Didn't think they looked gay, that wasn't the issue (although I know that other posters in other threads and on other forums have discussed that aspect) - I simply didn't see "sailors" doing a "sailor's dance" - I saw holds that seemed to convey, to me at least, traditional waltz male/female dance instead of a folk dance. Part of the problem is perhaps that North American audiences (and myself included in that ) - are somewhat clueless on this type of dance, whereas, we are more familiar with other of the folk dances presented. Thanks for the insight re: what their military dances look like.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erfs3G3UDpM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ski8NznY-w&feature=related
As you can see, the most representative dance hold of this dance is "arm in arm", which this team did emphasize throughout their performance such as the opening. The only exception being the circular step sequence, which is more or less a required adaptation to fit in the ISU rules. As you know, a closed dance hold or Waltz position is considered more technically difficult than an open position. As for the lift, that was appropriate as well, sailors definitely do lift each other in a playful manner. I felt the intepretation was right on character given the necessary adaptations to transfer this dance on ice.