Rhys' Ninth Entry
Top six show… here we go! I think this week we were a little more prepared for the workload, as we all had been performing two routines already. So Kate and I were lucky enough to whip out a Jason Gilkison Rumba which we were frothing up over. From the moment Jason played us the beautiful Enzso song, shivers went up my spine and I welled up a little. It's such a powerful track, and Kate and I worked really hard to live up to its impact. Looking back on the routine now, there were definitely things that could have been a little neater, and I wish that I had given it a little bit more. I kind of feel like Kate shone a little more than I did, and I guess in the Ballroom world, that's OK, but for the sake of the competition, I wanna pop too! As for our second routine of the night, which was the male trio choreographed by Supple, I was chuffed. I think all three of us really nailed it, and gave Australian audiences something they hadn't seen before. Turns out to be a little bit of a controversial routine as well, reading comments on the internet showed that people were a little confused by the term Hip Hop, and didn't quite understand Supple's interpretative choreographic nature. But I loved it! Not to say that we all didn't struggle through the rehearsal process to recreate Supple's organic vision, but I think the end result was really effective. I loved the costumes too. And any chance I get my paint face painted, I'm there baby!
Then we get to Monday night. How special was the group opener! Jason – or Gilly as I call him – is fierce! The boys were butch and the girls were saucy. We all really loved that routine, and thought that it was shot immaculately. We just kept wanting to perform it over and over! But alas the fun had to end when it came to the eliminations. All six of us were soooo tense that night. There was that air of the unknown. At that stage in the competition, nobody could really tell who would stay and who would go. It was tighter a fishes bum, as Kelley would say. I was quite shocked when my name was called out first by the lovely Natalie. I was really expecting it to be between Graeme and myself, so I was pleasantly surprised when I got to sit down with Katie first. It was so cool to finally be able to perform my 30 second solo, as I've never had to dance for my life, but as Graeme eloquently put, I danced for myself. I think everyone did. And we ripped it! On the stage after her elimination was announced, Vanessa told me that I was her favourite partner to work with, which was a bit hard to hear, seeing as I wouldn't have the opportunity to work one on one with her again. She has such a beautiful heart and is matched only by her beautiful technique. I don't know if eliminating Graeme was such a good idea – now the ret of Australia has to contend with him! After a few tears he was back to his old self, whooping it up and loving every minute. That boy is gonna go really far.
As for this week, very few words can describe how I feel. I'm a bit emotionally exhausted. I don't feel much of a connection between my brain and my body, so I'm hoping that muscle memory takes over and my brain allows me to do all of the performing. Our workload has increased two-fold. In the dance world, it's kinda like cramming for exam. Our brains are trying to retain so much information, and we have so little time to consolidate or even rest. So I'm kinda unsure about how Sunday will play out. All I know is I'll give it my best, and pray that disaster doesn't strike. After that however, I'm so looking forward to getting the other 16 dancers back in town to start rehearsals for the grand finale. It's gonna be such a different vibe than before – everyone was under so much pressure, and now we're all here to live it and love it. I'm sure many surprises are being kept from us, and will only be revealed to us as the grand finale unfolds, so it's bound to be a crazy show. I can't wait! You guys have got a whole week to vote in the meantime, so I apologise in advance for your huge phone bills – nudge nudge. Nah, but seriously, thank you so much for any support you have given me during my journey, whether it be just watching the show, reading my blogs or developing RSI through multiple texts. It means the world to me and I've never felt more support ever in my life. The feeling is indescribable, so whatever happens, in the near or late future know that I've loved giving you every little piece of me, and will continue to strive to give you more and more.
All my love, Rhys.
Style Tip for the Week: No matter what the magazines say is fashionable, no matter what the style gurus say is trendy, always be happy in your own skin, because it's the only one you'll have. Nothing looks as good on you as you do!
I'd spend the $200,000 on: A deposit down on a house, and maybe follow the advice of my parents and boyfriend and do some investing. I may splurge a little, and I think I'll buy something nice for the other Top Three.
