Okay, let's talk about *So You Think You Can Dance* (SYTYCD). This show gave us some amazing moves, didn't it? And a few duds, let's be honest. We all have our favorites, and I'm ready to share mine. Prepare yourselves for some spicy takes!
The Classics That Still SLAP
First, let's give it up for the routines that are basically legendary. You know, the ones everyone remembers. These are the gold standard.
"Hometown Glory" - Contemporary Perfection
Travis Wall is a genius, full stop. Kayla Radomski and Kupono Aweau danced their hearts out. The raw emotion? Unmatched.
Seriously, try watching it without tearing up. I dare you!
"The Garden" - Mia Michaels' Masterpiece
Mia Michaels gave us dark and twisted beauty with this one. Hokuto "Hok" Konishi and Jaimie Goodwin owned it. The costumes, the music, the intensity – chef's kiss!
"Ramalama (Bang Bang)" - Jazz That Pops
This routine with Jeanine Mason and Phillip Chbeeb? Just pure joy! Tyce Diorio really delivered on the fun factor.
How can you not smile watching this dance? I can't, and I've seen it a million times!
My "Unpopular" Opinion Picks
Now for the fun part! These are dances that maybe don't get *all* the love. But, for me, they are unforgettable. Get ready for my hot takes.
"Mad World" - Slow and Sensual
I know, I know. It's not the *most* technically difficult routine. But the connection between Neil Haskell and Lauren Gottlieb was incredible!
It gave me all the feels. Judge me if you must!
"Why" - More Contemporary Magic
Another Travis Wall creation, and another winner! Kent Boyd and Lauren Froderman embodied vulnerability. The story was beautiful and heartbreaking.
This dance gets overshadowed by some others, but it deserves a spot on any best-of list.
"Turn to Stone" - Broadway That Rocks
Okay, Broadway isn't *always* my favorite SYTYCD genre. But this routine, choreographed by Tyce Diorio and performed by Melanie Moore and Marko Germar was an exception. A big exception.
It was dynamic, theatrical, and just plain awesome. I would watch it again and again.
Dances That Made Me Cringe (Sorry!)
Look, no shade to the dancers. They work hard! But some routines just didn't click for me. Just being honest.
I won't name names (okay, maybe one). But let's just say some of the "quirky" character pieces were... a choice.
"Less is more," said me, probably way too loudly at my TV.
I am not a big fan of routines that are too campy. Over-the-top acting can be distracting. It can detract from the dance itself.
There. I said it.
The Real Winner? Dance!
Ultimately, So You Think You Can Dance celebrates the art of dance. It inspires people to move. It brings different styles to a mainstream audience.
And, it gave us Cat Deeley. Enough said!
So, whether you agree with my picks or think I'm totally off base, let's all agree on one thing. Dance is amazing!
Now, go put on some music and get moving!
