I remember hearing the news like it was yesterday. I was feeding AJ dinner in his high chair when my husband walked in the front door after a Dancing With The Stars Season 19 rehearsal. (Technically, he ‘hobbled’ through the front door, a common sight late in the season.)
“Well, it’s confirmed,” he said. “We’re going on tour. We’ll be on a tour bus for two months.”
Alfonso had previously hinted that going on tour was a possibility. However, for whatever reason, I thought of the DWTS Tour as a 10-15 city tour involving flying as the mode of transportation. I had no idea it was upwards of 40 cities on a tour bus! (Or if my husband mentioned this, my pregnancy brain must have kicked in at the time because I had no recollection.) Needless to say, I was overcome with a mix of emotions. I felt happy for Alfonso that he would be able to continue his newfound love of dancing with his partner Witney. I felt excited for our family as it would allow for us to spend a great deal of quality time together while traveling the country. Predominantly, however, I felt complete and utter terror. How would I manage being six months pregnant with an active toddler in the tight quarters of a tour bus for two months? How does one prepare for that?
As it would turn out, the tour was an absolute blast! Though it was often challenging to keep a toddler contained/entertained on a tour bus, it proved to be manageable and fun. (It helped to have a second bus of ten dancers always willing – and begging – to babysit AJ.) The best part was the bond we formed with the other dancers. It truly felt like one big family. (In fact, among AJ’s first words – after “mom,” “dad,” and “dog,” – were “Emma” and “Keo.” He probably spent the most time with and shared the strongest bond with Witney, but her name is probably more linguistically-challenging for a toddler.)
Thus, when Alfonso was asked to join the current summer tour for a couple of stops while Peta, Rumer, and Val would be away, we were super excited to have a DWTS Tour ‘reunion’ of sorts. It was great seeing everyone, as it truly felt like ‘old times’ again. Naturally, AJ loved the attention he received in the ladies dressing room, his favorite place to hang during the last tour. (This was also the location where AJ mysteriously learned how to apply blush. The likely culprits: Witney Carson and Brittany Cherry.)
The show itself was absolutely fantastic! The pro dancers never cease to amaze me. Not only are they some of the most lovely people ever, but they are truly some of the best dancers in the world. I don’t want to give too much away, but some of the show highlights include:
- An entertaining Broadway musical salute with dances to songs from Grease, Hairspray and Flashdance – (where Jenna starts with an awesome solo rendition to “Maniac” in her 80’s style leg warmers and workout leotard).
- A fun Country Western routine. (It was great to see my hubby in a cowboy hat for the very first time. This, of course, warranted a couple of snapshots.)
- Witney and Artem’s Rumba to “Hold On We’re Going Home.” Simply beautiful!
- Sasha and Emma’s “Jump, Jive an’ Wail” Jive. Their Jives are always a big crowd-pleaser. (I personally love Sasha’s flips and Emma’s speedy turns. She spins on the floor as fast as ice skaters can spin on ice… truly remarkable.)
- Melissa did an amazing job as hostess. Her fun and endearing personality shines in the show format. Despite suffering a knee injury, she has some wonderful dancing throughout the show as well.
- Brittany and Alan’s Contemporary dance is STUNNING! I wouldn’t expect anything less from Ed Sheeran’s dance partner in his “Thinking Out Loud” music video. (Which, I must add, has received over 600 million views on YouTube! Go Britt!)
- The show finale to “Clap Your Hands” was immensely entertaining… AJ and Sienna’s personal favorite.
Even though my husband only did the two shows, it was great to see him back on stage performing with Witney again. They seemed to easily pick up where they left off from the last tour. Their “It’s Not Unusual” routine appeared to be the crowd favorite between the three they performed together. I was bummed not to see Peta, Rumer, or “Shirtless Val,” but I’ve only heard amazing things about their tour performances.
Overall, it was wonderful to see our tour family again. If you are lucky enough to have the tour come to a city near you, I would HIGHLY recommend seeing it. I know I’m biased because I love these people, but I swear it’s an amazing show. You can check out the remainder dates and cities at dwtstour.com. You will not be disappointed! If you’ve already been to one of their shows, please share your thoughts and reviews!
