Tripping the light fantastic

Theresa Healey's parents must be chuckling. As a 7-year-old, Healey threw her pink ballet costume at her father, vowing never to dance again. Now she is odds-on favourite to take out Dancing with the Stars.

Australian bookmaker Centrebet has ranked Healey and partner Peter Wells as the hot favourites to win the TV One ballroom competition.

The pair also have the top score in last week's show for their rendition of the Cha Cha, with judge Paul Mercurio describing them as "sexy and hot and energetic".

It has all been a revelation for the former Shortland Street star, who has gone from the life of a stay-at-home mum, to rushing to dance rehearsals for up to six hours a night, seven days a week.

And she is loving every minute of it.

"I had no idea how nice a dancing show is, you get fit, it is the best exercise for losing weight, and it is great fun."

She has taken to it with a passion and is amazed at how well she is doing on the show. It must be in the genes; both her mother and sister were keen ballet dancers, and Healey confesses she may have been acting the dance rebel as a child.

"I think I have totally repressed any dancing feelings, I have taken dancers off, laughed at them and been so mean. I love to dance but I just didn't know it."

She credits her dancing partner Peter Wells for bringing her up to standard so quickly. "He is a fantastic teacher, and he is not letting me get away with anything."

- HERALD ON SUNDAY