Kristina Rihanoff

IVillage Blogs

2011-10-14T11:07:00.004+01:00

Hi everyone,

As you will know I am doing my official blogs this year through IVillage again so I will be sharing all of my news on there every week! You can read them all online by following this link: http://www.ivillage.co.uk/kristina-rihanoffs-strictly-come-dancing-diary/84357

I am loving every minute of Strictly so far this season and working with Jason. Thank you so much for all of your continued support, appreciate it so much.

All my love

Kristina xx

A little update

2011-08-17T12:44:00.006+01:00

Ladies and Gents!!

I hope everyone has had a good summer, and enjoying the last few weeks of August. I cannot believe how quickly the past few months have gone by. But you know what starts in the Winter......Strictly Come Dancing ofcourse, very excited!

As you will probably know from facebook and twitter since I last blogged I have been to Russia to visit my family. It was so good to head back and see them and my parents (my mom moved back there from LA a little while ago). I had such a good time for the 2 weeks I was away, and I did post a few photos on my facebook account so take a look. I returned to London for only 24 hours before heading out to LA to sort out my VISA. By the time I arrived in LA my body did not know what time it was due to all the different time zones I had travelled through. LA was also a little holiday for me and Joe, so it was good to spend time together and with close friends. I saw my best friend Alex who lives in the US and I was so honoured as she asked me to be the godmother to her new son Max. He is such a gorgeous baby and it feels very special to be asked so I will be taking my godmother duties very seriously :) They are all coming over to London in October hopefully, and Max will be baptised in the Russian church so I cannot wait to see them!! As I mentioned I am having trouble uploading photos on here but please check in on facebook to see the pictures.

Now that my Visa all went to plan I am ready to go for the new series of Strictly Come Dancing! I hope you are as excited as I am. We have already started the rehearsals, and it is really great that all us professionals are together again. I cannot reveal too much but expect some new and amazing dances! I have also been doing some choreography which I love.

I look forward to sharing more news with you over the coming weeks and revealing my new celebrity partner which will be unveiled on the launch show, just like last year.

Keep checking in!

All my love,

Kristina xx

2011-07-21T12:10:00.000+01:00

Hi All,

How is everyone? I meant to send this before I left for Russia so thought I would do it now before it becomes old news! I hope you are all enjoying your summer so far :)

I know I have not blogged in a little while, but I thought I would write to keep you all updated. The past few months have kept me busy with various shows, and ofcourse assisting in the choreography for So You Think You Can Dance. It is such a great show, and a perfect opportunity for so many amazing performers to showcase their talent. There were alot of breathtaking performances so it was an honour to witness it and offer some advice and help with the choreography as well as working with the lovely Artem.

Since then I have also moved house. Joe and I have stayed in a similar area, but I have been busy sorting out the furnishings which has been a bit crazy. I am pleased to say we have now fully moved into our new home, which is very exciting!

Robin and I have also been busy with some shows recently. We went up to Edinburgh to perform at a private wedding on the outskirts of the City a few weeks ago. It was a fantastic venue and really good to be a part of someone's special day. We then went back up to Scotland the following weekend to Aberdeen at the Beach Ballroom venue where I have been before, so I really enjoyed going back and seeing some familiar faces! We also went to the Aberdeen Race for Life event on the Sunday morning, to motivate all the runners during the warm up. I did something similar at a London Race for life event a few years ago, so it was great to go back. I was amazed by all the runners and it is so amazing to see people running for such a good cause, which is a charity I have always supported. Our final show to round up that week was at another private party up in Sheffield!

I also did some dance classes at Champneys Henlow a few weeks ago for some hotel guests, which was a really stunning place. Joe and I were able to use the spa and have some relaxation time as well which made it a perfect weekend.

Ofcourse since I last blogged (and I cannot believe I have not mentioned it yet), is that the professional dancers for Strictly 2011 have been announced! I am so happy to be a part of the new series. We have a little while to wait until the celebrities are announced, but I hope you are all as excited as I am.....watch this space for more news.

You may have seen I have been a part of the children's charity ' Kids Task force' who are doing some inspiring work. This has enabled me to go along to a couple of schools with the charity to tell them about my life and dance, in the hope to encourage children to follow their dreams and I taught a few steps while I was there. The pupils have been so interested to learn, I have uploaded some pictures in this album for you to take a look at - http://s1127.photobucket.com/albums/l623/Rihanoff/ ( hopefully the link will work for you).

I will shortly be home in London for only a few days before having to go back to LA to sort out my VISA in time for Strictly. As some of you will know this has resulted in me being unable to perform on the 30th July which I am truly sorry for but It was the only week I could get home to finalise my VISA which I need for Strictly but I hope to see you all again at another show.

Speak to you all soon

All my love

Kristina xxx

2011-04-21T09:34:00.024+01:00

Hi everyone,

I am finally back on my blogger! Sorry this has been my first blog since the beginning of the year, but I have had trouble logging in due to security reasons but eventually made it. I wrote on facebook the other week to try and keep you updated with recent news so hopefully you saw that. I read my blog from January and it seems so long ago now since we were getting ready to tour, the last few months have really flown by, I cannot believe May is around the corner....

As you probably already know from my facebook and twitter last week I went away for a short break with Joe. It was so good to get away for a bit and we went to Pisa in Italy, which is so beautiful and I recommend to all of you if you have not been. I love going to places with so much history and cities where there is so much to see, so you can be a real tourist! I took some fun photos which you probably saw on twitter, but just incase here are a few more:-

Holding up the tower of Pisa! It was quite heavy :0)

We also took a day trip to Florence, which is a stunning place:-

Those are a few of my holiday snaps... You also probably saw Joe announce on twitter that he has a part in a new film. I am so happy and excited for him!

I hoped by now that I would also be able to tell you some exciting news about recent projects I have been working on, but you will have to wait a little bit longer. I will tell you about them as soon as I can so watch this space!

I mentioned on facebook just before I went away, that the most recent Aviva advert is now on TV staring Paul Whitehouse. I also did the choreography for this one, here is a picture of Paul and I on set!

I met up with the lovely Robin Windsor yesterday for a catch up. He has been sunning himself and partying in Miami! so it was good to meet up. We went to the cinema as well to see The Source Code. Its a really interesting film, and not my usual type but I really enjoyed it as I have not seen any good films at the cinema recently! Robin and I have some shows coming up. A few people have been asking if we have any in London, but all confirmed shows will be on my website as soon as they are confirmed. I would love to do some in London, but we will keep you updated as much as we can.

Well I hope everyone is enjoying this amazing weather at the moment. I know we have a long Easter weekend ahead so I hope the sun keeps shining. I think I will be in London over the weekend, and Joe is back on Sunday so we will be cooking a big Easter meal for some friends and family. I think I will head to Wales the following weekend for the Royal Wedding, as I imagine London will be very busy. I am really excited to watch it and see a piece of history. I am sure it will be a gorgeous and very memorable wedding! Good luck to William and Kate!

I had better sign off, as I have a few things to do before going out this evening. Have a great Easter everyone and enjoy all the chocolate!
All my love,
Kristina xx

Update

2011-04-20T12:59:00.001+01:00

Hi Guys,

For my latest blog which I did a few weeks ago see my facebook page, notes section! But now I am back on here a new blog will be coming really soon......

K xx

Happy 2011!

2011-01-06T19:46:00.004Z

Ladies and gents!

Happy new year to you all. I hope you had a really great christmas and enjoyed some relaxation over the holidays. It was so good to have some time out as the past few months have been crazy! Strictly came and went really quickly but I think we can all agree it was another great series, and I was so happy to see Kara and Artem win. They had such a wonderful partnership and Kara really is a beautiful person inside and out, as well as being a very talented dancer, so she truly deserved to take home the glitter ball. I thought the standard this past series was so impressive, at times I felt like I was watching a pro routine. I loved every minute of it and there was a wonderful group of people so the atmosphere back stage was buzzing all the time. I am looking forward to spending some more time with everyone during the tour!

So I spent Christmas at Joe's in Wales. It was so amazing to have my mom with us! It was lucky she arrived on time as the snow had been bad all week and alot of flights had been cancelled. Luckily my mom's flight from LA was on schedule, which was a bit of a relief. I felt so sad for all those people that were stranded over Christmas, I can imagine it must have been a nightmare. Thank goodness the snow has gone for now, I felt like I was in Russia at times! Christmas this year was a real family gathering at Joe's as he has a huge family, we managed to fit 20 of us for lunch. There was a lot of laughter so it was very memorable and a good fun, relaxing christmas. All the children made it extra special as I love being round children at christmas time to get in the festive spirit!

Thank you for all your messages about the Christmas special which I won with the amazing John Barrowman. John took to the quick step so well and as you could tell was a real natural. He is a fantastic performer and to win with him was a lovely Christmas present, thank you everyone in the audience who voted and for the judges marks!

New Year saw Joe and I finally go to Paris. We were due to go just before Christmas but because of the bad weather we had to put it off for a few weeks. Paris really is the most beautiful and romantic city. I could walk around for hours just taking in the surroundings and stunning buildings, I definately would love to go back soon!

After the new year celebrations it was not long before we were back to rehearsals to prepare for the tour. I really am looking forward to getting on the road again as we had a great time last year and I am sure this year will be just as fun. So far the rehearsals have been really intense as we work long hours, from the morning through to 6pm most days with little breaks. We also have a really short period to put the shows together which can be quite stressful as we have all the group numbers, celeb dances as well as our solos to practice so it can be alot to take in. I have also loved working with Jimi Mistry who is my partner this time round. It is important to be around someone who you get on well with especially when you are working together alot, and Jimi is a lovely guy and great company to be around. The tour kicks off in Nottingham, so I cannot wait to get going. I hope you all enjoy the show, and let me know what you think! If you want to still try and get tickets check out the website http://www.strictlycomedancinglive.com/tour-dates-2011/

Yesterday was a really special day as it was my mom's birthday. It is the first time in 7 years that we have been together as we have always been in different countries. I wanted to make it a really special birthday for her so I made a few plans. She really did enjoy it and Joe took us out to dinner in the evening, it was lovely to be able to spend it all together.

Alot of you have been asking about shows that I will be doing with my lovely partner Robin Windsor this year! I cannot confirm any with you just yet, but I promise as soon as I know they will be posted on my web, facebook e.t.c So keep a look out. I am also going to be selling some of my dresses from previous dance shows, some which you may recognise but again I will post more on this when I have all the final information.

Well it is time to come to the end, but I will blog again soon with some more news, and by then the tour will have started so I hope to have some backstage gossip!

Love to you all.

Kristina xx

2010-10-21T11:37:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone,

Just a quick update to say, I have not been blogging on this personal blog as much, due to my weekly blog with IVillage . As I do one with them each week, it makes sense to save all my news rather than posting on here. I hope you are enjoying the weekly updates on Ivillage, as well as with Best magazine!

Once again, thank you for all the overwhelming support, since Goldie and I finished our journey on Strictly. We were sad to leave early on, but this year is so tough with some amazing dances being produced each weekend, so it is really tough. I am loving watching everyone progress, and there are lots of fun Pro dances coming your way, and ofcourse an exciting solo dance with the lovely Robin Windsor this weekend.....I think Robin and Patsy have an amazing partnership and are getting stronger as a pair each week, good luck to both of them.

While I am writing on here, I will mention the shoot I did with The Sun newspaper the other day, It should be out this Saturday. It is a slightly different shoot, but let me know what you think!

All my love

k xx

Its Strictly Time!

2010-09-12T13:40:00.004+01:00

Ladies and Gents!

Well it has been a rollercoaster of a week. The past few days have been very busy getting ready for the launch show which was shown on Saturday night. I think the new show was a great idea, and it certainly kept everyone in suspense not knowing who was dancing with who. I can honestly say that the celebs or us dancers had no idea who was paired together! It was a long, nervous wait but I am so excited to annouce that I will be dancing with Goldie! He is such a fun guy to be around so I know we will have fun working together. I really had no idea who I would be paired with, so it was a complete surprise. We are now all looking forward to getting started, there was a real buzz in the studio during the launch so I think everyone is feeling the same. The usual banter has also started between all the contestants so its going to be a fun series.

