The New England Olympians continued to impress the ‘DWTS’ judges on ‘Soul Train Night’
Vermont Olympian Ilona Maher may be known for her strength on the rugby pitch, but last night, she brought grace and elegance to the “Dancing with the Stars” dance floor.
As part of the show’s “Soul Train Night” she danced a foxtrot with partner Alan Bersten to the song “Lady Marmalade,” earning 30 out of 40 points. Maher admitted that she’s “always loved that song,” growing up with the “Moulin Rouge” version, and even visited the actual Moulin Rouge in Paris over the summer with her Olympic teammates, which was “so fun,” she told Bersten during the package before they performed.
Last week, Maher danced the salsa and scored 21 points out of 30, three more points than her first week score, making her the most improved performer of all the celebrity dancers.
“I’ve never liked complacency, even in rugby,” Maher said before her performance. “I’m always looking to just get better.”
The judges were impressed by Maher’s performance, commenting that she performed a “proper foxtrot,” as judge Bruno Tonioli put it. Meanwhile, guest judge and “huge sports fanatic” Rosie Perez, gave Maher “kudos” for her accomplishments on and off the “DWTS” stage. “You did a wonderful job,” the actress said.
Later in the program, Worcester Olympian Stephen Nedoroscik and his partner Rylee Arnold took on the quickstep, dancing to the song “Superstition” by Stevie Wonder, which earned them 30 out of 40 points. Last week, the judges told “pommel horse guy” that he needed to control his energy following his Superman-inspired Paso Doble. Arnold said the goal for the quickstep was to ensure he held proper frame and didn’t perform at full speed.
“It’s hard for me to convince my body to slow down because if I do that in gymnastics, it’s game over,” Nedoroscik said.
After performing a joyful routine, the judges commented that they loved his energy and tricks in the performance, but there were some technical issues with his frame. Tonioli also said he hopes to see improvement in Nedoroscik’s timing and musicality.
“Watching you guys dance is like watching you dance in a field of daisies,” judge Derek Hough said. “It’s breezy, light, and just so wonderful to watch.”
Both athletes will return Tuesday night for “Heavy Metal Night.” There were no eliminations after Monday’s episode, although another double elimination is possible after Tuesday night’s performances.
