So proud of Melanie! Such a well deserved win! She was inspirational, graceful, humble, and beautiful all season long, and I'm so happy she won! Major props to Sasha though, she was amazing all season, and had she had a better initial partner, I think it could have been a closer battle. I can not believe that the top 2 had a combined 79% of the vote!!!! AMAZING!!!
Overall I enjoyed the finale, especially the Matt Flint routine with Nick and Jess! Man, Nick is so incredible, I am so sad we didn't get to see more of him this season.
A couple minor complaints though:
1. Why didn't Jordan dance??? The vulture dance, the pas de deux with Brandon, or Nutbush City Limits with Ade would have all been solid options, and I would have rather seen those instead of the woodpecker dance or the Tadd/Lauren hat dance. Just saying.
2. Regardless of my feelings for Ricky, it would have been nice for him to get to perform since everyone loved him.
These two made the Top 8/6, and they should have had a chance to perform once more for their fans!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Finale time! For how fabulous this season has been, I’m thinking this finale will NOT disappoint!
Cat’s outfit is already not disappointing…she looks fabulous. Not too many slip ups for Miss Deeley this season ☺
Melanie and Marko, Disco w/ Doriana Sanchez
Finally! I’ve missed Doriana this season, but this song choice was just awful. The dance was way too fast for the music. The routine seemed slow with the music, even though I know the steps were fast. The lifts also looked a little off (agree with Mary and Nigel), which is weird for these two. I gotta say, this was probably the worst routine this couple has done. Bad timing for the finale.
Sasha and Mark, Contemporary w/ Sonya
What an amazing compliment to have Sonya choreograph an ode to you! I think Sonya and Sasha will be working together for awhile! This routine was just an amazing display of Sasha’s literal strength. She took that routine on full force and KILLED IT. She really is making a case for herself early tonight! Get it girl!
Tadd and Joshua, Krump w/ Lil C
Was that some kind of joke? NO ONE has abs that strong, let alone two people?!?! Seriously??? That was ridiculously impressive. Aside from maybe Twichington’s routine, that was one of the best routine Lil C has ever choreographed. You could see Tadd trying so hard not to show off his adorable little smile, and he did an admirable job with that. He definitely danced the shit out of it though.
Melanie and Robert, Contemporary w/ Stacy Tookey
Leave it to Stacy Tookey to wring the emotion right out of you. Man. What a beautiful routine! Seriously, if I had one word to describe Melanie, it would be ANGELIC. And, did anyone get excited about Melanie potentially playing “Baby” in the Dirty Dancing remake??? Kenny Ortega said he’d push to the front of the line to work with her…it’s a definite possibility. I’d pay to see that.
Sasha and Marko, Broadway w/ Spencer Liff
What a cute routine! Sasha is such a chameleon, I love it! She transformed from a warrior princess to a lady at the drop without a hitch! And she most definitely looked drop dead gorgeous. Nigel would have liked “more character”, which I find odd because I thought that both of them had so much character in that! Marko and his cute little nerdy glasses was just wonderful. Loved it!
Melanie did a solo. It was pretty ☺
Marko did a solo. It was wonderful ☺
Sashsa and Tad, Cha Cha with Mark Ballas
That was awkward and a horrible song choice. Boo. Good thing everyone likes you guys, that was really bad. And Sasha is really tall. Sorry, Mark, stick with DWTS.
Marko and Lauren Froderman, Contemporary w/ Tessandra Chavez
Marko is at his best when he’s being vulnerable, and that showed so much in this piece. He and Lauren worked so well together, and they were in sync the whole time, both in choreography and in emotional level. I especially loved that triple spinning lift thing they did. Gorgeous. Well done, Tessandra! Not sure what that scarf thing was around Marko’s waist, but other than that, it was fantastic!
Tadd did a solo. It was adorable ☺
Melanie and Tadd, Jazz w/ Ray Leeper
I have got start by saying DAMN MELANIE! So hot! This was just pure FUN! I loved the interaction between these two – great chemistry! It was flirty without being obvious and sexy without trying too hard! I just loved it!
Sasha did a solo. It was wonderful ☺
Sasha and Melanie, Contemporary w/ Stacy Tookey
Stacy Tookey has really been killing it this season. Everything she’s done has been so strong and powerful, this piece very much included. The piece really highlighted their acting skills (as Kenny Ortega said, they’re “actresses who can dance”). It was really cool to see Melanie take on some of Sasha’s power and Sasha take on some of Melanie’s grace. Osmosis dance training! One of these girls is gonna be the winner, I just don’t know who!!
Tadd and Marko, Stepping w/ Chuck Maldonado
This was just a weird routine. I absolutely hated the boots, and I think a shoe change would have made this 100 times better. They seemed to be sliding around on the rubber soles. Fun song, fun boys, fun choreo, poor costumes…that’s my assessment. Nigel said he still thought a boy would win. Well DUH.
I have to say, this was quite the letdown from last week, but I just figure that was because they’re all just so exhausted. I think the song choices being AWFUL also contributed to the mediocrity, so a fair warning to choreographers – PICK GOOD MUSIC.
I still am pulling for Melanie for the win, but I would be 100% happy if Sasha won as well. Either of them, they’re both great and they both deserve it.
Cat’s outfit is already not disappointing…she looks fabulous. Not too many slip ups for Miss Deeley this season ☺
Melanie and Marko, Disco w/ Doriana Sanchez
Finally! I’ve missed Doriana this season, but this song choice was just awful. The dance was way too fast for the music. The routine seemed slow with the music, even though I know the steps were fast. The lifts also looked a little off (agree with Mary and Nigel), which is weird for these two. I gotta say, this was probably the worst routine this couple has done. Bad timing for the finale.
Sasha and Mark, Contemporary w/ Sonya
What an amazing compliment to have Sonya choreograph an ode to you! I think Sonya and Sasha will be working together for awhile! This routine was just an amazing display of Sasha’s literal strength. She took that routine on full force and KILLED IT. She really is making a case for herself early tonight! Get it girl!
Tadd and Joshua, Krump w/ Lil C
Was that some kind of joke? NO ONE has abs that strong, let alone two people?!?! Seriously??? That was ridiculously impressive. Aside from maybe Twichington’s routine, that was one of the best routine Lil C has ever choreographed. You could see Tadd trying so hard not to show off his adorable little smile, and he did an admirable job with that. He definitely danced the shit out of it though.
Melanie and Robert, Contemporary w/ Stacy Tookey
Leave it to Stacy Tookey to wring the emotion right out of you. Man. What a beautiful routine! Seriously, if I had one word to describe Melanie, it would be ANGELIC. And, did anyone get excited about Melanie potentially playing “Baby” in the Dirty Dancing remake??? Kenny Ortega said he’d push to the front of the line to work with her…it’s a definite possibility. I’d pay to see that.
Sasha and Marko, Broadway w/ Spencer Liff
What a cute routine! Sasha is such a chameleon, I love it! She transformed from a warrior princess to a lady at the drop without a hitch! And she most definitely looked drop dead gorgeous. Nigel would have liked “more character”, which I find odd because I thought that both of them had so much character in that! Marko and his cute little nerdy glasses was just wonderful. Loved it!
Melanie did a solo. It was pretty ☺
Marko did a solo. It was wonderful ☺
Sashsa and Tad, Cha Cha with Mark Ballas
That was awkward and a horrible song choice. Boo. Good thing everyone likes you guys, that was really bad. And Sasha is really tall. Sorry, Mark, stick with DWTS.