Training will begin tomorrow so there is not long to get going for the first live show which is the first weekend in October. I will keep you updated on our progress throughout. As you will know I am doing a weekly column for Best magazine, and I would love it if you could send me in a few questions through facebook that I can use for my columns. I will be happy to answer any questions that anyone may have on any aspect of Strictly!

As you will also know I am now dancing with Robin Windsor as my new Pro partner, as you can see in the photo above. Robin and I have been working together for a few weeks now, which has been difficult as we have had to keep it really quiet and avoided all questions :) but I am happy to be working with Robin. He is such a talented dancer and a lovely man, who has been a huge part of Burn the Floor, so he will be a very worthy and welcome member of the Strictly team.

Joe and I recently did an interview with Hello magazine, which I am pleased to say will be out tomorrow. We have had opportunities to do interviews together before but we felt that this was the right time to do it, as it has almost been a year. We did it at Joe's home so Im excited to see the finished article. Should be on the shelves tomorrow.

Once again thank you all for your messages through facebook! I am so happy to be about to take part in the next series of Strictly, and love sharing the journey with you all.

I will blog again soon with the latest news, but dont forget to check out the column in Best the week before Strictly!

All my love

Kristina x

Hi everyone!

2010-08-24T09:03:00.011+01:00

I have been meaning to write a blog for a little while to fill you in on the past month, but since arriving back in London things have been very busy. It really is great to be back as so much to look forward to over the next few months.....

When I last blogged, the Pro Tour had just come to an end. I have so many lovely memories from those few months touring, and I was so happy to hear all your positive feedback. It makes it feel so worthwhile when the audiences enjoy it, and I feel that we completed our mission. Thank you for posting your photos on facebook, and also the videos! I have seen some amazing videos, the Brian and Kristina tribute made me cry it was so beautiful. Infact, I was so touched yesterday as my PA gave me a very cool banner which I saw being waved in the audience during the Pro Tour. I really love it, and it was so kind to take the time to make it for me, so thank you so much. I also received a book that had been especially made for me from all of my loyal and amazing fans. The messages inside were so special, again thank you for taking the time to put it together for me I am so grateful. They are all proudly displayed in my front room. Not sure what Joe thinks of our living room being turned into all things Kristina! :)

After the tour I had a few days off, and then went to Barbados for a week with Joe and his 2 sons. It was my first time in Barbados and I cannot tell you how much I love it. It was such a stunning setting and so peaceful, the Island really felt like paradise. It was the perfect place to take some time out, so I came back feeling well rested. I was only back for a couple of days, before I flew to LA to see my mom for 2 weeks. I was really looking forward to spending some time with her, as since moving to the UK I do not see her much due to my work schedule. The weather was great and we had a lovely time together. Joe also came out for the last week so it was good to all spend some time together.

So my 3 weeks off have now come to an end, as I prepare for my next chapter. I have been back in London for a week, and been keeping myself busy. There is not long until Strictly starts now and I hope you are as excited as I am. I cannot wait to blog in the run up to the show, once all the announcements are made, so we do not have to wait too much longer!

I went to see Burn the Floor again last week, and I took Joe and his uncle. Joe loved it, I think he was really blown away by all the amazing dances. It is one of the best dance productions I have ever seen, I could watch it time and time again. Brian and Ali were again sensational. Ali has done so well, she is an actress not a trained dancer but she has that gift to hold her own on stage, and I have been so impressed by her dance ability. I know how hard it is, but she has done amazingly well and Im sure it will be an experience that she will always look back on with great memories.

Last week Joe and I also went to the film premier of 'Going the distance' ( picture above). Drew Barrymore is one of my favourite actresses, so I was really looking forward to it. The film is a must see romantic comedy. I think it is more for the ladies but I recommend!

Well I had better sign off, but as always thank you all for being so supportive, I love to hear from you all. I have a photo shoot on Wednesday so I will let you know when that is published. Look forward to blogging again soon, hopefully with a bit more news next time ;)

All my love

Kristina x

Update

2010-07-30T15:23:00.007+01:00

Ladies and Gents!

I hope everyone is well and enjoying the summer....I arrived back from my holiday this morning, so feeling a little jet lagged but a perfect time to update you on my blog!

Joe and I went away for a week after the end of the Pro Tour, and we had a lovely and very relaxing break. It was also a good time for me to get away as I felt exhausted after the months of touring, so some relaxation was just what I needed. It did feel quite strange after our last show, as for the first few days after, I felt like I was supposed to be on stage, lol! It took some time to re adjust my routine. The tour really was such a memorable experience and I did love every minute. All the pros became a real family throughout, and even now it seems strange not seeing everyone every day. I know I have told many of you on facebook but thank you all so much for making it extra special for me. You have all been incredible, and I felt your support in the audience so many times, especially with the banners, which I loved! The last night in Bournemouth was very emotional for so many reasons. The dance with Brian was upsetting as we will no longer be working together on Strictly, so I will always remember my time with him during the Pro Tour. But on behalf of everyone thank you all. Thank you for the gifts, the flowers and champagne, the chocolates and for everything, I am so so grateful.

I went to see the first night of Burn the Floor, to see Brian and Ali dance. It was so breathtaking and I was really moved. They are beautiful together and I wish them all the best for the rest of the show and for the future. If you have not seen it then you must go, as you will really enjoy it!

I am now back in England but not for long as in a few days I am going to the States for a couple of weeks. It will be my last time for some time off before Strictly starts, so I want to take the chance to spend some time with my mom and friends. Really excited to be heading back! The next few days I will be running around sorting a few things out, I have recently moved so am just about all unpacked!

Once again thank you all for everything. We are about to start a new journey together in Strictly, so not long till it begins. Watch this space for news of my celeb partner and much more! I will be on facebook whilst I am in the USA so will stay in touch.

All my love

Kristina x

Tour update!

2010-06-30T15:11:00.003+01:00

Hello from Bristol!

I am back down towards the south of England in the lovely sunny City of Bristol. Today we did a matinee show to another wonderful audience, so I have just been having a bit of rest time before tonights show. It has been really good to see so many sold out shows recently, Its amazing to feel the support from you all each day.

Last time I wrote my blog I was in the beautiful City of Liverpool, and I really did have a great time. I have been lucky to visit there a few times before and every time I go I get to experience more of it and really enjoy myself. I spent a day sightseeing and went on the river which was beautiful, particularly with the gorgeous weather, so loved every minute. At the shows I was so touched to see some banners with my name on in the audience.... It is so kind that you took the time to make them, I was very impressed, and Im loving all the pictures on facebook! I cannot tell you how special it was to look out into the audience and see you cheering and waving, thank you all so much I really do appreciate every bit of it, I had a big smile on my face! It was also good to meet you and spend some time chatting aferwards and to receive some lovely gifts and flowers, really an amazing week and one I shall always remember.

We are in Bristol all week, so I shall be having a little explore around the City, and then next week we shall be in Milton Keynes before London. It will be good to spend some time in London and catch up with a few friends before heading off to our final venue in Bournemouth. I cannot believe we only have a few weeks to go. We have been touring now since mid May so it almost feels like we are a mini family. It will feel strange going back to normality. Not long till Strictly though, which is exciting.

Time to sign off as I am due on stage really soon, but once again thank you all so much!

All my love, Kristina xx

2010-06-21T12:47:00.007+01:00

Hi everyone,

I am writing my recent blog from the City of Liverpool! I have been here a few times in the past, and have always really enjoyed it so looking forward to the week ahead. Earlier in the year, I was here for the Strictly Come Dancing Tour and I did some Beatles touring as I am a big fan and have been since I was alot younger as my dad used to love their music. I have a few friends up here, so am planning on doing some more touring, and seeing lots of local sights.

We had a good week in Edinburgh last week, it really is a beautiful City, and one of the most picturesque I have been to. Joe spent some time with me, and we went to Edinburgh Castle, and had a fun time wondering around the City which is so historic and so beautiful. One night after the show, we all went on the ' City of the Dead' ghost tour, which was amazing! I have to say that it was scary, and we all kept sending Joe out in front, as he is the tough one. A really memorable week!

On Friday I had a good afternoon supporting 'Active Nation' which is a campaign to encourage people in Scotland to get active in the run up to the 2014 commonwealth games. Dance is such a great form of fitness, and it is alot of fun as well which is a double bonus. We all know that working out is not always something to look forward to, so dancing is a way to solve that problem! I was encouraging people to dance, and met a group of really lovely people to try out some dance moves with. I hope they enjoyed the day as much as I did. ( Picture above)

I am also pleased to say that I am now working with a new PR team called Stuart Higgins communications. I have been with them for a few weeks now, and enjoying working with them. All their details are now on my updated web.

Once again I really want to thank you for some of the gifts I have received from you during the Pro Tour. I have also had the opportunity to meet alot of you at the Stage doors, which has been really enjoyable, and also hearing your thoughts and feedback on the Tour! You are all so kind, and I am grateful for your continued support. I cannot believe there are only 4 venues left after Liverpool.

I have nearly finished my blog without even mentioning the new SCD series ! I was so happy to find out that I am going to be part of Strictly 2010. I am really looking forward to finding out who my new celeb is going to be, which hopefully will not be too much longer. Watch this space for news and info.

Have to sign off now, but thank you all!

All my love,

Kristina x

2010-06-03T13:22:00.002+01:00

Hi everyone,

It has been a couple of weeks since I last blogged but I have been so busy recently with the Pro Tour that I have not had a chance to keep as updated as I like to. We are now in the South of England in Southampton, where we are all week. As always the support has been amazing and the audiences have been behind us all the way, so really loving every minute. I have been into Southampton to have a look round, but as we are not too far from London I have sometimes gone back in the day to get a few things organised. It is good to have some me time occasionally, as we are on the road so much that I like to spend some time doing normal daily routines.

A couple of weeks ago Joe and I were invited to visit the University hospital of Wales in Cardiff. We visited the special childrens cancer ward, and I was really moved by how warm and caring the hospital is. We met alot of the inspiring children, parents and the Doctors who were all really amazing. I can see the money they raise for the ward is put to excellent use. We actually went to a fund raiser for the hospital a while back, so it was great to be able to visit and spend some time there to see how the money is spent so well, I hope to go back at some point in the near future.

This weekend after the Pro Tour I am heading up North to Manchester. I am going to support Joe who is taking part in Soccer Aid . The aim is to raise money for UNICEF. There is a mixture of people playing from ex footballers to Gordon Ramsay and Robbie Williams. I know Joe is excited to take part, so I shall be watching from the sidelines on Sunday! Good Luck everyone, and lets hope as much money is raised as possible to help improve the lifes of so many children all over the World.

I do not have much more news to share with you all. I have done a few interviews about the Pro Tour, for Liverpool Echo and also a few weeks ago with the Daily Mail about my fashion sense. As a female dancer I quite often get asked about the costumes we wear, and what my personal fashion sense is like. Alot of the time our dance outfits are really glam and I definately think this has encouraged me to dress up more and more away from dance. However, during tour time I like to be comfortable so you will often find me relaxing in some comfy tracksuit bottoms, but on the opposite side I love to shop when I have the time and dress up when I go out. I think it is just important to dress what feels right for you and ofcourse what you feel comfortable in!

Well I really need to go and finish getting ready as today we are doing a matinee performance in Southampton. Next week we will be heading a bit further South to Plymouth, before heading up North again to Edinburgh and Liverpool at the end of the month. Really looking forward to meeting more of you soon, and In Liverpool I am really interested to see what you all have planned! ;)

Speak soon

Kristina xx

Hello Wales!

2010-05-18T14:07:00.004+01:00

Hi everyone,

The tour has been going for almost a month now and our next stop is Wales! Our first performance is tonight at the Millennium centre, and we will be there until Saturday. Really happy to be here, as I have loved performing here in the past, everyone has always been so welcoming and we had a lot of Welsh support during Strictly last year! It is ofcourse where Joe is from, so he will be able to come and watch with his family which is exciting.

