There is a new panel of judges and what seems like really good chemistry between the judges this year. Returning are Demi Lovato and Simon Cowell. The new judges are Kelly Rowland (who was part of Destiny’s Child) and Paulina Rubio.
The first audition is from Los Angeles. Our first contestant from Chicago, Illinois is Carlito Olivaro, age 23. He wants to be the Latino Chris Brown. I really get annoyed when people say that. Does that mean you approve or dismiss his domestic violence? He sings, “Stay” by Rihanna. It was just okay and very average, but he was also very nervous. He gets four yeses. I would have said no.
Over to the auditions from Charleston, South Carolina, first up is Sally Hessnice, a 55-year-old registered nurse who has been married 35 years. She sang, “Greatest Love of All” by Whitney Houston. She should reserve her singing for comatose patients. If I was in a coma, I would endeavor to wake up just to tell her to please stop. All 4 say no. At least they are sane so far.
Valeria. Just Valeria. (Valeria Colombo) She is a karaoke DJ. She tries singing “Without You” by Nilsson. Oh geez! Please do not make these auditions about the train wrecks. I want the focus to be on the good ones. She is a definite no.
K-Nected is a group of mom and 2 teenage girls. They try to sing, “Waterfalls” by TLC. They should stop singing. Period. This led into a montage of horror of unknown singers who Paulina called “peachy” (its pitchy dawg) including the recent graduate from high school John Tanner Davis.
Still in Charleston auditions, Rion Paige was up. I LOVE her mom. Rion is differently-abled with a congenital condition but her bubbly personality bursts through and blinds us to the physical challenges. She sings “Blown Away” by Carrie Underwood. She was pitchy in spots but I would put her in the “potentials” category. She may have been nervous because she improved as the song went on. Four yeses.
Over to Long Island, Lillie McCloud who shocked the crowd by telling everyone she is 54. She has three children and seven grandchildren. She chose “Alabaster Box by CeCe Winans. Lillie could win this competition. I got major goosebumps. I don’t know why she is not already professionally singing. I was tingling from head to toe. I have not felt that way for a very long time. All four judges were on their feet.
In New Orleans after a run of horrid groups, duet boyfriend/girlfriend Alex Kinsey and Sierra Deaton who are madly in love with each other. Alex is funny. Singing “Toxic” by Britney Spears. They almost reminded me of Sonny and Cher on their variety show. I really liked them. They had a unique sound. Who doesn’t melt seeing two people in love singing to each other but bringing the audience in as well? I definitely put them in the final group selection. Four yeses.
(Press Release) In order to take advantage of our winter sports promotional platform, new comedy ENLISTED, starring Geoff Stults (“The Finder”), Chris Lowell (“Veronica Mars”) and Parker Young (“Suburgatory”), will premiere on Friday, Jan. 10 (9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT), following all-new episodes of BONES (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) and RAISING HOPE (9:00-9:30 PM ET/PT) on FOX.
As previously announced, BONES will make its time period premiere when the drama series moves from Mondays (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) to Fridays (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT) on Nov. 8. This fall, all-new episodes of BONES will be followed by one hour of all-new, back-to-back installments of RAISING HOPE (9:00-9:30 PM and 9:30-10:00 PM ET/PT), which makes its Season Four premiere on Nov. 8.
ENLISTED is a new military-set family comedy that centers on three brothers who, when the best of the best are sent overseas, stay behind to try to keep the post in order. Staff Sergeant PETE HILL (Stults) was on a path for a huge military career until one mistake overseas got him booted stateside to Fort McGee, the post in Florida where his two younger brothers are stationed. Now, as their platoon sergeant, Pete must serve both as big brother and military boss. Corporal DERRICK HILL (Lowell) is the middle brother – smart and sarcastic, he likes to stir up trouble and doesn’t really care about being a soldier. Private RANDY HILL (Young), on the other hand, loves it. Between clean-up duty at a parade, human-grease-bowling and assorted soldierly pranks, they will inadvertently discover the key to strengthening their long-lost childhood bonds.
Fort McGee Rear D is run by Command Sergeant Major DONALD CODY (Emmy Award winner Keith David, “Cloud Atlas,” “The Cape”), a firm but fair man who served with the brothers’ late father. Sergeant Major Cody promised to look out for them, so he brought all the brothers to the post to fulfill that promise. Also under Cody’s command is the confident, funny, tough and beautiful Staff Sergeant JILL PEREZ (Angelique Cabral, “Friends with Benefits”), who is the same rank as Pete and leads another Rear D platoon on post, all the while challenging Pete’s decisions at every turn.
ENLISTED is produced by 20th Century Fox Television. Kevin Biegel is creator and executive producer, and Mike Royce serves as an executive producer. “Like” ENLISTED on Facebook at Facebook.com/ENLISTEDonFOX. Follow the series on Twitter @ENLISTEDonFOX and join the discussion using #enlisted. See photos and videos on Instagram by following @ENLISTEDonFOX.