Marko and Lauren Froderman, Contemporary w/ Tessandra Chavez
Marko is at his best when he’s being vulnerable, and that showed so much in this piece. He and Lauren worked so well together, and they were in sync the whole time, both in choreography and in emotional level. I especially loved that triple spinning lift thing they did. Gorgeous. Well done, Tessandra! Not sure what that scarf thing was around Marko’s waist, but other than that, it was fantastic!
Tadd did a solo. It was adorable ☺
Melanie and Tadd, Jazz w/ Ray Leeper
I have got start by saying DAMN MELANIE! So hot! This was just pure FUN! I loved the interaction between these two – great chemistry! It was flirty without being obvious and sexy without trying too hard! I just loved it!
Sasha did a solo. It was wonderful ☺
Sasha and Melanie, Contemporary w/ Stacy Tookey
Stacy Tookey has really been killing it this season. Everything she’s done has been so strong and powerful, this piece very much included. The piece really highlighted their acting skills (as Kenny Ortega said, they’re “actresses who can dance”). It was really cool to see Melanie take on some of Sasha’s power and Sasha take on some of Melanie’s grace. Osmosis dance training! One of these girls is gonna be the winner, I just don’t know who!!
Tadd and Marko, Stepping w/ Chuck Maldonado
This was just a weird routine. I absolutely hated the boots, and I think a shoe change would have made this 100 times better. They seemed to be sliding around on the rubber soles. Fun song, fun boys, fun choreo, poor costumes…that’s my assessment. Nigel said he still thought a boy would win. Well DUH.
I have to say, this was quite the letdown from last week, but I just figure that was because they’re all just so exhausted. I think the song choices being AWFUL also contributed to the mediocrity, so a fair warning to choreographers – PICK GOOD MUSIC.
I still am pulling for Melanie for the win, but I would be 100% happy if Sasha won as well. Either of them, they’re both great and they both deserve it.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Finally, a fully fabulous finale!
Sorry, I just love alliteration :)
I know drama, suspense, mystery all make for good TV, but tonight I really just wanted Cat to tell me what I wanted to hear. And quickly. Even though we didn't find out the last of the Final 4 until literally the last possible minute, I still feel like the show flew by! Oh wait, that might be because I fast forwarded through it. Oops.
Loved the encore of Lauren and Kent's "Collide" routine! It's so youthful in feel but mature in technique, and there are no two dancers that could have performed that routine better than those two. Good week for Kent! Love that guy! Wonder if Dominic was jealous of Lauren's lip lock at the end of that though ;)
So after all these weeks of competition, it's the exact four I wanted to see in the finale. While I'd like to say I really don't care who wins because I DO love them all, I think Melanie really deserves to take this season. She excelled in everything and really just seems like the sweetest, most wonderful person ever! Sasha would be a close second, and if she didn't have a HORRID partner for the first 5 weeks, she might be in my top spot. Producers, you suck at partnering. Call me up next season, I'll do it for you. I promise to be unbiased! Really!!!
So, next week we get to see Melanie/Sasha/Marko/Tad dance with each other AND all-stars (including Joshua!!!), and I have to say, the choreographers better BRING IT! I'd personally love to see a Wade Robson routine pop up in there.
Also, since I know I won't have time to do this Wednesday, these are the encore routines I'd like to see in Thursday's results finale:
- Sasha and Twitch, "Misty Blue"
- Melanie and Marko, "I Got You"
- Jordan and Ade, "Nutbush City Limits"
- Ryan and Ricky, cult of fashion zombie-esque piece
- Clarice and Jess, Foxtrot
- Caitlynn and Mitchell, contemporary routine in the chairs
- Melanie and Neil, "Total Eclipse of the Heart"
- Jordan and Brandon, Desmond and Dwight piece
- Jordan and Tad, bird routine or "Memories"
- Sasha and Alex, Tyce's jazz piece
- Marko and Allison, Sonya contemporary piece
That's enough, right??
I know drama, suspense, mystery all make for good TV, but tonight I really just wanted Cat to tell me what I wanted to hear. And quickly. Even though we didn't find out the last of the Final 4 until literally the last possible minute, I still feel like the show flew by! Oh wait, that might be because I fast forwarded through it. Oops.
Loved the encore of Lauren and Kent's "Collide" routine! It's so youthful in feel but mature in technique, and there are no two dancers that could have performed that routine better than those two. Good week for Kent! Love that guy! Wonder if Dominic was jealous of Lauren's lip lock at the end of that though ;)
So after all these weeks of competition, it's the exact four I wanted to see in the finale. While I'd like to say I really don't care who wins because I DO love them all, I think Melanie really deserves to take this season. She excelled in everything and really just seems like the sweetest, most wonderful person ever! Sasha would be a close second, and if she didn't have a HORRID partner for the first 5 weeks, she might be in my top spot. Producers, you suck at partnering. Call me up next season, I'll do it for you. I promise to be unbiased! Really!!!
So, next week we get to see Melanie/Sasha/Marko/Tad dance with each other AND all-stars (including Joshua!!!), and I have to say, the choreographers better BRING IT! I'd personally love to see a Wade Robson routine pop up in there.
Also, since I know I won't have time to do this Wednesday, these are the encore routines I'd like to see in Thursday's results finale:
- Sasha and Twitch, "Misty Blue"
- Melanie and Marko, "I Got You"
- Jordan and Ade, "Nutbush City Limits"
- Ryan and Ricky, cult of fashion zombie-esque piece
- Clarice and Jess, Foxtrot
- Caitlynn and Mitchell, contemporary routine in the chairs
- Melanie and Neil, "Total Eclipse of the Heart"
- Jordan and Brandon, Desmond and Dwight piece
- Jordan and Tad, bird routine or "Memories"
- Sasha and Alex, Tyce's jazz piece
- Marko and Allison, Sonya contemporary piece
That's enough, right??
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Super 6!
Top 6 show always makes me nervous!!! I feel like the dancers are so tired and sometimes it really shows in the performance, especially if they’re each doing three routines. Maybe having the all-stars this time will prevent some of that? I don’t know. Regardless, I’m nervous. Nervous that Caitlynn will make the finale (ok yeah right), nervous that Ricky will make the finale (that actually might happen), nervous that good dancers will get bad choreo, nervous that I’m going to see all contemporary/jazz routines tonight. So, those are my concerns heading into tonight.
I have got to say, Sasha’s hair looks FAB in the intros tonight! Well done, hair and make up team! Well done! Mary also looks gorgeous…a lot of cleavage, but still, she looks great!
Guest judges: Lil’ C and Christina Applegate (love her!)
Melanie and Twitch, Hip Hop w/ Nappy Tabs
My goodness is there ANYTHING that Melanie can’t do? She can be a light and floating angel with the kindest face ever, and then she can go and hit hip hop so damn hard and have a total stank face! She could go be in a video for any style of music, dance on any TV/Broadway show, and just do anything that anyone ever needs a dancer for. The girl can do no wrong.
Sasha and Kent, Contemporary w/ Tyce DiOrio
Tyce, please just choreograph contemporary duets and only do Broadway group numbers because no Broadway you have ever done could even compare to pieces like this. Sasha has this amazing power to draw you in, no matter what she’s doing. I can feel every emotion she’s putting out there, and I can’t not watch every little movement and nuance. For once, Lil C said it exactly right: watching her, you feel like she’s talking to YOU and you alone. Indescribable.
Marko and Janette, Paso Doble w/ Dmitry Chaplin
While I was not a fan of the music, I thought Marko really did a great job with this routine. He really went for it and asserted himself very well. I absolutely loved the lift where it was as if Janette was the cape, and then they went and did it TWICE! Loved it. I mean, obviously this isn’t going to be in the finale or on the tour, but I thought it was good.