Yesterday was a bit of a nightmare as due to the Ash Cloud, flights out of Dublin were cancelled. So we had to find another way to get from Dublin to Wales.....In the end we took a boat, and 7 hours later we made it to the Cardiff! It was then another journey on the train so I felt very exhausted last night after the heavy travel. We later found out that the airport opened yesterday afternoon, so we were a few hours out which was unfortunate. It certainly was an experience and made me think that we really do take travel for granted. We rely on planes so much so yesterdays trip was almost like taking a step back in time.....definately one to remember.

I would really like to thank all of you that gave me the poster in Birmingham! Picture above. I was so flattered and overwhelmed that you had it made for me. So so kind, and something very special for me to keep with some good memories. Over the past few weeks, I have been lucky to meet alot of you, and it is always lovely to hear your comments about the tour, and to meet you in person. Once again thank you for all your support, I really am so grateful.

As some of you may have seen I posted a note on facebook the other day about the rumours to do with Joe and I. At the time the story broke, we were both away in Spain taking a couple of days away between shows, which made it quite funny that was when the story came out. I am glad some of the photos have put things right.

The show starts at 7.30 this evening, so I need to start getting a few things together. We are all having a great time out there on stage, it can be very tiring on our bodies, so lots of good physio needed. Its great to be working together again and giving you a good show! Keep all your comments coming and I will try and get back to when I can.

All my love

K x

Hello Birmingham!

2010-05-05T12:12:00.007+01:00

Hi everyone!

Well we are into the second week of the Pro Tour, and loving every minute of it so far. The feedback from everyone has been amazing, I really love to hear what you think. Alot of you have said you really like the costumes and in particular the Salsa dance. That is definitely one of my favourites as well....and as for the costumes they really are alot of fun, so Im glad you like them as much as we do. Last week as you know we were in Brighton. Amazing audiences on every night, you really did get behind us which makes it really special and very memorable. Last night was our first show in Birmingham. Again a great atmosphere, so thank you all for you continued support!!

I managed to have a day off on Monday which was great. I had a chance to go back to normality for 24 hours. I also spent some time with my boyfriend Joe, so really happy to be able to spend some time with him, as at the moment I am travelling alot. He went to the Pro Tour show for the first time last night, and really enjoyed it!

Last week I was really honoured to be a guest on the Angela and friends show on Sky1 HD. We had a really good chat and I loved being part of it. They did show a couple of clips from the tour. You can see the video online but if you dont want to see any previews of the Pro Tour, then look away now!

Well I might try and get to see a bit more of Birmingham, as I am here for a few days. Any suggestions welcome?

I am hoping to get some behind the scenes images to share with you all, so will post them on here when I do.

Thank you all.

Kristina xx

The Pro Tour is almost here.....

2010-04-26T20:37:00.005+01:00

Hi everyone,

Only 3 days to go until our first Professional Tour performance. I cannot believe it has come round so fast! Even though I say so myself, the show is going to be spectacular. The past few weeks there has hardly been a spare moment, as our rehearsal days have been long and tiring. On Saturday, we rehearsed for 12 straight hours! I do not want to give too much away, but we are performing all of your favourite dances including some solos in between. One of my personal favourites is the Rhumba which I am doing. It is accompanied by a song I love, and one which I have always wanted to perform to. Infact, I really want to dedicate this Rhumba to my boyfriend Joe, but that is all I am saying right now, so you will have to wait and see! I look forward to hearing what you all think about the show, please do get in touch...Just incase you do not know what the Pro Tour is.....there are 5 Professional couples from the Strictly Come Dancing series, including Brian and I ( see picture above). We are touring up and down the Country, including Ireland performing a variety of different dances, solos, group dances e.t.c I think tickets are still available!

On Sunday Brian and I performed 2 shows in Basildon. My legs and hip were really sore in the morning, but no time for rest as I took the train down to Essex. Really good show, so I hope those of you that were there had a good time. Apart from this show my time has been spent rehearsing. So not much other news to share.

Some of you commented that you saw the ' english makeover' picture of me in the Sunday paper. It was a really fun shoot, and fun to do something really different. Since I first started in Strictly, I had an Image where I was compared to Marilyn Monroe due to our similar hair style, so I enjoyed doing something completely different. Have a little read of the link above.

I will blog again soon, to keep you updated with news on the Pro Tour, and will hopefully post a few pictures like I did during the Strictly Tour. First stop is Brighton!

Thank you for all your amazing support as always.

Speak soon

Kristina x

2010-04-08T15:38:00.004+01:00

Hi everyone,

I hope you are all well! Just a quick message, but I am currently doing a little project to do with my book ' The Art of DanceSport make up' and would love to have some input from you all. If you can think of any questions that you would like to be answered, in relation to the World of dance then please do email in. The questions can be to do with absolutely anything from, dance choreography, music, make up, costumes, health and nutrition, dance partners e.t.c The email address to send in to is kristinarihanoffpa@hotmail.com. These would then form a Question and Answer session in a new edition of my book. The reason for this is I have been really interested in answering your questions on the tour with Brian so far, and would like to continue to do this.

Tonight Brian and I are performing in Cumbria at Barrow-in-furness before heading down to Wales to perform tomorrow evening. I cannot believe the Professionals Tour rehearsals begin next week, this year is going by so quickly! I think tickets are still available for this, if some of you are interested to go but do not yet have tickets. It should be a good show!

Once again thank you all for your supportive messages on facebook, twitter e.t.c Its been great to hear from you....

Must dash, take care,

K xx

2010-03-31T13:01:00.010+01:00

Hi everyone,

It has been a very busy few weeks, as you will know Brian and I have been touring up and down the Country. The past couple of days, we have been in Peterborough, Brecon, Yeovil, Felixstowe and tonight we are in Swindon! We have really been on the go, so my daily routine has changed recently, I get my rest in the day to prepare for the evening shows, and then spend the evening travelling to and from the events. Brian and I have enjoyed entertaining you all so far, and ofcourse meeting some of you at the venues. I have therefore been a bit slower in responding to your messages, on facebook e.t.c Please do keep them coming, as I always love to hear from you and it is good to hear your feedback on our shows! There has been the odd drama along the way, as in Cromer the fire alarm went off so the entire theatre had to empty out onto the Street. It is a funny memory to look back on. I did post on Digital Spy last week, as I know a few of you were disappointed that you did not get to meet us after the show. We do have a very tight schedule and very often we have cars booked to take us to a hotel or back to London straight after the end. I hope nobody has been offended by this, and I hope you understand. We are so grateful for all of your support, and without you all we would not be performing at all, so thank you so much.

As I mentioned in my last blog, last Monday Joe had his celebration and charity dinner which raised alot of money for ' Help for Heroes'. This was a really amazing night, and the turn out of people was incredible. To raise money for such a worthwhile charity made it so worthwhile. Above is a picture of the evening.

The next 2 weeks I will not have alot of news to share, as we will continue our tour, before some rest time to prepare for the Professionals Tour. Tickets for this are still available as we are touring at a number of venues and will be staying at each arena for a few nights. See the website for more information http://www.strictlycomedancingprotour.com/default.asp?contentID=576

I have to sign off, as I need to get ready to go to Swindon, but thank you all for your continued support, you are all amazing! I will blog again soon....

Kristina xx

2010-03-17T09:38:00.004Z

Hi everyone!

I hope you are all well. Thank you all again for your supportive messages which I have recevied through facebook, twittter e.t.c. After the Strictly Tour ended I went to the USA for some time out, and spent a few weeks in Seattle and LA. I spent some time with my mom which is always good as I do not get to see her much, ( Image above). Joe also came out with me. It was good to get some rest, and recharge my batteries for the coming months. Once again I am sorry If a show has been cancelled that you were due to see. I do not like letting anyone down, so please accept my apologies, It was just not possible for me to carry out all the shows, due to my Doctor's orders.

I am now back to dancing, and have performed a few times in the past week. I was at Bridlington Spa, Hopton on Sea and am currently in Ireland about to return to London for a short rest before performing in Gravesend, kent. It is great to be back dancing with Brian and we are enjoying performing for you. A few people have asked me recently what is different about dancing on TV to Theatre. The main difference is that on TV the audience is at 360 degrees but on stage the audience stays in one fixed postion! We therefore have to adjust out choreography to suit this. I do love Theatre though, as there is a more personal interaction with the audience. Our show includes a number of performances, many of which you will recognise, but I do not want to give too much away! This year are shows are hosted by the comedian Mike Newman Jr, who adds some good entertainment, so I really hope you are enjoying our shows so far. I have also been lucky enough to meet some of you which has been good as always. Thank you for posting some images on facebook! I do keep a number of them for my scrap book.

I must now sign off as I have a flight to catch back to London Heathrow! I will blog again next week with more news. Joe has his dinner for ' Help the heroes' next week so I look forward to telling you all the news on here.

Also, you may remember in my last blog I mentioned that I am thinking of new ideas for a future book. I would love you to email in some questions for me to include, which would be like a ' Question and anwer' section. The questions can vary from anything to do with dancing, make up e.t.c Please email my PA on kristinarihanoffpa@hotmail.com . I look forward to hearing from you.

Thank you all!

Kristina xx

2010-02-25T16:12:00.007Z

Hi Everyone,

Here is the video I mentioned in my last blog. It was taken a little while ago, in the dressing room when we started the tour. I have been trying to rotate the video which is why it has taken me a little while, but it has finally worked! I absolutely love Kelly's dog, soooooo cute. He is very naughty though, which you can see from this! ha .

The past few weeks have been a bit mad, with the tour coming to an end. I loved every minute of the tour, it was so much fun and I will miss it. It was a pleasure to partner Mark, he really is such a talented dancer. All the celebs were amazing, I think you can agree. I know I have thanked you all on my website, but I cannot say enough how grateful I am for your votes, and I was really pleased to meet some of you around the Country. Thank you for all your photos on facebook as well, I have taken some for my personal collection and memories.

As some of you know, I have had to withdraw from some shows due to some ongoing health problems. This also caused me to pull out of the odd show on tour in the last few weeks, but on my Doctor's orders I cannot carry out the schedule I intended to do. This is why the shows have been cut down, and I really cannot apologise enough for letting some of you down. I know I have kept very private but I wanted to keep my focus on the tour until it came to an end. I intend to be ready for the Pro Tour in April, so it would be good to see as many of you there as possible, I believe tickets are still on sale. I really do hate to let anyone down, but I hope you can understand. The schedule is still being finalised so my website event section will be updated as soon as possible.

I am writing this blog before boarding a plane. I am off to the US for some rest time and to see my family. I will update my blog whilst I am away with any news. In the mean time I am hoping you can help me with something. I am playing around with a few ideas for another book, and I would love to have a section dedicated to you, and to do this I would like you to send me in some questions which I can answer. The questions can be anything at all to do with my dancing life, Strictly, Fitness, make up, diet, behind the scenes of a dance show, dance routines, preparation, dance relationships i.e how it is common for dancers to grow close to their partners. Please do get in touch with anything. The best thing to do would be to email any questions to my PA on this address kristinarihanoffPA@hotmail.com. Feel free to ask her anything regarding this, I look forward to reading through some of your questions.

Once again thank you all so so much. I will be in touch soon.

Kristina x

2010-02-11T14:56:00.004Z

Hi everyone,

What a busy few days! It was good to spend a week in London, and be home for a bit and I loved every minute of the shows at Wembley and the O2. The atmospheres were incredible and you have all been such amazing audiences, not just in London but everywhere. I know I keep saying it, but I am so grateful for all your votes. Mark and I are so happy to have won some of the shows, and its been such a great pleasure and honour to perform for you all. I just want to say that Mark has been a wonderful dance partner. He is such a great guy, and a very talented dancer! All of us are having such a good time on tour, and I think you will agree that the standard of the celeb dancing has been fantastic. Thank you all so so much!!

