I can’t remember when SYTYCD started doing this, but I love that the first competition episode is all about showcasing the dancers in their own style. It’s great to see the dancers are paired with choreographers who get to play to their strengths in a style they’ve spent years learning and honing. And without the threat of an elimination hanging over their heads, you can tell these dancers are having a lot of fun.Â
Best Performance:
Jessica and Ricky
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Sonya Tayeh
Wow. Wow. WOW. Sonya Tayeh rarely disappoints. Really beautiful. I loved the quiet intensity of it. Jessica and Ricky were technically perfect and so connected. Wow.
High Marks:
Brooklyn and Serge
Style: Cha Cha
Choreographer: Dmitry Chaplin
I don’t think I’ve ever disliked any of Dmitry’s choreography. It’s always sexy and fun and to have two talented ballroom dancers perform for us only made me enjoy it that much more.
Emily and Casey
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Travis Wall
I loved that they were so “connected.” Emily seemed a bit nervous at first but relaxed into the routine quickly. Great performance.
Valerie and Zack
Style: Tap
Choreographer: Anthony Morigerato
I this is the style I know the least about, but I was entertained the whole time. With any rhythmic sound, it’s important to be on the beat and I think they accomplished that in spades.
Bridget and Stanley
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Bonnie Story
So technically strong. Great movement. I wasn’t totally there with them emotionally, but it was some beautiful dancing.
Marlena and Marcquet
Style: Samba
Choreographer: Louis Van Amstel
I think Louis is such a great choreographer. They looked like they were really having fun and it was exciting to watch.
Carly and Rudy
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Stacey Tookey
Really nice. I liked their togetherness and their separation. I didn’t want to take my eyes off them.
Emilio and Teddy
Style: Hip Hop
Choreographer: Christopher Scott
I always get nervous when a prop is involved, but I found the entire routine highly enjoyable. Great connection.
Room for Improvement:
Jacque and Jourdan
Style: Ballet
Choreographer: Marat Daukayev
It seemed a little rushed too me, so I didn’t enjoy it as much as I would’ve liked. I’m not sure they enjoyed it that much either. Their technique seemed solid.
Tanisha and Nick
Style: Cha Cha
Choreographer: Louis Van Amstel
A really fun piece, but I didn’t believe their connection. Tanisha is already one of my favorite dancers though.
Did you vote for your favorites? Who do you think can make it all the way?
So You Think You Can Dance airs Wednesdays at 8/7c on Fox. All photos courtesy of Adam Rose/Fox.
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