So, Eric from *Dancing with the Stars* is channeling Hugh Jackman’s P.T. Barnum for a special performance. My first thought? *Bold choice.* My second? This could be absolutely brilliant or a spectacular, sequined mess.
Let’s be real: "The Greatest Showman" theme is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s a gift. The music is iconic, emotive, and built for big, theatrical moments—perfect for the ballroom. The costumes write themselves: think glitter, top hats, and that irresistible carnival energy. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser if executed with enough razzle-dazzle.
But that’s also the trap. This isn’t just about doing a lively Quickstep to "The Other Side" or a dramatic Contemporary to "Never Enough." The real challenge for Eric won’t be the steps; it will be capturing the *spirit*. Barnum wasn’t just a showman; he was a storyteller who sold wonder, defiance, and heart. If Eric’s performance is just technically proficient pageantry, it will feel hollow. We need to see the character, the yearning, the *"A Million Dreams"* ambition in his eyes.
That’s where the magic of *Dancing with the Stars* can truly shine. The best routines on this show fuse athleticism with raw, human narrative. If Eric and his pro can harness the theme’s inherent drama—the underdog story, the celebration of the unique, the sheer joy of performance—they could create a moment that transcends the competition. They could make us forget we’re watching a reality TV show and make us believe, just for two minutes, in the spectacle.
Conversely, if it’s just an impression—a series of poses and smiles without soul—it will drown in its own glitter. The audience is savvy; they can spot authenticity from a mile away.
So, Eric, here’s my unsolicited advice from the editor’s chair: Don’t just *play* the showman. *Become* him. Own the floor like it’s your tent. Sell us the dream. Make us feel the wonder.
I’m choosing to be optimistic. This theme has all the ingredients for a show-stopping, leaderboard-topping moment. The stage is set. Now, let’s see if Eric can truly bring the house down.
The ballroom is your big top. Go be great.