(Press Release) Fox Broadcasting Company (FOX) has given a pilot production commitment to THE MIDDLE MAN, a new drama produced by FOX and Pearl Street Films, and executive-produced by Academy Award winner Ben Affleck (“Argo,” “The Town”) and Emmy Award nominee Glenn Gordon Caron (“Medium,” “Moonlighting”), who wrote the pilot script. Affleck (“Argo,” “The Town,” “Gone Baby Gone”) is attached to direct the pilot. Pearl Street Films’ Chay Carter (“Argo,” “The Town,” “Gone Baby Gone”) will also serve as an executive producer on the project. Production is scheduled to begin in early 2014.
Set in 1960s Boston, THE MIDDLE MAN explores the unique relationship between RUDY MacATEER, an FBI agent charged with taking down the Italian-American mafia, and his confidential informant, Irish-American gangster MICKEY FLOOD. As Rudy finds himself forced to bend the laws he pledged to enforce, the duo’s actions inadvertently give rise to the Irish-American mob in this timeless Boston crime saga.
The project dates back to 2009, when Carter and Affleck met actor and screenwriter Michael Yebba (“Ordinary Man”) and screenwriter Emilio Mauro (“God Only Knows”) during production of “The Town.” The current script is based on a story developed by Caron, Yebba and Mauro.
Ben Affleck is a two-time Academy Award winner who has been recognized for his work as a director, actor, writer and producer. Affleck most recently directed, produced and starred in the Academy Award-winning film for Best Motion Picture, “Argo,” a fact-based drama about the then-classified mission to rescue six Americans trapped in Iran during the hostage crisis. Affleck made his directorial debut in 2007 with the feature “Gone Baby Gone,” for which he also co-wrote the screenplay. In 2010, Affleck directed, co-wrote and starred in “The Town.” The film was named among the top 10 films of the year by the AFI, and the cast won the National Board of Review Award for Best Ensemble. Affleck’s upcoming projects include starring in David Fincher’s “Gone Girl,” as well as Zachary Snyder’s “Batman vs. Superman.” He also will star in and direct “Live by Night,” based on the Dennis Lehane novel, and is developing a biopic about notorious mobster Whitey Bulger, in which he and Matt Damon will star. Affleck first came to prominence in 1997 with the acclaimed drama “Good Will Hunting,” which he starred in and co-wrote with Damon. The two won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, as well as a Golden Globe Award and Humanitas Prize.
Glenn Gordon Caron created the groundbreaking television series “Moonlighting,” which garnered 42 Emmy Award nominations, nine Golden Globe Award nominations, six Writers Guild of America (WGA) Award nominations and four Directors Guild of America Award nominations. Caron received the WGA Award for writing the series. In 1988, Caron made his feature directorial debut with “Clean and Sober.” He also helmed the features “Wilder Napalm,” a remake of “Love Affair” and the hit romantic comedy “Picture Perfect,” which he also co-wrote. He returned to television with the offbeat “Now and Again,” a genre-bending science-fiction drama/comedy/romance. In 2005, Caron returned to television one more time with “Medium,” for which he wrote and directed the pilot episode. The series ran seven seasons on two different networks.
Among Pearl Street’s upcoming projects is “Live By Night,” Affleck’s next feature directing vehicle. Other projects include the historical adventure “Race to the South Pole,” about the 1911 competition between explorers Roald Amundsen and Robert Falcon Scott to be the first to reach the forbidding southern tip of the globe, in which Casey Affleck will star as Scott; and “Whitey,” a biopic about infamous Boston mobster Whitey Bulger, to star Matt Damon, Ben Affleck and Casey Affleck.
THE MIDDLE MAN is produced by FOX and Pearl Street Films. The pilot is written by Glenn Gordon Caron. Ben Affleck, Caron and Chay Carter will serve as executive producers. Michael Yebba and Emilio Mauro are co-executive producers. Affleck is attached to direct the pilot.
Wednesday night was a celebration of the best dances of the season. It was also announced that So You Think You Can Dance will be back for Season 11. As Mary Murphy would say, “WOOOOOOOOOOOO- HOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! Put THAT on the hot tamale train.
We were also treated to new dances. Dominic “D-Trix” Sandoval from season 3 is now part of the new movie, “Battle of the Year” which showcases unscripted live acts. Dominic’s crew, choreographed by Dave Scott, served up an extraordinary dance routine to the song, “Fast Man (Z-Trip Remix)/Know The Ledge” by The PC’s Ltd./Eric B. and Rakim. It was like a mixture of dance and martial arts especially with those kicks.
Napoleon and Tabitha D’Umo had the top 20 dancers, Mary Murphy, Nigel Lythgoe and some of the other choreographers dancing to “Puttin’ on the Ritz.”
