria is making big strides in all she is able to do on the show. The performance in my opinion was light, fun, flawless and just the perfect way to kick off Disney Week!

Vanessa Lachey & Maks Chmerkovskiy

#teamBabiesandBallroom

Waltz-“Un Jour Mon Price Viendra” from “Snow White”

Their package was too funny. I thought their dance was full of elegance and grace tonight. Vanessa is a stunning dancer and continues to grow each week. It was beautifully choreographed by Maks. It was truly beautiful tonight and they should be proud of their performance.

Lindsey Stirling & Mark Ballas

#teamStark

Foxtrot-“When You Wish Upon a Star” from Pinocchio”

I thought they had a beautiful Foxtrot! Loved Mickey playing the piano! Nice touch! There was a lot of great content in the in the dance and it was beautifully performed. I wasn’t surprised at all that Len loved it.

Nick Lachey & Peta Murgatroyd

#teamMomandPops

Quickstep-“The Bare Necessities” from “The Jungle Book”

Their package was absolutely precious and hilarious. I really loved their dance tonight. I really have not understood why Nick’s scores have been what they are this season. I think he is exactly what this show should be about, learning how to dance, growing week after week. He and Peta have always had a fun partnership and I really thought they absolutely nailed it tonight. What a great job! I thought it was a lot of fun and you could tell they were having a great time! Again he was underscored by Carrie Ann and Bruno. I just don’t get it night after night he’s underscored.

Drew Scott & Emma Slater

#teamHotProperty

Viennese Waltz-“Rainbow Connection” from “The Muppet Movie”

Drew is another one that has made great strides this season. He is so much more in control and graceful. I really enjoyed their dance, he’s become a true leading man. It was light, creative and beautifully fit the theme. That was really very good! Great job!

Sasha Pieterse & Gleb Savchenko

#teamAteam

Rumba-“Kiss the Girl” from “The Little Mermaid”

I am loving these packages this week. That is an amazing weight loss Sasha, you go girl! I really enjoyed their dance. It was fun, in character, had a lot of great Rumba content and was as sexy as you can be on Disney night. Gleb did a beautiful job of creating the dance. They are a great partnership and it’s obvious how much they truly are friends. I thought they deserved higher scores again this week.

Terrell Owens & Cheryl Burke

#teamGetchaPopcorn

Quickstep-“I Just Can’t Wait to be King” from “The Lion King”

Their dance was fun, creative and executed well. They really incorporated the troupe and fellow dancers. Terrell is growing each week. Their scores to me were over-scored.

Frankie Muniz & Witney Carson

#teamFranneypack

Argentine Tango-“Angelica” from “Pirates of the Caribbean On Stranger Tides”

I think Frankie pulled off sexy really well. I thought their dance had intensity, and lot of fun content and I really loved it! Witney did another great job in putting together a wonderful performance. Frankie is really continues to be one to watch! They totally deserved the 2 10’s that was great!

Jordan Fisher & Lindsay Arnold

#teamFishUponAStar

Foxtrot-“You’re Welcome” from “Moana”

Another fantastic and flawless performance by Jordan and Lindsay. It was a lot of fun to watch and Lindsay is truly doing a phenomenal job creating these masterpiece dances this season. Jordan is a natural and his personality just shines in his dances.

Nikki Bella & Artem Chigvintsev

#teamSmackDown

Jazz-“Remember Me” from Disney-Pixar’s upcoming movie “Coco”

Their package had me laughing too. Artem really did a fabulous job of putting together this performance. It was light, fun, hit all the cultural marks and it was filled with a ton of fun high energy. I loved every moment of their dance! Bravo!!! Finally good scores for this team! Very well deserved!

Fourth to go home this season: Gleb & Sasha

This is another ridiculous bottom 2 this season. What is going on seriously! As a viewer since Season 1 this is the most messed up and wrong elimination order I have ever seen on the show. I really just don’t get it.

As I expected this season is packed with talent and great personalities. Voting will be even more important than usual to keep your favorites coming back week after week!

The tour dates and cast was announced!!! Excited for a good long tour this winter!!! For more info and more VIP & regular tickets go to: http://dwtstour.com/

For pictures from the tour this summer please visit my social media pages @lightscmemories!

Until next time,

XOXO

Heather

October 17, 2017

Entertainment Blog

Dancing with the Stars S25 Most Memorable Year!

Dancing with the Stars Season 25 Most Memorable Year!

#dwts

#dwts25

This is hands down my favorite week each season…Most Memorable Year. The emotion behind the meaningful dances is just beauty in motion. I cannot get enough!

Frankie Muniz & Witney Carson

#teamFranneypack

Quickstep

I absolutely loved what Frankie said in this package although it’s sad the reason why. He has had many injuries and has suffered many TIA’s which are mini strokes and his memory has been affected over the years from all of it. The TIA’s are absolutely not minor things. My Dad had one several years ago and it was a really scary week not knowing if he would regain full function. Being so young and dealing with them must be scary. It’s a beautiful way to live being in the present. I really adore Frankie and in so many ways he is one of my favorite reasons to watch this show. He has a love for the dance. I really liked their performance. I thought it was solid, it was fun, beautiful and had a lot fun content included.

Terrell Owens & Cheryl Burke

#teamGetchaPopcorn

Viennese Waltz

Terrell’s year was the year his Grandmother passed. She was a huge part of his life stepping in as a main care giver in many ways in his life. She was such a key part of his life and his inspiration. He credits her for being the man that he is today. Their dance was beautiful and I think one of the best they have done to date. His height in this dance really was an asset because it allowed him to display beautiful lines. It was really, really beautiful and the emotion was raw.

Nikki Bella & Artem Chigvintsev

#teamSmackDown

Contemporary

Nikki’s year was the year she made a comeback to the ring. She got an MRI and found out her neck was about to break in half. She is one heck of a fighter and I agree with her sister’s reference that she is fearless. She’s fierce in every way. Artem has such an amazing talent to choreograph dances but, he truly excels at contemporary and pulling the emotion out of his partner. Tonight it was a masterpiece performance. Their dance was absolutely stunning in every word. It was beautiful, artsy, powerful and a beautiful display of her story, her strength and I loved it!