Ricky did a solo. I don’t like him. That’s not going to change. Sorry bout it. I also just don’t like solos that much in general.
Tad and Ellenore, Jazz w/ Sonya
I’m not really sure how I felt about that routine. There wasn’t really much dancing involved, and it felt more like a sexless, medieval karma sutra photo shoot. I agree with Nigel that it needed to develop more. There were some pretty cool moments, like when Tad braced himself on the chair in a split and when he spun on the chandelier. He really did do a great job, actually! Christina Applegate pointed out (pun intended) his pointed toes and technique, which is so true. You forget he’s a bboy! I don’t know that this will help Tad beat out Ricky…shoot.
Well Caitlynn had to pull out her best solo to have a chance against the powerhouses, and I definitely think that was her best solo yet. But…not good enough to beat Sasha or Melanie. She’s young, gorgeous, and talented, so when she gets kicked off tomorrow, I know she’s going to have an amazing career ahead. Love her!
Ricky and Jamie, Contemporary w/ Dee Caspary
Well Jamie got gorgeous, stayed annoying (sorry), and stayed an amazing dancer. I don’t think those little chopstick things were necessary at all, sorry Dee. The dancing was good, but I totally agree with Christina when she said Ricky doesn’t dance with the “clearest intentions”, and maybe that’s why I haven’t liked him at all. That’s what I got. I have my favs and I stick to them, especially this far into the competition.
Tad’s solo was adorable as per usual! He’s so adorable, how can you not love him??? Vote, people, VOTE!
Talk about someone who wants to be in the finale! Damn, Sasha! That was your best solo yet! I don’t even like that song, but I was bopping along with you the whole time! Loved it!
Caitlynn and Pasha, Samba w/ Dmitry Chaplin
Well, Dmitry you FAIL for the music this week. I hated that. This was fine for me, and apparently according to Mary it was pretty darn good, but I didn’t particularly enjoy it that much. Maybe it was the face pulling that the judges mentioned that I didn’t like? I think it just seemed a little slow. Nothing bad, just not my favorite.
Marko’s mom is the cutest thing ever. She might make him win, honestly. Well that and the fact that he dances just like Travis in his solos! Seriously, the khaki shorts, the one the floor flip around, the scissor kicks, the smiling…dance twins!
Oh yeah, sorry Caitlynn, you just don’t have a chance. Seriously Melanie, you’re amazing and I adore you! Best solo of the season! The judges all even commented on it later after her next duet ☺
Sasha and Ricky, Whacking w/ Kimary Suraj
That was definitely a really fun routine. I really loved watching Sasha be so smiley! Compared to Princess Lockaroo from the auditions, it wasn’t the highest degree of difficulty, but I did like the “Soul Train groove” feel about it. And the ending was really cool with the turns and the fall to the ground. Sasha was much better than Ricky, obviously, but I do say he looked cute in his little yellow sweater.
Melanie and Tad, Broadway w/ Spencer Liff
What an amazing concept! I loved that, it was so interesting and unique! And a great song that I’ve never heard before! The chemistry between these two was unreal! It was like they were the only two people in that whole big room! Nigel is right, Melanie is truly an amazing actress. She hits every single emotion, and you just believe her, whatever she’s doing. And Christina is totally right about Tad’s hands – they are beautiful! I hope he makes it to the finale because we all know Melanie will.
Caitlynn and Marko, Jazz w/ Sonya
I’m not sure if I understood how the story related to this, but I definitely loved the dancing in it! They both did a fantastic job! It might have been because the cameras were far away and I couldn’t see their faces as much? Christina mentioned “beautiful aggression”, and that’s totally what that whole routine was. Definitely a great routine for Caitlynn to go out on because she was fabulous. She was really fighting for it. Marko, amazing as always. He’s so strong and supportive, and he’s going to the finale, DUH.
Well nerves are officially calmed. That was a FABULOUS Top 6 show. I really love all of them, but if the finale is not Melanie/Sasha/Marko/Tad (in that order of finish), I will be upset.
Best Duet: Sasha and Kent
Best Individual Performace: Melanie or Sasha, might give a slight edge to Melanie
Going home: Caitlynn and Ricky
Best Music: Tyce or Spencer, tie
Best Choreo: Spencer Liff
Worst Music: Both of Dmitry’s song choices
Best All-Star: Janette and Kent, can’t decide
Best Prop: The Wall
Worst Prop: The Chopsticks
Breakthrough Performance: Caitlynn (w/ Marko)
Start thinking about what encores you want to see in the finale!!! Pretty much everything of Melanie and Marko’s, Sasha and Twitch Misty Blue, and Marko and Allison’s Contemporary all come to mind…what else???
I have got to say, Sasha’s hair looks FAB in the intros tonight! Well done, hair and make up team! Well done! Mary also looks gorgeous…a lot of cleavage, but still, she looks great!
Guest judges: Lil’ C and Christina Applegate (love her!)
Melanie and Twitch, Hip Hop w/ Nappy Tabs
My goodness is there ANYTHING that Melanie can’t do? She can be a light and floating angel with the kindest face ever, and then she can go and hit hip hop so damn hard and have a total stank face! She could go be in a video for any style of music, dance on any TV/Broadway show, and just do anything that anyone ever needs a dancer for. The girl can do no wrong.
Sasha and Kent, Contemporary w/ Tyce DiOrio
Tyce, please just choreograph contemporary duets and only do Broadway group numbers because no Broadway you have ever done could even compare to pieces like this. Sasha has this amazing power to draw you in, no matter what she’s doing. I can feel every emotion she’s putting out there, and I can’t not watch every little movement and nuance. For once, Lil C said it exactly right: watching her, you feel like she’s talking to YOU and you alone. Indescribable.
Marko and Janette, Paso Doble w/ Dmitry Chaplin
While I was not a fan of the music, I thought Marko really did a great job with this routine. He really went for it and asserted himself very well. I absolutely loved the lift where it was as if Janette was the cape, and then they went and did it TWICE! Loved it. I mean, obviously this isn’t going to be in the finale or on the tour, but I thought it was good.
Ricky did a solo. I don’t like him. That’s not going to change. Sorry bout it. I also just don’t like solos that much in general.
Tad and Ellenore, Jazz w/ Sonya
I’m not really sure how I felt about that routine. There wasn’t really much dancing involved, and it felt more like a sexless, medieval karma sutra photo shoot. I agree with Nigel that it needed to develop more. There were some pretty cool moments, like when Tad braced himself on the chair in a split and when he spun on the chandelier. He really did do a great job, actually! Christina Applegate pointed out (pun intended) his pointed toes and technique, which is so true. You forget he’s a bboy! I don’t know that this will help Tad beat out Ricky…shoot.
Well Caitlynn had to pull out her best solo to have a chance against the powerhouses, and I definitely think that was her best solo yet. But…not good enough to beat Sasha or Melanie. She’s young, gorgeous, and talented, so when she gets kicked off tomorrow, I know she’s going to have an amazing career ahead. Love her!
Ricky and Jamie, Contemporary w/ Dee Caspary
Well Jamie got gorgeous, stayed annoying (sorry), and stayed an amazing dancer. I don’t think those little chopstick things were necessary at all, sorry Dee. The dancing was good, but I totally agree with Christina when she said Ricky doesn’t dance with the “clearest intentions”, and maybe that’s why I haven’t liked him at all. That’s what I got. I have my favs and I stick to them, especially this far into the competition.
Tad’s solo was adorable as per usual! He’s so adorable, how can you not love him??? Vote, people, VOTE!
Talk about someone who wants to be in the finale! Damn, Sasha! That was your best solo yet! I don’t even like that song, but I was bopping along with you the whole time! Loved it!
