So You Think You Can Dance: The Finale Part 2 by Kara Howland

And the winner is…

…usually I would torture you a bit. I’ve never understood why the finale is 2 hours long. I understand that they want to heighten our expectations and I’m sure Fox and all it’s affiliates want to make as much money as possible (on commercials, of course). But it’s a whole lotta torture as far as I’m concerned. So I’ll tell you right now who the winner is: it’s Lauren.

And what about the highlights from tonight’s show? You know I have to start with the wonderfully delicious Cat Deeley. I feel like she’s really stepped up her game this season. I’ve always loved her but this year I enjoyed the back-and-forth dialogue she got going with both the dancers and the judges. It’s nice to see her personality come out beyond the audition episodes. I hope we get to see even more of that next summer. Oh, yeah. I forgot to talk about how she looks tonight. Divine. The dress is a bit over-the-top for me but it’s the finale. I’ll allow it.

Group Dance
Ra / Nathan Lanier
Nice spotlight moment for Melinda doing her tap thing. I love seeing Dom and Jose battle it out in their style. Twitch surrounded by his girls in red is hot. Oh, I love that Alex is there. He’s not allowed to stand unassisted but I love that he’s there in a chair. Great spotlight for the rest of the guys. And then they all come together (contestants and all-stars) with the final 3 at the front of the pack. Christopher Scott from LXD choreographed.

Finally. There’s my Mary Murphy. I have missed her all season. Seriously.

What do the judges want to see again?
Kenny Ortega chooses Tyce DiOrio’s Shoeless Joe – Kent and Neil
Nigel picks Stacey Tookey’s Mad World – Billy and Ade

Special Guest #1: Quest
Suzy / Caravan Palace
Hok’s hair gets stranger and stranger but I still love him. Ryan is still great too. I love the b-boys. Always so inventive and visually stimulating.

What other performances do the judges want to see again?
Mia wants to re-view NappyTabs’ Fallin’ – Adechike and Comfort

A judge doesn’t pick it, but Kent and Anya’s My First Kiss piece is next.

Tyce would like to re-visit NappyTabs’ Scars – Robert and Dominic

Nigel takes to the stage for his performance. He claims the Season 7 curse has happened again. He’s got two stand-ins but a 7 year-old interrupts. Luke wants to fill in for Nigel. The kid has some chops. It goes on for a bit too long for me but he was adorable. So talented.

The Menzari Brothers impressed Nigel on National Dance day so they get their time in the spotlight. Very nice precision. Great job and fun to watch.

Another favorite routine of the judges?
Nigel picks Miriam and Leonardo’s Oblivion – Lauren and Pasha
Adam chooses Travis Wall’s Fix You – Robert and Allison

Last season’s winner Russel performs with Lil’ C
Hazardous / Buckmouth
Krumping is so cool. It’s nice to see two amazing technicians battle in this style. They are really amazing. And I like that it’s a slower version of what we’d usually think of Krump. This way we can really see everything.

What other highlights do the judges want to see from this season?
Mary Murphy requests to see NappyTab’s Battle for the Beat – Jose and Dominic. Was it just me or did Jose seem very low energy in that? It was a little disappointing this time.

Nigel invited this season’s SYTYCD winner from the UK version. She performs a Mandy Moore piece with all-star Neil. Her name is Charlie Bruce.
I Surrender / Celine Dion
Pretty impressive after a quiet start. Wow. This piece is very lift-heavy but I’m really enjoying it. Nice job.

It’s time to see the final three on the stage. For one of them the journey ends now. The dancer in 3rd place is Robert.

What’s the next stand out routine?
Adam wants to see NappyTabs’ My Chick Bad – Lauren and Twitch
Cat picks Sonya Tayeh’s Hallelujah – Alex and Allison

There’s time for two more favorite performances. What are they?
Stacey wants to see Nakul Dev Mahajan’s Ganesh – Billy and Robert
Mia picks the final piece, Travis Wall’s How It Ends – Kent and Neil

It’s time for some music. Black Gold with Shine.

There’s one last surprise that Cat claims everyone will be talking about tomorrow. I had heard it was Ellen Degeneres but I had to see it to believe it. She’s no Alex but I’m really enjoying Outta Your Mind with Twitch. It’s making me laugh if nothing else. And then they bring Alex out on his crutches. Nice!

Let’s get down to business. Lauren and Kent come back out on stage. Kent takes the runner-up spot and Lauren takes it all. I’m genuinely shocked but so incredibly happy for her. Wow. WOW.

So You Think You Can Dance: The Finale Part 1 by Kara Howland

You can call me crazy, but watched every single episode again. I don’t tend to erase any episodes (including the results shows) until the end of the season. And I’m glad I kept them all because I was reminded of a lot of great performances. I still mourn the premature loses of Alex and Ashley and I’m still sad Billy isn’t in the finale. But I’m confident Kent, Lauren, and Robert will dance their asses off tonight and we should have a great show tonight.

And what of Cat you ask? I like her sparkly little black number. Her hair and makeup look great and she’s adorable, as always.

I think I see something I already like. The judge’s panel consists of only 3. Good. That’s the way it should be. And I just learned that everyone dances 5 times tonight. Nice.

The highlight reel makes me remember that we haven’t seen Hi Hat or Mary Murphy all season. I know Mary choreographed something but Hi Hat didn’t. Boo. I was looking forward to seeing what Hi Hat could do and I would have liked to see Mary Murphy on the panel (with her subbing in for Mia or Adam) at least once this season.

Kent
All-star partner: Lauren
Nakul Dev Mahajan / Bollywood
Rehearsal: It’s about a couple at the altar and the groom gets cold feet. Bollywood is campy so Nakul encourages Kent to bring on the faces.
Om Mangalam / Kambakkht Ishq (soundtrack)
Performance: I like this dance when it’s fast. I’m really enjoying it so far but I don’t need to see Kent flipping around the stage. Great energy and it looks like they’re having a blast. Very nice job.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel says it’s great fun choreography, great costumes, and great dancing. Mia thinks it’s perfectly tailored to Kent. He hit everything precisely. Kentish. Adam thinks the energizer bunny should retire. He’s the feel good dancer of the year.
Further critique: I agree. I thought it was highly enjoyable and I didn’t mind Kent’s crazy faces. This time.

Lauren
All-star partner: Twitch
Tabitha & Napoleon / Hip Hop
Rehearsal: It’s about struggle so it’s a presidential debate – a debate through dance. Their movements mirror the lyrics and their speeches.
Power / Kanye West
Performance: It’s cool so far. Lauren’s hitting it very hard. She’s great in this style. Great side-by-side and individual dancing. Interesting concept, very nice execution.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel says art inspires art. NappyTabs is just so good at inspiring people to dance. She dances that so strongly. Lauren brings out strength. She’s transfixing. Mia calls her filthy. What a season NappyTabs has had. Mia doesn’t know if there’s anything Lauren can’t do. She loves the masculine/feminine balance. Adam says Lauren makes him proud to be sitting in his chair. She’s one of his favorite girls the show has ever had.
Further comment: Love her.

Robert
All-star partner: Mark
Tyce DiOrio / Jazz
Rehearsal: The piece is a power surge of electrical energy.
Whip It / Devo
Performance: Great song choice. Fun opening. They aren’t perfectly in sync, which is throwing me off a bit. I think Robert’s nerves might be getting to him. I am enjoying it but it’s a little weird.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel says Tyce has done an incredible job of choreographing something that doesn’t look like him. He likes that Robert and Mark had fun doing it. Mia wants them to be on tour with Adam Ant. She loves the look. For her, Robert is the most improved of the season. The piece is awesome. Adam thinks this piece is a testament to the addition of the all-stars. Robert dances like he’s not competing.
Further comment: I just didn’t love it as much as the judges did. Even though I love Mark in perhaps a slightly unhealthy way, I think they did Robert a disservice tonight to pair him with a guy for this style. It’s just my opinion.

Kent’s solo
The Finish Line / Train
A bit too frenetic for me. Why is he dancing like he’s desperate? I didn’t enjoy it at all. He rushed through his tricks and didn’t seem to have much control. Take a deep breath, Kent.

Lauren and Robert
Dee Caspary / Contemporary
Rehearsal: It’s about them going home and being at piece with how the journey has been. They’re having trouble with their prop pillow.
That Home / Cinematic Orchestra
Performance: The piece is so cool but the pillow is a huge distraction. Make it go away! Great technique. Wow. Amazing connection – physical and emotional. I loved it. And I warmed up to the pillow.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel complements Dee on the choreography. There are touches of genius. Strength sums them both up. Very beautiful from the pair of them. Mia calls Dee unreal. The use of the pillow, the fluidity, the connection is never-ending. This is the most delicious performance from Robert to date. He’s so open and humble. Mia expected perfection and Lauren is perfection. She’s such a proud Mama Mia right now. All Adam saw up there was how much they love and support each other, as well as beauty.
Further comment: These two dancers have come a really long way. Lauren is strong yet vulnerable. Robert managed to put that wacky personality away so we can focus on his dancing. I love these two, together and apart.

Kent and Lauren
Mandy Moore / Jazz
Rehearsal: Mandy wants the piece to embody quirky and cool just like Lauren and Kent do. There’s no kissing this week. Yes, there is.
Hip to be Square / Huey Lewis & the News
Performance: Great music. The piece is very cute but it’s not really doing anything for me. Is it just me or does it seems a little low energy? I can see that they’re doing some tricks but the energy feels off.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel doesn’t feel they were challenged enough. They kept the characters well and did what was asked of them. Mia isn’t sure what to say. It was fun, right? She enjoyed the quirkiness. They killed it but she didn’t like it. Adam loves them, that was crazy, get out of here.
Further comment: I’m glad the judges managed to put into words what I couldn’t. I didn’t care for it either.

Robert’s solo
The District Sleeps Alone / The Postal Service
Great quality of movement. Interesting body positions. Nice levels. Very nice control. A great showcase for his talent.

Kent
All-star partner: Allison
Stacey Tookey / Contemporary
Rehearsal: It’s about looking into a relationship everyone thinks is perfect but they have a lot of problems they don’t talk about. Who’s going to break first? Stacey is digging through to an honest place.
Sundrenched World (Live Session) / Joshua Radin
Performance: A nice, quiet start. Great connections. They are dancing with and off of each other so well. Kent is really giving us something here. That string/puppet thing is really cool. Very nice dancing and great emotion.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel thinks Kent’s lines get better and stronger each week. Emotions are real. Honesty to the performance. The only chink in his armor is his upper body strength, although it didn’t show here. Mia feels like he’s so invested. Kent’s technique and solidity is flawless. When he says “Get off of me” at the end, it’s genius. It’s a love fest from Mia. Adam is wondering what’s going on with Kent right now. Kent just became an artist. Adam is so proud of him. So special, brilliant.
Further critique: I was really feeling this piece from Kent tonight. I do feel the brilliance. And you can see how emotionally invested in it he is.

Lauren’s solo
I’m Goin’ Down / Mary J Blige
Nice levels. Great technique. She’s showing us her heart and she looks like she’s really enjoying it out there. I heart her.