Nick Lachey & Peta Murgatroyd

#teamMomandPops

Contemporary

Nick’s most memorable year was the year he married Vanessa. Such a beautiful love story, he has his family he always dreamed of. Peta did an absolutely stunning job at putting together this dance tonight. It truly allowed Nick to dance with his heart and it was evident in every single movement. It was a beautiful masterpiece tonight and it was absolutely breathtaking. I love watching dances where you can not only see the beauty but, feel the raw emotion and you absolutely could feel it tonight. Len and Bruno’s scores were just wrong in my opinion. They are consistently underscored this season in my opinion.

Lindsey Stirling & Mark Ballas

#teamStark

Viennese Waltz

Lindsey’s most memorable year was when her Dad got cancer and lost his life. He seemed like he was such a light and fun character. I loved what she said that instead of being angry at what she was losing she was grateful for what she had. Their dance was light and beautiful and full of emotion. There was so much creativity, imagination and heart in the performance. Their scores were puzzling to me though, if another couple was lacking content of the dance they would not have been scored that high.

Derek Fisher & Sharna Burgess

#teamHoopsandHeels

Jazz

Derek’s dance was for his daughter who had a rare eye cancer. They decided to try to save her eye through a new procedure. He walked away from his contract because he had to be there for his daughter. The surgery worked and really changed Derek. Their dance was really light, bright and fun and a sweet way to celebrate that’s daughter’s surgery worked and she is thriving in life. It had a lot of great energy and the moment after with his daughter was just so sweet. I really liked it and it allowed you to see into Derek’s personality and see how much he loves his daughter.

Jordan Fisher & Lindsay Arnold

#teamFishUponAStar

Contemporary

Jordan’s most memorable year was the year he was officially adopted by his grandparents. It was such a beautiful story of love and listening to them describe it was just a great example of unconditional love. I absolutely loved their performance. It was just masterfully designed by Lindsay and beautifully portrayed by Jordan. Oh my gosh that ending with his parents was just pure emotion in every meaning of the word. The dance really was perfection and really defined why I love this week on the show. Every movement had pure heart behind it. They got the first 10’s of the season from Carrie Ann & Bruno!

Sasha Pieterse & Gleb Savchenko

#teamAteam

Foxtrot

Sasha’s year was the final year of Pretty Little Liars, struggling with her health but she also was able to discover love and getting engaged. What a beautiful love story they have. I love the story of one door closing and another one opening. So often in life many will stare at the closed chapter/door but, it’s ok to turn your head to see what the new chapter will bring. I really just adore Sasha, she’s just real and I think she is inspiring far more women than she may realize being on the show. Their performance was so light, fun and a beautiful way to tell her story. They really have developed a great friendship too which is so fun to watch. It was filled with content, great happy energy and they should be very proud of this performance!

Vanessa Lachey & Maks Chmerkovskiy

#teamBabiesandBallroom

Rumba

Vanessa’s year was the story of the recent birth of her son. I never knew Vanessa’s story that her mom left when she was young. She and Nick really have a similar background which really shows why they both value family as much as they do. With her last pregnancy she was on bedrest and went into Labor very early. Thankfully their baby was able to survive and made their family complete. Vanessa really is extremely graceful and you could feel the emotion in every movement of their dance tonight. Their dance was really exquisitely performed and seeing the emotion on both she and Nick’s face was just heartbreaking. It was filled with content

Drew Scott & Emma Slater

#teamHotProperty

Jive

Drew’s year was the year that changed his life and he went all in to chase his dreams of being an actor. His spirit was broken because he wasn’t making it as an actor. I loved his story on when he realized maybe I can combine my dreams of real estate and acting and that’s how Property Brothers was created. That’s such a key to life rather than give up you figure it out and find a way to make it work! Drew has improved so much and I wondered how the Jive would look with his height and I thought he did fantastic. What a fun moment to have Jonathan comes out and join them! Now that is a trio dance! So awesome! I really loved their performance tonight.

Victoria Arlen & Val Chmerkovskiy

#teamViVa

Foxtrot

It still amazes me every week to know what Victoria has gone through and to see all she has done since. It’s nothing short of a miracle but, what I love about her even more is her spirit. She never allowed it to break her and her positivity just exudes every week. I cannot imagine how hard for her parents this was as well to watch all that Victoria has gone through. I love what she said at the end too that she doesn’t like to sit now that she can stand. I really loved their Foxtrot. Val was able to create a dance that just perfectly displayed her triumph and all she accomplished. It’s just simply incredible! Their dance was just stunning in every moment, every step was just perfection in motion. Watching Victoria should make everyone believe you can achieve anything in life.

Third to go home this season: Sharna & Derek Fisher

I seriously do not get it this season. The last 2 eliminations were just flat out wrong in my humble opinion. I am blown away yet again absolutely wrong bottom 2 again. Plus the scoring this season has had me really scratching my head. Some are consistently being over scored and others consistently underscored even with great performances and/improvement. As a viewer I am having a real issue with that this season.

As I expected this season is packed with talent and great personalities. Voting will be even more important than usual to keep your favorites coming back week after week!

The tour dates and cast was announced!!! Excited for a good long tour this winter!!! For more info and more VIP & regular tickets go to: http://dwtstour.com/

For pictures from the tour this summer please visit my social media pages @lightscmemories!

Until next time,

XOXO

Heather

October 10, 2017

Entertainment Blog

Dancing with the Stars Season 25 Premiere!

#dwts

#dwts25

I could not be more excited for this season! It’s a really great cast and I think it’s going to be a competitive season! Crazy it’s up to 25 seasons. I have watched since Season 1 and seen the changes over the years and this one should be special!

What an opening night! That was absolutely amazing! Bravo Mandy Moore!

We will miss Julianne as a judge this season but, nice to see Len, Bruno and Carrie Ann back. I have to say in a way I am glad the judges are scoring a bit low tonight. This gives all the partnerships room to grow and improve.

Terrell Owens & Cheryl Burke

#teamGetchaPopcorn

Cha Cha

Wow I didn’t realize this was Cheryl’s 20^th season! I thought they were good, the height difference made it a bit interesting to watch and Terrell seemed maybe a bit nervous but it is the opening night. It was fun and energetic. I think with his personality and Cheryl’s coaching you will see him improve and loosen up as the season goes on.