Mary and Nigel also danced alone to “Let’s Get It On” by Marvin Gaye, when Adam Shankman crashing the party.
But we get down to the winners: Congratulations to Amy and Fik-Shun for winning.
Amy and Fik-Shun
To Aaron and Jasmine and all the other contestants: Remember that not everyone can take the prize home. It is what you do with the opportunities that present themselves from this point forward that truly will determine your life-long success in dance. There are so many contestants who did not win on the show, who have had extraordinary success: Travis Wall, Dominic Sandoval, Stephen ‘tWitch’ Boss, Alex Wong, Robert Roldan, Lacey Schwimmer, Mark Kanemura, Kathryn McCormick just to name a few. Just BE AWESOME.
Tonight was the last performance show that would count for voting before next week’s announcement of the top girl and top guy winners. It was a terrific season with such wonderful dancers. There were highs and lows but overall the quality level of the performers continues to improve each year. At the end of 10 seasons, this show has not lost its appeal. I think part of that is because other networks are not producing dance shows that are causing us to fatigue of them unlike perhaps American Idol. Although I have a special place in my heart for Aaron and Jasmine, Amy and Fik-Shun had a terrific night as well. I think they will have wonderful careers ahead of them regardless of whether they win the big prize. Every dancer had the opportunity to work with some of the best choreographers in the business and provided a wonderful education for them. Let’s review tonight’s show.
Dancers: Aaron and Amy
Style: Jazz
Choreographer: Ray Leeper
Song: “Primitive” by Richard Vission vs Luciana
Rawr! Rawr! Rawr! It is nice to see Aaron always connecting with his partners whoever they may be. It was high energy. They both extended themselves with each stretch. I think Aaron kept his shoulders down, too. I think there may have been a time or two when I think Aaron’s leg should have been extended more if I was comparing it to Amy’s legs. I liked the mixed tempo of the song, too because it allowed for a mixture of dance styles which I guess is why Ray was calling it jazz fusion.
The judges: Nigel said it was a great way to open the show. He loved the costumes. They laid down the gauntlet. Mary said they knocked it out of the park again. They had so much strength said they attacked it ferociously. Their strength as dancers blows her mind. Gabby said it had spunk and attitude. She loved the costumes. Paula said Amy’s center is ridiculous and stunning. She felt Aaron is a generous partner. He does not steal focus from Amy. He breathes character into each one he portrays. He takes her breath away watching him. The two of them are fantastic–great opening.
Dancers: Jasmine and Fik-Shun
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Travis Wall
Song: “Spiegel Im Spiegel” by Angela Yoffe and Vadim Gluzman
Couple growing apart floating away from each other (imagine under the ocean). I thought it was lovely how they were already into character before the song even started. I am very impressed with Fik-Shun and how much he has grown. There were definite issues with height here though. At times it was clumsy because of it but there were times when I felt myself breathing in their ebb and flow. Jasmine always stole my eye but Fik-Shun rose to the occasion. It embodied a great sense of sadness. Not quite goosebumps but right on e edge for me.
The judges: Mary was standing. She thought Travis was brilliant. It was such beautiful movement. They looked beautiful together. Jasmine is captivating to watch. Fik-Shun throws her off all the time. His emotion and his tenderness and his partnering to her is so magnificent to watch. The beat hit in the chest got her. Gabby had goosebumps. Jasmine’s lines are phenomenal. Paula admires Jasmine. She has been exquisite this entire season. She bought that they were underwater. Every time she sees him on stage, she is increasingly aware of the incredible journey he has made on this show. Nigel thinks that Jasmine’s lines were just perfect. Nigel said Paula nailed it in her critique. In Vegas he was like Bambi on ice and now seeing him now extending himself, and this routine did not allow for him to show his personality–it forced him to dance. Both did really well.
I have not had opportunities to see a lot of tap done to modern music. Next time I have an argument with my husband I will suggest tapping it out. So nice seeing Melinda back. The depth of emotion was there as well. I really enjoyed it. Go Aaron!
The judges: The panel was standing. Gabby thought it was just incredible performance. She loves tap. They nailed it, they killed it, were on fire, and wow–just incredible. She was in awe. Paula is excited that there was a tap routine. She thinks Aaron is the ultimate storyteller of this season. Nigel thought who could have thought of doing so much in a couple of step pickups. He thanked Aaron for being the first tap dancer in the finale. It was a great concept that you can have a conversation tap dancing. It was well danced. Mary LOVED IT!!!! She thought it was spectacular and the complex rhythms that they brought to the dance right now was music to her ears.
Dancers: Jasmine and all-star Comfort Fedoke
Style: Hip-Hop
Choreographer: Tabitha and Napoleon D’Umo
Song: “Run The World (Girls) (Nappytabs Remix) by Beyonce
Bikes! Girl power! That was fabulous. I know exactly why she picked this–strategy. She knew Amy was going to choose contemporary. She wanted to show us she can handle anything, and she can. She kept up with the fabulous Comfort. That was so fast and hard-hitting, I am amazed these finale dancers have the energy and strength to do so many dances tonight. The audience was crazy excited, too.