Caitlynn and Pasha, Samba w/ Dmitry Chaplin
Well, Dmitry you FAIL for the music this week. I hated that. This was fine for me, and apparently according to Mary it was pretty darn good, but I didn’t particularly enjoy it that much. Maybe it was the face pulling that the judges mentioned that I didn’t like? I think it just seemed a little slow. Nothing bad, just not my favorite.
Marko’s mom is the cutest thing ever. She might make him win, honestly. Well that and the fact that he dances just like Travis in his solos! Seriously, the khaki shorts, the one the floor flip around, the scissor kicks, the smiling…dance twins!
Oh yeah, sorry Caitlynn, you just don’t have a chance. Seriously Melanie, you’re amazing and I adore you! Best solo of the season! The judges all even commented on it later after her next duet ☺
Sasha and Ricky, Whacking w/ Kimary Suraj
That was definitely a really fun routine. I really loved watching Sasha be so smiley! Compared to Princess Lockaroo from the auditions, it wasn’t the highest degree of difficulty, but I did like the “Soul Train groove” feel about it. And the ending was really cool with the turns and the fall to the ground. Sasha was much better than Ricky, obviously, but I do say he looked cute in his little yellow sweater.
Melanie and Tad, Broadway w/ Spencer Liff
What an amazing concept! I loved that, it was so interesting and unique! And a great song that I’ve never heard before! The chemistry between these two was unreal! It was like they were the only two people in that whole big room! Nigel is right, Melanie is truly an amazing actress. She hits every single emotion, and you just believe her, whatever she’s doing. And Christina is totally right about Tad’s hands – they are beautiful! I hope he makes it to the finale because we all know Melanie will.
Caitlynn and Marko, Jazz w/ Sonya
I’m not sure if I understood how the story related to this, but I definitely loved the dancing in it! They both did a fantastic job! It might have been because the cameras were far away and I couldn’t see their faces as much? Christina mentioned “beautiful aggression”, and that’s totally what that whole routine was. Definitely a great routine for Caitlynn to go out on because she was fabulous. She was really fighting for it. Marko, amazing as always. He’s so strong and supportive, and he’s going to the finale, DUH.
Well nerves are officially calmed. That was a FABULOUS Top 6 show. I really love all of them, but if the finale is not Melanie/Sasha/Marko/Tad (in that order of finish), I will be upset.
Best Duet: Sasha and Kent
Best Individual Performace: Melanie or Sasha, might give a slight edge to Melanie
Going home: Caitlynn and Ricky
Best Music: Tyce or Spencer, tie
Best Choreo: Spencer Liff
Worst Music: Both of Dmitry’s song choices
Best All-Star: Janette and Kent, can’t decide
Best Prop: The Wall
Worst Prop: The Chopsticks
Breakthrough Performance: Caitlynn (w/ Marko)
Start thinking about what encores you want to see in the finale!!! Pretty much everything of Melanie and Marko’s, Sasha and Twitch Misty Blue, and Marko and Allison’s Contemporary all come to mind…what else???
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Now THAT is an Elite 8
It seems like FOREVER since last week’s episode! Is that just me? Perhaps!
All-stars round TWO tonight! I hope that they all dance with an all-star AND a contestant this week, but I’m not sure they could squeeze that all in. **Oh yay, they are doing that!**
Another interesting twist this week – Lady Gaga. As a judge, not a performer. She’s super awkward when she talks, so this should be interesting. She will mostlikely eventually employ some of these guys though, so they should for sure bring their A-game tonight. Interesting that she is sitting in Nigel’s spot. Wow, she really does rule the universe. Rob Marshall is a guest judge too, which is also awesome considering his clout in the director/choreographer world, so it’s got to be a good show!
I haven’t really been commenting on Cat’s wardrobe this season, but I have to say she looks stunning this evening!
Sasha and Pasha - Quickstep w/ Jonathan Roberts
Sasha and Pasha, it’s easy to remember! Yes! They really are giving her the best all-stars! Sasha really did a great job on this, at least to me and my untrained eye! Of all the dancers this season, I could see Sasha as “Most Likely to Dance for Gaga”, so it was really nice to hear Gaga give her a sincere and glowing review!
Caitlynn and Ivan – Hip Hop w/ Marty Kudelka
Well that was just precious! Ivan is just too cute in these types of routines, and this was no exception. Caitlynn really held her own with him too. They were completely in sync and the chemistry was really great too. It was a little simple, and I feel like they used the beginning set up to use up a some actual dance time. I liked the choreo a lot though, but I could have used some lifts or floorwork or something else a little out of the ordinary.
Ade and Jordan – Jazz w/ Tyce DiOrio
As evidenced by their outfits, I’m pretty sure Ade was only there to show Jordan off in this routine. Although DAMN the man looks G-O-O-D. Anyways, back to Jordan though…she OWNED that! Every leap and lift and stretch was just awe inspiring. And Lady Gaga just showed off her shoes...WTF?!?! Jordan could also dance for Gaga, and I think after this, she probably will! Rob Marshall hit the nail on the head when he said that Jordan just goes for everything, no matter what! She really does push herself every week, and it’s truly inspiring and empowering.
Melanie and Neil – Contemporary w/ Mandy Moore
Holy crap, what an amazing exhibit of powerful dancing! That lift at the end?? She probably leapt 8 ft to fall into his arms. Mandy (with her 80’s music) is at her BEST – take that, Mia Michaels!!! I think Gaga literally jumped out of her seat to give Melanie a standing ovation and told her that she would hire her to dance on her tour tomorrow. And she’s Gaga’s favorite…possibly the best compliment anyone in the entertainment industry could ever get. And her critique made me cry a little bit. I’ve loved Melanie from her very first audition, and she just gets stronger and stronger! She better win. Period.
Ricky and Anya – Jive w/ Jason Gilkison
Well for all that I hate on Ricky, he really did do a respectable job on this. His feet were flying right along with hers, and his carriage was solid. I do have to say though, Anya lifting Ricky = AWESOME. Ricky lifting Anya = kinda awkward. Loved the song and the choreo, and of course ANYA!
Jess and Lauren Gottlieb – Lyrical Hip Hop w/ Nappy Tabs
At first I thought they were keeping Jess on the floor to avoid him actually doing hip hop, but he actually stood up and did a pretty damn good job! Their synchronisity was spot on, and as Mary said, Jess really did have some swag. I think he really took NPH’s advice about not mugging and being sincere in his performance. Jess really has grown and improved throughout this season. Rob Marshall let it out that Jess was in The Grinch on Broadway! Can anyone else just see him as a little Who from Who-ville?? I can!
Tad and Lauren Froderman – Jazz w/ Mandy Moore
Woah, Mandy looked pretty disappointed when they flashed to her at the end of that. Weird. I thought it was good and fun, just nothing super memorable (story-wise at least). For how much I absolutely love Lauren, I thought Tad definitely out-danced his all-star [again]. Like Mary said, he was just “cool” on stage. I just adore watching him move because he’s so unique! The chemistry wasn’t great for me, but when Gaga complemented the androgyny of it, it made me ok with it.
Marko and Allison – Contemporary w/ Sonya
And everyone’s crying. Me, the dancers, all the judges, half the audience. Wow. Just WOW. Gaga can’t even speak in her critique because it was just that moving. There are not even any words to describe how beautiful that was. You just have to watch it. And Marko’s mom came in from Guam to see the show live for the first time. It must be so hard to dance with Allison because she is so good, but Marko can definitely get on her level, which is a compliment of the highest level on this show. And now I think Marko should win. Shoot!