Rhys' Eighth Entry
Wow it's the Top 6 and I'm one of ‘em. Hooray!! How cool is that! Never envisioned what it would be like to have made it this far, but it sure feels good! It feels like only yesterday that I discovered I was part of the Top 20, and the journey has just gained momentum since then. It feels so good to know that you guys are the ones that have helped me to reach this point, and I'm so proud of all that I've achieved to date. But it ain't over yet! The pressure is on, as always, with our workload increasing daily. Some pleasant surprises with our choreographers this week, and also with my partner, although I am a little disappointed that I've not yet worked with one of the final three girls, but that's too many hints already…
Our first couple routine is truly beautiful, and I know my partner is over the moon about getting it. Just hope that we can do it justice. The second routine is a bit unusual in many senses of the word. For one, it's a trio with the top three boys. For two, it's a very unique interpretative and different to anything you would have seen yet on the show. The trio really pushes me to my physical limits, but I really love the quirkiness of the choreography. It really suits our individual personalities and highlights our own strengths as dancers. It's really cool. It's also pretty fab to be working with the other two guys. It's definitely a different vibe compared to working with one female partner, but as usual we're all supportive of one another and help each other as much as poss. The lead-up to the Top 4 has proved to be challenging, schedule-wise. Our commitments to the media have increased, and I find myself with less and less personal time. I'm usually quite fond of my solitude, but it can be habit forming. I'm getting used to the unpredictability of the show, and the requirements of being part of a show of this caliber.
On an exciting note, there is a rumour going around that we might be going on tour after the show finishes, which would be great for everyone who can't make it to Sydney to see a live performance. All of the dancers are really excited about this prospect – after a small break of course! But I think we would all love to take our show on the road, and share of love of dance with the people! So get online and hit the blogs, and tell those people upstairs how much you want to see us performing in your town, and that it be totally worth their while!
On the topic of blogs, big hi and hello to all of you in the Kinky Boots Co. I'm sure you guys have been wanting to hear from me for quite some time now, and I would respond to your messages if it were allowed. Just wanted everyone to know that I get your messages of support and take on your feedback, and you do keep me very entertained. So keep it up, and spread the word! Kinky Boots rule.
Style "Quip" of the Week: I have an issue. I love the fact that stores like Target release limited collection from top designers such as Stella McCartney, Zac Posen and Collette Dinnigan. The success of these collection has obviously been huge, but what I want to know is, when do the guys get a shot at some affordable designer threads? Surely in this day and age, guys would jump at the chance to get some cool designer gear at bargain basement prices. How about Kenzo for Kmart or Hugo Boss for Go-lo? I'm sure Peter Morrissey or the boys at Ksubi could do a great collection for Targét. Am I asking too much? Or do you think the blokes of Australia deserve their opportunity to run screaming and clawing at the opening of the doors of their nearest discount department store.
My longest and best friend is: Luke Hutchison. We've known each other since we were five, so you could say we've grown up together. We know so much about one another it's almost like we were from the same womb, in fact our mothers are both very good friends also. He's the arty type, and his talents are limitless. From designing and making clothes, to creating short films, to installation art pieces. We collaborate quite a bit on our individual projects, and are always there to lend a hand. We don't always see a lot of each other, but when we do meet up it's like no time has passed. He's Dutch Indonesian, and kind of looks like the male version of Megan Gale – we call him Megan.