The judges: Paula said wow, unbelievable. If these two girls ran the world life would be really fun. She was ferocious on this stage. Nigel said Jasmine is showing us that she is better than just contemporary. She is “in it to win it” tonight. She is fighting to win. Mary said Jasmine danced it like she choreographed it. She is a bad ass in the best possible sense. Gabby said she should get a call from Beyonce–that routine was the bomb. She is looking for a new floor routine for 2014 and maybe that was it.
Dancers: Amy and Fik-Shun
Style: Argentine Tango
Choreographer: Leonardo Barrionuevo and Miriam Larici
Song: “Hazardous/Zero Signs” by PP Music (UK)
I think this music was on Battlestar Galactica (the newer version). I thought she was leading. He tried hard and did his absolute best but Amy did a better job. I really do admire his spirit.
The judges: Nigel thought this was Fik-Shun’s toughest challenge yet. It was a brave attempt but was not strong enough for him. He felt Amy was really strong in this. The competition begins now between Jasmine and Amy. Mary said he was there for her as a partner but pointed out some weaknesses in technique. Amy is one of the most dominating dancers on all the seasons of So You Think You Can Dance. Gabby loved it and the emotion and chemistry. Paula thought Fik-Shun was handling Amy pretty darn well and Amy was perfection.
Dancers: Jasmine’s solo
Song: “Ready For Love” by India.Arie
I could watch her all day and get goosebumps all day long. I also now want her haircut. New news–Cat Deeley fought for her to be in the top 20. So Aaron and Jasmine were both not supposed to be here and here they are, poised to take it all. I love you Cat Deeley!
Dancers: Jasmine and Aaron
Style: Samba
Choreographer: Dmitry Chaplin
Song: “Can’t Touch It (Radio Edit) by Ricki-Lee
That was soooo entertaining! But where were the samba hips? Felt it was danced more like a jazz or Broadway dance versus a samba. Wardrobe malfunction but in this case the costume would not come off Jasmine. Aaron’s arm positioning is a bit sloppy.
The judges: Mary said it was not danced very well. Jasmine fared a little bit better. This was not the best thing for both of them but not bad. Gabby loved it. It was not their strongest one. Paula said they have been one of her favorite couples of all time. The energy and the synergy are beautiful. Nigel said every single thing you do tonight has to be outstanding. He wanted more from them. The chemistry was not there tonight. He felt they were not comfortable with the routine tonight.
Dancer: Fik-Shun’s solo
Song: “Gangham Style” by Psy
I like what he said in his montage. He may not be America’s best dancer, but he could be America’s favorite dancer. I had my doubts about how this would turn out with such an iconic song. I loved that he pulled some of Psy’s dancing and made it his own. I enjoyed it so much.
Dancer: Amy’s solo
Song: “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers
We’ll never forget your dance with Travis either. Amy has such passion and such beautiful technique. I have said it before and I will say it again. She reminds me of Melanie Moore.
Dancers: Fik-Shun and all-star tWitch
Style: Hip-hop
Choreographer: Luther Brown
Song: “Hello Good Morning (Remix) by Diddy-Dirty Money featuring Nicki Minaj and Rick Ross
Wow! Fik-Shun is short! They looked like a father and son dancing together. That was a fun routine. I was watching tWitch, however. I could not help myself. I thoroughly enjoyed that.
The judges: Gabby thought it was fantastic and she loved it with the spark and attitude she loved. Paula wants to dance with Nigel. Nigel thought it was tWitch and tWitch Jr. It was fantastic. He gave Fik-Shun some career advice that tWitch kept growing after the show was over and that is what he needs to do, too. Mary loved it. She thought he is going to be very proud when he sees it play back later.
Dancer: Aaron’s solo
Song: “You & I (Acoustic) by Jason Mraz
He truly has made me fall in love with contemporary tap. The height on that jump! Nigel said it–Fate has brought you to us for a reason. I believe it.
Dancers: Amy and all-star Robert Roldan
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Stacey Tookey
Song: “Say Something” by A Great Big World
It is a story about courage and bad timing. Best friends; he’s been in love with her for years. She realizes that she loves him back. She has to find the courage to tell him before he goes. Goosebumps! Oh my God. That was my favorite routine of the night. I held my breath when he lifted her up in the air and held her for a second before coming down. It was so powerful and vulnerable at the same time. I felt every part of the story as they danced. And the story did not have a happy ending. Maybe there will be a part 2 of this story. I love Robert.
