Maura Higgins DWTS paso doble dedicated to Ireland earns her best score yet

She dedicated to Ireland a tricolour-themed dance

On Dedication Night, Maura Higgins and partner Mark Ballas danced the Paso Doble, the latest theme round on the US version of Dancing with the Stars.

As Higgins wore a tricolour-themed dress, the routine was set to the Dropkick Murphys' "I'm Shipping Up to Boston."

That she would dedicate the dance to the country was made clear by Higgins beforehand.

In her pre-performance interview, she said "I really want to dedicate it to Ireland."

As she stressed that she missed her family and friends and hoped they would be proud of her, she added that "even though they can't vote for me, I can still feel the love and support, even though we're here thousands of miles away."

RTÉ reported that the routine earned Higgins her highest score of the series.

Michael Flatley backed the Maura Higgins DWTS routine

As she prepared for the dance, Michael Flatley sent a message to Higgins.

"Maura, the whole of Ireland is so proud of you," he told her. "I've sent along one of my very best dancers from Lord of the Dance, Lucky."

As she credited her upbringing with driving her this far in the competition, Higgins said that "growing up in Ireland, we had to work hard to get where we are."

"That's definitely pushed me and it's given me the fight, and tonight I'm so proud to show that real fighting Irish spirit."

Judges praise the Maura Higgins DWTS Paso Doble

Following the performance, a standing ovation from the studio audience ensued.

Kym Johnson, former Dancing with the Stars champion, was guest judging on the night, as she told Higgins she could feel the dedication in every step.

"Maura, I felt your love of Ireland in every move that you did," Johnson said. "It was passion, it was power, it was pride."

Meanwhile, another judge, Bruno Tonioli, said the Paso Doble "hit you like a storm in the Irish Sea," joking that watching it left him wanting "my Guinness in my hand."

What score did Maura Higgins get for her DWTS Paso Doble?

While there were no reports of a numerical score, the Paso Doble was confirmed as Higgins' highest score of the series so far.

Who is Maura Higgins' partner on Dancing with the Stars?

Higgins dances with pro Mark Ballas on Dancing with the Stars.

For Dedication Night, she was joined by Lord of the Dance performer Lucky Howard, at Michael Flatley's suggestion.