Robert
All-star partner: Kathryn
Spence Liff / Broadway
Rehearsal: An interrogation room. Kathryn is a sexy, hot interrogator. Robert’s got to keep his cool for this number.
Cool / West Side Story (1961 soundtrack)
Performance: I like his solo at the beginning. Great chemistry with Kathryn. I’m really enjoying them dancing together. Great movement across the stage. I saw a lot of typical Broadway dancing but I really enjoyed it. Great job.
Judge’s critiques:
This is one of Nigel’s favorite pieces of music. Robert danced it very well. He is showing all the different sides to his dancing technique. He’s delighted with Robert’s journey on the show. Mia got a little nervous when she heard the music. She loves the classic feel. He put his own story behind it. She wanted a little more simmer. This is a special piece of choreography for Adam. Spencer put a fresh spin on it. Jerome Roberts would have been proud of Robert.
Further critique: I am not familiar with the original. Having no reference point I really loved it. And you know how I usually feel about Broadway so that’s really saying something.

Lauren
All-star partner: Pasha
Melanie Lapatin & Tony Meredith / Cha cha
Rehearsal: Lauren sees Pasha and she loses her mind. Sometimes she gets a little dirty.
Not Myself Tonight / Christina Aquilera
Performance: Great connection at the beginning. Very sexy. I’m loving it. I want her to have a better connection with Pasha. She’s dancing a little too much to the crowd for me. Those lifts were very intricate, and very well done.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel says it’s a fabulous routine. The foot-action, knee-stops, everything. It looked near-perfect. She’s the best contemporary girl they’ve had do a ballroom routine. It looks like she got everything right. Mia wants to know who Lauren is. Mia’s so happy she stood up for Lauren’s butt this season. She owns everything. If Mia was still dancing she’s want to dance just like Lauren. She never gets bored watching her. Adam says Lauren feels the music like no one else on this show. She understands the notes and rhythms and embodies it.
Further critique: Technically, I did think Lauren was quite impressive. I still wanted a little bit more of a connection between Lauren and her partner.

Kent and Robert
Miriam Larici & Leonardo Barrionuevo / Malevos
Rehearsal: It’s a fight. Malevos means gangster. They’re from the outskirts and they’re ready to battle it out, Tango-style. The footwork is crazy.
The Chosen/Drum Addict / Taylor Long
Performance: I always love new things on this show. It’s interesting because it’s basically a Tango but with two guys. I’m enjoying this. The footwork looks pretty crisp but not flawless. I think they’ve got their characters down. I want them to be going after it a little harder though. The intensity at the end is nice but it looks like they have a little technical difficulty.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel had never heard of this routine. It’s what the men do to practice the Tango before they dance it with women. All of the dancers have worked so hard this week and throughout the competition. Nigel asks the audience to vote. They all deserve it. Mia loves the feel of this piece. There was a debonair quality as well as a hood quality. Great performance. The legwork could be tighter. It wasn’t perfection but she loved it. There were some elements that weren’t quite right but at this point it doesn’t matter. The final three have become Adam’s favorite dancers from any season. They entered as kids and came out seasoned professionals.
Further critique: I would have loved to see it danced completely clean, but I still enjoyed the emotion and the story. Great job.

Even though it might not seem like it, I will be happy if any three of these dancers take home the crown tomorrow night. I think they all danced brilliantly and I want to see them all succeed in the dance world and in life.

What did you think of the finale? Who got your vote? Who do you think will win it all?

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 3 Revealed by Kara Howland

I have to admit something to you. I live in Los Angeles. Wait! I haven’t admitted to anything yet. I have a friend with “connections” and he sends me a link so I can watch the east coast feed of almost any show I want. I know who the final three are. And I’m going to tell you right now: Kent (no shock), Lauren (I was gonna be pissed if she didn’t make it), and Robert (yay!). You can stop reading right here if you’d like or you can read more. Totally up to you.

I am so happy to report that Cat has made a full recovery from the kinda disaster that was yesterday. The whole look was just sloppy. But today she’s ethereal in white and her hair and makeup are soft and lovely. Let’s group dance.

Drumming Song / Florence + The Machine
Choreographed by Dee Caspary
There’s a lot of great stuff going on. All those aerial acrobatics are pretty impressive. Great technique. But my opinion remains the same as the last time I said it: I want only the dancers still competing in the competition to perform the group dance. And that’s not saying it’s great and fun to watch, exciting even. I just don’t get why they’d want to showcase the all-stars beyond what they already do. That’s just my opinion.

National Dance Day. Great idea but I didn’t do any dancing that day. If you were so moved, I hope you danced.

Random side note: I cannot wait to see Step Up 3D. I’ve seen the first two movies. I’m sure the first will always be the “gold” standard but I’m not going to see plot. I’m going to see some amazing dancing. If I make it this weekend you will certainly hear about it.

Special Guest #1
Janelle Monae singing Tightrope. I don’t see any dancers so I’m fast- forwarding. Oh, they faked me out. I’m watching again. Those hip hop dancers backing her up are pretty incredible. Janelle isn’t too bad herself when she dances. The solos are quirky and interesting. Um, I kinda like her crazy hair.

Lauren
Wasted Time / Me’Shell NDegeocello
Brilliant song choice. This song is amazing. That was ugly and beautiful at the same time. Perhaps a bit too raw and a bit uncontrolled? Still mesmerizing.

Some of the SYTYCD dancers took a trip to the Gatorade Performance Lab. They went underwent a series of test previously only tested on elite athletes. The GPL is going to teach the dancers more about their bodies and how they can fuel up for a performance. Dancers are athletes. Tell me something I don’t know. But what is cool is this year’s winner will be featured on the Gatorade website and they’ll be featured in a Gatorade G series print campaign. Ok, that’s kinda cool.

Kent
Dynamite / Taio Cruz
I think his nerves are getting to him. He’s kind of flailing all over the stage. That was a bit desperate. He really didn’t need to do all that. Wow. And not in a good way.

I didn’t hear what Kent said. If you heard it please share below.

And now for the results. Who is the first dancer in the finale? The top 2 are separated by just 2% of the vote (which I’m sure is thousands of votes considering there were 10 million votes).

It’s Lauren. Adam says this whole thing has stressed him out. He prayed last night that Lauren would make it into the finale because she deserves to be on the stage. She’s turned into a completely different dancer from the auditions.

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Stop telling us about the tour. Jesus. If we want to go we’ll buy tickets already. Fast-forwarding now…

Adechike
Sir / Various Artists
It doesn’t hurt when he performs without his shirt on. This is strange music but perfect for his piece. It’s very hard-hitting. Wow. And that’s in a good way.

Robert
Mr. Muscle / Rusko
He can be surprisingly quirky. Great use of his body and movement across the stage. I did find it strange though. Very strange.

Time for some more results. Who is the next dancer to make it into the finale? Kent. Nigel doesn’t think Kent was a sure or safe bet. Come on, Nigel has to say that. I don’t believe it. He thinks Kent may have finally learned how to control his face (sort of). He felt there was nothing cheesy or gawky about his Travis Wall piece from last night. He’s grown emotionally.

Special Guest #2
Desmond Richardson, co-director of Complexions Contemporary Ballet
Sympathy For the Devil / The Rolling Stones
He’s a beautiful dancer but what’s going on with his outfit, or more specifically his pants? I’d rather see hot pants or regular jeans. Amazing technique. What an abrupt ending. It was really great even though I don't think I completely understood it. I think I wanted more flow.

The top 4 finally got some time off and went to the premiere for Step Up 3D. Lauren calls it her new favorite dance movie.

Special Guest #3
Flo Rida performing Club Can’t Handle Me from the Step UP 3D soundtrack. I’m not sure there’s enough promotions fort his movie in tonight’s show. I mean, I already want to see it. You’re kinda clubbing me of the head with it. I see Lauren in the background but where’s Comfort? This is her style and I want to see her dance it. Um, that necklace is ridiculous. I’m surprised he can stand upright with it around his neck. There’s Dom. Yay! Twitch is up there too. Did I see Courtney too? Nice.

And who is the final dancer in the finale? It’s Robert. I think he deserves it. He plateaued earlier in the season but he’s fought back.

I’m sad to see Adechike leave the competition but it was his time. I’ll miss his smile but I know he’ll get work in the dance world. It was a great ride.

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 4 Perform by Kara Howland

I think SYTYCD fatigue is finally setting in for me. Don’t get me wrong, I’m really enjoying this season. I’d be enjoying it more if Alex and Ashley were still around but I think we’ve still seen a lot of great dancing in Season 7. But only 3 can make it to the finale. Will your favorite make it through?

But, first we need to get some housekeeping out of the way. How does the wonderful and fabulous Cat Deeley fare? The hair is a bit too messy for me and I’ve seen her in dresses I’ve liked more. I do like the strange black webbed detailing on the bodice but the colorbands on the top are a bit much and the bottom of the dress is too loose.

Sigh. Why is there a panel of 4 judges now? I know it was instituted the week Kenny Ortega was on the show (so 2 weeks ago?) but I don’t like it. If they want us to hear different opinions swap a regular judge out and put a guest judge in. Wow. I am pretty opinionated tonight.

Group Routine
Lauren, Kent, Adechike, and Robert
Tyce DiOrio / Broadway
Rehearsal: They’re gamblers. The excitement takes over their bodies and they go crazy. They’re down to the last lap so it’s time to enjoy it. The top 4 should be like the 4th of July, fireworks.
The Crapshooter’s Dance / Guys & Dolls (50th Anniversary Cast Recording)
Performance: Nice interplay between Lauren and the guys. Adechike looks like a bit of a weak link here to me. I’m enjoying everyone else.
Judge’s critiques:
Tyce liked working with them. Kent stands out. Adam thinks it’s fun. What’s not to love? They’ve given us a lot of joy. Nigel says everyone is bidding for a place in the finale and one of them will be disappointed.
Further comment: Meh. It was a serviceable routine for me.

Lauren
All-star partner: Pasha
Miriam Larici & Leonardo Barrionuevo / Argentine Tango
Rehearsal: The most important thing is the relationship between the man and woman. It’s a conversation without any words. They’ve broken up and the guy is very sad in the nightclub. The female is seductive, manipulative, and sexy.
Oblivion / Astor Pizaaolla
Performance: I’m loving that it’s slow. Great connection. Very sexy. Great lifts and cool tricks. Really nice job. I barely had time to type anything because I am so engrossed.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel’s eyes steamed up. The intensity and passion. The control is magnificent. Lauren showed why she’s here in the top 4. Tyce gives her props. The silence is golden and she uses it. Mia says the choreography is unbelievable. She just became a woman. So mature. It is simmering. Adam quotes Sting and says everything she does is magic.
Further comment: It was immensely enjoyable. I don’t think we’ve seen a tango like this before (well, I can’t remember one). Lauren can be sexy and she finally seems to be owning it.

Adechike
All-star partner: Lauren
Sean Cheeseman / Afro Jazz
Rehearsal: Sean’s throwing a little Afro Caribbean in as well. The story is the path to freedom. They’re looking for that Promised Land. They see it and start to rejoice.
The Path / Ralph MacDonald
Performance: Great quality of movement. It seems so natural for both of them. And they look like they’re having a blast although Adechike looks just a bit tight. Nice ending.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel thinks it’s fun. Thanks Sean for the choreography. Wants Adechike him to relax his back. Tyce wants Adechike to look, find and discover. He could have taken it further. Mia didn’t care for that. It isn’t the piece, it’s the execution. Adechike can’t expand to the heavens. She wants to feel full body, mind, and heart. Adam thinks it’s about losing your center. He wants Adechike to forget the judges are there and dance for his life.
Further comment: I also feel like Adechike is holding back. We’ve seen him more exuberant and more engaged.

