Inspiring dancer Andrew leaves Cheryl in floods of tears - The Greatest Dancer | Auditionswww.youtube.com
As I write this article, my eyes are filled with tears, but I also keep smiling. My family may think I'm crazy, but I can't help. I urge you to take a few minutes out of your day to watch this heartfelt video. If you're crunched for time, start at minute 3.
From here on out, it's spoilers so for those who wish to watch the video go do it now, if not, continue at your own spoiling choice.
The video is of a young man, Andrew, who is differently abled. He has Down syndrome, but he has not let that stand in the way of following his dream. His mom gives him some pep talks, and he appears confident but obviously nervous. He steps into a studio and begins his dance. Now, as someone who has sibling with Down syndrome, I can only hope that one day my brother has half the sense of rhythm that Andrew does.
In this show, unlike many others, the performance is judged by the audience rather than the judges. As the contestants dance, the audience can flip on lights attached to their chair. Once 75% of people have switched on their lights, large doors open so the contestant is dancing on a stage rather than in the studio. Andrew achieved that door opening in less than one minute. Andrew's passion is obvious throughout the video, but he truly shines as those doors open. Any bit of nerves he had as he was starting has disappeared and he thrives off the audience. He concludes his dance with a standing ovation.
To add to the feels of the whole video, Andrew's best friend, another young man with Down syndrome, is there to support and cheer him on the whole time. He is a nervous wreck at first, even whispering an "I love you brother" just before Andrew begins his dance. As Andrew receives his praise from the judges, Tom is escorted to the stage where the two celebrate with a jumping and shouting hug that even Phoebe, Ross, and Rachel would be jealous of.
I'm always a sucker for these types of videos, but this was especially poignant. It shows the importance of people not being defined by their disabilities, and it shows the joy that music and dance can bring to someone's heart and soul. In the world today, it seems like one thing after another is going on, but Andrew's heart and dedication shines as a light.
No matter what is happening, joy and hard work will see us through to the next day.