Rhys' Seventh Entry
OK, where to start… in this week's installment, fellow bloggers, Rhys finds himself in the Top 8! And what a week it has been… I've said it before, but I didn't think it could be any tougher for us. But of course the show will always find ways to push us to our limits. Surprisingly however, I seem to be coping relatively well. Of course I have a new partner, and new routines, which have both been interesting. I seem to be recyling some of my old choreographers, which is cool with me, as I've grown somewhat accustomed to their style, and it's helped me to pick up the routines a lot quicker. My partner hasn't worked with said choreographers before, so I've almost felt a little guilty that I've had a head start. Of course, like every show, I'm so looking forward to getting out onstage and doing our thing. After last week I made the decision that I'm dancing for myself and my partner and not for the approval of the judges. Of course to impress them would be great, but my goal is to hit home with the people in their homes. I got some mixed reviews about my solo last week, which took me back a little, as I was very proud of my choreography and the piece in general. I really tried to make it relevant to the theme for the night, which was the movies, but I think it may have gone over some people's head. Having said that, most of the people I know really enjoyed, even if they're a little biased. It's easy to take criticism for a routine you didn't choreograph, but when you've really contemplated how you interpret a piece of music, then the comments seem to cut a little deeper. Hopefully I get the chance to perform a solo again, and show 'em what I'm really made of. On the topic of last week, it was fantastic working with Kate, and quite a relief to receive the praise that we did for our Hip Hop routine. Our choreographer Supple is a really great guy and knows how to get the most out of his dancers. We were lucky to have him fly all the way from the UK to help us out with the show. Major props to Supple.
What a shame that Jemma's not still around. She was so graceful in her exit last week, and I'm really gonna miss the girl. I feel like she was right on the brink of something wonderful, and had she had that little bit more confidence in herself, she would have truly shone like the star I know she is. It was great to watch her grow alongside me in the competition, and I know our performances wouldn't have been as great if I had been dancing with anyone else. It's really weird these days cuz there's only 8 of us; the group just feels so small. We're still as loud, but we used to need two 12-seater buses to get us to and from rehearsals, but now we all fit in a 10-seater.
In answer to your questions:
Pipsqueak: My one plant at home is a succulent.
Krafty: I'm a Capricorn.
Bevansmum: I'd never rule out performing drag again. It's been a great way for me to expose myself as a performer, and the artform deserves more recognition than it gets.
Raspberry_beret: I'd turn straight for Demi. She has a subtle androgynous charm, plus I love a woman that has an appreciation for good sneakers.
If I could dance with anyone in the Top 20: I'd do something manly with Graeme. We've chatted about the possibility of dancing together at the end of the competition in a Danny\ Neil routine.
Style tip: If you don't like to wear too much make-up, at least get yourself a great mascara. It really does wonders, and can really open your eyes, especially on those morning afters. They say that the eyes are the windows to your soul, if that's true, then the lashes are curtains.
Rhys' Sixth Entry
Here we go again! It feels like we're starting all over as brand new dancers in a brand new show: the smallest break can really distract you. I had the best intentions over the Easter break while I was home in Melbourne – go to dance class, to yoga class, rehearse my choreography. Guess how much I actually did. None! With good reason however – I got sick. As did, I hear, almost every other finalist in the show. It's weird how your body works, how as soon as it realises you have a break, it takes complete advantage of you and your relaxed state. Having said that I'm back in Sydney and shaking off the remnants of my ailments, as we've dove straight back into the competition.
It was interesting hanging out with my friends and how they all seemed so opinionated about the people I've been living with for the past six weeks. I know that everyone does it, and everyone likes to vent, especially when watching reality TV, but when they judge so openly those that you're quite close with, I found it quite offensive. It really goes to show how much you DON'T see.
It was kinda cool to watch the Easter special show last Sunday, and revisit my time on the show. It was almost like I was an elimated contestant, watching my farewell package. My mum thinks the judges' comments were biased, but I'm not sure in what way. I don't see how any of their scrutinies were unfair. It would have been nice to hear what Jason thought, as Jason seemed to say the same thing about everyone. I love Bonnie, but sometimes I wish she made her opinions a bit clearer. I'm only saying this as I really do listen to what the judges have to say, as I trust their opinions and it does alter the way I think about performing. It sounds a bit serious doesn't it? But it is a competition I suppose.
Oh yeah, hey, I'm in the Top 10! Feels fantastic! Now that I've reached this point, I'm so happy with all I've accomplished, and if I have to go this week, then I will be satisfied with all that I've achieved. But I really wanna stay! I have to admit that I was shocked by Camilla's departure last week – I think everyone was. I'm not going to question the judges' decision but I am disappointed that I won't get a chance to dance with such an amazing talent. It was a shame to see J.D. leave us as well. I hadn't known him for very long, but I really felt close to him towards the end of his competition. We're both from Melbourne, so no doubt we'll have plenty of chances to develop our friendship further and hopefully work together some day.