Robert
All-star partner: Anya
Jonathan Roberts / Viennese Waltz
Rehearsal: It’s very technical with complicated steps. Jonathan doesn’t think Robert is a ballroom expert yet.
Lost / Anouk
Performance: I like the Viennese waltz. I think Robert is doing a great job but it looks like he’s counting or something even though he’s performing it well. There are a lot of lifts, which they’re doing a great job with. I wanted to love it just a bit more.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel thanks Jonathan for a beautiful routine. Robert has the beautiful carriage and he worked hard on the rise and fall. Excellent. Tyce thinks Robert invested wholeheartedly tonight. He wears it like a suit. Mia says it is so romantic, he’s the prince of the season. She wants him to relax and enjoy the ride. If there is ever a night to be brilliant, it’s tonight. And Adam calls Robert brilliant. He owns it.
Further comment: I’m with Mia. If Robert had really relaxed into it, it would have been gorgeous.

Kent
All-star partner: Courtney
Doriana Sanchez / Disco
Rehearsal: The story is inspired by love on the dance floor. Kent knows that Disco is very upbeat in shiny clothes.
When Love Takes Over / David Guetta feat. Kelly Rowland
Performance: I’m enjoying it so far. Great energy. Some of the transitions in Disco can be rough and there is no exception here. I thought there would be more lifts. They did a great job.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel asks Kent if he’s done anything like this before, and he hasn’t. They lost some lifts. Kent didn’t make it cheesy. Tyce’s recommendation is for Kent to do research on a style he doesn’t know. He did well. Mia thinks it was a little rough. It wasn’t the partnering. Movement felt compact; the worst performance from Kent this season. Adam agrees with Mia. His performance is too youthful.
Further comment: I would have liked to see more lifts. I think Kent got a big break here and it’s not fair to the rest of the dancers. I didn’t want to see him drop Courtney but if there’s something he doesn’t do well we need to see it.

Lauren
All-star partner: Ade
Sean Cheesman / Jazz
Rehearsal: It’s about Lauren trying to seduce and lure Ade. Lauren has to be vampy, sexy, and enticing. The catch is Lauren is a deadly black widow. The movement is kind of animalistic.
Hide U (John Creamer & Stephanie K Remix) / Kosheen
Performance: Cool opening. I’m loving it. That lift was strange and cool. Great job. My eyes are on Lauren almost the whole time.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel thinks that upside down lift is amazing. Strong work. It is masculine and Lauren is sexy doing it. He hopes people will think she deserves to be in the finale because she does. Tyce snaps at her. He wanted a bit more ferociousness. Her dancing is spectacular. Mia calls Lauren a beast. She loves strong female dancers. The sexual chemistry wasn’t as evident. It is amazing. Adam says he wants to hire her.
Further comment: I agree about the chemistry. Lauren and Ade just don’t have any. But I’m ok with it because the dancing is so strong.

Adechike
All-star partner: Kathryn
Dwight Rohden & Desmond Richardson / Multiple styles
Rehearsal: They’ve worked with Adechike before and they’ve watched him grow. They wanted to give Adechike a challenge and to showcase his gifts.
Fearless Love / Melissa Etheridge
Performance: I’m seeing the exuberance and power. I think he’s really letting himself go. And Kathryn has been so amazing this season. The ending was a bit rough but great job.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel thinks Adechike has showcased his talents across the season. He loses a little bit of wind at the end. He’s got to keep that strength. Tyce wants to celebrate where Adechike’s at. Adechike put a piece of himself on that dance floor. Mia wanted more. Adechike has the potential for being a superhero dancer. She sees moments and glimpses of Desmond coming through in Adechike. He’s moving and growing. Adam thinks Adechike really lays it all out there. He’s super proud.
Further comment: I totally agree with the judges. He’s tired and he can’t hide it. He’s giving it his best and there are some great moments coming through, but not always.

Robert
All-star partner: Dominic
Tabitha & Napoleon / Hip Hop
Rehearsal: Two clowns have just found out their big top is closing. By nature clowns want to be happy. The clowns are aggravated when they find out. NappyTabs wants this routine to be different.
Scars / Basement Jaxx feat. Kelis, Meleka & Chipmunk
Performance: It’s so strange but I like it so far. Robert is doing a great job of keeping up with Dominic. Strange. But cool.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel loves it. Creative choreography. Tremendous. Whatever they throw at Robert, he just does it. It’s hard to critique it. He’s brilliant. Tyce loves the Tab and Nap. Robert really shows up to this piece. He takes it on and makes it magic. Mia likes the concept of Hip Hop Theater. Robert commits to everything, perfect. He’s had an amazing evening. Adam says Robert out danced Dominic. He’s brilliant. This night is Robert’s.
Further comment: Robert didn’t out dance Dominic. I think he’s done an amazing job tonight but he DID NOT out dance Dom. Didn’t happen.

Kent
All-star partner: Neil
Travis Wall / Contemporary
Rehearsal: It’s about two guys who are best friends. Neil isn’t the friend that Kent thought he was. Neil stabs him in the back and after fighting back Kent realizes he just needs to walk away.
How It Ends / DeVotchKa
Performance: I love that they’re so connected. Great lifts. Amazing technique. Great jumps. Travis is brilliant. Brilliant. It looked like a bit of a lovers quarrel at the end but it was pretty impressive.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel calls the piece inspirational. Stunning. Kent danced it brilliantly. Outstanding. He just booked a place in the finale. Tyce asks if Kent’s kidding him. Excellence was just delivered by the choreographer, dancer, and all-star. Mia thinks it’s the first time that she can’t find words but she is crying. So real, so uncomfortably awful. That’s what true genius is. The combination of the three of them is perfect. Adam calls Travis brilliant. If tonight had been the finale, Kent would have just won the show.
Further comment: What a great story. I’m sorry Travis got stabbed in the back but without that he wouldn’t have given us this amazing piece. Kent, butch it up just a little. But great job.

What did you think? I’m a bit disappointed in the structure of tonight’s show. I didn’t get it. I would have liked to see each dancer perform a solo and I would have loved to see them dance together – but not in a group dance. I didn’t watch the little recap moments so I can’t tell you whether or not those were good.

I think Kent has it in the bag. He’s just too popular with those tweens and teens. But who do I think will make it into the top 3? Kent, Lauren, and Robert. Robert was a bit of a dark horse before tonight but he really stepped it up. Adechike will still get a lot of votes but he disappointed in all three of his dances tonight. I hope Lauren gets the votes she needs because she deserves to be in the finale.

Thoughts? Who do you think belongs in the finale?

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 4 Revealed by Kara Howland

I didn't get a chance to watch last night's episode. Well, that's not entirely true. I fast-fowarded through most of it this morning to see who was going home so I could update this blog.

What I'll say now is I'm happy and sad about the results. Unlike Nigel, I do not think Jose mastered every style he was given. He used his charisma and heart to worm his way into our hearts. And it worked for a long time. I do hope he continues to improve in his own style because I think he shines in it. Billy, on the other hand, is a huge loss for the show. I can kind of understand why he didn't connect with voters even though he's an outstanding performer. His consulation will have to be that a lot of choreographers have seen what he can do and will want to work with him.

I promise to watch the entire show in the next few days so I can come back and give you some more of my thoughts. In the meantime, feel free to share yours.

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 6 Perform…Again by Kara Howland

Jose falls behind yet again in a style vastly different from his own, Toni Redpath joins the judge’s panel, and we continue the weekly trend of injuring dancers on this show when Lauren has to see a medic at the end of the show.

And what of Cat? You know I have to mention her. I have such a girl crush. Lovely hair and makeup. I like the black & white graphic one-shouldered dress. Very cool.

As we all remember (and I’d like to forget it) no one was eliminated last week. Instead, the judges will be sending two dancers home tomorrow.

Kent
All-star partner: Anya
Jean-Marc Genereux & France / Cha Cha
Rehearsal: This is Kent’s second cha cha. Anya is a schoolteacher and Kent is a bad boy.
My First Kiss / 3OH!3 feat. Kesha
Performance: It’s a fun story. Anya is amazing as always. I’m sure the guys watching this appreciate that she keeps taking things off. Kent is more than holding his own. I’m a little impressed that his face isn’t as out of control. A little, I said. Great job.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel calls Kent a man. Good, strong base. Toni says it is better this time. He’s more grounded, earthier. He sacrifices his posture though. Mia says the whole piece is crunchy – it doesn’t flow. She says he’s not taking the note about his face. Adam calls it super solid. Kent needs to dance with more length and breathe.
Further comment: I am glad Mia mentioned Kent’s face. Kent claims he can’t help himself but I think he can. Despite that, I agree that it was a strong performance.

Robert
All-star partner: Kathryn
Stacey Tookey / Contemporary
Rehearsal: The piece is about the last moments before a soldier goes off to war and leaves a loved one behind. They’re connected the whole time. Stacey says the most important thing is getting the story told.
Heaven is a Place on Earth / Katie Thompson
Performance: I love that it’s a slow piece. Their connection – both emotional and physical – is pretty amazing. One kinda awkward lift but I’m loving this. Great emotion. Great technique. Beautiful and moving.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel loves the connectivity. Nice twist at the end. Robert has grown enormously. He is growing and maturing to become even better than Nigel thought he’d be. Toni would want to be the woman Robert’s dancing with. Mia says the beginning of the piece is sacred and tender. It’s a mature decision to pull back and allow the story to go first. Mia wants Robert to speak through his soul. Adam is so proud of the way they supported each other out there.
Further comment: I am such a huge fan of Robert when he’s not being a goofball. I don’t want to see that. I want to see his wonderful technique and amazing partnering skills and he showed us those tonight. And let’s talk about Kathryn for a moment. She is amazing this year. I felt like she’s matured and upped her technique and now she’s a beast in the best possible sense of the word.

Jose
Giant Squid / RJD2
He does have a great smile. It looks like he’s throwing some fun new things into his routine. He has gotten better in his own style since the competition started. Loved it.

Adechike
All-star partner: Courtney
Tyce DiOrio / Jazz
Rehearsal: It’s at a jazz club in Spanish Harlem. It’s late at night and there are no inhibitions. Courtney feels sexy doing this dance. The music is timeless; the dancers have to find themselves within it.
Mantega / Dizzy Gillespie
Performance: Adechike is such a great acrobat. Very nice movement. I love me some Courtney. She is such a great partner. I like when they’re dancing with each other. When they’re separated it’s not as sexy. I really liked it.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam says it’s so much fun. That was balls-out dancing. Total joy. Adechike is such a tightly wound little muscle, Adam would like to see him loosen up. Mia says the music is everything. It is a great performance but he has to find the balance of style and finesse. Toni says it looked like fun. Great weight in Adechike’s connections. Nigel wants more abandon. He’s got to make it look like it’s not choreographed.
Further critique: I like most of what Tyce did with this piece but he did make a mistake in making Adechike’s part so acrobatic. I think we all know Adechike excels at that so now we’d like to see him dance in the style he’s given. But having said that, I still enjoyed the performance. I also wanted a little more sexy and a little more abandon as well.