Caitlynn and Tad – Foxtrot w/ Jonathan Roberts
I think Caitlynn’s going to win Best Dressed again – so gorgeous! That was a beautiful and classic feeling foxtrot, and I really liked the chemistry between the two of them. They are both so great at getting into character, and they really swept me into another time! Mary gave some pro critiques that weren’t so great, but I didn’t even care honestly. It was so flowy and wonderful! The judges were a little harsh on Caitlynn’s “competition” personality, which I have to say I didn’t really notice until tonight.
Marko and Ricky – Hip Hop w/ Nappy Tabs
Want a sure fire way to make one guy look bad? Put him in a routine with the best guy in the competition. Marko OWNED that routine, and it was like Ricky wasn’t even in it. I only looked at him when I consciously realized that I had only been looking at Marko for awhile. Nigel said Ricky might be in the bottom, and y’all know I hope so. Marko though – pure genius. Great choreo and fun routine, but not especially memorable, probably because of Ricky. Sorry bout it.
Jordan and Jess – Rumba w/ Jason Gilkison
Well, we finally got the first rumba of the season, and that was some pretty clever choreo on Jason’s part to make it just like a contemporary piece. As Gaga said, there was nothing “wrong” with it per se, but it wasn’t my favorite. I think by default, it would have to be my least favorite piece of the night, just because the rest were so strong!
Sasha and Melanie – Jazz w/ Sonya
Can you say Dream Team? What a fantastic piece of work! Even Sonya was just amazed at how well that turned out! I just adored the two of those girls together. It was as if they were screaming “YEAH! BRING IT!” at each other with their eyes. I think Gaga might need to ditch LoriAnn Gibson and hire Sonya for a video one of these days. And these girls. They were the perfect example of strength and power. The two girls are clearly so different in style and appearance, but they just complemented each other absolutely perfectly. Lady Gaga threw a giant shoe at them for goodness sakes! And the other one at Sonya! One of these girls better win and I don’t know who!!!!
That was by far the best episode of this show I’ve ever seen. I guess the all-stars told everyone who’s ever been on the show to come watch tonight because they were all in the audience. I loved every routine so much, and I want them all to win! Except Ricky. Sorry buddy! These awards are going to have a lot of ties tonight. Sorry!
BOTN: Melanie and Sasha, Melanie and Neil, Allison and Marko. I can’t decide, and it’s my blog so you can’t make me.
Best Performance: Jordan and Ade (but mostly Jordan), Melanie and Neil
Best Choreo: Sonya (both) and Mandy Moore (Melanie and Neil’s piece)
Best Dressed: Caitlynn in the foxtrot
Best All-star: Allison, DUH
Best Guest Judge of the Season: Gaga
Breakthrough Performance: Jess
Best Body: Neil or Ade…edge to Neil with his open shirt.
Best Tear Inducing Performance That Didn’t Involved Cancer or Abuse: Marko and Allison...seriously, that was just ridiculous
Best Music: Mandy Moore
Best Legs: Jordan, by like 5 miles
Most Adorable: Tad
Best Lift: Anya
B2 Girls: Caitlynn and Jordan…sorry Jordan, you’re awesome and I love you but Melanie and Sasha are just better
B2 Guys: Ricky and Jess…Tad’s too darn loveable and Marko’s too damn good
In my humble opinion, Caitlynn and Ricky will get the boot tomorrow night, not because they’re not great, just because the rest are better. Neither of them will be lacking work though, and I’m sure we’ll see plenty of their performances on tour and in the finale!
I can only imagine how great the Melanie/Marko/Sasha/Tad finale is going to be. I’m going to go vote for all 4 of them right now to help make that happen!
All-stars round TWO tonight! I hope that they all dance with an all-star AND a contestant this week, but I’m not sure they could squeeze that all in. **Oh yay, they are doing that!**
Another interesting twist this week – Lady Gaga. As a judge, not a performer. She’s super awkward when she talks, so this should be interesting. She will mostlikely eventually employ some of these guys though, so they should for sure bring their A-game tonight. Interesting that she is sitting in Nigel’s spot. Wow, she really does rule the universe. Rob Marshall is a guest judge too, which is also awesome considering his clout in the director/choreographer world, so it’s got to be a good show!
I haven’t really been commenting on Cat’s wardrobe this season, but I have to say she looks stunning this evening!
Sasha and Pasha - Quickstep w/ Jonathan Roberts
Sasha and Pasha, it’s easy to remember! Yes! They really are giving her the best all-stars! Sasha really did a great job on this, at least to me and my untrained eye! Of all the dancers this season, I could see Sasha as “Most Likely to Dance for Gaga”, so it was really nice to hear Gaga give her a sincere and glowing review!
Caitlynn and Ivan – Hip Hop w/ Marty Kudelka
Well that was just precious! Ivan is just too cute in these types of routines, and this was no exception. Caitlynn really held her own with him too. They were completely in sync and the chemistry was really great too. It was a little simple, and I feel like they used the beginning set up to use up a some actual dance time. I liked the choreo a lot though, but I could have used some lifts or floorwork or something else a little out of the ordinary.
Ade and Jordan – Jazz w/ Tyce DiOrio
As evidenced by their outfits, I’m pretty sure Ade was only there to show Jordan off in this routine. Although DAMN the man looks G-O-O-D. Anyways, back to Jordan though…she OWNED that! Every leap and lift and stretch was just awe inspiring. And Lady Gaga just showed off her shoes...WTF?!?! Jordan could also dance for Gaga, and I think after this, she probably will! Rob Marshall hit the nail on the head when he said that Jordan just goes for everything, no matter what! She really does push herself every week, and it’s truly inspiring and empowering.
Melanie and Neil – Contemporary w/ Mandy Moore
Holy crap, what an amazing exhibit of powerful dancing! That lift at the end?? She probably leapt 8 ft to fall into his arms. Mandy (with her 80’s music) is at her BEST – take that, Mia Michaels!!! I think Gaga literally jumped out of her seat to give Melanie a standing ovation and told her that she would hire her to dance on her tour tomorrow. And she’s Gaga’s favorite…possibly the best compliment anyone in the entertainment industry could ever get. And her critique made me cry a little bit. I’ve loved Melanie from her very first audition, and she just gets stronger and stronger! She better win. Period.
Ricky and Anya – Jive w/ Jason Gilkison
Well for all that I hate on Ricky, he really did do a respectable job on this. His feet were flying right along with hers, and his carriage was solid. I do have to say though, Anya lifting Ricky = AWESOME. Ricky lifting Anya = kinda awkward. Loved the song and the choreo, and of course ANYA!
Jess and Lauren Gottlieb – Lyrical Hip Hop w/ Nappy Tabs
At first I thought they were keeping Jess on the floor to avoid him actually doing hip hop, but he actually stood up and did a pretty damn good job! Their synchronisity was spot on, and as Mary said, Jess really did have some swag. I think he really took NPH’s advice about not mugging and being sincere in his performance. Jess really has grown and improved throughout this season. Rob Marshall let it out that Jess was in The Grinch on Broadway! Can anyone else just see him as a little Who from Who-ville?? I can!
Tad and Lauren Froderman – Jazz w/ Mandy Moore
Woah, Mandy looked pretty disappointed when they flashed to her at the end of that. Weird. I thought it was good and fun, just nothing super memorable (story-wise at least). For how much I absolutely love Lauren, I thought Tad definitely out-danced his all-star [again]. Like Mary said, he was just “cool” on stage. I just adore watching him move because he’s so unique! The chemistry wasn’t great for me, but when Gaga complemented the androgyny of it, it made me ok with it.