Getting back to last week's performances, I was a bit shocked at the reaction we got towards our routines. The point being, that Jemma and I were initially quite terrified of the challenge dealt to us, but it seems that our Pony routine was more liked than our choreographed Musical Theatre piece. I'm not sure what to think about that – I'm obviously chuffed that people responded well to mine and Jemma's choreography but I felt such a bond to the Musical Theatre piece and enjoyed it so much. Anyhoo, we didn't cop too much criticism on either, so I guess I shouldn't complain. Subsequently the Pony Trot has become quite an iconic piece of chorey and I've witnessed several punters doing their best impersonations.
Moving right along, this week the competition gains momentum and the level of difficulty increases. We have two routines to perform, one being a choreographed piece with my partner, and a solo choreographed by myself. I was so excited when my name was pulled out of the hat by my new partner, as I've enjoyed watching her so much throughout the show, and I think that she felt the same. We went in knowing very little about our choreographer but have now learnt that he has quite the reputation as possibly being the best at what he does. After learning more about him and his background, I actually felt a little intimidated about whether or not I could live up to his expectations. This played on my mind a little bit as we rehearsed a very difficult routine, and I struggled quite a bit recalling all of the steps. It's a great routine that's very intricate and detailed, but the chorey isn't the main concern, it's being able to go through the motions without looking like I'm concentrating too hard, because at the moment it's taking all of my concentration. I think once muscle memory does its job, the performance should happen naturally. As for my solo routine, I'm actually quite proud of it, now that it's finished of course! I go through a bit of a process when I choreograph; I listen to a song over and over, and visualize what I want to do. It's another thing, however, physically adapting that into the real world. It took some time and some amazing guidance from Kelly Ackers, and I think the final result should be more than what is expected of me. but you'll just have to just watch and see won't you…
The movie I could live in is: Velvet Goldmine, because of the fabulous glam-rock style of the decade, and the liberated freedom of sexual expression through art and song.
Updated style tip: You don't have to keep your favorite colour forever - try changing it as the seasons change. Last summer I was all about fluoro yellow and black, but now I'm rocking red and electric purple. Like your taste for food matures, so can your colour palate!
Rhys' Fifth Entry
Alrighty! So, we finished the week with a bit of a bang – Dancehall ended up being a great style for us. The judges seemed to enjoy it, as well as the insanely loud audience on Sunday night! I struggled a little bit getting the character in rehearsal, but after getting some advice from my choreographer and other friends that I trust, I cast away my inhibitions, and went with what I felt was right. Sometimes too many opinions can cloud your judgment, and make you feel less sure about your gut feelings, so I've learnt you really have to listen to your heart and do what feels right, which you can apply to most things in life. I was sooooo proud of Jemma – she really embraced our Hip Hop routine! She was a completely different girl on Sunday night, almost beyond recognition. It's a wonder what a few braids and bronzer can do to a girl! She totally embraced the booty. Our choreographer was initially a little worried that I might outshine her in this routine, but I think she totally pulled focus and made it all about her. Such a fun night.
We had group choreography this week with Jet. She played us the track and I was like, ‘'Yeah boy! I love this song!' I was quite raring to go, however I really struggled with picking up the routine. I'm not exactly sure why, I seemed to lose confidence during the rehearsal period - self-doubt seemed to creep into my mind. I'd pick up the routine quite quickly and perform it well, then come back from lunch and have forgotten it completely. I was still rehearsing up until the time we performed it, but I'm really happy with the end result, and glad it came off as well as it did.
Jemma and I were lucky enough to avoid being in the bottom three, which makes us, plus Demi and Jack, the only two remaining couples to not have to DFYL. I don't think that's gonna last too much longer, and I'm becoming more and more prepared each week if it comes to the crunch. I'm trying to keep a few options up my sleeve, depending on what style Jemma and I performed the night before, in order to show the judges the most diversity, and show Australia a side of me they haven't yet witnessed. I try and take on the advice the judges give to the contestants that have already had to DFYL, as I'm sure it will apply to me inevitably.
