Loraine’s party
Dance judge plots string of celebrations as big birthday looms
DANCING With The Stars judge Loraine Barry has said she might have six parties to celebrate turning 60 later this year.
The ex ballroom champ is looking forward to some electric performances in the show semi-final tonight.
She joked: “I do remember having a little party when I was 40, but before that not really because I was always away doing shows or teaching.
“But when 50 came, I had five parties so I made up for it – maybe six this year, you never know.
“I know my sister and my partner Peter are arranging something. They said ‘OK, what would you like?’ I don’t want gifts, I want experiences.
“I want a great group of people there for a fabulous dinner.” Dubliner
Loraine said it was “powerful” when she called out trolls targeting Katja Mia live on the RTE reality show.
She said: “It’s powerful I have got that platform. I’m very lucky, I can put my hand on heart and say that I don’t get trolled.
“I’m fortunate for that. I think the more we can just share love and kindness is a big thing for me.”
Loraine said retired champion jockey Davy Russell has been the contestant who has surprised the most. She added: “Davy Russell, a complete non-dancer, jockey. I didn’t expect it, I’ve seen that development.
“So I’m very impressed with him.”
On who deserves to win the show, she remarked: “Laura Fox and Blu Hydrangea stand out a lot and Jason [Smyth], let’s face it, with his impairment it’s amazing what he’s doing.
“I salute and applaud our professionals, without them we wouldn’t have a show either.” Loraine married dance partner Andrew Sinkinson in her early 20s and the couple split after four years together.
She admitted she hasn’t ruled out marriage to her partner of 10 years Peter.
She said: “Watch this space, you never know, you’ll have to ask him. I won’t say I’m closed.
“But it’s not something that I need in my life.
“You know, actually, Peter and I will celebrate 10 years together in July, which is incredible when I think about it, it’s absolutely flown by.”
The show semi-final promises a ‘haunting extravaganza’ as the five remaining contestants perform ghoulish moves reflecting its Fright Night theme.
Laura will dance an American Smooth to Monster Mash, while Blu will dance a witch-themed Charleston to The Cartoons’ hit Witch Doctor.
A mummified David Whelan will dance a Salsa to Olly Murs’ Wrapped Up, Jason will serve up a creepy Tango to Disturbia by Rihanna and Davy will perform a gothic Viennese Waltz to
The more we can just share love & kindness is a big thing for me