Debbie Gibson & Alan Bersten

#teamSonBerst

Foxtrot

I am so excited for Alan to finally be a Pro! I think Debbie was the perfect person to match him with this season! I grew up listening to Debbie’s music and she has a fun personality! On a personal note I can understand part of Debbie’s struggle with Lyme disease. I went for an annual skin check and they found the bull’s eye on my arm it was in a spot I could see and for 3 months they loaded me up with antibiotics but, the symptoms you go through are absolutely awful and really you can’t understand until you have gone through it. They performed a beautiful Foxtrot! It was light, beautiful, and elegant and I really think this will be a partnership to watch this season.

Sasha Pieterse & Gleb Savchenko

#teamAteam

Cha Cha

I think this will also be a fun partnership. They seemed to have already formed a nice friendship. I thought they did well for the first week. Cha Cha is not an easy first dance to learn and I thought they did good. I thought it was fun, and it showed off Sasha’s fun, fierce and fabulous personality. I think you will see this partnership continue to improve and grow as the weeks go on.

Drew Scott & Emma Slater

#teamHotProperty

Foxtrot

You could not find a better match in personalities than these two! No pressure Drew, Emma won last season but, I think he is totally up for the challenge! Drew definitely came out full of energy and he is so animated which is fun to watch. It was fun, light and very energetic! I think first night energy might have got the best of him just a bit but, I think they will do good this season and continue to improve. BTW I loved Emma’s dress!

Barbara Corcoran & Keo Motsepe #teamSharkeo

Salsa

Keo and Barbara are just too funny together. This combo is going to be fun! Barbara definitely had the basic technique/steps of the Salsa down. It was a ton of fun to watch, they have a lot of fun energy and I think she exceeded expectations tonight.

Jordan Fisher & Lindsay Arnold

#teamFishUponAStar

Tango

Lindsay definitely has a partner she could go all the way to the end with this season! That was a killer first week performance and they should be excited with that performance. Lindsay is so creative and I think this will be another team to watch this season! They should be thrilled with their performance tonight!

Nick Lachey & Peta Murgatroyd

#teamMomandPops

Cha Cha

I really like Nick and Peta partnered up. I thought they were really good tonight. They absolutely have potential to go far in this competition. Nick definitely has some moves! He is right 98 degrees wasn’t known for their dancing but, he was really good tonight. A lot of fun energy, hip action and good technique for the first week. Peta is such a good teacher and I think couple that was his determination and they will go far!

Vanessa Lachey & Maks Chmerkovskiy

#teamBabiesandBallroom

Cha Cha

Maks and Vanessa will be a great match up personality wise. Vanessa was really good. She absolutely learned the technique of the dance and they are going to be a great partnership. They brought the sizzle, the energy, fun and I was impressed! I liked to hear what Maks said too about working hard. Maks is another fabulous teacher and working hard will take you far!

Frankie Muniz & Witney Carson

#teamFranneypack

Foxtrot

First up can we talk about Witney’s dress, gorgeous! They are such a cute partnership. I thought they did really good. Frankie was light on his feet, they seem to be perfectly matched for each other and they should be very proud of their performance tonight. It was beautiful and endearing. I love it when you can feel the emotion in the dance.

Nikki Bella & Artem Chiigvintsev

#teamSmackDown

Tango

First of all I love how excited Artem is this season! This is such a great match up! They were crazy good tonight! Nikki is very powerful and a strong presence! Nikki does what I do when I dance too it’s hard to look up when you are learning. Artem is such a great teacher too so I think they will do great this season! Artem might need some massages this season with all the body slamming.

Derek Fisher & Sharna Burgess

#teamHoopsandHeels

Salsa

Derek Fisher has the moves! I think he and Sharna will be fantastic this season! Their dance was fun, filled with good content and they absolutely made a huge impression tonight. He has a real presence on the dance floor and I think as he continues to learn from Sharna they will be a team to watch.

Victoria Arlen & Val Chmerkovskiy

#teamViVa

Cha Cha

Victoria’s story is nothing short of amazing and inspirational. I am so happy she is matched with Val. She has an amazing spirit that just shines right through. They blew the roof off the studio tonight! Victoria should be so proud of herself that was amazing! Crazy high energy, great technique and her personality literally just lit up the room. Bravo!

Lindsey Stirling & Mark Ballas

#teamStark

Cha Cha

I thought Lindsey was good and with two very creative personalities I am sure they will be bringing us some great performances. I am a little unclear if Lindsey has dance experience or not so someone please correct me on that. I know she was in a video with Derek Hough in the past. They absolutely had a great performance tonight.

As I expected this season is packed with talent and great personalities. Voting will be even more important than usual to keep your favorites coming back week after week!

For pictures from the tour this summer please visit my social media pages @lightscmemories!

Until next time,

XOXO

Heather

September 18, 2017

Entertainment Blog

DWTS Season 24! #teamBoybands & #teamGirlGroup Week

DWTS Season Season 24! Week 6- #teamBoybands and #teamGirlGroup Week

#dwts

#dwts24

What a fun week this will be with Team Boy Bands vs Team Girl Group! Stay tuned for my blog from attending the Week 4 Most Memorable Year show. Life has been a bit hectic with travel, my best friend got married last week and then a move but, I promise to share all the fun details!

It was great to have Nick Carter in the ballroom as a guest judge and have Maks back in the ballroom after his calf injury.

Simone Biles & Sasha Farber #teamGoldenGiggles

Dance: Samba to music by: Destiny’s Child

Sasha and Simone are too cute. Simone is really doing well in the competition and she absolutely has the skill. I have been trying to put my finger on what I have felt is missing a bit. I think she isn’t totally connecting with the audience at home. She needs to have people get invested in her/root for her on top of having the fantastic skills. I thought their dance was really good this week though.

Bonner Bolton & Sharna Burgess #teamDenimNDiamonds

Dance: Rumba to music by: Backstreet Boys

I don’t agree with Bonner that he is the weakest dancer left in the competition. I think Bonner has heart, drive and desire which in my opinion goes far. He is improving each week and in my opinion the audience is pulling for him. I really love the partnership with Sharna. Sharna has such a way of bringing out the best in all of her partners. I would agree with Nick if Bonner could just let it go each week it could take him to the next level but, as someone who has learned to dance this year it’s hard to get out of your head.