Marko and Allison – Contemporary w/ Sonya
And everyone’s crying. Me, the dancers, all the judges, half the audience. Wow. Just WOW. Gaga can’t even speak in her critique because it was just that moving. There are not even any words to describe how beautiful that was. You just have to watch it. And Marko’s mom came in from Guam to see the show live for the first time. It must be so hard to dance with Allison because she is so good, but Marko can definitely get on her level, which is a compliment of the highest level on this show. And now I think Marko should win. Shoot!
Caitlynn and Tad – Foxtrot w/ Jonathan Roberts
I think Caitlynn’s going to win Best Dressed again – so gorgeous! That was a beautiful and classic feeling foxtrot, and I really liked the chemistry between the two of them. They are both so great at getting into character, and they really swept me into another time! Mary gave some pro critiques that weren’t so great, but I didn’t even care honestly. It was so flowy and wonderful! The judges were a little harsh on Caitlynn’s “competition” personality, which I have to say I didn’t really notice until tonight.
Marko and Ricky – Hip Hop w/ Nappy Tabs
Want a sure fire way to make one guy look bad? Put him in a routine with the best guy in the competition. Marko OWNED that routine, and it was like Ricky wasn’t even in it. I only looked at him when I consciously realized that I had only been looking at Marko for awhile. Nigel said Ricky might be in the bottom, and y’all know I hope so. Marko though – pure genius. Great choreo and fun routine, but not especially memorable, probably because of Ricky. Sorry bout it.
Jordan and Jess – Rumba w/ Jason Gilkison
Well, we finally got the first rumba of the season, and that was some pretty clever choreo on Jason’s part to make it just like a contemporary piece. As Gaga said, there was nothing “wrong” with it per se, but it wasn’t my favorite. I think by default, it would have to be my least favorite piece of the night, just because the rest were so strong!
Sasha and Melanie – Jazz w/ Sonya
Can you say Dream Team? What a fantastic piece of work! Even Sonya was just amazed at how well that turned out! I just adored the two of those girls together. It was as if they were screaming “YEAH! BRING IT!” at each other with their eyes. I think Gaga might need to ditch LoriAnn Gibson and hire Sonya for a video one of these days. And these girls. They were the perfect example of strength and power. The two girls are clearly so different in style and appearance, but they just complemented each other absolutely perfectly. Lady Gaga threw a giant shoe at them for goodness sakes! And the other one at Sonya! One of these girls better win and I don’t know who!!!!
That was by far the best episode of this show I’ve ever seen. I guess the all-stars told everyone who’s ever been on the show to come watch tonight because they were all in the audience. I loved every routine so much, and I want them all to win! Except Ricky. Sorry buddy! These awards are going to have a lot of ties tonight. Sorry!
BOTN: Melanie and Sasha, Melanie and Neil, Allison and Marko. I can’t decide, and it’s my blog so you can’t make me.
Best Performance: Jordan and Ade (but mostly Jordan), Melanie and Neil
Best Choreo: Sonya (both) and Mandy Moore (Melanie and Neil’s piece)
Best Dressed: Caitlynn in the foxtrot
Best All-star: Allison, DUH
Best Guest Judge of the Season: Gaga
Breakthrough Performance: Jess
Best Body: Neil or Ade…edge to Neil with his open shirt.
Best Tear Inducing Performance That Didn’t Involved Cancer or Abuse: Marko and Allison...seriously, that was just ridiculous
Best Music: Mandy Moore
Best Legs: Jordan, by like 5 miles
Most Adorable: Tad
Best Lift: Anya
B2 Girls: Caitlynn and Jordan…sorry Jordan, you’re awesome and I love you but Melanie and Sasha are just better
B2 Guys: Ricky and Jess…Tad’s too darn loveable and Marko’s too damn good
In my humble opinion, Caitlynn and Ricky will get the boot tomorrow night, not because they’re not great, just because the rest are better. Neither of them will be lacking work though, and I’m sure we’ll see plenty of their performances on tour and in the finale!
I can only imagine how great the Melanie/Marko/Sasha/Tad finale is going to be. I’m going to go vote for all 4 of them right now to help make that happen!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
You're On Your Own Now...
Well, I can’t say I’m all too pleased that Ryan isn’t in the Top 10 to fend for herself without her chemistry-less partnership, I don’t know who I would have sacrificed to get her there, so I guess it’s ok.
The Top 10 get to dance with All-Stars, which I’ll admit I was torn about last season, but I am pretty excited about this season. Hopefully they get to dance with fellow contestants as well.
Also, NPH is the guest judge this week, and I’m especially excited about that since I’ve been gorging on How I Met Your Mother recently. And tour tickets go on sale next week?! Yay! Here’s hoping they come to Austin…or at least San Antonio.
Marko and Chelsie Hightower – Samba w/ Jason Gilkison
I think everyone was worried for Marko going off on his own without Melanie, and I was especially worried since it’s almost impossible not to watch Chelsie when she’s doing her thing, but I am so proud of him! Damn! I don’t know if it was just the lights or what, but it seemed like his hips were moving a mile a minute! Also, those lifts were seriously insane! Loved it!
Sasha’s solo was great, dance-wise, but I really wish she’d engaged the audience/camera a little bit more.
Jordan and Brandon – Contemporary w/ Dwight Rhoden & Desmond Richardson
I am so happy Brandon is an All-Star this year, he’s so fabulous! That being said, the choreography really played more to him than it did to Jordan, which is unfortunate because she really did a great job! But, it’s a bit hard to pay attention to her when he’s jumping and turning a million times into a middle split as if it was nothing. Jordan did do an amazing job though, and I especially loved when Brandon turned her around on one leg. She was flowy and effortless, and they were always in sync, which is important in Dwight and Desmond’s pieces. Yay Jordan!
Jess’ solo was fun and wonderful, but he’s reverting back to his annoying little smug face a bit, and I don’t like it.
Tadd and Comfort – Hip Hop w/ Chuck Maldonado
Well it wasn’t exactly memorable in terms of story, but damn that was some good hip hop dancing. Tad is pretty much amazing! As Nigel said, it was very very very very very very fast, and he did everything right! I even watched Comfort slip up a little bit, but Tad was right on the whole time. I especially loved when they were both on the floor essentially on their knees and they pulled themselves around…TWICE! NPH even loved it too ☺
Melanie’s solo was just fabulous, and I love her. SO MUCH. 1-866-TEMPO-03, baby!!!
Mitchell and Melody – Broadway w/ Tyce DiOrio
I’m pretty h-core, but I don’t know anything about Melody, so this was a pleasant surprise. She did look slightly unsure of herself throughout the piece. I’m a little bit with NPH though, it was a bit disjointed and I didn’t really get it. Usually Mitchell has good chemistry with his partner, but maybe the Broadway genre brought out the gay in him? The judges said he overplayed it, and I definitely agree. It’s about the details and the style, which weren’t all there.
Ricky’s solo was pretty much usual Ricky. Amazing elevation, great center, beautiful dance, but I don’t really get anything from him and this didn’t change that at all.
I liked Clarice’s solo, it definitely showed versality, but is it me or does it always look like she’s chewing gum?! Weird.
Caitlynn and Pasha – Argentine Tango w/ Miriam LaRici and Leonardo (Long last name!!!!)
It’s legitimately impossible not to have chemistry with Pasha. Are you serious?! The looks in both of their eyes - so hot! Caitlynn did a fabulous job with her footwork and all the kicks and flicks, and the lifts were so great! She was slightly awkward when she went backward, but not so much to detract from the dance at all. Pasha really does bring out the best ballroom in everyone! And, I don’t even have to see any other outfits to know that Caitlynn is going to win my best dressed award tonight. Nigel really gave her some really great compliments, which was nice to hear coming from him.