Lauren
(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman / Aretha Franklin
I see the joy! As usually she’s a great technician. She’s got amazing control, but not perfect – I think we all saw that bobble. But she’s still pretty remarkable.

Jose
All-star partner: Comfort
Marty Kudelka & Dana Wilson / Hip Hop
Rehearsal: Boy meets girl. He’s trying to give her his pickup line, which is his dancing. Cat says Jose is back in his “Comfort” zone.
Try a Little Tenderness / Otis Redding
Performance: Comfort is killing it and by extension, she’s outdancing Jose. She’s matured so much in her own style. Jose isn’t bad but he’s not as precise and meticulous as Comfort is and I’m finding it distracting. Great concept but not so great execution by Jose.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel loves the routine. It’s a cool vibe, a funky feel. It wasn’t quite there. Jose got a bit flappy with his arms. Toni was absorbed in what a schmoozer he is. Mia tells Jose there is no swag in there. Jose didn’t tap into Marty’s gift for him. Adam recommends that Jose dance the intention of his character; the steps are secondary.
Further comment: I agree with everyone except Toni. I’m so ready for Jose to leave the competition. Of course I think he’s got a winning personality but his smile has saved him too many times already.

Billy
Lights Go Down / Telepathe
I like the range he’s showing us. His movements are strange and cool. Will it make people vote for him? I certainly hope so. Maybe it was different enough to make people pick up the phone. When Cat asks about the story behind the piece Billy tells her it’s a hunt with a witty ending.

Kent
A Song For You / Elliott Yamin
A little too manic at the beginning for me. But after that it was really interesting. I feel like we just saw something new from Kent. Great job.

Lauren
All-star partner: Allison
Tyce DiOrio / Broadway
Rehearsal: Two girls are dancing together for the first time this season. The piece is about them being strong as opposed to sexy. They’ve got something the guys don’t: Girl power.
Who’s Got the Pain? / Damn Yankees (1994 original Broadway cast)
Rehearsal: They are so much fun together. Both Allison and Lauren are so strong in this style. Great technique. I’m glad I’m really enjoying this Broadway piece. Very acrobatic. Nice.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam thinks of Lauren as an all-star already. She’s graduated into that further level. He’s got nothing to criticize. Mia says there’s nothing to critique. Lauren’s so solid. She’s forged ahead of everyone else. It shows her strength and ability to dance. Toni says strong is sexy. Lauren hit it just right. Her body is a tornado but her eyes are calm. Nigel says it worked for him. It wasn’t as exciting at the original Fosse piece thought. He feels that Lauren will be in the finale.
Further comment: Lauren is killing it. She’s always been an amazing technician and each week I think she shows us just a little more of her heart. She continues to become better every week. I can’t wait to see her in the finale.

Robert
A Beautiful Mess (From A Raining Jane Sessions) / Jason Mraz
Great quality of movement to go with a smart piece of music. I am a huge fan. Especially since he’s not being weird.

Billy
All-star partner: Ade
Stacey Tookey / Contemporary
Rehearsal: It’s about observing two opposite ends of the spectrum in society: someone with everything and someone with nothing. Billy is playing a homeless man. The beauty is in how opposite they are.
Mad World (Alternate) / Michael Andrews feat. Gary Jules
Performance: I love that Billy starts the piece at the edge of the stage with Ade dancing in the background. This is kind of brilliant. Great quality of movement from both of them. I like their apartness and togetherness. Interesting lifts and partnering work. That was amazing.
Judge’s critiques:
Standing ovations from everyone except Nigel. Nigel is pleased. To have lost Billy last week would have been to lose the privilege of watching him perform that piece. He sees a maturity and emotion in Billy. Toni loved the contrast. She stopped seeing the steps and started hearing the dialogue and heartbeat. Mia says it is sheer perfection. To Stacey Mia says she’s evolving into some artist. This is Mia’s favorite performance of the season for Billy. Win or lose he’s respected as an up-and-comer. Adam says Billy was born on the show; he’s dropped into the zone. Shows great restraint. It was magnificent. That was art.
Further comment: Amazing, amazing, amazing. Billy does feel like he’s finally come into his own. I am such a huge fan of Stacey Tookey and I’d like to see more of her for the rest of the season and in the future.

Adechike
Pretty Wings / Maxwell
Nice levels. Wow. He is much a powerful dancer. Really nice technique. He let his personality come out a bit, which is always great.

Jose and Kent
Spencer Liff / Broadway
Rehearsal: It’s about two guys who work together at a moving company, watching the ladies go by. Who’s gonna get the girl? Kent’s the young eager one. Jose’s the older, more refined one.
From This Moment On / Kiss Me Kate (soundtrack)
Performance: This style is absolutely Kent’s strong suite. This piece has great character work and such a fun feel to it. Kent’s form is so good he’s putting Jose to shame. What a fun story. Highly enjoyable.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam tells Spencer he’s killing it. Totally in the style of Gene Kelly’s era. Adam is seeing it come down between Kent and Lauren. Kent is born to do this. Jose went on a journey. Mia says it’s amazing. Kent just found his home. He needs to live in this world. Jose isn’t the trained dancer Kent is but he keeps up and he does a good job. Toni doesn’t know if it was smart or lucky but the characters suited them perfectly. Kent’s a contender. Nigel says Kent has done everything brilliantly that they’ve thrown at him. He loves this style of Broadway. For Jose, the worst part is having to do it with Kent. Nigel hopes Jose is very proud of himself despite the fact that this may be his last week in the competition.
Further comment: Kent is really remarkable in this style. His facial expression here aren’t over-the-top and his technique is almost flawless.

Lauren and Adechike
Jean-Marc Genereux & France / Foxtrot
Rehearsal: It’s not a traditional feel or vibe. It’s sultry and sexy. They’re gonna have the whole audience sick.
Fever / Beyonce
Performance: I like their chemistry. I’m not a huge fan of Foxtrot so I’m glad this isn’t the usual fare. There are definitely Foxtrot moments but it feels more fun and much more free-flowing. Some nice lifts. I like their connection too. Great job.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel thinks some of the steps they did better than a ballroom dancer but other steps don’t sit well. Good connectivity and it is certainly sultry. It leaves him a bit under whelmed. Toni says neither of them have the muscle memory of a ballroom dancer. Footwork is off therefore the gliding movement is off. The frame is off. But they got into the character of the dance. Mia says Adechike has great moments as a partner but there’s a disconnect when they separate. Lauren’s grace, sensuality, and presence make it look like she’s done this a million times. Great performance. Adam says Lauren is just dancing. Adechike looked too concerned with making sure Lauren was safe.
Further comment: I totally get where the judges are coming from but I still liked it. I can’t possibly critique form, and anyway Toni did a great job of that, but I will say it was fun to watch. I feel like they relaxed into it and had a great connection.

Robert and Billy
Nakul Dev Mahajan / Bollywood
Rehearsal: Bollywood is a mix of styles from all over the world. Indian forms are fused with western forms. It’s a big melting pot of dance. Two guys fighting for one role in the biggest Bollywood movie ever.
Ganesh / Bobmbay Dreams (soundtrack)
Performance: This is such a fun piece. I love seeing the different Western influences. And it looks like they’re having a blast and really nailing the technique. The only thing missing for me is the really fast part – it seems like every Bollywood piece has that.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel calls is fantastic. It’s the best Bollywood routine he’s seen with two guys. Robert finished everything and his hands are fantastic. He hopes Billy’s knee is ok because he put it through some tough work. Toni says they’re both fantastic. It will come down to personal choice. She feels like Robert nailed it. Mia says that was so hard. No injuries! Everything was right with that and Billy nailed it. Adam says they just split the vote. This has been a huge night for Billy. Adam tells Robert that was brilliant.
Further comment: I really enjoyed the piece because I feel they were both technically strong. I don’t know if I can say either dancer won the role over the other. They both hit it hard and were fun to watch.

So, who do you think is going home? All I know is that one of the departing dancers had better be Jose. No, really.

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 6 Remain by Kara Howland

In protest to tonight’s decision by the judges I’m going to keep this brief. Painfully brief. They had a chance to send Jose home and they didn’t take it. I’m not pleased.

Ok, that’s too brief. We’ll group dance, then talk about Cat’s dress. Seriously, that’s it.

All That Jazz / Lea Delaria
I need to reiterate that I really only want to see the competitors in the group dance. Despite the presence of quite a few all-stars it is very enjoyable. I like this kind of Broadway. Great character. I really love this style. Nice execution. A great way to start tonight’s show.

And now over to Cat. I love the bottom half of the dress and the back. The top is frightening. The tassels are very strangely placed. Hair and makeup are divine. The flower I could do without.

Who are the guest performers? Don’t care. Sorry. I’m feeling awfully cantankerous, if you haven’t noticed.

What do you think about the judge’s decision not to send anyone home? I was happy to see Jose in the bottom but not Robert or Billy. I hope the threat of sending two dancers home next week brings everyone’s game up.

And now I’m done.

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 6 Perform by Kara Howland

Here’s what I don’t want to see this week: Anyone knocked out of the competition due to injury. Here’s what I do want to see: Great technique and joy while dancing. Is that too much to ask? I hope not.

And let’s move on to the lovely, the lively Cat. Her makeup is flawless today. I don’t know what to say about that dress other then I’m not enjoying it. Sorry.

What the hades. Where is Billy? I don’t care that it’s the 150th show (ok, I do). I want to know where Billy is. WHERE IS BILLY? Stop stalling.

For the special 150th episode we have a guest judge. Dancer turned choreographer, turned director and producer. You’ve heard of him. Kenny Ortega. Nice.

Another day, another injury. Bill has injured his knee and he’s not ok to perform this week. Billy will automatically go into the bottom 3. Nigel says there is good news. Their costume designer has won an Emmy. That is nice and I don’t want to take anything away from her but I’m still disappointed about Billy. The remaining contestants will dance three times tonight.

Lauren
All-star partner: Twitch
Tabitha & Napoleon / Hip Hop
Rehearsal: They’re taking hip-hop to the wild, wild west. It’s dirty and grimy. They meet up for a showdown.
My Chick Bad / Ludacris & Nicki Minaj
Performance: Slight prop malfunction. I like that weird rolling thing Lauren’s doing. It’s so slow, which is good because we can see all the moves but I like hip-hop when it’s faster. But don’t get me wrong, Lauren’s totally killing it. Not my favorite but Lauren danced the heck out of it.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam asks who Lauren is. She’s not the girl who auditioned in Vegas. She just tore it up. She listens to the music so beautifully. Mia says giddy-up. She goes so hard. Mia loves that she’s aggressive and kept her sexy girl. Kenny is a huge fan of the show. Save a horse ride a cowboy. Lauren has enough energy to power LA. She comes with such courage and conviction. Nigel says Lauren rises to every occasion. She’s grown tremendously. It was a sick routine.

