"So You Think You Can Dance" is a really entertaining show. But it’s more than that.
It has shaped what our dance world looks like today. It has (finally) validated for people that while dance is an artistic medium… it also takes athleticism, strength, endurance, and sacrifice. It is a sport.
The show emphasizes the importance of a well rounded dancer who can attack any style of dance whether it be Hip-hop, Bollywood, jive, or ballroom. Being a successful dancer requires intelligence and confidence -- both of which are necessary when faced with a new style, and tasked to perform it in front of millions.
My favorite aspect of the show though, is the emphasis on choreography. So often society sits in awe of music videos or musicals, and forgets that to acknowledge the mastermind behind the movement. SYTYCD has helped the public realize that choreographing is like painting on a canvas -- it takes artistry and deserves recognition.
So in honor of that last thought, here are the dances from past (and current) seasons that made my heart tremble. I look back at these when I’m in need of both choreographic and training inspiration. I hope they make you as happy as they continue to make me.
Everyone can feel Travis Wall's choreography in their bones. Fluidity, musicality and partnership are all words that come to mind when I watch his pieces.
The contrast between the whimsy of the song and the sharpness of the movement is what makes this hip-hop choreography so special.. I don't know how you do it, Christopher Scott.
Again... Travis wall. My favorite SYTYCD duet of all time.
I mean... he is so small. "So You Think You Can Dance: The Next Generation" has a special message. Kids are more than just cute -- they have depth, ambition, and voices that need to be heard! (BTW watching this reveals my maternal instincts... I want to wrap him up in a hug.) Awesome job, Mandy Moore!
In my opinion, quirky choreography is the best choreography. And passion (when it's genuine) is everything. Sonya Tayeh rocks.