After London there was no spare time, as we had 2 more shows in Nottingham. Whilst I was in Nottingham, I was invited to the Leicester and Rutland Air Ambulance Service, for a new appeal they are launching. The Air Ambulance is a voluntary funded service with Doctors and Paramedics using a helicopter to deliver emergency care to patients. The aim of the appeal is to raise £ 750,000 for a new purpose built airbase. I really hope they raise the funds, as it is relied on so much and the work they do is incredible. I was lucky enough to see them in action, and I was blown away. I cannot believe they do not receive any funding, hopefully this may change in the future. I have included some photos from the day in my album, which you can see on the link below.

Yesterday was a day off, so I spent a day in London catching up with a few friends, and it was a good time to have a bit of pampering and relaxation time before coming up to Glasgow today. I was warned it might be cold, and it certainly is so I shall be wrapping up warm. We are here until early next week, before heading over to Ireland!

As promised in my last blog, and mentioned above here is the link for some more recent photos. I also have a funny video to share with you, which I am going to upload asap. So watch this space...

I must go as not long to go before our first Glasgow show!

Speak to you all soon

Kristina x

p.s Do not forget tonight ' Dancing on Wheels' starts on BBC3 at 9pm.

Home sweet Home

2010-02-05T09:59:00.004Z

Hi Everyone,

We are almost half way into the tour now, and so far we have travelled to Manchester, Liverpool, Sheffield, Birmingham and are now back in London ! It was great to perform the first 2 days at Wembley arena, and to win on the first night in London with Mark, made it extra special. I have loved going to all the Cities so far, particularly when I have time to fit in some sightseeing. It is good to be home for a week to recharge the batteries, before we head off again to Nottingham and then up to Glasgow! I want to thank you all so so much, for your support. Words cannot express how grateful I am to you, the support I feel on tour is overwhelming so thank you so much. I really hope you have all enjoyed the tour so far, and for those who have not yet been, I will see you soon. I will have some more photos to add as well, including one of Austin Healey putting eyelashes on Lillia! There is a fun atmosphere backstage, and everyone is getting on well.

As some of you have mentioned, there have been reports that I have not been well. Thank you for all your kind words and get well messages. It is a delicate subject, which I am sure you can understand I have kept to myself, so I am able to focus on the tour for now. I want to entertain all of you who have bought tickets, and continue to do so. I really appreciate your concerns for me and I am focusing on the present, and thank you for giving me that privacy.

Tonight, we have another performance at the O2 arena, and a busy weekend ahead with some matinee performances! I will blog again really soon and add those photos !

Thank you as always

Kristina xx

2010-01-24T20:54:00.002Z

Hi everyone!

A quick message just to keep you updated! We have been in Birmingham the past couple of days, which has been great. Mark and I have also won a few times, which makes it really special. I have added another two photos to my album, more will come soon! Kelly Brook has the cutest dog I have seen, which you can see in one of the pictures....I want one! next stop is Nottingham, but tomorrow is a day off, which I am really looking forward to, as since we started the tour over a week ago its has been really busy. Look forward to seeing some of you in Nottingham!

Will be in touch again really soon

Kristina x

Always time for some sightseeing....

2010-01-19T14:42:00.004Z

Hi everyone,

I just wanted to share some photos with you from my day of sightseeing in Liverpool! After a great show last night, I really wanted to spend some time in the City, so I headed straight to the Beatles museum. I am a huge fan of the Beatles, and it was so amazing. My family are all fans and my dad was really inspired by their music. Have a look at my photos from the museum....you will see a photo of a 1962 membership card from the Cavern Club where they used to perform, I feel honoured to have such a piece of history! My friend Enid gave this to me who also took me around the museum. It is such a special gift, thank you so much Enid!

I have to go for some quick rehearsals now before we start tonights show. We are then heading down to Birmingham after, so bye bye Liverpool and hello Birmingham!

I will be in touch again soon

Kristina x

Life on tour!

2010-01-18T20:25:00.004Z

Ladies and Gents!

It is day 4 of the tour and so far so good.....Last time I blogged I told you how excited I was to dance with series 4 Champion Mark Ramprakash. He really is such a talented dancer, and is a pleasure to partner. Our training went really well in the run up to the tour. Mark was a natural, so after a few hours of intense training he took to it quickly. We are dancing the Salsa and the Argentine Tango. The Salsa is one of my favourites and the Tango was one of Mark and Karen Hardy's favourites when they won the series together, so I am happy we have these 2 dances.

As you can imagine life on tour keeps us all busy. We are all being well looked after and there is a good team atmosphere! The picture above is one of my dresses which I love, I took the picture on my phone, It makes it alot easier having a good camera on my phone, I am getting quite technical! I hope to take some more and post them on here soon, once I sort them all out. We have been rehearsing in the day, and then performing in the evenings, as well as some matinee performances during the day. We started In Manchester, and the audience was fantastic, so thank you all for being great spectators! The atmosphere made it really special, and I really felt you all cheering us on. I look forward to all the other venues we are to dance in. Next up is Liverpool which begins tonight, cant wait! It was also really special to win twice on Saturday in Manchester, even on tour there is a sense of competition....

Once again thanks so much for all your support on the tour! You are all amazing. I will be in touch again soon with some more updates....

Kristina x

Happy New Year!

2010-01-06T09:58:00.007Z

Hi everyone,

Happy New Year! I wish you all happiness and success in 2010. I hope you all enjoyed the holiday season. It was good to have a few weeks off, as the past couple of months have been busy with Strictly as you can imagine. I spent my holiday this year between the UK and LA. I had a lovely White Christmas, which was so beautiful, and it felt like I was at home in Russia. It brought back alot of childhood memories. I was also able to visit my mom in LA, and spend some time over there. I do not get to see her very much during the year, so I was so happy to be able to go. The weather there was warmer than here, and I came back to some cold, snowy weather on Monday morning, but I am excited to be back in London, as there is so much to look forward to. I have come back with a cold, which will hopefully go soon so I can focus fully on training, so I will be wrapping up warm!

As you know the tour begins on the 15th Jan. Our first stop is Manchester! I have the pleasure of partnering Mark Ramprakash, who won in series 4 when he partnered Karen Hardy. I have met Mark a few times before, so am really happy to have the chance to dance with him. I will keep you updated with all our news and progress over the next few weeks. We get to dance in some really beautiful places as well, as I love all the Cities accros the UK. I will take in as much sightseeing as possible on my travels. Some of you have messaged me to say you have tickets to some of the shows, and I am sure you will all have a great time, let me know how you enjoy it. I really enjoy hearing from you all, and thank you for your lovely Christmas and New Year messages, over the past few weeks. I am so touched that you took the time to write to me over the holidays, so thank you all so much!

You may have seen James Jordan and I on ' So you think you can dance'. It was great to be involved in the show, and to pass on some advice about Ballroom. I think it is a wonderful series, and I know it was a huge success in the USA so I am glad that Nigel Lythgoe has brought it over here, where I am sure it will continue to be a success, and inspire people to dance. There is some real talent on there, so I shall be watching. You will also be able to see the BBC3 series, ' Dancing on Wheels' very soon. This is going to be on early this year, once I have the exact dates I will post them on my web. I was so inspired by all the competitors on this show, and hopefully it will encourage people to get involved in Wheelchair dance, which is continuing to grow all over the World.

I do not have any more news to report at the moment, as It is all training for the tour and preparing for spending some weeks on the road. I will then be touring with Brian again, so I look forward to seeing you all very soon!

Once again, Happy 2010!

Kristina x

Congratulations Chris!!

2009-12-22T10:26:00.007Z

Wow, what a final! I thought both Chris and Ricky were amazing on Saturday, and it is so incredible to see the journey they have taken from the start of the series till now. It was a close one, but congratulations to Chris, and ofcourse Ola who took him on the journey. It was good to dance with Joe again in the final, and to see all of the Celebrities back with their partners. I thought Jade also looked fantastic, after she had to pull out due to her knee injury. When I look back, I still cannot believe how quickly this series of Strictly has gone. It seems like only yesterday when the line up was announced, but I know time flies by when you are enjoying yourself. I have had a great time this year and it was so good to be back. I am lucky to work with some incredible people, and love going in every day, but I know the experience would not be the same if it was not for you all. It means so much to have your support and votes, I really do appreciate it so much. I am touched, and grateful as you help to keep my dream alive, so once again thank you all!!! x

There is not long to go until the tour starts! Once we are into 2010 the rehearsals begin. I look forward to travelling over the UK, and ofcourse after the tour I will be touring with Brian. Some of you have sent me some messages saying which events you are going to watch, so I hope to have the chance to meet you all. Keep checking my official website, for dates and ticket information as we are still confirming at different venues.

Christmas Day is only 3 days away, but I think I am just about done with my Christmas shopping. I wish you all a very Happy Christmas! I know it has been snowing alot over the past few days, so I am feeling in the festive spirit! I am now staying in the UK, but I hope to go back to LA at some point over the holiday season, so I am now unsure of my New Year plans. If I do not blog before the New Year, I hope you all have a very happy and successful 2010...but I will be in touch again very soon. I am looking forward to a good rest.

Time to sign off, speak soon and sending lots of Christmas wishes.

Kristina x

Happy Christmas!

2009-12-07T16:38:00.013Z

I hope you are all enjoying the festive season! I cannot believe it is Christmas time already, but I love this time of the year....

So only 2 more weekends left of Strictly, and then series 7 will be over which I am sad to say. I have really enjoyed it, even though Joe and I were knocked out in week 5 I have had such a good time in the group dances, and everyone has been great to work with. I thought the standard this past weekend was excellent. They have come along way since week one, and I am sure the final is going to be close, as there is not a clear winner. Everyone has worked so hard and all deserve to finish at the top. As we know there can only be one winner so not long to go until we find out who will be the 2009 champion couple!

Once the show finishes, there is only a couple of weeks to go until the 2010 tour begins. We will be once again going all round the country, which I am looking forward to. As I said before I love travelling all over the UK and seeing all the different places, there are some beautiful cities, and everyone is so welcoming. I am pleased to say this year I will be partnering Mark Ramprakash the champion of 2006. I was not on the show when Mark won, but I know he danced so well with Karen, in particular with the Ballroom and Latin dances. It will be an honour to partner him! We were on the Weakest Link together last Christmas so we have met before and I look forward to dancing with him soon. After the New Year we will be straight into rehearsals, but there will atleast be some rest time before.

Over the past week I have been to a few events. Ed Hardy recently launched a London Store in the Westfield shopping centre. I went along to this, and they have some great clothing so I am glad to see they have opened a store up here in London. I was also a guest at the Industry awards hosted by Piers Morgan. It was held at the lovely Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Knightsbridge. Again I had a good time and thought Piers was excellent. Last night I went to see a West End play called ' Inherit the Wind'. This is the play Kevin Spacey is in, and I was lucky enough to meet him at the showbiz awards last month. He invited Joe and I along to see his play. I am a massive fan of him and I have been since I was younger so It was great to see him live. I really do recommend the play which was written in the 1960s, I dont want to give too much of the plot away incase you go and watch. It is at the Old Vic theatre for another 10 days I think, so still time to go!

The last week or so has been busy, as I also launched the Glo Mineral make up ranch! ( as seen in the picure above) Their make up really does what is says, and leaves your complexion with a healthy glow. Its also makes your skin feel fresh and does not feel heavy at all, so I have been wearing it recently, a great stocking filler to!

For Christmas I will be going to LA again to see my mom. Really looking forward to going home, and spending time with my family. I do not get to see my mom alot so happy to be heading back. For the first time I will be in the UK for New Year! I hear there are some good celebrations so cant wait to step into 2010 here!

Lots of rehearsing going on this week still, and I will be heading to the British Fashion Awards on Wednesday night. Once again thank you for all your kind messages, I really love talking to you all and hope to meet lots of you on tour soon!

Take Care, and I will be in touch again really soon.

Kristina xx

p.s I wanted to let you all know that It Takes Two did a feature on my dancing career. Unfortunately they put it out at the last minute, so I did not have a chance to post it. You can see it on the BBC I Player, episode 55. There were lots of photos from me as a girl, and the story of my dancing life. You will recognise alot of the photos from my web!

Beyonce, Jade, touring and more!

2009-11-25T15:03:00.008Z

Hi everyone!

It has been a little while since I last blogged so time to let you all know what has been happening recently!