Jose
All-star partner: Allison
Sonja Tayeh / Contemporary
Rehearsal: This piece is about a couple who meets, falls in love, then parts. Dancing on the edge of the stage represents the risks of love for Sonja.
Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind Theme / Jon Brion
Performance: I’m seeing some nice fluidity. Great character work. Allison is amazing. Have I mentioned that before? It’s really cool to see most of the performance on the edge of the stage. It’s new and interesting. Very, very Sonja. And that’s a compliment.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam tells Sonja the piece is beautifully conceived. It’s hard to critique. Jose’s commitment is perfect. His character is totally realized. In his partner work he was 100% there for her. Jose isn’t dancing in the conventional sense of the term. Mia feels the same. She loves the piece, it’s conceptually genius. She didn’t see much growth technically but she thinks it’s good. Kenny says Allison is a breathtakingly beautifully dancers. Jose earns her trust. He was exquisite in his partnering. Nigel says it was joyous to see his commitment. Sonja has brilliantly covered up his weaknesses.
Further comment: I totally agree with the judges although, once again, I feel like he’s getting a pass. Jose needs to show improvement – significant improvement – every week to stay in the competition. His commitment is there and he;s a great partner for Allison, who is a wonderful technician.

Robert
All-star partner: Lauren
Tyce Diorio / Jazz
Rehearsal: There’s no story other then they’re seducing each other. They’re speaking with their bodies. Robert says Lauren’s hot so it’s easy to get into.
Wasted Time / My Life With the Thrill Kill Kult
Performance: Great partnership. They’re selling the sexy for me. It might be partly due to those crazy costumes but I’m buying it. Robert might be working the audience just a little too much for me. It was hot. Great physicality to it. Very enjoyable.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam says they are smoking. Lauren, ouch. He tells Rob he is so good. Robert commands the stage. He’s a great partner. He’s starting to lose himself a little more but warns him to be conscious of his hands. Mia says it’s a breath of fresh air. It’s nice to see strong dancing, to see what he’s capable of. She can’t wait to see how Robert matures as a dancer. Kenny says Robert really needed this piece. It shows he is grounded. He loved the movement and the turmoil in the piece. They are really engaged. Nigel also loved the smooth Jazz feel to it. An inspiration for guys wanting to dance has got to be Lauren.
Further comment: Robert danced it very well. I also noticed the head thing but I guess it didn’t really bother me. This was a great showcase for his talent.

Adechike’s solo
This Woman’s Work / Maxwell
Great movement. He’s a great aerialist. Nice precision. He made a very wise choice to dance shirtless. Very nice job. I think that’s the best we’ve ever seen him in his own style.

Kent
All-star partner: Kathryn
Sonja Tayeh / Jazz
Rehearsal: The routine is about having fun and accepting who you are. Sonja wants Kent to celebrate himself. The choreography never stops. Sonja’s yelling makes Kent want to fight more.
Tightrope / Janelle Monae
Performance: I’m feeling the fun. Kathryn is proving exactly why Kent was so excited to dance with her. Some great acrobatics. Very nice partner work. What a great partnership. So much fun. They did a great job.
Judge’s critiques:
Apparently the entire studio audience loves Kent. Adam says Kent is making the show more special. He is something else. They’ve never had anyone like him on the show. Mia says Kent is a strong dancer however for her the problem is that his face is so animated it can take the work to a juvenile level. Technique and strength were great. Kenny likes the choreography. Kent is awesome. He’s the guy to beat. Nigel says for the last two weeks, Kent’s almost out danced the all-stars which is the biggest complement he can give him.
Further comment: Kent needs to tone down the awe-shucks persona. I’m tired of it. I think he’s a great dancer and I think he’ll be hard to beat. He’s ready to win a competition like this but all his female fans will vote for him until their hands bleed.

Robert’s solo
Parachutes / Trevor Hall
Nice levels. Great emotion and technique. He is totally throwing himself around the stage, which I like. Happy birthday Robert!

Lauren’s solo
The Waves / Elisa
Great technique. Nice use of the stage. I don’t know why I didn’t love it because she’s usually a dancer I love to watch perform.

Adechike
All-star partner: Comfort
Tabitha and Napoleon / Lyrical Hip Hop
Rehearsal: This dance represents the struggle people experience in a relationship when they know they need to leave but their heart won’t let them.
Fallin’ / Alicia Keys
Performance: Great story that’s very well performed so far. I don’t think I’ve ever seen Comfort this fit or this good. Adechike is totally killing it. Great emotion. I loved it.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam feels like he is watching a movie. So intense and beautiful and horrifying. Everything Adechike is feeling right now is what he made Adam feel. Mia says that felt more real than any contemporary piece. That was unbelievable. That is the highest level of dance. He let so much out on that floor. They got a really big taste of who Adechike really is. Kenny has to believe that part of the marvel of what we just witnessed comes from what the choreographers give to the dancers. Adechike has it in him. It was beautifully connected. Nigel thinks it’s difficult to critique because the dancing moved to another level. NappyTabs have the ability to put emotion to their routines. Adechike has just shown American what honesty in dancing is.
Further comment: I watched it twice. Adechike is such a passionate and skilled dancer. It was so nice to see that amazing emotional honesty between him and Comfort.

Jose’s solo
Give It Up or Turnit a Loose / James Brown
Great personality, as always. Fun tricks. He seems like he’s having a lot of fun, which I always love to see.

Kent’s solo
End of the Road (A Capella) / Boyz II Men
He’s an impressive athlete. Nice jumps and emotion. He is a very good dancer. Great job.

Lauren and Robert
Dmitry Chaplin / Samba
Rehearsal: Two people meet at a beach party. They’re flirting with each other. The samba has to be flirtatious from the girl and masculine from the guy. The samba is the hardest Latin American dance.
Drummer Boy (SYTYCD Remix) / Debi Nova
Performance: Great form as far as I can tell. I feel the sexy. I’m having fun watching it but it does look hard. Great partner connection. A bit of a malfunction on the last lift but it was a great effort.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam wants a T-shirt that says “ You shot me with your butt.” Robert’s lines are so crisp. His partner connection is so good. Lauren’s retractions and footwork are unbelievable. Mia is so pleased with that performance. Robert looks like a Samba dancer. Mia thinks the hips and butt were great but she wants to see Lauren “up” more. Kenny says Robert and Lauren did that extremely well. Robert’s partnering is amazing. Nigel says Robert’s upper body reminds him of Dmitry. He’s done himself proud. He tells Lauren to be careful in her turnout. Really enjoyable. She made contact with her partner and us. Very good.
Further comment: I also saw some small technical problems (from what I could tell, and I can’t say I have an eye for it) but I found them engaging and connected. Nice chemistry.

Adechike and Jose
Dmitry Chaplin & Legacy / Paso Doble
Rehearsal: For the first time in SYTYCD history, they’re doing an all-male Paso Doble. They have two matadors who are fighting for glory. The piece is really physical. It’s a battle but they need to work as a team.
The Arrival/Rampage/Continue Existence / James Dooley
Performance: I love the concept. Jose is trying his hardest but Adechike is totally dominating him. Adechike has the presence and commitment. I would have liked to see Adechike dance this with any other guy. It feel unfinished. I wanted more.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam loves how committed they were. They are completely connected in their partnership. Technically this is outside their area. He wants to see Jose stretch his legs and feet. Adechike could have used more abandon. Good effort. Mia thinks they did ok with it. Aesthetically it was nice to look at. It was flailing. The focus was there. Good attempt. Kenny thinks it was a valiant effort for believing in the piece and pouring their hearts into it. Nigel agrees with his diplomatic colleagues. We have a lot to learn from the ballroom guys who attack it. Nigel loves that guys are dancing together but they’re a little lacking. It wasn’t everything he wanted it to be.
Further comment: The judges were way too diplomatic in their critiques. We know that none of the judges ever seem to have harsh words for Jose but tonight they should have laid into him. Adechike deserved some harsh words too but he was much stronger and more committed tonight. He’s just better technically.

Kent and Billy, then Twitch
Chuck Maldonado / Stepping
Rehearsal: Stepping is body percussion. It’s like a marching band without the instruments. The hardest part is the coordination.
Pro Nails (Rusko Remix) / Kid Sister
Performance: I’m surprised Kent looks so good. Twitch is amazing. I would have liked Kent to get more down into it but it was a very good effort. The faces were a bit much but more appropriate here.
Judge’s critiques:
Adam wants to thank the producers of the show for introducing over and over again new and exciting dance styles. Thanks to Chuck for coming in and throwing it down. Thanks to Kent for kicking its ass. Amazing. Mia had no idea Kent has that in him. It’s disgusting and filthy and gross and amazing. She lives for them. Kent and Twitch’s chemistry together is sick. Mia now says Kent’s the one to beat. Kenny tells Kent he pulled it off. Nigel wants to remind everyone that this isn’t the first time we’ve had stepping on the show. Nigel loves stepping. Kent has combated everything that’s been thrown at him. He wants to see Kent krump next.
Further comment: I’m still kind of shocked that Kent didn’t embarrass himself. I thought his facial contortions were appropriate here and I feel like he really “stepped” up. I’m sorry. I had to.

I’m still disappointed that we didn’t see Billy dance tonight but I was impressed by almost all of the dancing. If I had to choose the bottom three I might put Jose in there three times. Harsh, I know, but he’s just not improving enough for me. But back to reality, back to life. I hope Jose joins Billy in the bottoms. And If I had to guess who else might end up there I would say it’s Robert. I think he was so strong tonight but I’m still not sure America loves him as much as I do. I think Kent is safe no matter what and Adechike’s hip-hop routine should keep him out of trouble.

Who would you like to see go home this week?

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 6 Revealed by Kara Howland

So who will join Ashley in the bottom three tonight? Will Ashley be well enough to continue in the competition? I hope so but as a few of my friends pointed out, she wasn’t even in the audience last night which seems like a bad sign to me.

But first, the delectable Cat. I like the bright yellow and I like the headband look. The makeup seems just a bit heavy but I’ll allow it.

Let’s group dance.
Charleston (from Billion Dollar Baby) / Jerome Robbins Broadway
I don’t now how I feel about All-stars and this years competitors dancing together in the group dance. I kind of want to focus on the people still in the competition. But I am enjoying this Broadway number. There’s a lot going on and it’s fun. Choreographed by Tyce Diorio.

National Dance Day is July 31st. Since they mention it every week I don’t think we can forget. There will be flash mobs all over the place – DC, LA, Chicago, and worldwide.

First up are Lauren and Kent. They’re both safe. Not surprising.

Special Performance #1
From Mary Murphy’s champion ballroom academy in San Diego coached by Olga Ginzburg and Igor Ustymovych it’s Fernando Martingullans and Lauren Vayser.
Jailhouse Rock / Elvis Presley
Ok. I didn’t expect them to be so young. This should be adorable. Wow, they’re more than adorable. They’re really great. Amazing technique. It’s funny because their long limbs look a little awkward but they’re so good. And it was adorable.

Adechike and Billy are the next pair up. Billy’s in the bottom three. Boooooooooooooooooooo. I knew it. He was so good last night. It’s really disappointing. Mia says he’s breaking down the walls of technical coldness. Last night there was lightness and fun. He’s just dancing now. His personality is starting to shine through. Mia tells Billy he’s going in the right direction.

Jose and Robert are the final pair up. Jose is in the bottom. Wow. I’m happy he’s there, he needs to be. Adam is wringing his hands. Adam wants to know how Jose feels to have made it this far. Jose says it’s an honor. It feels great. He’s surprised he hasn’t been in the bottom three before because he expects to be there every week. Adam gives him the reality: Jose signed up for a dance competition. He knows what he’s got to do.

