"DWTS" Week 3: True Life

April 6, 2015

OK, so “most memorable year” isn’t usually the stuff inspiring dances are made of. It makes me think of a cheesy recital-opening group number that you have to be in with the pre-ballet girls before you can do your solo.

However, “Dancing with the Stars” always delivers, so we can cut right to the good stuff. Last night we learned that even newbie dancers can get to the emotional heart of a performance if it feels really personal for them. Let’s revisit my top two.

I have one word for you: Tango. Derek Hough’s choreography was heavy on the technical fireworks and a bit light on smoldering passion, but I kind of don’t care. When you’re Nastia Liukin and you’ve got legs like whoa, you might as well kick them around and put everyone else to shame. I especially loved that she chose to dance to the same song that helped her win a gold medal, and that she dedicated the performance to her parents. Awww.

Perfect.

 

Iraq War veteran Noah Galloway and Sharna Burgess’ contemporary routine represented Galloway’s return to mental and physical health after losing his left leg and arm in Iraq. He effortlessly partnered Burgess with only two normally functioning limbs (!) and while he’s still growing as a dancer, he definitely showed how far he’s already come.

Sadly, Michael Sam went home. But on a night that’s all about people’s personal triumphs, everyone’s a winner, amirite?!

Meet us back here next week for (drumroll…) DISNEY WEEK!!