Love & War

week 6: prom night

After the emotional high of Dedication Night and their first perfect score, Frankie Gomez and Val Chmerkovskiy were riding a wave of excitement heading into Week 6: Prom Night. The ballroom was buzzing with nostalgic energy as the show celebrated the joy and exuberance of prom—complete with sparkling dresses, tuxedos, and disco balls. For Frankie, it was a chance to channel a different kind of fun and let loose after such an emotionally charged week.

♡❀♡

Rehearsals kicked off with Frankie and Val still basking in the glow of their perfect 30. "Can you believe it?" Frankie asked, grinning as she walked into the studio. "A perfect score! I feel like I'm still floating."

Val laughed, clearly just as energized. "You earned it, Frankie. But now, it's time to shift gears. This week is all about having fun and bringing that infectious energy to the floor. We're doing the Jive, and it's going to be fast, sharp, and totally prom-worthy."

The Jive was a high-energy dance that demanded precision and stamina. Set to the iconic "You Make My Dreams" by Hall & Oates, it was the perfect routine to embody the spirit of Prom Night. Frankie was eager to embrace the challenge.

Frankie's confessional

"Coming off of Dedication Night, I feel like I've tapped into something deeper. But this week, I just want to have fun. Prom Night is all about celebrating, and that's what I'm here to do."

The rehearsal room was a whirlwind of activity as Val worked on perfecting Frankie's kicks, flicks, and spins. "Sharp, Frankie! Those kicks need to hit like lightning!" he called out, demonstrating the movement with his usual flair.

Frankie groaned playfully, wiping sweat from her forehead. "You're going to turn me into a human pogo stick by the end of this."

Val smirked. "That's the plan. You're going to bounce across that dance floor like you've got springs in your shoes."

As the week progressed, Frankie's confidence grew. She was starting to enjoy the playful nature of the routine, even as it pushed her physically. "It's so different from contemporary," she said during a break. "But it's nice to just have fun and not worry about getting too emotional."

♡❀♡

On the night of the show, the ballroom was transformed into a high school prom straight out of a movie, complete with streamers, glittering lights, and a live band. Frankie and Val took the floor, both dressed to the nines in retro prom attire. Frankie's sparkly yellow dress and Val's striking black suit and funky tie were a perfect nod to the theme.

As the opening beats of "You Make My Dreams" filled the ballroom, the pair launched into their Jive with electric energy. Frankie nailed the sharp kicks and quick turns, her personality shining through every movement. The routine was flirty, fun, and full of prom night nostalgia. By the time they struck their final pose, the audience was on their feet, cheering wildly.

The judges were all smiles as they gave their feedback.

Carrie Ann started, practically bouncing in her seat. "That was so much fun! Frankie, your energy is contagious. Your kicks were sharp, your timing was spot-on, and you absolutely brought the prom spirit to the floor. Amazing job!"