Special Performance #2
From Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. With an excerpt from Ullyses Dove’s Bad Blood Jamal Roberts and Rachael McClaren.
Gravity’s Angel / Laurie Anderson
Wow. They are acrobatic. There’s a little too much energy at the beginning but Rachel recovers nicely. Jamal is killing it. So powerful. Great precision. Nice tricks. He is so there for his partner in every way. Great ending but I feel like it was a little bit weird. I watched closely and didn’t type as much as I should have. I’ll say it’s not traditionally pretty but I don’t need that. I liked it.

This week’s All-star featured dancers are Twitch and Comfort. I’m so happy they’re going to dance their Hip Hop piece from Season 4. This is why I love me some Dave Scott.
Forever / Chris Brown
Wow, I feel like Comfort is bringing it more then she originally did. They are hitting it really hard. It’s so hot. I’m loving it. Was it a little different this time? I’m going to watch it again…. Still as awesome the second time. I’ll agree with an earlier statement Nigel made. Comfort is getting better. She really brought it tonight. And Twitch is as awesome as ever.

Solos

Billy
Stand By Me / Ben E. King
He is amazing in his solos. I’m seeing pretty flawless technique. I feel like his emotions are fully engaged. I love him.

Jose
Chicken Bone Circuit / RJD2
Great tricks. He’s throwing a lot of great stuff in there. Very nice job but he’s so great in his own style.

Musical Performance
Christina Perri is performing Jar of Hearts. After Stacey Tookey used it for one of her pieces, the song ended up on the top 100 chart. Nice job SYTYCD viewers. I know I make a lot of music purchases after I hear songs on this show. I really like that Christina’s got a string section on the stage with her and that she’s playing the piano. Neil and Allison are great. I don’t really have too much more to say about them. I liked the performance – both vocal and dance.

Who is leaving? Over to Nigel. He asks Jose to step forward. We’ve seen another new character this week. Nigel says he’s showing us a character fighting to stay on the show. It was quite stunning. It’s the fastest Jose’s done those tricks and the most energy he’s put into his breaking. Billy showed us a different style this week. They think he’s on the right road. In his solo they think he went to a default position. Nigel has spoken to both of Ashley’s doctors. She needs between 3 and 5 weeks rest. They have to let her go this week. Wow. I didn’t expect that although by cubicle neighbor Dave Anderson totally called it.

Only one girl remains in the competition. I would have liked to see Ashley stick around for a few more weeks but her health is more important and I do want her to get better. I think Jose got a pass this week. Ee saw him fighting for it, which is great but I need to see more technique from him next week or else it really will be time for him to go home. I also think Billy is on the right path. If he keeps losing himself in the dance I want to believe people will pick up the phone for him. I know I will.

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 7 Perform by Kara Howland

I’m gonna pull a Mia and say I miss Alex so hard right now. But I’m saying it before the show even starts. Now that it’s out of my system I will watch the remaining contestants perform without even a thought for Alex. It will be hard. But I can do it.

But first, what is our lovely Cat wearing? I like the multi-colored one-shoulder drapey dress. Very becoming. Her hair is kind of back and off her face and her makeup is perfection.

Right away I notice Ashley isn’t in the opening montage. Uh oh. Cat announces that Ashley was taken to the hospital on Monday with severe rib pains and she has been advised not to dance tonight. As we know, this means Ashley is automatically put into the bottom 3. If she can’t dance two weeks in a row she will have to leave the competition. Cat does have an Alex update. He had surgery to reattach his Achilles tendon. Alex thanks everyone for their kind thoughts and wishes. He hopes to see us soon.

Lauren
All-star partner: Mark
Tiana Liufau / Tahitian Dance
Rehearsal: Before they had a written alphabet the Tahitians would keep their stories and perpetuate myths and legends through dance. The theme is night and day. They flirt and eventually come together to make the first day.
Jungle / Last Voices
Performance: I’m somewhat distracted by the costumes but I’m pretty into it. I love Mark. He is working it hard. Lauren’s totally doing her part too. There’s a lot of hip shaking. I liked it quite a lot. Very entertaining.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel admits that he doesn’t know what to say. He likes that Tiana brings something new to the program. Adam says those hips don’t life. Nigel thinks it was a lot of fun but technically he has no critique. Mia is fascinated. The poise, the posture. Absolutely wonderful. Adam can’t believe Lauren just did that. She had him going. The energy was amazing. He thinks their technique is spectacular.
Further comment: I don’t know how to critique this either. I found the performance highly enjoyable. I will admit to looking at Mark more than Lauren because I think his crazy quirky personality really brought something to this.

Adechike
All-star partner: Anya
Liz Lira & Danny Davalos / Salsa
Rehearsal: They’re doing a traditional competitive Salsa. It’s fast and intricate with death-defying moves. Anya thinks it’s the hardest Salsa to hit the SYTYCD stage.
Oyelo Que Te Conviene / Eddie Palmieri
Performance: A bit of a bobble on the first flipping trick but decent recovery. Adechike is trying his hardest. It’s a bit awkward and it’s not flowing the way it should. Wow, the tricks are nonstop. I’m so nervous for Anya. Nice finish but I can’t say I enjoyed it.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel thinks their choreographer is a crazy woman. He thinks the routine worked. There’s so much in the routine that was challenging. It’s a totally alien subject and Adechike pulled it off. Mia says the choreography was excellent and the tricks were awesome. There were little bumps. Some of the fluidity isn’t there. Good attempt. He got through it. Adam says the choreography was hard. He blew though it, never showed weakness and was there for Anya.
Further comment: I fully acknowledge that we haven’t seen choreography this hard in a long time, if ever. I do enjoy that the show is giving so many new choreographers a shot but I would have liked to see Liz take this down a couple of notches. I don’t need to see Adechike dance perfectly but I don’t want Anya’s life put in danger. I’m just sayin’.

Jose
All-star partner: Courtney
Joey Dowling / Broadway
Rehearsal: Courtney is a showgirl and Jose is a stagehand who is mesmerized by her. But she never sees him. Courtney thinks it will be hard to ignore Jose.
Mister Cellophane / Chicago (Motion Picture soundtrack)
Performance: Jose is dancing (mostly) in the style which is what I want to see. I’m seeing the emotion but his technique is lacking. Courtney is amazing as usual. I didn’t love it.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel loves the concept of it but he doesn’t think Jose danced it well. This let Jose down tonight. Mia can’t even look at him right now. Mia says Nigel hit it right on the nose. The patheticness is too much; she wants to see a glimmer of hope. The lack of training is evident, no technique to back it up. Adam says Nigel and Mia aren’t wrong. Jose needs finish and lines.
Further comment: I feel bad for Jose but we need to see his weaknesses. He needs to know what he needs to work on. The judges aren’t being mean or vicious; they’re being honest because that’s what Jose needs to hear.

Robert
All-star partner: Allison
Travis Wall / Contemporary
Rehearsal: The piece is about Travis’s mother who just had massive surgery. Robert can really relate to this character. Every step is a storytelling moment. Travis’s mom is everything to him.
Fix You / Coldplay
Performance: Great emotion. Nice connection. I liked the slow start and the much more energetic parts following. Wow. Robert is amazing and so is Allison. This is really Robert’s style. That was great. Really beautiful. Nice ending.
Judge’s critiques:
Robert gets a standing ovation from the judges. Cat is all choked up. I’m misty too. Nigel says that just transcended the competition. Nigel sends love and support to Travis. The audience should come together for Robert this week. Mia is touched. This is her cry of the season. It brings Mia back to the week before her mom passed. What was danced on that stage is so much bigger. Our moms are everything. It’s the best Mia’s seen him dance this season. The negative space and partner work were genius. Adam says if Travis doesn’t get an Emmy nomination for that there is no God. This is going to be the performances of the season. Congratulations. Robert is brilliant.
Further comment: I watched it again. It was just beautifully danced. The technique and emotion were there. It was beautiful.

Billy
All-star partner: Anya
Louis Van Amstel / Jive
Rehearsal: This is a traditional, competitive Jive. It requires a lot of speed and personality.
Paradise by the Dashboard Light / Meat Loaf
Performance: Billy’s technique looks spot on. This is such a fun and FAST piece. I think his connection with Anya is great. Totally believable. And it looks like they’re having fun. Great ending.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel says that’s the hardest he’s seen Billy work on chemistry and it was really good to see. It’s a bit up in the air and he’d like to see him get down more. Nigel is happy with what he’s seen. Mia thinks it was absolutely stellar. She likes that Bill is regal and pulled up. There’s no awkwardness. The connection is so there. Adam says it’s one of his favorite performances from Billy. He’s connected and committed. Billy is in it to win it.
Further comment: I agree with the judges completely. I’m so happy to see Billy have some fun and have great chemistry with a partner.

Kent
All-star partner: Neil
Tyce Diorio / Broadway
Rehearsal: It’s about baseball players. It’s about the team, the movement that implies they’re on the field. You have to be a character in this and really portray it. Really with all the baseball references?
Shoeless Joe From Hannibal, Mo / Damn Yankees (1994 original Broadway cast)
Performance: It’s a fun piece. Very, very Broadway. The technique and character look spot on. Nice use of the stage. Impressive acrobatics. They seem to be almost perfectly in synch.
Judges critiques:
Nigel says Tyce is throwing every trick in the book. Kent is the MVP tonight. Kent outdances Neil tonight. Mia loves boys so much. To have that kind of choreography for two male characters. It was great entertainment. Their characters are there. Partnering was awesome. Adam tells Tyce that was so awesome. That was the other side of Fosse. Kent nailed it. He has a huge future in Broadway if he wants it. What was so special is that they made it look effortless.
Further comment: I fully acknowledge that the piece was great. It looked like it had all the necessary bells and whistles. I just didn’t love it which happens more often that not when Tyce choreographs a Broadway piece. Maybe I didn’t connect with the subject matter. Who know?

Lauren and Billy
Mandy Moore / Jazz
Rehearsal: Two shoes meet up and want to boogie. The shoes take over the dancer’s bodies. Lauren is struggling. Mandy hopes the shoes are full of magic instead of possessed.
Boogie Shoes / KC & The Sunshine Band
Performance: I think it’s a cute concept. Billy looks like he’s having fun again. I like the footwork (and everything else). I watched a lot more than I typed. Extremely enjoyable.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel calls is absolutely adorable. The style makes you smile. Billy is really connecting with his partners this week and this style suits him. Lauren connected with her partner. She shouldn’t go clicking her heels together because she’s not going home yet. Mia says the choreography and performance is completely in the pocket, quirky and groovy. Adam calls it happy-making. Billy finally gets lost in the dance. That will make people pick up the phone for him. He tells Lauren the boys have something to be afraid of. She could get way up there; she’s killing him lately.
Further comment: I did smile a lot throughout the piece. They were so cute and comfortable together and made it funky and fun. I feel like Lauren is finally connecting fully with her partners as well.