I was really sad to see Jade leave Strictly last weekend. We were hoping she would recover in the week, but unfortunately she had to make the tough decision to withdraw. I think she did so well, and would have gone all the way to the final. She was such a natural, and it is so far from her comfort zone of Athletics that it was even more impressive. I know that sports people do have a natural determination and good training mind which I think helped her learn fast. Get better soon Jade, we miss you and hope to see you back for the final!

Last week I was busy rehearsing for Strictly, but I also went to the opening of the Ronen Chen store which I love. I have alot of clothes from there, so I am glad they have now officially opened their first UK store! The night before I also went to the Beyonce concert when she was performing at the O2 Arena. I have always been a fan of Beyonce, I think her songs are amazing and she was even better live, her all round performance was brilliant! If you get the chance to go watch then you really should. We had a good night and shared the box with a few different people, including Alexandra Burke who is doing so well with her singing career right now and Peter Andre who was really sweet. It was an eventful night, and I would definately go again!

As I mentioned on my last blog, the weekend before I went to the Showbiz awards with Joe. The Variety Club is a charity to help disadvantaged children and they put on this event every year. It was good to be part of such a special cause. I wore a really cute dress from Lipsy, another brand that I really like. It is now that time of year with Christmas parties round the corner so a good excuse to go shopping ladies!

I cannot believe that a month today will be Christmas day...this year has flown by, particularly the past few months since Strictly started. I am not sure of my plans for Xmas yet but I know that I will take a good break as January and February will be really busy with the Strictly tour, and then Brian and I will be going on tour all around the UK. I have posted all of my events on my website, so have a look to see if we will be coming near you. I always love meeting you all, so I am really looking forward to it. We will be going back to alot of the same venues as last year, including Aberdeen! We will also be down in Yeovil and then around the Midlands, so we are trying to get to as many places as possible. I love travelling round the UK, and taking in all the sights, so I hope to see even more of it next year.

I will not be in Strictly this weekend, as I am having a few days off but I will be back the week after...Once again, thank you all for your lovely messages, particularly after Brian and I danced the Bolero. It was such an honour to do a tribute for Patrick Swayze and dance to such a beautiful song. I am glad you liked it. I am so lucky to have amazing people supporting me, it means so much!!

Until next week

Kristina x

2009-11-12T09:40:00.006Z

Hi everyone,

Last weekend in Blackpool was really good, and a good change from the London studios. It all started on Friday morning very early! We went up on a team bus, it was a long drive but there was a good team atmosphere so it went by quickly. As soon as we arrived there was alot of rehearsals and a chance to have a look at the ballroom! It was amazing and looked so magical. It is alot bigger than the studio dance floor so I think it was a bit different for the celebs. We later met up with some of the forces in honour of Remembrance day, and taught them all how to dance! I think it was very different from their day to day jobs, but they all had a really good time and It was so inspiring to be working with such brave and wonderful men and women. Before Blackpool I also had the chance to model a Swarovski crystal brooch for the Royal British Legion, which was a limited edition poppy. The poppy was to raise money for the poppy appeal, I went with Lizzie Cundy, Zoe Salmon and Alex Best and it was an honour to be involved and help to raise money for such a good cause (pictured above)

At the end of last week I also went to the film premier of 'A Christmas Carol'. It was in Leicester Square and It felt like Christmas! I was very cold in my dress, but really enjoyed the film! This week I also went to another event with Joe to the MTV Staying Alive foundation launch. This was held at the Westbury Hotel, and again was really good and I had a great time!

I mentioned on my twitter a few days ago the clothes company called ' Ronen Chen'. http://www.ronenchen.com/main.php?lang=en This is an Israeli designer, and they are having a grand opening of their first UK store on the 19th November. I love their clothes, they are really stylish, comfortable and affordable so I have alot of clothing from there. I will be at the opening on the 19th, and if you want to have a look at their collection, call Anne on 0207 723 1973 as she is organising the guest list. There is 15% discount on the night, lets get shopping, and a good excuse with Christmas round the corner!

This week I have been keeping really busy with group rehearsals! So I am looking forward to Saturday's show. I am also going to the Showbiz awards on Sunday night, so a busy weekend ahead....

Thank you all for your continued support and lovely messages through my blog and facebook! I am also pleased to say that Brian and I have some shows confirmed for 2010 so I will be posting those as soon as I have all the details. I love meeting you all at these events, so I really look forward to them.

I will be in touch again soon

Kristina xx

New hairdo....?

2009-11-03T16:53:00.027Z

I have not been blogging for the past week, so I have a lot to catch up on. Even though I am no longer in the main Strictly competition I am still keeping busy. Last week was a really relaxing time, and a good chance to take some time out after the busy months, but since then I have been back to practice and doing various shoots.

I had a great time on Saturday's show, and really enjoyed the dance Brian and I did with James and Ola...the Bee Gees are so amazing and it was really special to dance for them. It was also a great honour to see them perform for the first time in so long, so I will always remember that. Thank you for all your comments about our dance, I am glad you all enjoyed it!

I know we are now in November (the year is going so quick!), but I wanted to thank you all again for the birthday gifts I received in September! They were so special, and I was so touched to receive them. My schedule was very hectic back then so I do not think I thanked you enough. Rihanoff's Radiant Lounge I was so grateful for the tee shirt, which as I mentioned on my facebook page earlier, I love! I hope to take a photo at some point...also the book you made was so sweet. So thank you all!!

As you know this week is a bit different as Strictly is going North. It will be good to have a change of scene, and I look forward to seeing the sights of Blackpool. I hear where we are dancing will be really good, so very excited. We are all going up very early on Friday in a team bus, so an early start! I look forward to talking to you about it here next week, with all the news and gossip from the trip.

Since I last blogged, the photo shoot I did for St Tropez has now come out. If you have not seen some of the pictures click on this link http://www.st-tropez.com/en/spotlight/news/kristina-rihanoff.aspx It was a really great shoot, and the black hair shoots were a bit different, I know some of you said you did not recognise me! I do not think I did either, but I am glad you liked the change. It was reported I had changed my hair colour for good, but I have not as you would have seen from Saturday....Some of you even compared me to a bond girl! Very flattered.

Once again thank you so much for all of your support as always. I feel so lucky to have such kind, supportive people behind me all the time, it means so much.

Speak to you all soon!

Kristina x

2009-10-22T10:23:00.005+01:00

Hi everyone,

Well this week has been a bit different and alot quieter than the past few months! Joe and I were sad to leave Strictly last weekend, as I know that Joe had a lot more to give. He was making improvements as the weeks went on, and Im sure we would have seen alot more. I think last week you could see that Joe really enjoyed the performance, and felt alot more confident. I really did enjoy every minute of it, and am looking forward to taking part in all the group dances. Thank you all so much for voting for us over the series, I was so grateful for the time we had on the show. I have also received some really kind messages of support, so thank you all, It is so kind, and means so much that you take the time to write to me.

I am pleased to say the photo shoot I did for Hello magazine is out this week, It was a really fun shoot. I will also be in a few more magazines at the end of the month, all part of the project for being an ambassador for St Tropez perfect tan products. I will keep you updated....

This weekend, Brian and I will be in Maidstone on Sunday! We are really looking forward to it, so I will see some of you there. I do not think there are any tickets left, but keep a look out for last minute cancellations if you want a ticket and do not yet have one.

I must sign off now, I have some practice this afternoon so have to get ready.

I will be in touch soon.

Kristina x

Its the Friday feeling!

2009-10-16T15:09:00.004+01:00

Ladies and Gents!!

Only 24 hours until show number 5...and this week has flown by! Joe has been working even harder this week, and we have been practicing alot, so I really hope it pays off as it would be so good to get some positive comments from the judges! Joe is feeling a bit exhausted, and for a boxer I think that proves how hard he has been practicing! Thank you for all your support this week, it is so good to know that you have noticed Joe's improvement, as he really has come along way since we started.

Last night we went to the Royal Albert Hall for the National Ballroom Championships. It was a nice change to watch, and there was some incredible dancing. It was also a good chance for Joe to see how its done on stage, and pick up a few tips. I know that watching is really helpful, particularly when you are learning.

I am really looking forward to tomorrow! I hope you all enjoy the show as well as our routine, last minute practice time now....

Speak soon and I will be blogging again next week with updates on the show.

Kristina x

Practice makes perfect!

2009-10-12T12:55:00.005+01:00

Today Joe and I are back to practice for this weekends routine! We have taken on board all of the judges comments, so hopefully we will get some positive reactions on Saturday. I am really proud of Joe and the improvements he is making so I did disagree with some of the remarks from the judges, but I really hope you all enjoyed the Foxtrot! Thank you so much for all your messages and for voting to keep us in! We are so grateful and it means so much.

Yesterday I did a really cool photoshoot with Hello magazine as the new ambassador for St Tropez perfect legs product. I will let you know when the shoot is published, but It was really fun...I wont give too much away otherwise it will spoil it when it comes out!

Brian and I have another event coming up on the 25th October. This time we will be in Maidstone, Kent. All the details are on my web, or click here. Some of you have sent some messages to ask if we will be doing some events further North. Our schedule is still being finalised, but as soon as I know I will post on here and my web so watch this space.....

The glamour magazine shoot that us Strictly girls did is now out in the November issue of Glamour mag! That was a really fun shoot as well, take a look.

Thank you all so much!!

I will be in touch again soon, to keep you updated on our training.

Kristina x

Pride of Britain

2009-10-06T16:00:00.004+01:00

Hi Everyone!

I have been keeping busy in the past few days, so I have alot to tell you about. On my last post I was getting ready for show number 3 on Strictly. I hope you liked our dance, I wanted to try and make it fun with the boxing cape and thought it would make Joe feel at home, so I hope you enjoyed the choreography. Joe was feeling alot more confident and I think it showed in our dance, we are making some steady improvements but thank you all for believing in us, and voting! We are so grateful, and are really enjoying this journey. I will be back in Wales later today, so we will be working really hard this week on Saturday's routine. I will let you know how it all goes.

On Sunday, Brian and I did a Salsa class at the Wandsworth Palais. We always love these events, and really enjoy teaching you all and performing for you. For those who went I hope you all had good time, and have been praciticing your Salsa! Our next one is on October 25th, the details are on my web, or click here. Look forward to seeing some of you there.

Yesterday, Joe and I practiced all day in London, before going to the Pride of Britain awards in the evening. The event was so amazing, and the stories from all the brave people, were really inspirational. I felt so lucky to be a guest and I think everyone needed their tissues!

I wore a really cute dress from the Debenhams range again. I love their dresses which I have a few of, see the picture above.

I look forward to the show at the weekend, and a busy week of practice ahead. As always, I will be in touch soon! Thank you all again!

Kristina x

Team Calzaghe!

2009-09-30T12:59:00.005+01:00

Day 3 in Wales and its dance, dance, dance. Joe and I had a real boost last week when Craig gave us some positive comments. It was great to hear, as last week we worked our socks off! This week we are going through all our steps again, and learning our new routine, so we are really hoping that Saturday will be a good evening...Joe and I have just had some personalised jackets with 'Team Calzaghe' on the back made, so we have some team spirit going on!

I also want to remind you about the event that Brian and I are doing this weekend. All the details are on my website, it is at the Wandsworth Palais. Really looking forward to it. The Salsa class we did a few weeks ago, was alot of fun and everyone had a good time so this one should be good. For those who already have tickets, look forward to seeing you there!!

Also, the Pink Vest is still selling well and making lots of money for the Breast Cancer Campaign. Tomorrow (1st Oct) is the first day of the Breast Cancer awareness month which is what the Pink Vest supports. You can still buy them from Damart. Check them out online!

I must get back to practice, but thank you all so much for your recent messages of support, it really does mean alot that you have taken the time to write to me. Speak to you all really soon.

Kristina x

Lets be natural ladies!

2009-09-25T16:21:00.005+01:00

Ladies and Gents!

It is nearly that time of the week again! This week has flown by, and the past few days have been keeping me busy....