The judges: Paula said this was her favorite routine of the night. The pairing of the two of them was a symphony up there. Her raw emotion–she just steals her heart every time. Nigel said this was terrible choreography–why did he leave her? They were getting along very well (he was kidding). The combination of emotion, performance, technique from the pair of them was intoxicating. She stepped into his lead tonight. Mary loved it. Amy gives every single part of herself. The energy comes from her soul and radiates outward across that stage. Gabby said it was one of her favorites this evening. Everything was on-point.
Dancers: Fik-Shun and Aaron
Style: Broadway
Choreographer: Tyce Diorio
Song: “The Jitter” by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Enjoyable. They both did a good job but it is not quite my style. They complimented each other well.
The judges: Nigel said it reminded him of a Michael Kidd routine. It gave them fun stuff. They did not stop dancing since the music began and they must be exhausted. Mary said that absolutely was the cutest thing ever. Aaron was back on top again with this number and Fik-Shun just charms the pants off everyone. Gabby loved the energy. They were fantastic, phenomenal. Paula said both of them were in their element completely. The two top showmen of the season. She also reminded the audience that Tyce was paper of her dance crew a long time ago.
Dancers: Amy and Jasmine
Style: Jazz
Choreographer: Mark Kanemura
Song: “The Diva Dance” by Eric Serra
Mark has been hanging out with Lady Gaga too long. Siamese twins from the fierce jungles of Saturn? The music reminded me of The Fifth Element. Wait! It is the same music–when the blue diva who has the stones inside of her and she sings opera and gets shot and dies but not before Bruce Willis does a c-section and delivers wind, fire, water, and earth stones. I am not really sure about this one. It was different and creative. The ladies did a wonderful job. It will be something I never forget and that is a good thing.
The judges: Mary said she has a bit of clown in her soul too and that was crazy and creative and quirky and she loved it. If Mary could vote them both into first place she would. Gabby thought it was a great way to end. It was crazy and fun and had humor to it. Paula said she finally felt like she was home. E.T phone home. She loved it. Nigel said it was a zany routine. It was loopy which is why he understands why Paula felt at home. It was fun. He felt this year the girls have stolen the show for him. If they were both in competition with the boys this year, he felt they would both would have won. They are some of the best dancers they have ever, ever had.
I will have to agree with Nigel here. Both Amy and Jasmine overall did the best job tonight.
Gotcha! It takes me about 4 hours to get my blog up because of the detail in it, but I’ve rooted for these two since the beginning. Since I will actually be home to watch it live (I don’t have to work tonight), I will also be voting my fingers off versus writing up the blog. I may not have my blog up until Thursday or Friday (so come back and visit then) and see what my thoughts are. These are my picks for winners of Season 10 of So You Think You Can Dance.
Song: “Hlohonolofatsa” by Soweto Gospel Choir
Choreographer: Sean Cheesman
Goosebumps! What a joyous dance. It is wonderful, too, to celebrate African-American roots with the 50th anniversary of Martin Luther King’s “I Have A Dream” speech.
Need for control and power between a woman and a man. I smiled the whole way through. It sizzled. Tyce was smart to choreograph this to Paul’s strengths.
The judges: Not standing. Nigel thought it was a great routine. He said week after week he has shown he can do anything. Mary said Paul has charisma and talent, and it was a great way to get the show started tonight. Jesse is happy that they bypassed who might be in the bottom and went straight to the dancing. He thinks this top 6 is an insanely talented group of people (I agree). He has been so pleased seeing him grow since his audition. He also will now wear leather pants more (Jesse is a riot–love him on the judges’ panel).
Dancers: Hayley and all-star Joshua Allen
Style: Hip-hop
Choreographers: Tabitha and Napoleon D’Umo
Song: “Work Hard, Play Hard” by Wiz Khalifa
Ex-champ coming back to train the new kid. I was distracted by her facial movements but she did pretty well. I liked the slow-motion moves. I just don’t buy into her tough angry face because right behind it you can tell she is smiling. I prefer a smiling Hayley and the contemporary-dance-serious Hayley.
The judges: Not standing. I was a little worried we would see a standing ovation for every dance tonight. Mary said what a way to fight to stay in this game. Mary said Ali said it took skill and will and Hayley definitely has the will. She was as strong as she had ever seen anyone doing hip-hop. Jesse said that was the greatest work-out video of all time. She has been consistently awesome this entire season. Nigel said Hayley reminded him of Hilary Swank in “Million Dollar Baby.”
Dancers: Aaron and all-star Melanie Moore
Style: Broadway
Choreographer: Spencer Liff
Song: “Faith” by George Michael
A couple totally in love but they know how to push each other’s buttons. I love Melanie’s straightened hair! Aaron rocks. He is my choice to win for the guys. OH NO!!!!!!! Dropping your partner can’t happen! I was so worried she hit her head.