I can’t even focus on what an amazing dancer Mitchell is because he is literally wearing a DIAPER for his solo. Fail.
Sasha and Twitch – Hip Hop w/ Christopher Scott
FINALLY SASHA HAS A LEGIT PARTNER AND OMG WHAT A DIFFERENCE IT MAKES! YES THESE ALL CAPS ARE 100% INTENTIONAL! That was BY FAR the best hip-hop routine of the season, Sasha’s best routine of the season, and just straight up amazing. It might have been my overall favorite routine of the season so far…seriously Christopher Scott is a GENIUS! As is Twitch. As is Sasha! They KILLED that! Nigel said “Sasha I think this is the first time I’ve seen you have chemistry with you partner” and to that I say DUH!!! Maybe you should have partnered her with someone who wasn’t lame and creepy! NPH said they should dance every dance together, and I wholeheartedly agree. I’m gonna watch that again now…RIGHT NOW. And after that I will be downloading “Misty Blue”.
Jordan performed her best solo thus far tonight! It was so lovely and contained, and she showed her strong center, which she hadn’t really shown before!
Jess and Kathryn – Contemporary w/ Stacy Tookey
Wow I’ve missed Kathryn. She is SOOOO gorgeous to watch! That was a beautiful routine, but as he said in his video package, Jess really does struggle with lifts. A couple of the longer ones were a bit awkward, but the little ones worked out great. I especially liked the one where he was sitting and lifted her over him. The judges all thought this was the best that Jess has done this season, and I might agree with that…either this or the adorable foxtrot that he and Clarice did.
Omg Tad, when you hold yourself over the stage it freaks me out! And amazes me! Loved his solo, he is absolutely adorable!
Melanie and Pasha – Viennese Waltz w/ Jason Gilkison
Pasha shirtless is fine by me in ANY routine. I actually think it should be like that in every routine. That was just a beautiful routine. As Mary said, it was like Melanie was floating the whole time. They did so many lifts, and they all looked effortless. Plus, the chemistry between them was as amazing as if she were dancing with Marko. But again, it’s impossible for anyone to NOT have chemistry with Pasha. The one thing about Melanie that I did notice was her hands could have been a little more elegant, but whatever, she’s amazing and I love her. She really is the “rock” in this competition, literally and in dance metaphors.
I love how much Caitlynn engages the audience when she dances! It really makes me feel included in her moment, which is just awesome!
Ricky and Allison – Jazz w/ Tyce DiOrio
I really hope that Ricky doesn’t pull Allison votes on this one (she’s not competing anymore, people!!!) because I didn’t enjoy Ricky in this at all. I liked the piece and the choreo, but Allison stole that whole show. I disagree with Nigel saying he danced up to Allison’s standard – BS.
I love Marko. LOVE him! Maybe it’s because he dances like Travis, maybe it’s because I can’t believe he’s got a bullet in his arm, I don’t know, but I just love him!
Clarice and Robert – Bollywood w/ Nukul
After a few duds this season, Nukul finally came through with a good Bollywood routine! It was really dynamic and complex, and they were BOTH great in it! Minus the first Bollywood we ever saw (shout out to Katee and Joshua!), I never find Bollywood that memorable, but that was good.
My weekly awards:
BOTN: Sasha and Twitch
B3: Mitchell, Ricky, and I guess Clarice (by default and because I don’t want to put 3 boys in there)
Best Performance: Sasha and Twitch
Worst Performance: Mitchell and Melody
Best Choreo: Christopher Scott (by a MILE)
Best Dressed: Caitlynn in her Tango, Melanie is a close second
Best All-star: Pasha!
Best Solo: Marko
I also have to give a shout out to NPH for being a legit guest judge! Loved him!
The Top 10 get to dance with All-Stars, which I’ll admit I was torn about last season, but I am pretty excited about this season. Hopefully they get to dance with fellow contestants as well.
Also, NPH is the guest judge this week, and I’m especially excited about that since I’ve been gorging on How I Met Your Mother recently. And tour tickets go on sale next week?! Yay! Here’s hoping they come to Austin…or at least San Antonio.
Marko and Chelsie Hightower – Samba w/ Jason Gilkison
I think everyone was worried for Marko going off on his own without Melanie, and I was especially worried since it’s almost impossible not to watch Chelsie when she’s doing her thing, but I am so proud of him! Damn! I don’t know if it was just the lights or what, but it seemed like his hips were moving a mile a minute! Also, those lifts were seriously insane! Loved it!
Sasha’s solo was great, dance-wise, but I really wish she’d engaged the audience/camera a little bit more.
Jordan and Brandon – Contemporary w/ Dwight Rhoden & Desmond Richardson
I am so happy Brandon is an All-Star this year, he’s so fabulous! That being said, the choreography really played more to him than it did to Jordan, which is unfortunate because she really did a great job! But, it’s a bit hard to pay attention to her when he’s jumping and turning a million times into a middle split as if it was nothing. Jordan did do an amazing job though, and I especially loved when Brandon turned her around on one leg. She was flowy and effortless, and they were always in sync, which is important in Dwight and Desmond’s pieces. Yay Jordan!
Jess’ solo was fun and wonderful, but he’s reverting back to his annoying little smug face a bit, and I don’t like it.
Tadd and Comfort – Hip Hop w/ Chuck Maldonado
Well it wasn’t exactly memorable in terms of story, but damn that was some good hip hop dancing. Tad is pretty much amazing! As Nigel said, it was very very very very very very fast, and he did everything right! I even watched Comfort slip up a little bit, but Tad was right on the whole time. I especially loved when they were both on the floor essentially on their knees and they pulled themselves around…TWICE! NPH even loved it too ☺
Melanie’s solo was just fabulous, and I love her. SO MUCH. 1-866-TEMPO-03, baby!!!
Mitchell and Melody – Broadway w/ Tyce DiOrio
I’m pretty h-core, but I don’t know anything about Melody, so this was a pleasant surprise. She did look slightly unsure of herself throughout the piece. I’m a little bit with NPH though, it was a bit disjointed and I didn’t really get it. Usually Mitchell has good chemistry with his partner, but maybe the Broadway genre brought out the gay in him? The judges said he overplayed it, and I definitely agree. It’s about the details and the style, which weren’t all there.
Ricky’s solo was pretty much usual Ricky. Amazing elevation, great center, beautiful dance, but I don’t really get anything from him and this didn’t change that at all.
I liked Clarice’s solo, it definitely showed versality, but is it me or does it always look like she’s chewing gum?! Weird.
Caitlynn and Pasha – Argentine Tango w/ Miriam LaRici and Leonardo (Long last name!!!!)
It’s legitimately impossible not to have chemistry with Pasha. Are you serious?! The looks in both of their eyes - so hot! Caitlynn did a fabulous job with her footwork and all the kicks and flicks, and the lifts were so great! She was slightly awkward when she went backward, but not so much to detract from the dance at all. Pasha really does bring out the best ballroom in everyone! And, I don’t even have to see any other outfits to know that Caitlynn is going to win my best dressed award tonight. Nigel really gave her some really great compliments, which was nice to hear coming from him.
I can’t even focus on what an amazing dancer Mitchell is because he is literally wearing a DIAPER for his solo. Fail.