Nancy Kerrigan & Artem Chigvintsev #teamBladesOfGlory

Dance: Paso Doble to music by: En Vogue

I had the pleasure of meeting Nancy when I was at the show a few weeks ago and she is seriously the nicest person. I think she gets too many negative comments for being emotional. All creative people just have a different way in how they process things or handle stress that doesn’t and shouldn’t make people not pull for her. I personally think she is what the competition is about, she has heart, she works hard, she improves each week and she truly gives it her all. I thought their dance this week was fantastic, she was strong, fierce and totally crushed it.

Nick Viall & Peta Murgatroyd #teamBabyGotBach

Dance: Jive music by: Beach Boys

I would say that Nick isn’t one of the top dancers left but, Peta is right the show is just as much about personality and he is improving each week. He does put his heart and soul into the competition that is for sure and when I met him he is one of those people that has crazy charisma. The Jive is a hard dance and I thought they did a good job.

Normani Kordei & Val Chmerkovskiy: #teamValMani

Dance: Salsa music by: Pussy Cat Dolls

Val and Normani really make another great partnership. I think you have really seen them step things up the last few weeks after all that traveling stopped. She’s shining at just the right time in the competition and is such a powerhouse. I know there was the issue with Len feeling like there was much Salsa content in it. That can go both ways they are also dealing with the music they get and how to put together the overall performance factor. I thought the dance was good, it was dynamic and it was fierce.

David Ross & Lindsay Arnold #teamLadyAndTheGramp

Dance: Argentine Tango music by: N’Sync

I am still on the fence on this team. Lindsay always works extremely hard with her partners and I didn’t really care for it when he made the disrespectful comment you are not my coach. She is your dance coach David you need her to teach you. I thought their dance was good, the lifts were risky for sure but, as always Lindsay has beautiful chorography.

Rashad Jennings & Emma Slater #teamShadSquad

Dance: Tango music by: Four Tops

This partnership remains one of my favorites this season and Rashad is truly a kind person. I was so impressed by him when I met him. He’s down to earth and just as sweet as can be. I loved in the package that he took Emma to NFL training too. Their dance this week was fun, intense, had a lot of great content and continued to highlight the growth Rashad has had as a dancer.

Heather Morris & Maksim Chmerkovskiy #teamMaksimumHeat

Dance: Rumba music by: TLC

It was so nice to get Maks back in the ballroom. Alan did a really fantastic job filling in for him and I think he truly earned a right to be a pro in a future season. I thought their dance this week was beautiful and it highlighted all of Heather’s technical skills. All season I think her issue has been in her connection with the audience. You can be the best dancer but, you need the audience/voters to pull for you.

Team Dances:

#teamboyband

I thought they did a great job on the team dance. It was fun, sexy and creative. I would say Rashad’s personality really shined like a diamond and you couldn’t help but, zoom in on him. Their magic mike portion to the NKOTB was awesome and showed they all had the right stuff.

#teamgirlgroup

I thought the girls did a good job. It was fun and also creative. The lighting issues that happened made it hard to see a lot of it. I thought all the girls were strong and performed really well.

In Jeopardy:

Artem & Nancy and Heather & Maks

This week we said goodbye to: Heather & Maks and it was shocking to me either couple was in the bottom. I truly feel the issue was the connection with the audience. You have to connect with the fans in the packages, when you have opportunities to meet them etc. The show I attended the other dancers would step out for a few minutes and meet fans but, Heather did her interviews and then just walked the other way never engaging. I never felt that or saw the desire to connect from Heather in my opinion. She has talent though hands down and definitely left too early in the competition. I absolutely don’t think Nancy/Artem belonged in the bottom 2 either and I hope fans will give Nancy a chance. She really his working hard and a total sweetheart.

Until next week!

XOXO

Heather

April 27, 2017

Entertainment Blog

DWTS Season Season 24! Week 3-Vegas Week

#dwts

I missed blogging last week due to having pneumonia. I am thankfully finally feeling better and excited to blog about this week’s episode. I did want to say it was so sad to see Witney and Chris go last week. They were a fun match up and it’s unfortunate we didn’t learn how extensive Chris’s injury was. Let’s see what Vegas week brings!

Super fun opening number!

Nick Viall & Peta Murgatroyd #teamBabyGotBach

Dance: Tango

Song: “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga

This partnership is really growing on me. It’s been so great having Peta back and Nick is showing a more vulnerable side to himself. I think he did improve week over week. He definitely appears more comfortable and confident than the first week. It absolutely takes time when you learn to dance. Nick and Peta are working hard and it shows.

Mr T & Kym Herjavec #teamDancinFools

Dance: Foxtrot

Song: “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head” by Robbie Williams

This was a really different character for Mr T it was fun to see him in a more classic character. I thought they did a good job. I liked this softer side of him. He seems like he is a really great guy and I have done some reading on him and he truly does give back a lot. Keep up the great work!

Bonner Bolton & Sharna Burgess #teamDenimNDiamonds

Dance: Charleston

Song: “A Little Party Never Killed Nobody” by Fergie and GoonRock and Q-Tip

I thought they did a really great job this week. Sharna is brilliant about being able to create around injuries and they are such an amazing team. This is a tough dance. You can tell how much Bonner cares about the competition and that he really does want to improve each week. They are fun partnership and one that I still think will go far in this competition. I thought the scores were a bit low.

It was nice to get a preview to the Derek & Julianne Tour as well!!! For tickets and tour info please go to: https://moveliveontour.com/

Heather Morris & Maksim Chmerkovskiy #teamMaksimumHeat

Dance: Tango

Song: “Toxic” by Brittany Spears

Maks is still out injured and I am absolutely sending him out well wishes for a speedy recovery. It was nice to see him at the studio cheering Heather on tonight. Alan is filling in and I am glad he is getting a chance to shine as a Pro again. I thought they had a great tango! It was a lot of fun to watch, defiantly showed how much Heather has grown as a ballroom dancer.

Charo & Keo Motsepe #teamCuchiCuchi

Dance: Foxtrot

Song: “Chapel of Love” by The Dixie Cups

Charo has a huge, full of energy personality but, I really do like the friendship that seems to have developed with Keo. Keo is such a nice guy and I am glad he was a Pro again this season. I loved their dance tonight. It was elegant, beautiful, sweet and a lot of fun to watch. Bravo Keo on the wonderful choreography.