I had a really good evening on my birthday, it was good to spend some time with friends and some of the Stricty contestants came along. Then on Wednesday Joe and I did an appearance on the Paul O'Grady show which was alot of fun. He is so funny and I really enjoyed being part of it. Have a look at our interview here.

Most importantly our practice has been going well so far, and we are working hard on making Joe feel more comfortable on the dance floor! It is such a different routine to boxing, so we are trying to build his confidence, and we really do appreciate all of your support! Thank you so much.

A few of you have commented about the small interview some of us Strictly girls did for Heat magazine, without any make up. I think its really important to let your skin breathe and I love being natural. When I go home to see me mom, I love walking around without any make up on and wearing tracksuits. I think its really important to let your skin relax, and when you do put make up on it makes you feel really glam!

I am running out of time but I hope you all enjoy the show this weekend, and as always I will speak to you soon to discuss week 2.

Kristina x

Birthday time!

2009-09-22T15:44:00.003+01:00

Hi everyone,

It is Tuesday 22nd September and it is my birthday! Thank you all so much for your birthday wishes, I am so touched by them. I plan to have a little celebration tonight with some close friends and family, so really looking forward to that. Nothing to late though as a busy day ahead tomorrow with practice. This week I am staying in London to prepare for our next dance, rather than Wales, but I will be back in Wales next Monday!

I hope you all enjoyed the first show at the weekend. I want to thank you for voting and keeping Joe and I in the competition. We are so grateful that you picked up the phone to keep us in, we cannot thank you enough. This week we have been working hard, and I am trying to make Joe feel more comfortable on the dance floor. It is not natural for him, not just the dancing but the whole performance so we hope to make some real improvements for the weekend. Once again, thank you for believing in us and I will update you on our progress before the next show :)

Speak to you all soon

Kristina x

Pink Vests!!

2009-09-18T16:27:00.004+01:00

Hello all,

The day has finally arrived, only a few hours to go! After a busy few days and some final practice sessions, Joe and I are ready to get dancing! I just want to thank you all so much for your support and messages over the past few weeks. It means so much to me and I really hope you enjoy the new series. It is so special to me to have your support, without it I would not be living my dream, so I cannot thank you enough!

I also hope everyone that went to the dance class with Brian and I last Sunday had a great time, we really enjoyed it so I hope you did to. Do not forget our next class is on the 4th October, so try and come if you can! The details are on my web.

As I mentioned on my website a few days ago, the Pink Vest and socks I modelled are now officially for sale through Damart. They are very comfy and cute vests, and all the money raised goes to such a great cause, which I am very passionate about.

I must sign off now, as I have lots of last minute preparations to finish, but thank you to you all! I look forward to discussing our first performance on here soon!

Kristina x

Strictly Dancing !

2009-09-11T10:35:00.005+01:00

I have recently been wearing some dance shoes from ‘Strictly Dancing’ who supply all kinds of dance wear! I love the shoes, and they have a big selection to include all dance styles, from ballet to tap, street dance and of course Ballroom! It is really important for me to wear dance shoes that fit my feet really well, and are comfortable as I am on my feet for hours at a time, my feet are very happy with these shoes!

A few weeks ago I told you about the 2nd edition of my book 'The Art of Dance Sport make up' which is now for sale. I saw the book myself this week, and I am disappointed with the finished copy. The picture quality is not as clear as I had hoped, so I really am sorry about this. I have decided to reduce the cost to £22 to include packaging and postage... and I am so sorry to those who have already bought it at £30, but I hope you are enjoying the book and are learning lots of useful tips!

A week today Strictly starts! Thanks again for your support, I am so grateful for all the messages on my blog and facebook, it means so much. I hope you all have a good weekend, I will be blogging again next week, as the countdown begins.

kristina x

What a day!

2009-09-09T23:55:00.009+01:00

Hello everyone, what an exciting day, so I really wanted to write on my blog as soon as possible to share it all with you! Today was a big day for Joe as a new footbridge has been named after him in Newbridge... Joe was there with his dad Enzo to see this very special occassion and it was such an honour to be a part of this. So many people turned out to watch and it was so amazing to see the support that people were giving Joe, he truly is a national treasure.

The fun did not stop there, as I went to the Gym with Joe and his dad and watched him box! It was so incredible as I have never seen live boxing before so it was such an experience. It was very fast and left me speechless. It was great to be able to see Joe in his comfort zone, as I have read so much about his career and It was very inspirational to watch him. I can see how he is very quick on his feet!

Even with all the excitement of today, there is still time for dancing! As tomorrow we will be busy practicing again, only one more week to go! Practice, practice practice!!

Kristina x

Back to practice!

2009-09-08T07:02:00.004+01:00

Hello everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful weekend. When I was in Bath last week with my friends I made a video for you guys...it is a little small but click above! I have also made an online photo album with a few photos. I really enjoy taking photos when I go to exciting and special places. I hope to be able to share some more photos with you over the coming months.

This past weekend I was back in London. I had a photo shoot with Glamour magazine on Saturday, which is always enjoyable to do. I will let you know when the magazine will be out. On Sunday I treated myself to a facial, which was really relaxing, and gave me a chance to unwind. The weekend went really quickly as I am now back in Wales ready to start this weeks practice with Joe! The clock is ticking with only 10 more days till the first live show! It is coming round so fast, but very very excited!

I hope you have enjoyed my video and photos, and thanks again for all of your support and good wishes, it means so much!!

I will be in touch soon.

Kristina x

Greetings from Wales!

2009-09-02T21:24:00.003+01:00

I am writing my latest blog from Wales, where I have been all week practicing with Joe. It has been a very busy few days, and we have been doing alot of dancing, going through all the different steps! I cannot reveal too much, as we want to keep it a surprise for the first show... but things are going well and Joe is working really hard. He is such a pleasure to teach, and I feel really lucky to be working with him. I am now resting for the day, and preparing for tomorrow as I like to allow time to choreograph for the next day, preparation is always an important part.

I had a wonderful time in Bath at the weekend. It is such a beautiful City, I hope I will go again very soon. My friend really enjoyed herself, I think Bath is very different to the USA, it is so English which I love!

Thank you again for all your messages of support! It means so much to me :) I will return to London on Friday so I hope to update you all soon.

Kristina x

A bittersweet party!

2009-08-28T21:23:00.006+01:00

Hi everyone,

I hope you all enjoy the long bank holiday weekend ahead... I have a friend from the US staying with me at the moment so I thought I would take her down to Bath, and have a look at some English Culture! It will also be a chance to get some rest time in before training starts again next week.

Brian and I went to an event on Wednesday evening called the ' Bittersweet partnership Garden Party' , which aims to discover the different types of beer and its role in Womens lifes! It was at the Soho Sanctum Hotel and I wore a really cute black dress ( in the picture) from the Debenhams evening wear range. I have worn quite alot of their clothing in the past, there is alot of choice and stylish dresses for all sorts of occasions. Go and have a look!

I will be blogging again next week, so speak to you then.

Kristina, x

New event on the 25th October !

2009-08-27T22:07:00.003+01:00

I am pleased to say that Brian and I are performing an evening of dance, to include American Smooth and Latin cabaret! This is taking place at the Ditton Community Centre in Maidstone, Kent on Sunday 25th October. The tickets cost £35. Click on the link below to reserve your place

http://www.strictlykent.com/

We will make it a fun and entertaining evening, and there will be time after for us to answer your questions!

I would also like to thank you again for your kind messages of support for Strictly, which I have received over the past few days! It means so much.

Kristina x

The Art of Dance Sport Make Up - Now for sale

2009-08-27T07:05:00.005+01:00

Hi Everyone,

Just to let you all know that the 2nd edition of my book, ' The Art of Dance Sport Make Up' is now ready, and can be bought via my web. In my book I share my secrets of applying make up, which I have learnt throughout my dancing career and I have used in shows such as Dancing with the Stars and Strictly. Just click on the 'Shop' tab and you can buy it through PayPal. It is £30 which includes packaging and postage.

I am keeping myself very busy! Now that Strictly has launched I have been doing a lot of Interviews and photo shoots over the past 2 days. Joe and I were on GMTV yesterday so it was an early start! Have a look at our interview online http://www.gm.tv/videos/star-guests/37526-strictly-revealed.html

I also did a Salsa Masterclass which was in aid of Mcmillan Cancer support. I went through the basic steps which I will be teaching Joe, have a look and get dancing!....http://www.gm.tv/videos/gmtv-highlights/37555-strictly-salsa-masterclass.html

Kristina x

And my partner is......?

2009-08-25T15:29:00.009+01:00

JOE CALZAGHE!!

Hi everyone, as you can see my new partner is Joe Calzaghe!! I am so so excited and lucky to have been put with such a great person. He has had an incredible career as a boxer and I think he will adapt to dancing really well, as he is a natural sportsman and quick on his feet!

I will keep you updated on our training progress, and try to update my twitter as much as possible, so look out for my tweets.

See what Joe had to say about his new challenge on Strictly http://www.bbc.co.uk/strictlycomedancing/couples/2009/joe_kristina.shtml

Thank you so much for all your support, I am so grateful for your messages! Let the show begin!

Kristina x

Workshop at the Stardust Ballrooms!!

2009-08-24T17:05:00.005+01:00

Hi Everyone,

I hope you are all enjoying the good weather! Things will be getting busy soon so I am just starting to get prepared....

Brian and I will be doing another Salsa Workshop, on Sunday 13th September. This one will be at the Stardust Ballroom, we are going to split the afternoon into 2 different groups :-

workshop for beginners and improvers: 1.00pm - 1.45pm

workshop for intermediates and advanced: 2.00pm - 2.45pm

practice time 2.45 - 3.30pm

£20 per person per workshop, for bookings before 1 September (members £18)

£25 per person per workshop for bookings from 1 September (members £23)

It will be another fun afternoon! Try and come if you can! http://www.stardustball.co.uk/special_events.php

Kristina x

Salsa Class details!

2009-08-18T09:11:00.008+01:00

Hi Everyone,

As mentioned yesterday I now have the details for the event on the 4th October :-

Sunday 4th October
Wandsworth Palais http://www.wandsworthpalais.com/
7pm - 9.30pm
45 minute Salsa Class followed by a master - class recital, finishing with a Question and Answer session.
£ 40 per person, £ 70 per pair
Call 020 8870 5309
For more information email info@wandsworthpalais.com

Tickets can also be bought here http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/user?query=search&region=xxx&category=misc&search=kristina+rihanoff&x=4&y=11

All the tickets bought for the 23rd August event will be valid on the 4th October!!

I hope you can all make the new date and I really look forward to seeing you there.

Kristina x

NEW DATE for our Salsa Class

2009-08-17T15:18:00.004+01:00

I want to let you all know that the Salsa Dance Class that Brian and I are doing, has now been postponed till the 4th October! It was due to take place on the 23rd August, but we thought that October would be a better time for everyone. I really hope you can make the new day, and I will post all the details about it on here as soon as I know.

I am now back in London! I had a great time out in LA, but I am ready for business now and look forward to the Strictly count down. As some of you may have seen on twitter I am now so close to being able to reveal on here my new Celebrity Partner.....

Keep an eye on my Blog for any more news

Kristina x

Follow me on Twitter!

2009-08-10T19:26:00.005+01:00

Hi Everyone,

I just wanted to let you all know that I am now on Twitter, so I am learning how to tweet! I am hoping to keep it updated as often as I can, particularly over the next few months....so here is the link http://twitter.com/KRihanoff add me and we can follow each other!

Kristina x

Salsa Class at Wandsworth Palais

2009-08-04T10:19:00.006+01:00

Brian and I are really looking forward to a Salsa Dance Class we are holding in Wandsworth, on the 23rd August. This will be at the Wandsworth Palais from 2pm - 5pm. They have recently refurbished the Ballroom so It is a great venue, please do come along, we would love to see as many of you there as possible!

This link takes you directly to the site which has all the information, get your dancing shoes on...It will be a fun event http://www.wandsworthpalais.com/event/21/

Kristina x

Dancing on Wheels on BBC3!!

