Dancing with the Stars Pros Share Secrets of the Dance Floor
After a one-year hiatus (the show skipped its typical spring season), ABC’s Dancing with the Stars is back and better than before. The show has a new voting system--allowing judges Carrie Ann Inaba, Len Goodman, and Bruno Tonioli to have a say--as well as a stellar star lineup that includes The Bachelorette Hannah Brown, James Van der Beek of Dawson’s Creek, and even former White House Press Secretary Sean Spicer. Other recent additions: pro dancers Pasha Pashkov, who was partnered with The Office star Kate Flannery (the duo was eliminated fifth), and Daniella Karagach. Below, the real-life couple shares behind-the-scenes secrets from the Emmy-winning competition series.
How does it feel to be a new pro on Dancing with the Stars?
Pashkov: I’ve been a competitive ballroom dancer my whole life. The moment I felt like I achieved everything I ever dreamed of in the competition circuit, I decided that I wanted to try something new. I wanted to perform on stage or television and choreograph. DWTS seemed like a perfect fit. Daniella and I decided to participate in NBC’s World Of Dance, and a year later, we got invited to be the new pros on DWTS. Everything aligned perfectly, and I could not be more thrilled to have been the new addition to the show. I’ve loved creating choreography for celebrities to help them shine and, of course, performing with my fellow pros. The most amazing part is that I’m lucky enough to do it with my wife.
Karagach: It’s something that I’ve wanted to do for a really long time, and I couldn’t be more grateful. Being here is a dream. It still hasn’t kicked in yet.
What’s your favorite part about being on the show?
Pashkov: I love teaching and choreographing. This is something that I’ve been doing since I was 15 years old. The whole premise of the show is to teach celebrities to dance in a short period; I love the challenge, and I have to get creative to showcase their strengths and hide their weaknesses. I also enjoy collaborating with different choreographers and other pros in preparation for our group routines. DWTS, being a live show, definitely adds that extra pressure and always keeps me on my toes.
Karagach: I get to share my passion with you guys, and I love that America is getting to know me as a dancer.
What is the most challenging part about being on the show?
Pashkov: The short amount of time that we have to teach the celebrity a brand-new style is challenging. Waltz and jive, for example, are two opposite sides of the spectrum, so the celeb would have to make a complete u-turn in just a few days.
Karagach: Can’t complain!
Where were you and how did you react when you found out who your partner was?
Pashkov: This season, producers decided to keep partnerships a secret until the last moment--it was a surprise even for us. I found out who my partner was on the first day of rehearsals. However, we knew the entire cast already, so I had my hopes. Everything aligned perfectly, and I got the partner I wanted. I walked into the dance studio and saw Kate Flannery, who plays Meredith Palmer on The Office. I’m a huge fan of the show and could not believe this was actually happening. I was totally starstruck, and I’m pretty sure I acted like an idiot the first rehearsal!
Any memorable/funny moments from rehearsal you can share?
Pashkov: Rehearsals with Kate were pure entertainment. Every sentence out of her mouth is a joke. We found it hard to concentrate because we were laughing non-stop. My favorite part was when Kate was demonstrating how to fall properly without hurting herself. Kate did almost all of the stunts herself for The Office including the part where she gets hit by a car. She’s definitely skillful at falling, and it was hysterical to watch.
Karagach: Right before the premiere, we were camera blocking, and at the first count of eight, I face planted to the floor!
What is it like working with the wardrobe team? Do you have any say in what you wear?
Pashkov: I’ve been very happy with the way the wardrobe team dresses me for every show. I didn’t have a chance to give my input, as I was satisfied with all their choices. I can tell they have a lot of experience, and every detail is thought out. Dance costumes are very different from everyday clothes because they need to sit and look a certain way in motion, as well as give you the freedom to execute demanding moves.
Karagach: They’re the best! We’re definitely in great hands. Although we don’t get to choose our outfits, the wardrobe team always makes sure we look and feel good.
What is your day-of-show ritual?
Pashkov: On the day of the show, I made sure my celebrity partner felt confident--that was my number one priority. Usually, going over the routine several times before the live show helped us get out of the head and into the body, as well as keep the nerves under control. Otherwise, I watch a show that I like to put me in a great mood.
Karagach: Pasha and I like to relax in the trailer before the craziness starts. Before we dance, I try the floor, meaning I break my shoes in and make sure they aren’t too slippery. Then, we go into hair and makeup and warm up.
How has being on the show changed your life?
Pashkov: NYC is a better fit for a competitive ballroom dancer, and that’s why I lived there when I moved back from Russia in 2001. However, for the past few years, Daniella and I thought about relocating to LA. Being on DWTS gave us a reason to finally pack our bags and move, and we could not be happier. We’ve met lots of top professionals on this show in their respective fields--such as costume design, music editing, and creative production--and are very excited to collaborate with them.
Karagach: I’ve always dreamed of living in LA, and now I have the best reason to be here. Being on this show is literally a dream job. I wake up and know that every day is going to be a good day. I’m just super grateful to be here.
This or That:
Cha cha or jive?
Pashkov: Jive over cha cha anytime!
Karagach: Cha cha.
Disney night or Halloween night?
Pashkov: Disney night! I’m a huge Disney fan--I watched all the movies growing up. I can’t wait to watch them again with my future kids. I don’t like scary movies, so this one is a no brainer!
Karagach: Disney.
Len Goodman or Carrie Ann Inaba?
Pashkov: I’ll be politically correct here and say neutral.
Karagach: Both.
Rehearsals or show day?
Pashkov: Show day, baby! Always show day!
Karagach: Show day.
Follow Pasha and Daniella on Social Media:
Pasha Pashkov: @pashapashkovofficial
Daniella Karagach: @daniellakaragach
Select Photo Credits: Disney ABC Press