Sarah Brady
Updated on: October 16, 2024 7:01 pm GMT
Tasha Ghouri is making waves in the entertainment world as the first deaf contestant on BBC’s popular dance show, Strictly Come Dancing. Her journey from reality TV star to dancing sensation is capturing public attention, especially after her stunning performance in the first week of the competition.
Ghouri, a 26-year-old North Yorkshire native, first gained fame on Love Island, where she became a beloved figure. Now, paired with the talented Aljaž Škorjanec, she is not only showcasing her dance skills but also breaking barriers for the deaf community. Following her lively Cha Cha, fans and critics alike are recognizing her as a strong contender for the coveted Glitterball Trophy.
Early Dance Background
While Tasha is known for her time on Love Island and her modeling career, she also has a rich background in dance. Starting ballet lessons at a young age laid the foundation for her skills. She further honed her abilities at the Creative Academy in Slough and has participated in dance competitions, giving her a diverse range of experience.
However, Tasha admits that getting back into dancing hasn’t been easy. Ahead of her debut on Strictly, she emphasized the difference between commercial dance and ballroom, stating, “Commercial dance is very different to ballroom dance and Latin… I’m still having to strip down and relearn.” This reveals her commitment to mastering the craft and adapting her previous skills to a new style.
Fan Reactions and Controversy
The response from fans since her debut has been overwhelmingly positive. One viewer proclaimed, “Dance of the night for me so far! Incredible,” while another echoed this sentiment, saying, “What a fantastic dance!” However, some fans have questioned whether Tasha’s previous dance experience gives her an unfair advantage over other contestants.
Strictly choreographer Maria Tsiatsiana addressed these claims, pointing out that all contestants must learn choreography and perform under pressure. She emphasized, “If you took five ballet classes or ten or zero, everyone is on the same playing field on that Saturday night and in the rehearsal studio.” This clarification helps to underscore the rigorous demands of the competition, leveling the playing field for all dancers.
The Journey Forward
As Tasha continues her journey on Strictly, she faces the dual challenge of competing and raising awareness about the capabilities of deaf individuals in performing arts. Her participation not only highlights her talent but also serves as inspiration for many within the deaf community.
Many fans are excited to see how Tasha will adapt as the competition progresses. With each performance, she has the opportunity to showcase not only her growth as a dancer but also her ability to overcome challenges. As she and Aljaž move forward, fans will be watching closely to see how her experiences shape their performances.
Comparisons to Other Contestants
Tasha is not the only contestant facing scrutiny over their background. JB Gill, a former member of JLS, is also competing this season. Having years of experience dancing in music videos and tours, he topped the leaderboard with a score of 31 after his Waltz with partner Amy Dowden.
This situation mirrors past seasons where contestants like Layton Williams faced ‘fix’ claims due to their backgrounds in musical theatre. The debate over whether prior experience provides an unfair edge is a recurring theme in the reality dance competition.
Conclusion
As Tasha Ghouri shines in the spotlight on Strictly Come Dancing, she is paving the way for greater representation and awareness of the deaf community in the arts. Her journey demonstrates resilience and passion, reminding us that every performance is a step toward breaking barriers. The season is just beginning, and with her determination and talent, Tasha is likely to leave a lasting impression on both judges and audiences alike.
You can find updates about Tasha and the other contestants on the BBC’s Strictly Come Dancing website.