Jose and Dominic
Tabitha & Napoleon / B-Boy Routine (1st time ever on SYTYCD)
Rehearsal: Having Legacy and Mike Murda assisting NappyTabs was fresh. It’s East meets West; bringing the styles together.
Battle for the Beat / District 78
Performance: It’s so cool. The way they get their bodies to move is totally amazing. Nice levels. Great tricks. I really enjoyed it. Jose and Dom were truly great. Jose needed that.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel tells Jose he redeemed himself. None of the other dancers could do what he just did there. Nigel is really enjoying see the guys dance together this season. Mia loves boys. The beginning part, the traveling section was amazing. All she wants now from Jose is training and strength, strength, strength. Loved it. Adam tells Jose that’s the way to compete. For Jose to come out and school us like that is hot.
Further comment: Can we talk for a moment how much I love Dom? He was a bit inappropriate with the sword at the end but the things he said about Jose were so touching.

Adechike and Kent
Dee Caspary / Contemporary
Rehearsal: Kent is in a poisonous relationship and Adechike is trying to get him out of it. They’re using the chairs in a way Adechike has never seen before.
You Only Disappear / Tom McRae
Performance: Great quality of movement. Nice emotion. Amazing airtime. I liked their connection. Two technicians really going after it. It was a pleasure to watch.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel thanks Dee for contributing another brilliant piece to a diverse show. Calls it tremendous. Great height on Adechike’s jump. He thanks Kent for underplaying that. He has such a beautiful style. Kent stands a remarkable chance of being this year’s champion. Mia calls Kent an unbelievable dancer. The organic quality and strength in this is breathtaking. Mia says there’s a God for sure. She was praying this would be a great week for Adechike and it is. Adam tells them that they just taught America that a super athlete can also be a super artist. They just taught him so much about dance and performance. They were both brilliant.
Further comment: They were both subtle and powerful throughout the piece. I completely and totally agree with the judges. That piece was a pleasure to watch.

Robert and Kathryn
Doriana Sanchez / Disco
Rehearsal: They’re going for fun and big party time. Robert says it feels like a pretzel.
Instant Replay / Dan Hartman
Performance: I’m not always in love with Doriana’s pieces but this looks pretty fun. The lifts are interesting. I feel like we’re not seeing the same old thing. And Robert looks like he’s really attacking it and having fun. The energy ‘s great. A few transitions are a bit rough but they kind of make up for it in performance for me.
Judge’s critiques:
Nigel says that people don’t always appreciate how tough Disco is. You have to be strong and energetic. You can’t stop and take a breath. Robert gave us lines, strength. Doriana gave them a beautiful routine. Mia feels like it was too thin; she wants the texture of the movement needed to be more masculine. Nigel disagrees. Robert is selling fun and Adam bought it.
Further comment: I see what Mia is saying but I really enjoyed it. Anytime any dancer can perform a Doriana Sanchez piece and NOT bore me is a victory. I liked it. Kathryn was a great partner for Robert to have on this.

So who will join Ashley in the bottom three tomorrow? I really don’t know. At this point, I think all the dancers are incredibly strong. Even if someone didn’t have two amazing performances – like Jose – at least one of the performances was remarkable. Kent is untouchable right now. I agree with Nigel; there’s a real chance he’ll win this whole thing especially if the teen and pre-teen girls keep voting for him. Robert’s contemporary might keep him out of the bottom and Jose’s B-Boy routine should also keep him safe. I really don’t want Billy to be in the bottom again because I thought both of his pieces were strong. But if he does end up there again we’ll know that America still can’t connect with him. Lauren was great so she’d better not be there. So I guess that leaves Adechike? His salsa might put him in the bottom. Tomorrow’s results show will be a doozy.

Even though I love that we’re seeing new choreographers and old favorites return, where the heck is my Mary Murphy? Wasn’t it made clear during Vegas week that Mary Murphy would be back during the season? Hello, it’s half over. When will the hot tamale train arrive with my hot tamale Mary? And we also met Hi Hat during rehearsals but haven’t seen her return to the show. If neither one is going to come back just tell us. We can take it.

Who do you want to see in the bottom and why?

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 7 Revealed by Kara Howland

I am very interested to see who will join Alex in the bottom 3 this week. I won’t be happy if either of our girls is there. But first, let’s group dance.

When We Dance / Sting
Heavenly theme. Interesting. Very nice partner work. Great control shown by the couples so far. Did I just see Billy in a dress? Or a skirt? Hmm, I think it’s a bit weird to have Ade in the group dance. I would have preferred just our top 8 but I guess he’s taking Alex’s place. It was strange and interesting. Very Mia. Which reminds me, why haven’t we seen Mary or Hi Hat choreograph anything yet this season? Things that make you go hmmmm.

Cat looks lovely as always. I like the clever cut out dress and that’s a great belt. The hair thing is a bit too much for me but I think she’s pulling it off.

Adam is being congratulated on his Emmy nominations for the Oscars. And SYTYCD received three nominations. Stacey Tookey and Mia Michaels are nominated as well as Amy Strozzi for makeup. Former contestant Chelsie Hightower is nominated for the other dancing show that shall remain nameless. Nigel also mentions that Glee received 19 nominations. I heart that show.

Nigel reminds us about Dance Day on July 31st – promoting health and wellness. A congresswoman is introducing a bill to make July 31st a National Dance Day. Apparently there will be a flash mob in Washington DC to celebrate it. That’s cool. Promoting health is always good and I do enjoy a good flash mob.

Let’s find out who’s in danger of going home.

The first two dancers up are Billy and Lauren. Billy is in danger. Adam says that he imagines either allergies or a lot of voters who are dog lovers put Billy in the bottom. Adam says it’s not about the dancing. He doesn’t think Billy deserves to be there. He wants Billy to forget he’s in a competition and go out there and just bring joy to that stage.

The last five dancers up are Kent, Adechike, Ashley, Robert, and Jose. Ashley is also in the bottom. What? What?? Mia doesn’t know why Ashley is here. Mia does have something to say to Adechike. She acknowledges that she came across as harsh and insensitive. She apologizes if she hurt him. Mia saw Adechike’s light dim this week. There is such greatness in him and she wants to see him soar. She’ll always be tough-love Mama Mia.

Which All-stars are we being reintroduced to this week? Anya and Pasha. I love them so much. They are amazing ballroom dancers. I forgot that they originally tried out together. Cat reminds us they’ve never partnered on the SYTYCD stage until now, which isn’t technically true. The two of them danced with Cristina before the competition officially started. They didn’t dance as a couple but they have danced together on this stage. I’m just sayin’.
Magic Carpet Ride (No Comprende Edit) / Mighty Dub Katz
They are so flipping good. Amazing technique. Unbelievable chemistry. They are really working it. Nice ending. I loved every second of it. Cat calls them hot. I call them sexy. Random side note: I love Anya as a blonde.

Who’s going home? It’s not that time yet.

Our first musical performance for the night is from In the Heights featuring Tony award winner Lyn-Manuel Miranda. Normally I don’t feel guilt about fast-forwarding through a performance I’m not that interested in. Once upon a time I used to see Broadway shows all the time so I watched it. The audience sure liked it.

The solos

Billy
To Build a Home / The Cinematic Orchestra
Still brilliant. I’m feeling his passion and we’re seeing his beautiful technique. I think he’s really leaving it all out on that stage tonight.

Ashley
Lost (Acoustic) / Anouk
Wow. I feel like she’s really grown since the beginning of the competition. She’s leaving it all out on the floor as well. That was powerful and impressive.

The next musical guest is Natasha Bedingfield performing her new song Touch. I’m a fan of her music so I’ll watch. And I relish almost any opportunity possible to see the All-stars dance. Natasha Bedingfield is great. I really enjoy her and the dancing is great. Really fun choreography.

It’s judgment time.

Nigel tells Cat they are unanimous. He asks Alex to move forward. The results of the MRI are in. Alex has suffered a lacerated Achilles tendon. He’s having an operation on Tuesday to repair it and then he’ll need to recuperate for three months. Alex is out of the competition this year but he’s invited back for next year. That means Ashley and Billy are safe.

How do the judges feel about this? Nigel tells Alex this will strengthen him and make him a better dancer. Mia tells Alex he’s left a mark on the show and in the world. He’s a special artist and human being. Adam says Alex taught us the best can be better and calls Alex an inspiration.

Wow. Alex has been something of a revelation – at least to me- this season so we’d better see him back on the show next year. I hope the surgery goes well and he takes the time he needs to get better. Alex is grateful for the opportunity and he loves them all. Alex will remember learning so much every week. He doesn’t regret anything. It seems like he was going to say something to Kent but got cut off. It’s hard to see Alex leave but I guess it just wasn’t meant to be there year. Sadness.

What did you think? Did you tear up at the end like me?

So You Think You Can Dance: The Top 8 Perform by Kara Howland

Alex has to sit out the competition this week, Season 5’s Katie makes a surprise appearance, and NappyTabs continue their winning streak.

But first, Cat. She looks kind of rock n roll tonight and I approve. I like what she’s doing with metallics this season.

Alex got hurt in rehearsals yesterday so he can’t perform tonight. What happens next? Nigel says it depends on what the doctors say. They think it’s a ruptured Achilles tendon, which is very serious. With the new rules this year Alex will automatically be placed in the bottom three and if he can’t perform next week he’s out. Wow. I hope his Achilles is ok. I’m not ready to see Alex go home and I’m sure there are people out there who think he can win it all if he’s healthy.

All-star partnerships
Lauren
All-star partner: Pasha
Jean-Marc Genereux & France / Cha Cha
Rehearsal: Lauren doesn’t know much about Cha Cha except that it’s supposed to be hot. There’s some move they do called the hairdresser.
Telephone / Lady Gaga & Beyonce
Performance: Lauren is actually looking sexy. Great partner work. She’s got nice connection with Pasha, who is amazing as usual in this style. Great levels. I liked that there was some stuff on the floor and some stuff in the air. Nice start to the program.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel says Lauren has matured in her performance. She’s got another weapon in her arsenal. Mia calls it pure muderation. So hot, perfect. Adam wants to swear but doesn’t. Lauren’s sharp, specific, strong, smoldering.
Further comment: I loved everything the judge’s said but I’d like Nigel to come off as less of a dirty old man in the future. There is no question that Lauren is an amazing technical dancer. While I don’t know enough about the Cha Cha to speak to that, I did think her performance level was much improved from last week and it’s hard not to be sexy and connected with Pasha.

Jose
All-star partner: Lauren
Mandy Moore / Contemporary
Rehearsal: It’s a dance about soul mates, about people who have to be together. Lauren’s not sure Jose’s been this intimate in his dancing.
Never Tear Us Apart / Inxs
Performance: I like how physically connected they are at the beginning. Jose shows some decent technique. He’s being a very strong partner for Lauren in all the lifts. Great connection.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel says Jose looked amazing after Jose says it was amazing dancing with Lauren. He’s there for Lauren throughout the routine. He’s pushing himself. He brings the joy of dancing to the stage. Mia wants to be more like Jose. He lacks ego. He has an open heart and purity. His spirit dances and his body follows. She believed every step Jose took. Smartly choreographed. Adam says Mandy played to Jose’s strengths: passion, commitment, uninhibited spirit. He is a special performer and he’s growing technically.
Further comment: I think I’ll agree with Nigel here and say I was amazed. I watched a lot of the performance without typing, which is always good. I would have liked to see a little more technical ability but I do think Jose is exactly what this show is about. I can see him getting better and it’s a joy to watch.