Bit rough to have Suri leave the competition, as he and I have been roommates the entire way, even since Top 100. We've been a bit of a support system for each other. But I'm not worried for him in the slightest, he's already had several offers to work in and away from dance, so I'm sure we'll be seeing plenty more from him. At least he went out with a bang! So now I am Kate's roommate, which I'm sure will be fine. I have to move all of the crap I've slowly accumulated over the process of the show – the one thing I hate more than moving, is packing. I always leave it to the very last minute, and always seem to leave something behind as well. Guess I'll never learn. And it looks like Suri and my 'clothing optional' policy is out the door, though Kate might turn out to be a bit of a nudie herself – we'll soon find out!
I'm really gonna miss Laura too – I'm from Adelaide originally so we did have a good connection, even though I didn't know her when I lived there. She's the sweetest thing and I really believe she has developed amazingly, beyond even her own expectations, and she will continue to do so. Love you Loz!
As for the challenges set for us this week, it seems as though we didn't have enough on our plate or enough choreograph to contemplate, so we were dealt an unexpected twist, which we will have to perform. Jemma and I were quite skeptical as to our success at the beginning, but we've slowly found our groove, and now seem more confident. The main thing I'm worried about is our main routine suffering because of the time we need to spend on our extra challenge. Keeping this in mind, Jemma and I have taken a more relaxed attitude to the challenge and we're trying to have as fun with it as possible. As well as the challenge, we have our regular weekly routine choice via bucket, which is right up my alley. I'm actually the most excited I've ever been about performing, I can't help but smile when we rehearse this routine! It's a really cool song choice and is going to require a little expertise on my behalf. As usual, Jemma is pulling her weight, and doesn't give in easily to the challenges that confront her each week. We tend to push each other along quite well, and give each other what we need to accomplish steps that seem impossible. It's quite a snappy routine and very fast-paced. I think it's very true to its name (as in style), and will be an honest representation of the genre we're interpreting, which I think we're still yet to see in this show. Our choreographer is a treat, and really fun to work with. He's probably the best person to have choreographing for us, as his knowledge and expertise in this field is unsurpassed. It's a pleasure to work with him, and his assistant.
On a personal note, I would like to thank everyone who has sent me fan messages. If I had the time to reply to all of you, I would, but know that I appreciate every ounce of support you have for me and my partner – it's you guys that allow me to keep performing for you every week. Bless!
And for those of you who are wondering if you've seen me skipping around in fairyland before, you are correct! I've temporarily hung up my fairy cake cooking hate, but keep your eye out for the elf on telly at the moment…
Style tip for this week: Don't be afraid of shiny things. Metallics look like money, treasure and robots. What fun!
In high school I was: a bit of a recluse. I was ditched by most of my friends and treated as bit of a pariah. Thus, I didn't enjoy my time very much and only completed Year Ten. The highlight for me was the Rock ‘n' Roll Eisteddfod which kinda kept me going, as well as having my dancing on the side. I'm proud of what I've accomplished since leaving school and feel that not finishing school has not prevented me from being successful. However I should say for all you kids out there, education is key and I have been lucky and worked very hard to be where I am today. Glitter kisses to all.
Rhys' Fourth Entry
The highlight for this week was definitely getting Cadbury Flake Breathtaking Moment again. It was just awesome. It's an amazing feeling, not only to get through safe on the verdict show, but also to receive the honor of a favourite moment, and it's all thanks to Jason Gilkison, of course! We were completely spoilt to have him choreograph our Paso Doble. Getting to know Jason has truly been an honor, and I consider him a friend now, as well a mentor. He's a truly great guy, with an awesome sense of humour. You can tell he truly loves what he does.