The judges: I love Melanie for sticking up for him. Jesse said you dropped her and she got even more mad at you. He looks forward to the day when everyone on the show is forced to do tap or ballet. He thinks he has risen more tonight with Melanie. Nigel likes Melanie’s hair too. What a great idea for a routine, not that it happens in real life with people dancing and arguing like this (which he thinks is why now he has an ex-wife) and Jesse chimes in, “Did you drop her on her head?” He wants Aaron to lower his shoulders. Mary brought up his injury and he did not want to use that as an excuse and Nigel thinks holding his shoulders up might not be helping. If Mary had to partner with dance during the entire show it would be him. (MARY–how about during the finale results show?).
Dancers: Fik-Shun and all-star Witney Carson
Style: Foxtrot
Choreographer: Jonathan Roberts
Song: “Sexy Silk” by Jessie J
Good thing there is no voting tonight because the foxtrot would not be popular. He gets an A for effort and an A for personality. I like how the choreographer put a Fik-Shun footprint in it with that sidestepping.
The judges: Again not standing. This pleases me. Mary pointed out he had some rough spots but also pointed out the good points as well. Jesse thought Witney was doing more leading but so was Mary at his wedding. He also was doing the “white man’s overbite.” He thinks he is amazing. Nigel said this was not particularly strong and said the vote from last week will carry over to next week (did he just give it away that he makes it into the top 4?). He gave him pointers of where he can improve. He complimented him on his solo tonight.
Dancers: Jasmine and all-star Neil Haskell
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Tyce Diorio
Song: “Unfaithful” from Unfaithful (Soundtrack)
People’s lives being wiped away by natural disaster. I got goosebumps watching the rehearsals (deep breath). Definitely the biggest goosebumps I have gotten all season and then came the tears. We are coming up upon the 5th anniversary of Hurricane Ike here and I have loved ones who were affected by Hurricane Sandy in the northeast. That hooking-foot move was impressive because it is counterintuitive.
The judges: Rightfully on their feet. Nigel said she continues to steal his heart. He can see her signing up with a company as soon as the tour is over. Mary is crying. She said it was seeing rainbows in your soul when you have tears. She thinks Jasmine is spectacular and has been amazed by her whole journey. She said the history books will tell the stories about what happened, but dance will tell us how we feel. Jesse said it is easy to get behind a piece that has social relevance but you also have to have the heart and humanity behind it and they both had it. She has become his favorite dancer this year.
Dancers: Amy and all-star Alex Wong
Style: Bollywood
Choreographer: Nakul Dev Mahajan
Song: “Munni Badnaam Hui Darling” from Dabangg (Soundtrack)
The girl is a Bollywood bombshell diva. Alex is her servant. They are in love and in their world it is unacceptable. They too missed a connection early on that did not have potential disastrous results. Those knee turns made my knees hurt. Was it as well as Melanie Moore could have turned up adult diva? No, but it was still fun and she did a great job.
The judges: On their feet. Mary said it was crazy. It had great athleticism. The knee spins were nuts. Jesse said good golly Miss Bollywood (and cringed at his own corny comment). He needs a massage after watching that. It was insane. Nigel said all these routines (Bollywood) always make him smile. He reminded us that this is the style of dance on which Alex tore his Achilles heel. It was incredible and he had never seen a Bollywood routine that was so demanding.
Dancers: Hayley and Paul
Style: Contemporary
Choreographer: Dee Caspary
Song: “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by Sleeping At Last
A man reassuring a woman that he will be there for her. Goosebumps! You would never know that they have never danced together before if you were not told. That was so beautiful. Paul–you did not look like you were out of your element at all!
The judges: Jesse and Mary were standing. Dee looked like this was very personal to him as I saw tears in his eyes after they were finished. Jesse said he is so stressed out that people have to leave tonight. He thought it was amazing. The love and trust that they have for each other from this shared experience on the show was evident. He was going to keep this Carly-Rae-Jepson short–it was amazing. Nigel loved the flow of the movement. He said it validated for him that they are complete dancers. Mary is hoping they become a real life couple because they are so cute together! Their connection together was so friggin’ amazing. She commented on the contrast from Hayley’s other number tonight.
Dancers: Amy and Fik-Shun
Style: Hip-hop
Choreographer: Dave Scott
Song: “Lemme See” by Usher featuring Rick Ross
The woman shopping and showing off what she got. I think Amy channeled the sexy better in this dance versus the Bollywood number. I really enjoyed that.
The judges: Nigel said they have this wonderful chemistry brings out the best in both of them. He took a swipe at Miley Cyrus saying that this just proves you don’t have to put it in someone’s face to be sexy. Twerking! Mary said it is fabulous to have the dream team back together. The body rippling was so right on it was ridiculous. They have the ability to make us feel the movement. Jesse said he was heartbroken when the all-stars came in and broke them apart but happy to see them reunited tonight. Fik-Shun is a mega star. His solo erased the image of Miley twerking in his mind. The two of them together is so special and so spectacular. He thinks Amy is small enough to go into his pocket and he just loves that.