2009-08-04T09:57:00.007+01:00

It has been a very busy couple of weeks...but I have had the privilege to be involved in a new show called Dancing on Wheels! I have been working alongside Brian as a Choreographer, and it has been so inspirational for me to be involved in this. All the competitors trained really hard, in a similar format to Strictly, with the chance to represent the UK, in the Wheelchair Dance Sport European Championships in Israel. This show will be on BBC3 early next year, I will post all the details on here nearer the time! So keep a look out, it will be a great show. I really hope it helps to promote Wheelchair Dance in the UK, as It has been such fun and I cannot wait to see it next year.

I finished Dancing on Wheels a couple of weeks ago, and since then I have been out in LA visiting my mom and getting some rest time before the Strictly season begins. It is good spending time with my mom, as I do not see her much being in the UK and I am doing a lot of relaxing. There has been alot of sun, so I will try and send some back to London as I know there has been rain recently! Once I get back to the UK, I will be getting ready for Strictly, so I look forward to updating you on here once Series 7 begins....watch this space!

kristina x

Cup of Cha Chc Cha!

2009-07-17T17:34:00.005+01:00

I am so happy to have been asked to participate in MacMillan's World's Biggest Coffee Morning! Register today to win amazing prizes, including a private Latin lesson with me at Pineapple Studios, plus a free six-month membership!

MacMillan is a wonderful charity that raises money for people living with cancer. I am honored to be of help in this small way.

-Kristina

Thank You

2009-06-30T06:00:00.000+01:00

I want to thank everyone from the bottom of my heart for making our tour so enjoyable. We love what we do and performing for everyone has been a wonderful experience.

Meeting our fans face to face was incredible. We are so lucky to have such support from you. Truly, we feel blessed. It is because of your support that I continue to enjoy my journey in the UK so much. Thank you.

Thank you to everyone who asked us to perform for them. We had a wonderful time and you are all amazing people. Brian and I really enjoyed the opportunity to perform at new venues for new people and to see more of the UK. It is such a beautiful country that I cannot pick a favorite spot! We hope to be asked back to all of the venues and more in the future.

-Kristina

Lessons at Kensington Dance Studio

2009-06-27T14:00:00.000+01:00

I'm teaching at Kensington Dance Studio on Monday, July 6th. My lessons are 45 minutes each for £90. I teach all levels (beginner to professional) and all ages. Everyone should dance!

If you would like to book a lesson with me, please email me and we'll get it arranged.

-Kristina x

Salsa Seminar with Brian at Karen Hardy Studios

2009-06-25T14:00:00.000+01:00

Brian and I are really looking forward to the Salsa Seminar tomorrow! It's going to be so much fun and I know you'll all enjoy yourselves.

Please take a moment to read this post on Sarah's blog about the seminar.

Looking forward to seeing you all there,

-Kristina x

Devon, Here We Come!

2009-06-24T08:51:00.000+01:00

I am really looking forward to performing with Brian tonight at the Victoria Hotel in Torquay, Devon. I've never been to Devon before but I have heard it is beautiful. Plus, I have been told that I should try scones and strawberry jam with clotted cream. If that's anything like a cream tea - yummy!

I hope to meet many more of you tonight at the venue. Brian and I hope you enjoy the show as much as we enjoy performing for you.

Brian and I would like to thank Rob Mason, of Danceworks Devon, for inviting us to perform tonight.

-Kristina x

Private Lessons

2009-06-06T20:33:00.000+01:00

Our grand adventure has started and I'm really enjoying performing for everyone! Throughout our tour, I am available for private lessons at each stop. Brian and I are in the following places:

12 June: Preston, Lancashire
13 June: Blackpool
14 June: Preston, Lancashire
17 June: St. Ives, Cambridgeshire
20 June: Blackpool
21 June: Blackpool
22 June: Kensington Dance Studio, London
24 June: Torquay, Devon
25 June: Kensington Dance Studio, London
26 June: Karen Hardy Studios, London
27 June: Guernsey

If you'd like to book a lesson with me, please email Sarah and she will sort it out for you.

-Kristina

Practice and Performance Wear

2009-06-01T20:35:00.000+01:00

In an effort to reduce my wardrobe, I am selling both my practice and performance wear. As well, I am also selling any practice wear seen during rehearsal footage with John Sergeant on last year's Strictly.

During our Grand Tour this month, if you see me wearing something you like, please approach me after the show and we can discuss selling.

You can contact me with any questions or if you want to buy.

-Kristina

Off to Aberdeen!

2009-05-29T06:45:00.001+01:00

Today Brian and I are travelling to Aberdeen, Scotland to perform at the 80th Anniversary Celebrations for the Beach Ballroom. We are both really excited to be participating in this event. We also get to perform with Alex & Lisa Ivanets and Marco Cavallaro and Joanne Clifton. The Ross Mitchell Band & Singers will be providing wonderful music.

For those of you in the area, Brian and I are available for private lessons at the Beach Ballroom on Saturday, May 30th from 1:15 - 4:30. If you'd like to book a lesson, please email my PA, Sarah, and she'll organize it for you.

I want to say an huge, huge thank you to Elaine and George Sim who have organized this whole event. They have worked so hard to bring this all together and if you have tickets, I know you'll be really happy with the evening. Thank you so much, Elaine and George, for inviting Brian and I to be a part of this.

I also wanted to say thank you to everyone who has supported me in the UK and at home. It is because of all of you that I am living my dream here. Thank you. From the bottom of my heart, thank you so much.

-Kristina

My John is the BEST Top

2009-05-15T17:32:00.000+01:00

Sarah is auctioning my John is the BEST shirt from last season on her blog. She made this for me and I wore it all the time! John and I were photographed in it and I wore it when I gave my tour of backstage for ITT.

Sarah only made one top and it is the one I wore. I gave it to her after the finale and she took it home to auction off. The winner also gets an autographed photo of me.

Go and check out Sarah's blog!

-Kristina

Spring Dance in Malvern

2009-05-13T14:00:00.000+01:00

Brian and I are performing at Dance at 8's Spring Dance on Sunday, May 17th.

We haven't been in Worcestershire before, so we're looking forward to going there. Sarah has told me a lot about it and I know I'm going to enjoy it.

We are delighted to have been asked to perform and we hope to meet many of you there. There are some tickets left, so if you haven't booked yours, please call Barbara or Paul at 01386 556 665.

Brian and I have reworked our cabaret and will be performing it for the first time at this event. Let us know what you think!

-Kristina

Walk the Walk

2009-05-12T16:56:00.000+01:00

I was so honored to be asked to join this year's Walk the Walk photoshoot, along with Erin, Ola, and Camilla. Su made our beautiful bras and I love mine! It's so beautiful. Su does amazing work!

Please visit my fansite, run by Alan and Dannii, to see a picture of the 4 of us. Come back here and let me know what you think.

-Kristina

Pink Vest Campaign

2009-04-21T14:05:00.000+01:00

I'm so excited to tell you all that I will be modelling this year's Pink Vest! The Pink Vest raises money for the Breast Cancer Campaign and I am honored to be a part of it. Last year, over £20,000 was raised! Wow!

My Official Sites

2009-04-14T17:34:00.000+01:00

Hello everyone,

Since Alan and Dannii have made this beautiful fansite, I wanted to let everyone know what other sites out there are mine:

-my website (it's getting a great new look!)
-my personal Facebook page
-this blog
-my YouTube
-my Cafe Press store

I no longer have a myspace page or a Facebook fan page. Any myspace or Facebook pages, besides my personal one, are fake and are being run without my permission. If you'd like to be added to my friend's list, please send me a friend request so I can add you.

My official website is my only website. Thank you,

-Kristina

Fansite

2009-04-11T13:56:00.001+01:00

I was so touched when Alan and Danii asked if they could create a fansite for me: Kristina Rihanoff Central. What they have created is just beautiful and I love it!

This site is run with my permission and I hope you will take a moment to stop by and let me know what you think.

Strictly Ballroom: Aberdeen

2009-04-09T10:16:00.001+01:00

Brian and I are thrilled to be performing at the Beach Ballroom's 80th Anniversary Celebration! It takes place on 30 May 2009 in Aberdeen, Scotland.

Music will be provided by the Ross Mitchell Band & Singers. Also performing are Alex Ivanets & Lisa Bellinger-Ivanets (UK Closed Professional Latin Champions) and Marco Cavallaro & Joanne Clifton (UK Closed & British National Amateur BallroomChampions).

Brian and I will be performing our signature Latin / American Smooth Cabaret and we hope to see you there. This event is going to be exciting and Brian and I are looking forward to performing in Scotland. Tickets are £37.50.

To book tickets, please email Elaine & George Sim, who are the ones responsible for organizing this event. You can also call and book your ticket at 01224 823 669.

Market Kitchen

2009-04-04T09:08:00.000+01:00

Yummy! They prepared very delicious dishes for me on Market Kitchen. Everything was so tasty and the salmon was to die for!

What Russian dishes have you tried or made in your home?

-Kristina

*Thank you to doubleohohseven for uploading this!

The Richard & Judy Show

2009-04-03T00:08:00.001+01:00

I had such a great time on at the Richard & Judy show! Here's the clip from 20 March. Let me know what you think!

Thank you to doubleohohseven for uploading this.

Dress by nicolangela from Anne O'Dowd.
Jewelery from Dower & Hall's Orchid Collection.

Air Dates

2009-03-19T17:40:00.000Z

Hi everyone,

I had so much fun on Richard & Judy and Market Kitchen yesterday! Everyone was fantastic!

Richard and Judy will air on Friday, March 20th at 6:00 p.m. It's on Sky Channel 109 or Virgin TV 124. Here's a link for you: http://uktv.co.uk/watch/homepage/sid/6916

Market Kitchen will air on Friday, April 3rd at 7:00 p.m. It's on Sky Channel 249 and Virgin TV 260. Here's a link: http://uktv.co.uk/food/homepage/sid/6136

I hope you'll tune in and let me know what you think!

-Kristina

Dress & jacket from Anne O'Dowd
Jewellery from Dower & Hall's Orchid Collection

Watch for Me On....

2009-03-18T13:00:00.000Z

Hi everyone!

I've landed safely in London and am happy to be back. London is such a wonderful city, with so much to see and do.

Tomorrow I have a busy day. I have been invited to appear on the Richard and Judy show again and I am very excited to be back! We'll be talking about this season's Dancing with the Stars.

After Richard and Judy, I'm going on Market Kitchen! I know Anton and Camilla have been on before and I am really looking forward to it. They are making some of my favorite Russian dishes and my mouth is already watering!

As soon as I know when each show will be on, I will post all of the details here. I hope you tune in and watch. Let me know what you think!

-Kristina

Salsa Seminar at Karen's Studio

2009-03-17T13:00:00.000Z

Hi everyone,

I'm really looking forward to my Grand Adventure with Brian in June! One of the events booked is a Salsa Seminar at Karen Hardy's studios. Her studio is beautiful and I am very excited to have the opportunity to teach their with Brian. Sarah has been working to organize this, as well as the rest of our adventure, and I wanted to post about the seminar here.

There will be two 45 minute sessions, beginning at 8:00 p.m. We'll be teaching Salsa, as well as a bit of Mambo. If you want to come to one session, the ticket price is £20 per person. If you come to both seminars, the tickets are £30 per person. Brian and I will make sure that this is a fun and interesting night.

I hope that you all come and bring a friend, too!

-Kristina

New Look!

2009-03-16T13:00:00.000Z

My 'Rihanoff's Red Hots' logo has gotten a new look!

Please visit my Cafe Press shop to check out all of the items I have for sale. This is the only place to buy my official merchandise.

-Kristina

Back in London

2009-03-15T16:52:00.000Z

Hello everyone!

I will be back in London from 18-22 March. I am excited to be back, even for a short time, because I love London very much.

I am available for teaching, workshops, seminars, and consultations while I am there. If you'd like to schedule something with me, please email me.

-Kristina

Happy Red Nose Day!

2009-03-13T16:36:00.001Z

Happy Red Nose Day, everyone! Remember to do something funny for money!

-Kristina & Foxy

Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour 2009: Birmingham

2009-03-09T14:58:00.000Z

A little message from me to you from the final day of the tour.