Simone Biles & Sasha Farber #teamGoldenGiggles

Dance: Quickstep

Song: “Viva Las Vegas” by Elvis Presley

Holy smokes that was one fast quickstep! Hats off to both Simone and Sasha for having the energy and stamina for that dance! Another fantastic job. Fun, energetic, lots of great technique and they really are a dynamo team. I am looking forward to seeing what they come up with for next week and showing a more emotional side to Simone.

Nancy Kerrigan & Artem Chigvintsev #teamBladesOfGlory

Dance: Samba

Song: “Shake Your Bon-Bon” by Ricky Martin

OMG Artem’s reaction to meeting Ricky Martin was awesome! Now he knows how we feel when we meet him! I absolutely LOVED their dance. In my opinion they have been under-rated to date everyone should sit up and take notice tonight because they just crushed it! Bravo, bravo, bravo! It was fun, it was technically fantastic, high energy and they really make such a fantastic team. I am smiling ear to ear!

David Ross & Lindsay Arnold #teamLadyAndTheGramp

Dance: Jazz

Song: “Candy Shop” by 50 Cent

This is another fun partnership. David is going way out of his comfort zone this week. He almost cracked himself up at the beginning. Their dance was filled with humor that is for sure. David seems like such a great guy. It was very, fun entertaining and creative.

Erika Jayne & Gleb Savchenko #teamPrettyXXpensive

Dance: Jive

Song: “Take Me to Heaven” by Patina Miller & Debbie Kurup & Amy Booth-Steel

I like this partnership too. It will be interesting to see what the judges say about the content but, other than that I liked it was more stripped down and more of a focus straight on the dance. It’s clear Erika and Gleb work really hard each week and they are a lot of fun to watch. The Jive is a really tough dance and I think they just put a different spin on it instead of all the kicks and flicks.

Rashad Jennings & Emma Slater #teamShadSquad

Dance: Samba

Song: “Swallia” by Jason Derulo featuring Nikki Minaj & Ty Dolla $ign

This is another couple that I absolutely love this season. They have already formed such a great working relationship and Rashad can MOVE! They are doing crazy good this season and I could not be more excited for Emma to finally shine bright with an amazing partner. I didn’t agree with Julianne on this one I thought they did a really great job tonight. I really felt their scores were far too low.

Normani Kordei & Val Chmerkovskiy: #teamValMani

Dance: Foxtrot

Song: “Big Spender” by Shirley Bassey

I don’t know how Val and Normani have been doing it, that kind of travel is hard core tough on your body. They absolutely freaking crushed it tonight. What a fabulous dance! Normani has such a sparkling presence she shines the minute she takes the dance floor. What a wonderful job!

Jeopardy:

Keo & Charo and Peta & Nick

Tonight we said goodbye to Keo & Charo. Sad to see them go especially after their performance tonight. Much love to you Keo, be proud of all you did this season.

I will be at the live show next week! I am so excited to experience Most Memorable Year live!

Until Next Time,

XOXO

Heather

April 4, 2017

Entertainment Blog

DWTS Season Premiere Season 24! 400th Episode

#dwts

DWTS Season Premiere Season 24! 400th Episode

I have been counting the days & weeks to the premiere! Crazy it’s now Season 24! Congratulations to DWTS on its 400^th Episode! I have personally never missed one! It was another fantastic opening number! It should be another dynamic season with a wide range of personalities as always!

Normani Kordei & Val Chmerkovskiy: #teamValMani

Dance: Quickstep

Song: “Good Time Good Life” by Erin Bowman

This will be a challenging season for Val and Normani due to the fact they will be traveling while Fifth Harmony is one tour in Asia. I think this pair has a lot of potential. They had a very challenging first dance in the Quickstep but, I thought they did a really good job. It was fun, full of energy and really kicked off the show the right way!

I did want to address one thing. Some people thought Val was being cocky or saying something unkind about his partner when he talked about the averages. That is 100% false and I don’t know why people have to jump to negative conclusions. I went back and listened again to be sure I had it correct. He was referencing Normani’s Grandmother that is a huge fan of the show and has a catalog of scores from all seasons from the very 1^st. He said with tonight’s scores it might lower his average and she will have to write them down in her catalog.

Nancy Kerrigan & Artem Chigvintsev #teamBladesOfGlory

Dance: Viennese Waltz

Song: “She’s Always a Woman” by Billy Joel

I am so excited for Artem this season. He finally has a great partner and an athlete and I think they will go far in this competition. I remember being a little girl watching Nancy in the Olympics. She is so strong and full of grace and I believe this pair will be one to watch!

Their dance was elegant, beautiful and I think they did a fantastic job. I look forward to watching Nancy grow this season. I think each week she will feel more comfortable and relax a bit more but, it was a stunning opening performance!

Chris Kattan & Witney Carson #teamMangoTango

Dance: Cha Cha

Song: “What is Love” by Haddaway

Chris is an actor/comedian from SNL. Witney doesn’t watch much TV so she wasn’t sure about any of his characters. He did break his neck in the past so he is dealing with an injury. Their dance was fun to watch and it did seem like he was trying to be in character of a bad dancer.

I think this team will need to put in a lot more work to make it in the competition. Witney is very talented and I am sure she will continue to work hard and helping Chris grow as a dancer as the weeks continue.

Bonner Bolton & Sharna Burgess #teamDenimNDiamonds

Dance: Cha Cha

Song: “Move” by Luke Bryan

First of all they have serious chemistry. It was cute watching Sharna blush! Bonner broke his neck a year ago and was initially paralyzed and wanted to come and inspire people. I predict this couple will be red hot all season long! This was such a fun dance for the first week. It was hot, it was a ton of fun to watch and for me they will be one to watch this season!

I wanted to comment too on Hand Gate. Again I don’t know why some must automatically think the worst of someone. When you watch the video you can see he wasn’t facing Sharna to know where his hand was he just went to put it around her waist when she came up to him. Sharna commented on it last night on twitter “Anyone who has the ridiculous idea that it was intentional…is straight up stupid. As in lacking the intelligence to realize it was innocent”.

Charo & Keo Motsepe #teamCuchiCuchi

Dance: Salsa

Song: “Cuban Pete” by Mambo Companeros

Keo absolutely has his hands full this season. Charo has a big personality but, I am glad he is getting another shot as a Pro because he is very talented and such a nice guy. Their first dance was extremely energetic and fun.