Dancers: Aaron and Jasmine
Style: Jazz
Choreographer: Sean Cheesman
Song: “Mirror Mirror” by Lord KraVen
A man who appears to be vain but is mesmerized by this woman in a mirror only he can see. The woman is so obsessed with herself that her essence got trapped in the mirror. In rehearsals Aaron had trouble flipping Jasmine over his head; I bet that move disappears on the final product. Aaron is wearing GUYLINER! The mirror reflection of this dance was the co-star with these two. Aaron needs to refrain from singing the lyrics, although I love him so I am just teasing. (So inquiring minds want to know if he’ll be trying out for Idol or X-Factor or???) That leg move that Jasmine had where it went 120 degrees over was sick. I was right–they got rid of that move and it wasn’t really necessary. I think in the end, Jasmine chewed up his essence and spit him back out again.
The judges: Standing. Mary thought it was a phenomenal concept. The two of them have such a deep conviction dancing together. She touched on Jasmine’s beautiful solo and how there is a class and artistry in everything she does. Aaron was such a strong partner. The synchronization part on the mirror was just out of this world. Jesse agreed with all that. He called her a protractor. She is just a crazy robot and he hates her and loves her and hates that he can’t be her. To Aaron he said last time he got so tongue-tied because he is such a fan and then gushed and blurted out that he has a crush on him. Cat said it was the guyliner. Jesse was turning all sorts of shades of red. Jesse said Aaron looks like his husband. Aaron could not stop laughing. Nigel said like Amy and Fik-Shun they complement each other so well. Nigel complimented him on his tap solo. He noticed that Aaron kept his shoulders down in this routine with Jasmine and Aaron was excited he noticed. Nigel could not believe what Jasmine did with her legs. He remembered doing that to his sister’s dolls right before yanking their heads off. He thought it threw the gauntlet down to others in the competition saying “Beat that!”
Solos
Amy danced to “Anna’s Theme” from The Red Violin (Soundtrack). Breathtaking! Major goosebumps! Her extensions and lines were exquisite. Fik-Shun danced to “Look At Me Now” by Chris Brown featuring L’il Wayne and Busta Rhymes. Fantastic animation and I thought I was double-jointed! Jasmine danced to “Outro (Amazing Grace…Dedicated to Andretta Tillman) by Destiny’s Child. Goosebumps!!!! Jasmine for the win! Paul danced to “Mamba Negra” by Huecco. You know what I love about apart? He makes you smile because he just loves to dance. Hayley danced to “Be Mine (Acoustic) [Live At The Cherrytree House] by Robyn. She dances beautifully but I do have one criticism–they always look the same and too much of it is usually rolling on the ground. I really like to see things that they have learned on the show incorporated into their solos. Aaron tapped to “Use Me” by Bill Withers. Whoa! Superb. Aaron for the win! I cannot even begin to know how difficult that must have been (and the judges gave him the only standing ovation during solos).
Top Four Revealed
Aaron, Jasmine, Amy and (sad face) Fik-Shun. That ruined my almost perfect record of picking who was leaving. I like Fik-Shun, I do, but Paul is the better dancer. What? It is only going to be one winner this season and not favorite girl and favorite guy? Don’t make me pick between Aaron and Jasmine. That is just not fair.
8/29/2013 Update: I just saw a commercial for the show on Tuesday and it is favorite guy and favorite girl, so I won’t have to pick between them. Phew!
Don’t faint. I actually was able to write this up within 24 hours after the show.
Opening Number
Song: “Move To The Ocean (Baauer Remix) by Brick & Mortar
Choreographer: Mia Michaels
That was just weird. I am not sure how I feel about that. I usually love the choreography of Mia too. Oh well. That is why it is art. Some people will love it, some people won’t, and some people will scratch their heads.
Judges Tonight
Classically trained Jenna Elfman joined Nigel Lythgoe and Mary Murphy to judge tonight’s special event where the all-stars from previous seasons will not only dance but also choreograph their routines.
Bottom 2
Fik-Shun, Jenna, Hayley and–Tucker???? That is just so wrong on so many levels. All four will do solos. Fik-Shun is up first dancing to “If You Crump Stand Up” by edIT. I forgot that he is an animator. That was fun! Hayley chose “Skin & Bones” by David J Roch. That was great–goosebumps. Jenna danced to “Greyhound” by Swedish House Mafia. It is so difficult to do a Latin ballroom solo, but it did get my attention. Tucker danced to “Beautiful Child” by Rufus Wainwright. That was delightful.
Couples
Dancer: Aaron and all-star Chelsie Hightower
Style: Jive
Song: “Great Balls of Fire” by Million Dollar Quartet (Broadway Cast Recording)
That was a lot of fun! High energy, great chemistry, good leading by Aaron indeed! Top 2–here you come.