Thank you so much to everyone for your wonderful support! I am truly touched to have earned it. It means so very much to me.

-Kristina

The Grand Adventure

2009-02-21T14:00:00.000Z

Hello everyone!

Sarah has been working hard to organize teaching and shows for Brian and I when we come to the UK in June. She is calling it our Grand Adventure and I know it is going to be a lot of fun.

I love to dance, teach, and travel and I am looking forward to this adventure very much. Some of the places I have visited on the tour and other places I have never visited before!

So far, Brian and I will be visiting Blackpool, Preston, St. Ives, Devon, Oxford, London, and Guernsey. We would love to visit Dublin, Worcester or Gloucester, Liverpool, and Nottingham. If you know of a great place for us to perform and / or teach, please email Sarah.

Sarah has something fun planned for our supporters, so please check back here for more details.

-Kristina

Strictly Tour

2009-02-20T14:00:00.000Z

Hello everyone!

I can hardly believe that the tour finishes on Sunday! I have had the time of my life dancing with all of my wonderful friends from Strictly and performing for all of you!

Thank you to everyone who came to the show. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.

Thank you to everyone who asked to meet me. I am very touched to have been asked and enjoyed meeting all of you very much.

Thank you to everyone for your continued support. I am honored to have earned it.

-Kristina

Foxy Dancing!

2009-02-17T19:04:00.000Z

I've teamed up with Foxy from Foxy Bingo for Red Nose Day 2009 to raise money for Comic Relief!

Why don't you do something funny for money?

England, Wales, Ireland......and Scotland

2009-02-07T14:00:00.000Z

Brian and I will be in England, Wales, and Ireland from June 12-28, 2009. We'll be starting out in Manchester and travelling all the way down to Guernsey. We'll be performing and teaching, so check back here, or at StrictlyDancer.com often to see if we are coming near you.

If you'd like to have us perform at your studio or event, or would like to book workshops or lessons (private or group), please email my agent, John Sachs. We teach all styles, all levels, and all age groups.

We are also planning on being in Scotland from 28th May to 1st June. I will be going to Glasgow soon on the tour and it's my first time there. Brian has never been to Scotland before and we are both looking forward to it.

We look forward to performing and teaching at a venue near you!

Drawing for Charity

2009-02-06T14:00:00.000Z

I was so happy to be asked to draw a picture for NoSurrender.org. How do you like my John Sergeant dog? Isn't he cute? You can see us all drawing in the video.

I love all the pictures on there (Kenny's is hilarious) and I hope that it raises a lot of money for this wonderful charity.

Please click here to see the auction on eBay.

You have until the 15th of February to bid!

Let It Snow!

2009-02-03T01:08:00.001Z

Can you believe all of this snow in London??

Bookings for 2009

2009-02-01T14:00:00.000Z

Are you interested in lessons with Brian and I?

Looking for the perfect way to top off your event?
Want to see us perform live?

We are now accepting bookings for 2009! We are available for the following:

-demonstrations & shows
-charity & corporate events
-choreography
-lectures
-personal appearances
-private and group lessons
-wheelchair ballroom instruction & demonstrations~
-dress design & consultation*
-hair & makeup consultation*

Simply email your details here to arrange your booking. We are available in the US, the UK, and worldwide!

~Brian and his wheelchair ballroom partner
*Kristina only

Dancing with Julian!

2009-01-24T01:03:00.000Z

Tonight in Manchester, I got to dance with Julian Clary. What a blast! Julian is so funny and great to dance with. The reaction from the crowd when they announced us was so wonderful! Thank you, thank you everyone for your applause and cheers! It was so amazing and truly touched me.

Thank you, also, for voting for us! We came in second to Rachel and Vincent! Wow! We couldn't believe it!

How do you all like the tour so far? What has been your favorite number? Leave me a comment - I'd love to know!

I will be posting more tour photos soon, so keep checking back!

Second Printing!

2009-01-21T14:00:00.000Z

**This is a sticky post.
Please scroll down for my new posts**

Thank you so much to everyone who has bought my book! I appreciate your support so much!

Thanks to all of you, I am ready for a second printing on my book: The Art of DanceSport Makeup! I am so excited!

As part of the second edition, I would like to include testimonials from YOU!

If you've bought my book and would like to submit your review, you can either comment here or email me.

I will randomly draw 2 testimonials to be included! Deadline is Wednesday, January 21st!

Right now, I have only a few copies of the first edition left. You can buy my book here or here.

Newcastle!

2009-01-19T14:00:00.000Z

Arlene, me, Camilla, and Ola

The wonderful Mr. Len Goodman and me

Gethin and me

Liverpool here we come!

Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour Opening Night!

2009-01-18T00:41:00.000Z

Hello everyone!! Newcastle is wonderful and I am over the moon to be a part of the Strictly Come Dancing Live Tour! It is such a fun and exciting show!

I am so happy to be dancing with Matthew Cutler. He is one of my idols! Everyone in the cast is so sweet and fun! Gethin is so sweet and Kenny keeps us laughing. I am so lucky to be working with such a great group of people and performing for such a wonderful audience!

All of us on opening night. Everyone looks fabulous!

I do miss Brian, very much. He was offered the chance to come on the tour, but he was unable to do join because he had commitments in the US. I miss you, Brian!

I hope that everyone who has seen the show so far has loved it. I'll be posting more behind-the-scenes photos and more videos, so keep checking back!

-Kristina

Back in London!

2009-01-07T20:37:00.000Z

Hello everyone,

I've been back in London for a few days now, rehearsing for the Strictly Tour. It's great to be back and to see everyone again, as well as meet new people.

Rehearsals are going well and I know that you will enjoy the tour very much. I am having so much fun dancing with Matthew Cutler. At each tour stop, I am available for private or group lessons. If you're interested, please email John Sachs (my agent) to arrange it.

If you haven't gotten your tickets yet, you can either use the links on my sidebar, or visit the official tour site.

Keep in touch,

-Kristina

Dress Auction!

2009-01-06T18:48:00.001Z

I have put two of my dresses up for auction on eBay. The red Latin dress I wore during the Strictly Final in the Duffy number with Brian Fortuna. I also wore this dress in production photos (as you can see), as well as when Brian and I performed at Donahey's in November 2008.

Also up for auction is a beautiful black Latin dress with lots of details, including fringe and tons of crystals. I have worn this dress in competition.

Both are in excellent condition and include accessories. They have been custom made for me by my long-term dressmaker and will fit a US size 2-4 (possibly a 6, as they have stretch).

Click here to visit the red dress auction.

Click here to visit the black dress auction.

I will be adding more of my dresses and practice wear this week and next, including my Mambo dress.

New Merchandise

2009-01-05T16:55:00.000Z

New merchandise has been added to my Cafe Press shop, including items for my littlest fans. I've also added a line of Sergeant's Brigade items.

You can now shop for adults, kids, and babies!

Happy shopping and thank you for your support!

-Kristina

Teaching on Tour

2009-01-04T21:34:00.000Z

I am very excited to be part of the Strictly Tour and I cannot wait to get started! I love performing and I am looking forward to getting to meet those of you who are coming to the tour.

At each tour stop, I will be available to teach either private or group lessons, when I am not rehearsing or performing. Please click here to find out when I'll be in your city.

I don't have access to a studio in the UK, so I will need that looked after by you. All studio fees are the responsibility of the student(s).

If you are interested in a lesson with me, please email me with the details. I look forward to hearing from you!

My Official Website

2009-01-03T16:02:00.000Z

Hello everyone,

A little while ago I posted about some of the personal challenges I've been going through lately. As you know, stories about my private life have been sold to the press that are simply not true. This is very upsetting and hurtful.

Besides dealing with all of this, I've now been locked out of my website. I can't access it at all anymore. So, I've decided to move to a new official website: Official Kristina Rihanoff. It should be up and running soon.

This website is the only official one out there. Any others - besides those linked to here - are not mine, including the one I have been locked out of. Any information on any other site, besides my official one, are run without my approval, consent, or knowledge.

One again, I thank you all for your incredible support. It makes such a difference to me.

Blog Updates

2009-01-02T14:00:00.000Z

Hello everyone!

I've been busy updating my blog to make sure you have access to the most up-to-date information.

In the Events Section, I've added all the Strictly tour dates with links to the venue where you can purchase tickets. I am looking forward to meeting you when I am on the tour. I am so excited to be a part of it and am really looking forward to dancing with Matthew Cutler. I will be blogging while I'm on tour, so please stay tuned!

The Autographed Photos section on the side has also been updated. There are a limited number of free 4x6 autographs available. If you'd like to have one sent to you, please email me your details.

I've added in medium size autographed photos (5x7), as well as the large size (8x10). Each are personally signed by me. All you have to do is click on the PayPal button underneath the size you want and I'll send one to you right away. Postage is included in the prices.

My competitive costumes and practice wear (much of it seen during training with John) are still for sale. I've uploaded photos and pricing information to the Facebook group: Ballroom & Latin Dresses for Sale. If you see anything that you would like to purchase, please leave me a comment here or email me.

Booking Requests have also been updated. If you would like lessons, either private or group, while I am on tour, please email me or my agent, John Sachs, to arrange it. I love to teach and would love the opportunity to teach you. I don't have access to a studio, so that is one thing I would need to rely on you to find for me.

I do have several events in the planning stages that I will be returning to the UK for this year and will keep you updated. I do hope very much to be asked back to Strictly for the next series. I really did have the time of my life and would love to go back.

*Thank you to Johanna Räty for the wonderful picture!

Official Merchandise!

2009-01-01T15:23:00.001Z

Hello everyone and Happy New Year!

New Year is a very important holiday in Russia, and to celebrate it with you, I've opened up a shop on Cafe Press!

This is where you can buy my official merchandise - the Rihanoff's Red Hots!

There are t-shirts (pictured here), tank tops, hoodies, hats, and even a maternity shirt for you sweet expectant mommies. I even added a tote so you can look hot while you're shopping!

I have been so incredibly touched by all of your wonderful support. It means a great deal to me and I am so honored by it. Thank you. Thank you to every one of you for your messages, emails, blogs, and letters. Your kindness is truly wonderful.

If there are other items you would like to see added to my shop, please either leave me a comment here or email me. Your feedback is very important to me.

I wish you all a happy, healthy, and wonderful 2009!

Bookings for 2009

2008-12-29T17:05:00.000Z

Are you interested in lessons with Brian and I?

Looking for the perfect way to top off your event?
Want to see us perform live?

The Weakest Link: Strictly Edition

2008-12-28T11:02:00.000Z

I really enjoyed myself on the Weakest Link! Anton was hilarious!

A Christmas Foxtrot

2008-12-26T15:06:00.000Z

I loved everything about this performance: dancing with Brian, Vincent, and Flavia; our gorgeous gowns; Russell (amazing!); and the wonderful audience!

Thank you so much for making my first Christmas Special so memorable. What was your favorite part?

The Christmas Special

2008-12-25T14:00:00.001Z

Merry Christmas, everyone! I hope you are all enjoying a safe and happy holiday.

The Strictly Christmas Special is on BBC 1 tonight at 7:00 p.m. My friend, Brian Fortuna, will be dancing with the lovely Kelly Brook, as well as performing with me. Please tune in! It's going to be a great show!

The Strictly Finale

2008-12-24T09:35:00.000Z

I can hardly believe that Strictly is all done! I have had such a wonderful time on the show. I had the best partner in John and performing with my good friend Brian was amazing. The support from all of you has been simply wonderful. Each and every one of you mean so much to me and I thank you, very much, for your support. I appreciate it more than I can ever say.

Dancing the Paso with John again was so much fun! We couldn't believe the crowd's reaction when we took to the floor. Wow! Thank you so much!

Performing with Brian to Duffy was fantastic!! We hope you enjoyed our Cha Cha:

Dancing with all the girls with Brucie was wonderful. I love Brucie, he's so great! Everyone on the Strictly - from production to the dancers - are outstanding. We really are like a family.

I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year. I'll be back in the UK for the 2009 Strictly Tour! Hope to see you there!