I don’t know what happened at the end after the judge’s comments. I absolutely think she might want to relax a bit and listen to the judges or she’s going to give the audience the wrong impression.

Nick Viall & Peta Murgatroyd #teamBabyGotBach

Dance: Cha Cha

Song: “Let Me Love You” by DJ Snake & Tiesto featuring Justin Bieber

First of all, welcome back to Peta and congratulations on beautiful baby Shai. I wasn’t sure at all what to expect from Nick as a dancer. He surprised me a bit. He executed the moves well but, I agree he needs to try to relax and make it flow a bit more. It seemed a bit stiff.

Peta is known to always bring out the best in her partners and I am sure she will continue to work to bring out all of Nick’s strengths. He definitely has the determination to grow and continue to improve.

Heather Morris & Maksim Chmerkovskiy #teamMaksimumHeat

Dance: Viennese Waltz

Song: “Make Something Beautiful” by Ben Rector

I worry a bit about this pair just because of the chatter about it not being fair she is on the show because her title on social media says Professional Dancer. My opinion is everyone needs to give her a fair shot as ballroom and Latin dancing with a partner are very different than what she has done in the past. Julianne touched on that as well during her comments. We should also remember that she is not the first person on the show that has had dance experience.

Their first dance was full of grace, she is very light when she dances and she was able to get into character. It was beautiful and they will be one to watch this season.

David Ross & Lindsay Arnold #teamLadyAndTheGramp

Dance: Quickstep

Song: “Go Cubs Go” by Steve Goodman

David is the first baseball player to be on the show and seems to have a really fun personality. This partnership will be a lot of fun to watch and Lindsay is really good at pulling out her partner’s strengths.

Their first dance was a ton of fun to watch! I think David will surprise people this season as he gets more comfortable each week. I thought for a first week they did a good job. They definitely had the performance factor!

Erika Jayne & Gleb Savchenko #teamPrettyXXpensive

Dance: Salsa

Song: “XXPENSIVE” by Erika Jayne

I have always liked Erika on Real Housewives because she keeps it real. When I found out she would be paired with Gleb I was excited to see what they come up with this season. They are sure to bring the heat and the sizzle.

I thought they did a good job in the first week. It was sexy and they performed well! I think if they just relax a bit they will be one to watch this season. I am excited to see them tackle a ballroom routine and show some of her vulnerability.

Rashad Jennings & Emma Slater #teamShadSquad

Dance: Cha Cha

Song: “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars

I am beyond thrilled for Emma that she has a great partner this season and I was literally on my feet clapping for them as they were dancing last night. They are in it to win it and absolutely will be one to watch this season. Their personalities mesh so well and I bet they bring the fun all season long!

Their performance literally lit up the room! Bravo! I cannot wait to see what they do this season and it was awesome to see Emma beaming and so excited. She’s the sweetest!

Mr T & Kym Herjavec #teamDancinFools

Dance: Cha Cha

Song: “Theme from the A-Team” by Mike Post, Pete Carpenter & The Daniel Caine Orchestra

Welcome back to Kym it’s always nice to have her on the show! Mr T was one of the cast members I was interested to watch this season. I use to watch the A-Team as a kid and I know he has done a lot of work with youth over the years.

He has basic rhythm and a lot of positive energy. I think the more comfortable he gets the more we will see from this team. They have potential for sure.

Simone Biles & Sasha Farber #teamGoldenGiggles

Dance: Tango

Song: “Untouchable” by Tritonal and Cash Cash

This is another pair that is in it to win it! They both have such fun playful personalities and it will be a really fun match up! They had so much content skill for an opening week performance.

They were fantastic tonight. Simone was very graceful, they were a ton of fun to watch and I know this team will go far this season.

This season will be a ton of fun to watch and there is so much talent! It will be interesting to see who will make the final 3! As a fan I couldn’t be more excited!

Top of the leaderboard was Simone/Sasha. Bottom was Witney/Chris

If you want to see some fun pictures from the DWTS Winter Tour please feel free to follow me on social media @lightscmemories FB/IG/Twitter www.lightscmemories.com

Until Next Time,

XOXO

Heather

March 21, 2017

Entertainment Blog

Dancing with the Stars 23-Mirrorball Champions!

Mirrorball Champions are…

#dwts

I have been a fan of this show ever since Season 1 and I have to say this season will be a hard one to top. The entire cast truly came in with a great attitude and really put in the effort. It was hard not to fall in love with the personalities and stories of each of our stars this season. There were so many shining stars.

Just a few quick notes:

RIP to the wonderful Florence Henderson who sadly passed away on Thanksgiving. She was a contestant on DWTS and a regular smiling face in the audience.

Congratulations to Mark Ballas & BC Jean who were married on Friday.

This season also brought the engagement in the ballroom of the very kind Emma Slater and Sasha Farber! They are both such sweethearts and it will be a night we always remember from Season 23

I want to give a huge shout out to the Season 23 Dance Troupe: Brittany Cherry, Alan Bersten, Hayley Erbert, Keo Motsepe, Britt Stewart, and Dennis Jauch. You all worked so hard all season and truly provided us with fantastic quality and creative dance numbers. I think it’s time to have a few of the troupe members from the last several seasons get a chance at Pro. They truly have proved themselves.

It was announced on the finale that Laurie would be joining the #dwtstour #wecametodance. I am sure she will be a fantastic high energy addition to the show and I look forward to seeing her perform.

I will be attending a handful of tour shows and will be posting pics to my various pages starting with my Instagram page so please feel free to follow me @lightscmemories.

On to the finale:

I absolutely loved the opening number. Choreographed by the amazing Mandy Moore. She is an absolute creative genius.

Andy Grammer also performed his new single Fresh Eyes tonight. Andy is not only a DWTS alum he is a fabulous live performer. If you get a chance to check him out in concert, do it! Allison and Keo danced along to his performance and did a beautiful job!

cx7udgyxuaagixl-jpg-large It was too fun to watch Maureen McCormick live her huge fan dream of dancing with Babyface, Ryan, Artem, Keo and Dennis tonight. Maureen was one that I truly felt grew a lot this season. It’s always fun when a star is also a fan of the show because it allows us at home to live it through their eyes.