The judges: Mary picked out some areas for Aaron that were weak so he can learn and apply to future opportunities. Jenna thought it was awesome. She has been so impressed with his journey. Nigel thought he would have done better being a tapper but reminds America to take everything into account across the season in casting their vote tonight.
Dancers: Fik-Shun and all-star Allison Holker
Style: Contemporary
Song: “Skinny Love” by Birdy
A dance about discrimination. That was beautiful and gave me goosebumps and I got a bit teary-eyed. Allison really brought out things in him we have not seen before, but his partnering skills are still an issue where he messed up in a lift move but the pro Allison recovered so she did not fall. He may need to try some weightlifting to build up those necessary muscles.
The judges: Jenna said that Fik-Shun can do no wrong. He is already an all-star and is pure life force. Nigel pointed out that her routine must have been inspired with her relationship with tWitch (and they are getting married later this year). He said, in short, that while Fik-Shun lacks in a lot of technique, his quality that cannot be ignored. Mary agrees with everything being said.
Dancers: Tucker and all-star Courtney Galiano
Style: Jazz
Song: “Clarity” by Zedd featuring Foxes
Romeo and Juliet. I had goosebumps! I LOVED that!
The judges: Nigel told us that Courtney was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and she has lost half the vision of her left eye. (Courtney–my business is a sponsor of our local MS Walk in October!). Mary was teary-eyed as was I and she loves Courtney and Tucker and Tucker’s dad (they showed a clip about how supportive his father has been, which many times does not happen from a dad whose son wants to dance). Jenna said Tucker is so special and he moves her every time she sees him.
Dancers: Paul and all-star Comfort Fedoke
Style: Hip hop
Song: “Dum Dum” by Tedashii featuring Lecrae
Paul just had an Alex Wong moment (when he danced with tWitch). Latin ballroom dancer can get down!!!
The judges: Mary said he is one of the most versatile dancers on the show. She thinks he is going full steam ahead on the hot tamale train. Jenna is so inspired by him. Nigel said Paul got down and dirty.
Dancers: Hayley and all-star Dmitry Chaplin
Style: Rumba
Song: “Meant” by Elizaveta
They are an engaged couple. She finds out he cheated on her. That dance sizzled. I felt like I was watching a very private moment between the two. You could feel the angst. This is the kind of ballroom dancing I love.
The judges: Jenna thinks there is not anything Hayley can’t do. Nigel says that there is not anything she has done wrong in this competition. She has grown week after week. Mary said Hayley got it right tonight. It was phenomenal.
Dancers: Jenna and all-star Mark Kanemura
Style: Jazz
Song: “I Am The Best” by 2NE1
This is a fusion of styles. I saw elements of Bollywood and hip hop. That was so different and so quirky. I loved it.
The judges: Nigel thought it was phenomenal and fantastic. He thinks she is a brilliant dancer. Mary thought it was great and had some Bollywood and African and Middle Eastern and New Age Funk to it. Jenna said it was marvelous. Jenna loves Jenna’s name. She is a beautiful technician who has a long career ahead of her.
Dancers: Jasmine and all-star tWitch
Style: Hip hop
Song: “The Power” by District 78 featuring Cheesa
Superheroes! The fact that Jasmine can hold her own with tWitch speaks volumes to her talent. That was indeed on the level of superhero dancers!
The judges: Mary said she could have been intimidated by him but she was not. She is the superhero and conquered this routine tonight. Jenna thought Jasmine owned it. She thinks there is something so beautiful about her, unique and wonderful. Nigel agrees with Jenna. She thinks she out-tWitched tWitch. She has stolen his heart.
Dancers: Amy and all-star Travis Wall Style: Contemporary
Song: “Wicked Game (Live at Killkenny Arts Festival, Ireland/2011” by James Vincent McMorrow
This is going to be good and I don’t know the whole story yet. The story is about the games that are played when first entering a relationship. This is the very best I have seen Amy dance. I really believe that partnering her with Fik-Shun was a disadvantage. Her dancing like this reminded me why I fell in love with Amy during the auditions. Travis Wall–you’ve done it again. Amy made it look effortless.
The judges: Were standing. Jenna said Amy is perfect, so full of heart and soul and technique. She thinks the world is such a better place because of both of them. Nigel thinks we saw something very special there. He thinks Travis is a genius. Mary agrees. She thinks it was mature and sophisticated.
Going Home
Jenna and Tucker go home. Tucker going home is SO wrong.
My picks
It is so difficult to choose at this time. I think Fik-Shun should be going home next week. Paul and Aaron should and deserve to be the top 2 guys. As far as the girls, Jasmine and Amy did the best job tonight, so that would leave Hayley going home.
I really enjoyed seeing the all-stars do choreography. The show should keep that aspect for next year.
Who are you favorites? Leave a comment! Let’s talk about it, but please keep the discussion civil.
Pbmom's Blog 