The routine this week is definitely left-of-centre. The style is probably quite unknown to most people, therefore I'm expecting the reaction to be quite varied. People might have seen this style of dance in video clips on music TV, but have never know its specific cultural reference. Keeping that in mind, Jemma and I truly have to show our personalities and enjoy this dance for people to appreciate it. I love it so much it shouldn't be too hard. It seems to be the way that Jemma and I are taking turns each week to help the other develop with the new chorey – Jemma had no idea what our style was when we got it, so we've had to do a bit of research on the internet to truly nail the desired effects. It's a little bit raunchy, a little bit dirty, a little bit saucy, and a whole lotta fun. It'll be very different to the Ballroom styles we've danced already. I like that. It's time to break away from familiarity and express ourselves through challenge.
On a different note, I love going to wardrobe fittings, I love the whole costume department. Raiding the wardrobe is one of my fave things to do. Now that the stylists are getting to know everyone's style, I feel like a kid in a candy store. We get to choose from wardrobe what we wear for intros on Sunday night, as well as Dance For Your Life and Monday night elimination. I usually wear a combo of my own gear and pieces from wardrobe. Monday nights I've been doing own makeup, and have decided to change up the look every week. So you never know what I'll do next! As always, trying to keep it unique, interesting and colourful.
I truly believe that make-up isn't just to hide our flaws, it's also to express our personality, mood, and your surroundings. Make-up is like an accessory to me. You should by now I love to colour coordinate. So keep your eyes peeled for Monday night maquillage.
Style tip for this week: There is no such thing as too much.
In answer to pricklypear's question about if there any chance Regime could be coaxed into making a guest appearance on the show, let me say that it's a big temptation, however I haven't packed Regime – she doesn't fit into my suitcase. For those who don't know I'm a regular drag performer in Melbourne – Regime has quite a bit of notoriety on the gay scene in Melbourne. However, if a choreographer desired Regime to make an appearance, then she would be more than obliged.
You can always make me happy by: playing my favourite song. Right now it's ‘Out at the Pictures' by Hot Chip.
Rhys' Third Entry
This week Jemma and I went into Sundays show with a little bit of apprehension. Our Jazz routine was definitely out of our comfort zones, regardless of the fact that I'm a Jazz-trained dancer, however we came offstage with a sense of accomplishment. We received mixed reviews of our performance not only from the judges, but also from family and friends, so there was definitely a sense of the unknown on Monday's show. After it was announced that Graeme and Kassy were in the bottom tree, all bets were off. The thought of having a strong, powerful, memorable routine would keep you safe was a complete misconception after that first announcement. So I was chewing my nails to the bone. Luckily for us, Australia kept us afloat! Even after that relief, there was the shock of the announcements to come, which left everyone in a bit of emotional state at the end of the night.
But as they say, the show must go on and Jem and I were back in the studio slogging it out with our new amazing routine which we're both very excited to do. I can safely say our routine was the envy of several couples of the competition. Some people might think this gives us an advantage, but the challenge is as difficult as ever, mainly for me to absorb the technique that I'm learning, and to be convincing to the viewers. My main goal this week is to look like a couple that have been dancing together for years, to have our styles gel completely and not look like individuals. I think our routine will definitely stand out but that's not to say that I'm as confident as I have been in the past.
There's a little bit of added pressure because my family are coming to watch from Adelaide. It doesn't usually make me nervous to have my family watching – in fact, I think it's encouraging and gives you that little extra something you need to be amazing. I know they would love me hopping on one foot in a hessian sack, but I still wanna make them just as proud. It'll be great to see my sister especially who is very pregnant, and give her belly a good rub!
Style tip for this week: There is no such thing as natural.
Ideal person to play me in a biopic: Elijah Wood or Macaulay Culkin
Rhys' Second Entry
Jemma and I came out of last week on a total high cuz we got such an amazing response from our routine last week, and getting the Cadbury Breathtaking Moment topped it off. But with such success comes great expectcttion. This week we definitely had our work cut out for us with choreographer Michael Boyd. The style is something I'm usually more fluent with, but I feel I've been more challenged more than ever before. I also feel for Jemma because she's really pushed out of her comfort zone. But I was right along there with her! A couple of tears were shed, but now we're feeling pretty confident and fairly sure our routine is gonna make a bit of an impact. For both of us, I think it's one of the most physically demanding routines we've ever had to do. After each rehearsal I feel completely exhausted and emotionally drained, because it's such a character piece. Having said that, I love the concept, the idea and the routine. It should be a bit of a rude shock compared to our breathless waltz last week.