The number that Maks did with a group of the ladies was a lot of fun too. It was so nice to have Maks back this season. I know he has said he won’t be returning next season because we will enjoying his time being a new Daddy. I am so happy for him and Peta and wish them so much happiness!

I loved the friendship that developed between Vanilla Ice and Rick Perry this season. Vanilla’s performance was a fun blast from the past and even though they might not have been the strongest dancers the partnerships between Witney/Vanilla and Emma/Rick were fun to watch all season and both did work hard.

For the first time ever it came down to 3 athletes in the finale!

Sharna Burgess & James Hinchcliffe
#TeamStopandGo

They chose their favorite dance to perform again which was the Foxtrot from Cirque night which was a great pick for them. Full of energy and truly highlighted the skills, fun and fabulous relationship of this team. James and Sharna had that something truly special. Sharna has such a humble, unique, genuine way she builds relationships and performs. She has had several memorable partnerships but, this one truly had that very special magic. James had tremendous growth all season, he has such an amazing survival story and a personality that shines.

The gift that James gave to Sharna of the race suit he wore the first time he raced again after his accident was truly sweet. Sharna truly put together the most amazing piece to close the chapter on James’s survival journey. They performed a fusion dance of Foxtrot & Viennese Waltz. It was absolutely beautiful. James demonstrated all the grace in his movements and it again highlighted the beautiful friendship that developed between them this season. It was stunning.

Calvin & Lindsay
#TeamLindsatron

Calvin and Lindsay chose their Argentine Tango from Latin Week as their favorite dance and it was a fabulous choice for them as well. That dance was filled with passion, absolutely out of this world lifts and it absolutely was a great reminder of the growth that Calvin has had this season. Calvin really had such a glowing personality and it was fun to watch him develop into a dancer this season.

Calvin & Lindsay did a Jive & Quickstep fusion. Calvin and Lindsay almost developed a big brother/little sister relationship this season. Calvin should be so happy with his journey this season. He grew immensely and I think kept his attitude on the fun this entire season. He was a joy to watch! Their fusion dance was a lot of fun, high energy and again showed off all the great dance qualities that Calvin brought to the floor.

Laurie Hernandez & Val Chmerkovskiy
#TeamVaLaur

Laurie and Val picked their Trio Dance with Maks for their favorite dance. This Samba was crazy good and it absolutely highlighted Laurie’s amazing skills and the ability to truly get into character of the dances. Plus who wouldn’t want to dance with the Chmerkovskiy brothers. Laurie has been such a bright light this season. She showed a lot of talent, positive energy, poise, courage and maturity beyond her years.

Val and Laurie had a Foxtrot & Argentine Tango Fusion dance. Their package was so adorable. It was sad hearing them talk about this season ending. I think Val was a tremendous positive influence on Laurie. Laurie grew so much before our eyes and is truly a remarkable young lady. Their fusion dance was incredible. Laurie had that fire, pure determination and the look of champion in her eyes when they started that fusion dance. I do disagree with those that felt Laurie had an edge this season because of gymnastics. Laurie was the first gymnast that didn’t use the tricks in the dances this season. I can speak from personal experience at a lower level. I was a cheerleader and when I started taking ballroom & latin dance lessons it is totally different and definitely not easy to learn to dance with a partner.

More on the finale…

The holiday performances of Babyface and Felicia Barton and the beautiful dance numbers performed by Artem & Jenna and Allison and the dance troupe really got you in the holiday spirit!

That all male dance number was totally off the hook. Hmmm wondering if we might get to see that on the DWTS Tour this year like we did the Magic Mike number from last year’s finale. I know they are going to switch up the format a bit this year.

What a treat to get to see Jana & Gleb’s hot Argentine Tango again. That dance will absolutely go down in the DWTS history as being one of the hottest numbers of all time. I am really excited that Gleb will be joining the tour this winter. It will be nice to meet him and see him perform live!

Terra and Marilu’s special highlight number was also a lot of fun to watch. Many people were asking where Derek was, he was at rehearsals for Hairspray Live!

The Macy’s Stars of Dance number was also choreographed by the amazing Mandy Moore. This was truly remarkable. It was creative, it was a technical and visual delight the way she was able to bring the story into motion using the special screen to make the young girl’s dream a reality. It truly was an absolute Masterpiece!

I loved the tour preview dance we had tonight. I highly recommend the tours, if you are able to go you will not be disappointed. It’s always a fantastic entertaining time and the cast this year is fantastic!

Jana’s performance of her hit song Circles as we watched the video of the final 3 couples was just perfect.

The Results:

Lindsay and Calvin came in 3^rd place.

Mirrorball Sharna & James and Val & Laurie were the final two couples and truly they were both so good it could have been a tie this season. Each partnership just had that special something. The talent, the creativity of Val & Sharna with their respective partners was just unstoppable this year. I would have been absolutely thrilled if their partnership had won.

Sharna & James came in 2^nd place.

Dancing with the Stars Season 23 Winners are:

Laurie & Val!

Bravo & congratulations to Laurie & Val. What a season it was and your partnership was just incredible. It was great to see Val relaxed and so happy and Laurie grew and improved as a dancer and just proved she was the total package with dynamic ability. Laurie you absolutely do inspire as does Val! Keep it up!

Please feel free to follow me on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook: @lightscmemories

Finally meet & greet VIP Packages and general tickets are on sale for the DWTS Tour so don’t miss out! www.dwtstour.com

Until next time,

XOXO

Heather

November 26, 2016

Entertainment Blog

Dancing with the Stars-Semi-Finals/Trio Wk

Dancing with the Stars-Semi-Finals & Trio Night

Season 23, Week 10

#dwts

I seriously cannot believe we are already at the Semi-Finals, this season absolutely flew by and it truly has been one of my favorites. The talent and personalities have been such a pleasure this season. Everyone came to work hard and enjoy the experience. Welcome back Sharna!

Sharna Burgess & James Hinchcliffe (Argentine Tango)
#TeamStopandGo

It is so absolutely fantastic to see Sharna and James back together again, they have one of those amazing partnerships and I am glad they will be able to finish out the season together. I still predict they will be in final 2. I loved the blindfold idea. It’s a little similar to what my dance instructor did recently to get me to stop looking down. Dancing with your eyes closed/blindfolded is a totally difference experience you have to trust and just be able to feel everything. I LOVED their Argentine Tango it was sexy, intense, filled with fun content and that hand stand at the end was just so good.