Kent
All-star partner: Comfort
Dave Scott / Hip Hop
Rehearsal: Dave wants Kent to be super cool. Kent gets the beat but he’s scared. Dave wants to get Kent’s face to do what he’s body is doing.
You’re Not My Girl / Ryan Leslie
Performance: I’d say what Kent is doing right now is a Jazz-flavored Hip Hop. I don’t hate it. He’s got some soul. I’m smiling. I can’t help myself. Comfort is the perfect partner for this piece. I’m seeing nice moves from them both.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel thinks the routine is terrific. It was a “soft” hop not a hip-hop. Dave found a great style for Kent. He didn’t overact it, sat in the groove. Comfort’s grown as well. Mia isn’t mad at him at all. There’s a cool factor, it worked but it’s lacking a little in groove factor. Adam says he was really good. He sees growth this week. Kent embraced small.
Further comment: I’d like Kent to talk less during his critiques but I do agree with the judges. I liked him a lot this week. I guess I can understand Kent’s mass appeal to tweens and teens but I’m more interested in his technique, which was great. Dave Scott really knows how to choreograph for the dancers he gets.

Adechike
All-star partner: Courtney
Mandy Moore / Jazz
Rehearsal: It’s set around closing time at a bar. Courtney is a woman on the prowl. Adechike is available. Courtney thinks Adechike is enjoying this just a little too much.
Is You Is Or Is You Ain’t My Baby? (Rae & Christian Remix) / Dinah Washington
Performance: Really fun. Courtney is amazing and Adechike is playing so nicely off her energy. This is very different Jazz then we’re used to seeing and I’m enjoying it.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel thinks it’s a good routine, well choreographed. Last week Adechike gave us a good character. This week, he came up to the task. It’s the best he’s seen Adechike out of his own style. Mia totally disagrees with Nigel. Feels like Adechike relied on his personality too much. The dancing, the ability, the style was so not there. Very mediocre for her. Adam didn’t think he found enough performance. Adechike needs to get lost in the music. He needs to find a deeper connection with his partner and find a new character every week.
Further comment: Wow, Nigel is very vocal this week. Adam and Mia weren’t so keen on the performance but Nigel was. I, too, would have liked to see more dancing like Adechike and Courtney did away from the bar. Sometimes a prop or set piece can really throw a routine off and perhaps the bar did that tonight for Adechike. I didn’t love it but it wasn’t a donut hole for me.

Billy
All-star partner: Allison, then Katie
Spencer Liff / Broadway
Rehearsal: Billy and Allison are burglars who are making their escape. It’s very athletic. Allison has an older injury that flares up so Katie steps in as his all-star. Nice. I was wondering what she’s been up to.
Macavity: The Mystery Cat / CATS (original Broadway cast)
Performance: I already love it. It’s quirky and fun. I’m not seeing the athleticism – I thought there would be more jumping and diving and flips – was promised but I’m really enjoying it. Billy’s getting into the character and being amazing as usual. Highly enjoyable.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel says this is the best he’s ever seen Billy dance outside of his solos. Spencer’s choreography has given him a style that sits on him beautifully. Mia calls him fabulicious. It’s the best she’s seen him. Billy was sharp and smart. Jerome Robbins would have loved him. Adam says he’s never connected with a partner so well. Everybody drank performance juice and sexy juice this week. Billy drew him in.
Further comment: Another great choreographer joins the ranks. I was surprised by how much I liked this and like Adam I really enjoyed the small moments. Billy has a great connection with Katie and it should keep him out of the bottom this week. For whatever reason, Spencer did tap into something in Billy that made him even better than usual this week. And what’s not to love about Katie? She’s an amazing partner and really helped Billy come out of himself this week.

Ashley
All-star partner: Dominic
Tabitha & Napoleon / Hip Hop
Rehearsal: They are ninja assassins. They’re trying to take each other out.
How Low / Ludacris
Performance: Ashley is totally surprising me. I’m loving her. Wow, she can hit it hard. It’s fun too. Great interactions with Dominic. That was kinda awesome. Ashley is buck this week.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel does love her. This was Ashley’s opportunity to show us she can do something other than contemporary and she can. He wanted to see her take a firmer base. Loved it. Mia thinks Ashley danced it so hardcore. There’s no kill in her eyes though. Adam thinks she’s a quiet contender. She just took another step forward. This was a big deal. Didn’t expect her to hit it hard or embrace this character.
Further comment: I watched it twice and I might watch it again. That’s how much I liked it. NappyTabs has really impressed me the past two weeks. They are really stepping up their game. I didn’t expect this from Ashley and she amazed and impressed me this week. I’m not sure I had an opinion of her at the beginning of this competition, but she’s just put the rest of the dancers on notice.

Robert
All-star partner: Kathryn
Sean Cheesman / Jazz
Rehearsal: They’re living dolls that come to life and go on an adventure. They have to break out of their shells.
Sinking Feeling / Roisin Murphy
Performance: It’s totally weird but I’m liking it. I like when we don’t see the same thing every week. Oh, no. They got a bit off in their timing and couldn’t make one of the tricks work. I think there are too many tricks in their piece. I think they gave it a good try but I didn’t love it.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel loves the concept. It’s fun, terrific for the show but it didn’t get time to develop once they were out of the box. Terrific. Will keep his fingers crossed. Mia says Robert is one of the hardest workers. Movement inside the box was everything. Feels like it was tailored to Robert. Could have been tightened up a little. Adam thinks Robert is so great. He’s so dedicated and committed.
Further comment: I, too, love Robert but I just didn’t love this piece. I don’t think I got it. I hope Robert doesn’t end up in the bottom again but I think he will. I don’t know who is saying he’s arrogant, but Robert has never come across that way to me. He’s such a skilled technical dancer. He could tone down on the faces a bit, but I’m a huge fan.

Competitor partnerships
Alex and Adechike
Nakul Dev Mahajan / Bollywood
Rehearsal: Two guys who are doing a devotional dance to a God. It’s very fast. It’s like Bollywood bootcamp. Nakul’s assistant Maha will step in for Alex tonight.
Mourya Re / Don The Chase Begins Again (soundtrack)
Performance: Wow. It is fast. Adechike looks like he’s having a lot of fun though. Great technique, it looks like. And it gets faster. Wow.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel wants Adechike to be careful about putting his character into it. Stick to the specific style. Lacking in sharpness. Loved the jumps at the end. This let Adechike down a little this week. Mia tells Adechike his focus needs to be in one place. It seemed a little African. She misses Alex right now. Adam tells Adechike he has an enormous amount of power. He lacked finish to his lines.
Adam wants him to keep going. Nigel points out that the judges are attempting to improve the dancers. It’s about a journey.
Further comment: I love that Cat played devil’s advocate and pointed out that when Jose put this own little twist on Bollywood, the judges loved it. The audience and even Nakul seems to like what Adechike did with the piece. I liked his exuberance. I liked that this is a fast piece and he seemed to be keeping up.

Lauren and Kent
Travis Wall / Contemporary
Rehearsal: It’s about two people after prom who are saying good-bye even though they know they’ll be drawn together again. Kent thinks Lauren is cute so it won’t be hard to crush on her.
Collide (Acoustic Version) / Howie Day
Performance: I love Travis, as you may be aware. Great tricks. I want Kent to be more present in his dancing though. He looks like he’s just setting up for the next thing. Lauren’s great in this. Nice partner connection. Very nice technique. There’s some stuff here we haven’t seen before.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel thinks that proved 3 things: what a good contemporary dancer Lauren is, what a good contemporary dancer Kent is, what a good contemporary choreographer Travis is. Lauren is a very strong dancer. He’s always looking for the heart in her. He felt it tonight. Kent is such a hard worker. All his hard work will pay off. They are the ultimate in male and female dancers. Mia calls the piece stunning, gorgeous. The connection is there. Lauren is the perfect female dancer. There’s the athlete, the technique, and the soul. Beautiful work by Kent. Adam sums it up in saying he feels embarrassed because it felt so honest. It felt too intimate, which is a really good thing. Embodies everything it’s supposed to be about.
Further comment: Since Travis’s Jazz misstep (debacle seems too harsh), I was really worried he was being punished. It was a ridiculous fear as it turns out, but there it is. Travis is a brilliant contemporary choreographer. I still think Kent was all about the set ups and not so much about the connection but he was there for Lauren and their moment at the end was very nice.

Robert and Ashley
Jean-Marc Genereux & France / Quickstep
Rehearsal: It’s about a powerful man and a woman who wants to take that power. It’s a dance with a lot of rules. You can’t fake it.
Man With the Hex / The Atomic Fireballs
Performance: I like the beginning but that’s only because it’s not the Quickstep. I fear for them. From what I can tell, they are doing a decent job with this style. Not great. There are form breaks and I think Robert’s frame is weak. They’re going for it though. I didn’t hate it.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel says this is tough. It’s the dance of death. Robert had more close hold than anyone else on the show previously. The hydraulic system of the dance is too jumpy. Robert’s shape isn’t quite right. The character is and the dance is. Ashley looks like she was enjoying it. Mia says they got through it and it wasn’t a train wreck. The music was fighting it for her. Robert’s legs were too far apart. It was a bad kiss instead of the kiss of death. Adam thinks they were totally committed. Served each other beautifully.
Further comment: It was a bit awkward for me but not a disaster. I also found the music distracting but I can't blame the dancers for that. I’m glad they got decent critiques. I’m trying to remember even one dancer from any season that has performed this well who wasn’t a ballroom dancer…and I’m coming up blank.

Jose and Billy
Sean Cheesman / African Jazz
Rehearsal: The story is about the hunter (Jose) and it’s prey (Billy). It’s fast and aggressive.
The Hunt / Mickey Hart
Performance: I like these characters. Billy is amazing as the jaguar. Nice partner tricks. I’m seeing too much b-boying from Jose. I want more Jazz from him. Billy is killing this for me. The jaguar won this battle.
Judge’s critiques: Nigel loves the concept. Billy has played a cat twice tonight. It felt like a Broadway cat instead of a feral, powerful animal. He’s disappointed in that. Jose isn’t powerful enough. The choreography is there. Mia loved Billy. She’s not sure he’s a jaguar but she loved it. He’s a true animal. Billy is amazing. There are moments where Billy lost optimal physicality though. Jose goes for it but it isn’t enough. This is his weakest performance. He attacked it. Adam tells Billy there’s a moment he has to let go of his lines. He wants to see Jose jump higher and get down lower. Hit it harder.
Further comment: I agree with the judges for the most part. I don’t think Billy was a Broadway cat. I thought he really got down into it and showed us something new. Jose was just ok for me. I wanted to see his technique here and he didn’t show it to us.

The top 8 are making it harder and harder for me to decide whom to vote for. I know Alex is safe no matter what – unless he can’t dance next week – which makes me breathe a sigh of relief. I think Robert should be worried. Based on the judge’s critiques, I would say Adechike should be worried but I don’t think he’ll end up in the bottom. I’d be surprised to see Jose in the bottom but I do think he belongs there. I hope neither of the girls makes an appearance in the bottom three but even if they do I know the judges will get rid of a guy this week. It’s time.

What did you think? What was your favorite performance of the night?