Doing our group routine last week was also a highlight, performing as the Top 20 to such amazing choreography from Kelley Abbey was a blast, as well as having the incredible support of the audience. It uplifted everyone I feel. I think that routine definitely put a stamp on us as Australia's talent, and what we all bring to this show. The feedback I've heard from many diff people has been incredible. So many people are watching this show and loving every minute of it, and it's a real honour to be in the first series. I'm sure from the success of this series, SYTYCD will have an amazing longevity. I really feel we're setting the standard for the future of dance, and will inspire more and more people to audition next year
Not only have I made amazing relatiionships with my fellow dancers but with the staff and crew on the show. There's hundreds of people working behind-the-scenes to make the show as it reads on TV, and it's been great to develop friendships with those people as well. I'm also learning about the industry that I feel I've been a part of all my life. It's a constant leaning process. Everyone works so hard.
I'd also like to mention that I'm constantly amazed by the support of my family, friends and total strangers that I've never met, and may never meet, completely going out of their way to show me their support. It's been really humbling to know that so many people out there are going out of their way to see you succeed, I love them all! Keep up the good work.
Biggest misconception about dancers: Biggest conception about dancers is that we're all great in bed… and that's totally true. We're flexible, adventurous, and energetic, in and out of the bedroom.
Rhys' First Entry
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We all saw the stage for the first time today - it was a real moment of realization. Sometimes I forget I'm in this huuuge production, and it makes me feel sorta small – there's so much buzz going on around me, all these people creating this bigger picture that really, we're an integral part of. So seeing the stage snapped me into it. All those shows I've watched and drooled over in the past, it's like, wow here I am, a part of one!
Had physio today, which I'm quite thankful for – I've had a few niggles here and there. My hips are giving a little bit of grief. I've been training really hard, and my body is still adjusting to the corrections I'm making in my technique - everyone's in the same boat. Still adjusting to this new lifestyle – rehearse, dance, every day, different hours. I'm usually such a night owl – I'm rarely in bed before midnight. Getting up early is a bit of a challenge – I usually end up a bit ‘tra la la' at the end of the day, and have to force myself to go to bed. I love to procrastinate. There's so much excitement everywhere – all these people saying, ‘come to this, come to that', and it's like, yeah! I wanna be part of everything, and leave with as much experience as possible, but at the same time, you have to be sensible and realize there is a goal. That means you make a couple of sacrifices to do what best for you in the long term.
I'm sharing with Sermsah, which is really easy. We've shared living quarters from top 100, it's good. We're comfortable in our clothing optional apartment - I'm a bit of a nudie! As much as I love clothes and fashion, I love the freedom of being naked. It's very invigorating. I'm very rarely fully dressed and he's cool with it. He gets that's a part of my personality - we've gotten to know each other pretty damn well.
My dance partner is just an angel. She is so sweet, and she's kinda cracking out of her shell day by day. I'm getting to know her more and more. She's quite knowledgeable in our first routine, which is great for me. She makes you feel at ease, totally non aggressive, non confrontational – not that they'd be any reason to have confrontation with her. We give each other what the other one needs. And it's really nice to see another person grow alongside you – as much as you like to evolve, its good to see it in other people as well, see how people handle themselves in different scenarios.
I tend to live in the moment a lot and sometimes I ignore my emotions, so I feel like I need this. It feels like such a natural process for me. Everything I have done in the past has been leading up to this moment; all of the performing, training and experience had molded me for this competition. It just feels so right.
Fave dance movie: All That Jazz by Bob Fosse. It was so ahead of its time. He was heavily criticized for it when it was released, but it just goes to show what a truly creative and original artist he was.