Trio dance with Jenna Johnson (Jive): This was a super fun, high energy Jive. What a creative job Sharna did on the choreography. I loved it, truly highlighted all of James’s strengths and it was absolutely flawless. Fantastic PERFECT score!

Terra Jole’ & Sasha Farber (Rumba)
#TeamXL

Terra has truly been so impressive this entire season. Her attitude, her drive, her fabulous personality have just absolutely shined this season. Sasha has always been fantastic but, he took it to an even higher level this season with how wonderful he worked with Terra and reminded everyone what a wonderful man he is. I really liked their Rumba tonight. It was beautiful dance and how they related to each other. You can see the amazing effort that this pair puts in each week. Loved Carrie Ann’s quote: “Quality of the movement was like the quality of you, it was untouchable”. Well-deserved PERFECT score…BRAVO!

Trio dance with Artem (Tango): The package had me cracking up. Yes Terra we agree Artem is hot and sweet too! I absolutely LOVED this dance. It had sex appeal, it was intense and Terra just nailed it. Both Artem and Sasha were fabulous with Terra…BRAVO! Another PERFECT score!

Jana Kramer & Gleb Savchenko (Quickstep)
#TeamGlamer

Jana has steadily improved this entire season. I have really enjoyed the partnership of Jana and Gleb. You can see how the show has almost helped her through a difficult time in her life too. She just shines now. First off I loved her dress tonight, stunning. Their quickstep was a ton of fun, very elegant, full of energy, a lot of great content and spunk. I truly think they deserve to go to the final 3.

Trio dance with Alan (Paso Doble): These 3 have a fun relationship too. It was incredibly creative, powerful, intense, fabulous content and Jana really nailed the character of the dance. Bravo to this trio they really did a fantastic job. You can tell Jana wants to be in the finals she was in it to win it tonight. BTW we need to see Alan have a chance at Pro next year he would be fantastic! PERFECT score, BRAVO!

Calvin & Lindsay (Tango)
#TeamLindsatron

Calvin seems like such a fantastic and genuine soul. Loved the package description. Their tango was good but, I wouldn’t classify it as one of their better dances. There was a slip up mid-dance which seemed to get them off time a bit. Calvin is still always a joy to watch. I am on the fence on this pair in regards to the finals. I do think Calvin improved a lot as the season went on but, I am not as engaged in them as a partnership.

Trio Dance with Witney (Salsa): This looked a comedy skit in rehearsals. Their salsa was full of energy and they took advantage of Calvin’s strength to do some really fantastic choreography and lifts. Perfect score…BRAVO!

Laurie Hernandez & Val Chmerkovskiy (Foxtrot)
#TeamVaLaur

I literally cried my eyes out with the package on Laurie’s grandmother and her unfortunate passing the day after the video was recorded. It’s heartbreaking to lose your grandparents and even harder to watch them suffer through Alzheimer’s. I have been there and it’s not easy. Laurie is only 16 years old but, demonstrates the strength, courage, grace and maturity of someone much older. I don’t know how she found the inner strength to get through that but, what a treasure for her to always have that video of her Grandma telling her that she loves her and is proud of her. Given how important family is to Val it made me even happier to know they were partnered up and he treated her with such care and compassion. Their Foxtrot was on a whole new level this week, all that emotion was so evident in each movement and their partnership grew even stronger. Absolutely beautiful in every way. Well-deserved PERFECT score!

Trio Dance with Maks (Samba): Laurie was living so many girls’ dreams of getting to dance with the Chmerkovskiy brothers and again on such a difficult week for her I am glad she had two of the sweetest guy’s ever to do this Trio with. I absolutely LOVED this dance. It was fun, filled with fabulous energy, content and just crazy good! I totally agreed with what Carrie Ann said that it was her best dance EVER! It showed off her talent, her sassy side and highlighted her fabulous shining personality. PERFECT score once again!

Elimination Time: It was so sad to see Terra and Sasha eliminated. They truly have been amazing all season, Terra showed the world nothing should ever hold you back from trying something you want to do. Sasha and Terra seem like they will be forever friends. It was one of those amazing partnerships you see develop on DWTS that you will always remember as truly special and Terra should be very proud of herself for a tremendous job on DWTS!

Next week is the 2 Day Finale:

Monday Night: 2 hour show:

Laurie & Val:

Redemption Style: Paso Doble-“Wicked Ones” by Dorothy

Freestyle: “Brand New” by Ben Rector

James & Sharna:

Redemption Style: Tango-“It Had to Be You” by Harry Connick Jr.

Freestyle: “Beethoven’s 5 Secrets” by The Piano Guys

Calvin & Lindsay:

Redemption Style: Viennese Waltz-“I Am Your Man” by Ryan Shaw

Freestyle: “Please Mr. Postman”/”I Want You Back” medley by The Marvelettes/Jackson 5

Jana & Gleb:

Redemption Style: Tango-“Stay the Night” by Zedd

Freestyle: “Unstoppable” by Sia

At the end of the night one couple will be eliminated and three final couples will compete for the Mirrorball.

Tuesday Night: 2 Hour Finale

All 13 of this season’s couples will reunite at the Grove. It will be filled with great performances from Vanilla Ice who will perform “Ice Ice Baby” featuring Rick Perry and Witney Carson; a special guest performance by Andy Grammer of his new global hit single “Fresh Eyes”, Babyface will perform “Winter Wonderland” featuring pro dancers Artem, Cheryl and Allison. There will also be an all-male number to Bruno Mars “24K featuring all the males from this season. It will also feature a special performance choreographed by Mandy Moore that promises to be truly magical. There will also be a special performance from the upcoming DWTS “We Came to Dance” tour hitting the road soon!

Couples from across the season will celebrate their time on the show by repeating one of their favorite dances. The final element will be the final 3 competing for judge’s points a dance they put together in 24 hours called the “24-Hour Fusion Challenge”.

Who will win the Mirrorball? What are your predictions? I would love to hear from you!

Please feel free to follow me on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook: @lightscmemories

Finally meet & greet VIP Packages and general tickets are on sale for the DWTS Tour so don’t miss out! www.dwtstour.com

Until next time,

XOXO

Heather

November 17, 2016

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