La Voix‘s ‘Strictly Come Dancing’ Transformation: From Comic Relief to Serious Contender
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Halloween Week on Strictly Come Dancing delivered its usual spectacle,complete with elaborately costumed judges,a live band performing Lady Gaga,and a touch of the fantastical. However, beyond the pageantry, Saturday’s show marked a turning point for one contestant in particular: La Voix and her partner, Aljaž Škorjanec. After a rocky start,the pair finally demonstrated their potential as genuine contenders,exceeding expectations with a powerful paso doble.
A Comedic Start masking Potential
La Voix, known for her sharp wit and background as a star on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK, initially leaned heavily into comedic routines. Her first live performance in September, an American smooth set to chappell Roan’s “Pink Pony Club,” immediately showcased her comedic timing, playfully upstaging Škorjanec. While entertaining, subsequent weeks saw producers consistently relying on La Voix for lighter moments, a strategy that arguably hindered her progress.
A routine in week two felt repetitive, and a boxing-themed cha cha to Pat Benatar’s “Hit Me With Your Best Shot” in week four was described as “disastrous.” Despite these setbacks, it was clear La Voix possessed a unique talent for connecting with the audience. Her running joke about Tess Daly’s outfits, described as “properly well done, silly, old-school comedy,” consistently drew laughs, and her fast wit in pre-recorded segments proved a hit with viewers.
“I look forward to La Voix’s banter and quips as much as I do some of the dances,” one observer noted, acknowledging the entertainer’s undeniable charm. However,the sentiment was clear: La Voix deserved to be judged on her dancing ability,not solely her comedic flair.
Paso Doble Breakthrough: A Seven-Point Leap
That shift occurred on Saturday. La Voix and Škorjanec’s paso doble, performed to Beethoven’s 5th Symphony, was a revelation. The routine earned them an impressive seven-point increase in their score,showcasing a level of skill and drama previously unseen. By minimizing the distracting comedic elements, La Voix was able to fully embody the intensity of the dance.
The performance clearly resonated with La Voix herself. “I’ve had a bit of a moment tonight, right this second now,” she told the judges, visibly moved. “This is the most petrifying place for me, this ballroom floor, but tonight I get for the first time what you guys feel, and how magical dancing can be.”
Turning to Škorjanec, she added with characteristic humor, “I know I’m not the best and I’ll be lucky if I get above sixes and sevens but from me to you, that was a 10.” While a perfect score remains a goal, the sentiment underscored the transformative impact of the performance. If La Voix continues on this trajectory, a 10 may well be within reach.