Sasha and Twitch – Hip Hop w/ Christopher Scott
FINALLY SASHA HAS A LEGIT PARTNER AND OMG WHAT A DIFFERENCE IT MAKES! YES THESE ALL CAPS ARE 100% INTENTIONAL! That was BY FAR the best hip-hop routine of the season, Sasha’s best routine of the season, and just straight up amazing. It might have been my overall favorite routine of the season so far…seriously Christopher Scott is a GENIUS! As is Twitch. As is Sasha! They KILLED that! Nigel said “Sasha I think this is the first time I’ve seen you have chemistry with you partner” and to that I say DUH!!! Maybe you should have partnered her with someone who wasn’t lame and creepy! NPH said they should dance every dance together, and I wholeheartedly agree. I’m gonna watch that again now…RIGHT NOW. And after that I will be downloading “Misty Blue”.
Jordan performed her best solo thus far tonight! It was so lovely and contained, and she showed her strong center, which she hadn’t really shown before!
Jess and Kathryn – Contemporary w/ Stacy Tookey
Wow I’ve missed Kathryn. She is SOOOO gorgeous to watch! That was a beautiful routine, but as he said in his video package, Jess really does struggle with lifts. A couple of the longer ones were a bit awkward, but the little ones worked out great. I especially liked the one where he was sitting and lifted her over him. The judges all thought this was the best that Jess has done this season, and I might agree with that…either this or the adorable foxtrot that he and Clarice did.
Omg Tad, when you hold yourself over the stage it freaks me out! And amazes me! Loved his solo, he is absolutely adorable!
Melanie and Pasha – Viennese Waltz w/ Jason Gilkison
Pasha shirtless is fine by me in ANY routine. I actually think it should be like that in every routine. That was just a beautiful routine. As Mary said, it was like Melanie was floating the whole time. They did so many lifts, and they all looked effortless. Plus, the chemistry between them was as amazing as if she were dancing with Marko. But again, it’s impossible for anyone to NOT have chemistry with Pasha. The one thing about Melanie that I did notice was her hands could have been a little more elegant, but whatever, she’s amazing and I love her. She really is the “rock” in this competition, literally and in dance metaphors.
I love how much Caitlynn engages the audience when she dances! It really makes me feel included in her moment, which is just awesome!
Ricky and Allison – Jazz w/ Tyce DiOrio
I really hope that Ricky doesn’t pull Allison votes on this one (she’s not competing anymore, people!!!) because I didn’t enjoy Ricky in this at all. I liked the piece and the choreo, but Allison stole that whole show. I disagree with Nigel saying he danced up to Allison’s standard – BS.
I love Marko. LOVE him! Maybe it’s because he dances like Travis, maybe it’s because I can’t believe he’s got a bullet in his arm, I don’t know, but I just love him!
Clarice and Robert – Bollywood w/ Nukul
After a few duds this season, Nukul finally came through with a good Bollywood routine! It was really dynamic and complex, and they were BOTH great in it! Minus the first Bollywood we ever saw (shout out to Katee and Joshua!), I never find Bollywood that memorable, but that was good.
My weekly awards:
BOTN: Sasha and Twitch
B3: Mitchell, Ricky, and I guess Clarice (by default and because I don’t want to put 3 boys in there)
Best Performance: Sasha and Twitch
Worst Performance: Mitchell and Melody
Best Choreo: Christopher Scott (by a MILE)
Best Dressed: Caitlynn in her Tango, Melanie is a close second
Best All-star: Pasha!
Best Solo: Marko
I also have to give a shout out to NPH for being a legit guest judge! Loved him!
Wednesday, July 13, 2011
Dirty Dozen
It's the last week of the same couples, and to that I have to say THANK GOODNESS. This is the first time there hasn't been at least one couple switch, and I gotta say that's pretty disappointing. Plus, next week starts the all-star component of this season, which I'm curious about! I have no idea who's on board, what the format is gonna be, or anything at all, and I LOVE IT!
They must be doing 2 routines each this week because the video packages start right away! Yep, they are, here we go!
Sasha and Alex -
Pasa Doble w/ Tony and Melanie
Yes ballroom! And then it's a dance that could be so smoldering if it wasn't Sasha and...Alex. I am so over him, I really think his only role on the show is to follow Sasha around and hold her on some lifts. Sasha was strong and powerful and amazing as per usual. I can not wait to see her with a different partner, it's going to be so awesome! Judges loved her and kinda sorta mentioned that Alex was in the routine but not really.
Jazz w/ Tyce DiOrio
I really liked this! I completely visualized them dancing on the streets of New Orleans or something, and it was just a beautiful, natural, flowy, and fun! As Sonya said, Alex finally broke his shell, and I actually enjoyed watching him dance for the first time this season. Sasha was perfection, and it was nice to see a little bit of a soft side to her for a change. Plus she looked absolutely gorgeous. Well done, Tyce. I approve!
Jordan and Tadd -
Contemporary w/ Travis Wall
Last week, Nigel said Travis really wanted to work with Tad, so what a nice "coincidence" that he gets to this week. Love that the concept is women who take advantage of weak men - so creative, Travis! That was such a different piece than Travis usually does! Dark, creepy, and completely mesmerizing! Tad was fantastic, and Jordan KILLED. The chemistry and connection between them was so believable as well. Love this partnership so much!
Broadway w/ Spencer Liff
I was so excited about them dancing to RENT, but this routine was underwhelming, to quote Sonya. The moves were a it dainty for the rock style of song. I totally agreed with Nigel when he said they could have had more fun with it and been quirkier...it was definitely missing something. I kept waiting for it to build up to something, but it didn't really peak. The judges are pretty right on tonight with their critiques actually.
Ryan and Ricky -
Broadway w/ Spencer Liff
I love Spencer's routines, but the lack of chemistry between the two is truly palpable. They're both such great dancers, but them together does not bring out their individual bests. I would love for Ricky to get the hell outta there so Ryan can truly shine. That's all I got.
Cha Cha w/ Louis van Amstel
Well they were supposed to be hot, but I'm not so sure these two can be hot together. Nigel praised Ricky, but I still am not buying him. Unlike Mitchell he can not play the straight man well enough for me. Even my non-dancer butt could tell that this was a fast and intricate cha cha. I loved Ryan's death spiral-esque thing when she was in a vertical split and spun down to the floor - INSANE. I loved that Sonya kept it real for Ryan and basically said she's feeling a lot of pressure and letting it get to her dance. I hope Ryan takes that and uses it to make her stronger because omg is she talented!
Caitlynn and Mitchell -
Hip Hop w/ Chris Scott
This is a routine dedicated to Invisible Children, which is something that hasn't been done before. However, Chris Scott's face after the routine pretty much said it all. It was kind of disappointing. Although Caitlynn's face is really expressive, I didn't really buy her in the hip hop genre. Plus they weren't in sync at all, which was pretty distracting. And I didn't see how the choreo was connected to the inspiration. Pretty much in total agreement with the judges.
Jazz w/ Travis Wall
Well that was totally hot. There were also some crazy lifts, damn Travis! These two dance with such conviction, I just love it! I loved the concept, the moves, the outfits (Caitlynn = hot!), and pretty much everything about it!
Melanie and Marko -
Tango w/ Louis van Amstel
Louis is back, hooray! The tango is pretty much the perfect ance for these two to have, seeing as though they are the only couple with any chemistry. AND THEY KILLED THAT. Seriously, I felt like I was watching a ballroom competition routine. The way they look at eachother is so perfect, they move so well together, and it's impossible to not just stare at them in complete awe. The end lift where she went between his legs, flipped around, and came back down on one knee was so awesome!
Contemporary w/ Dee Caspary
I love that I can tell their choreographer based on what they're wearing right before the break. Does Dee just put all the girls in pink/grey/off-white every time? Dee is seriously the most artistic choreographer on this show - he thinks about everything so thoroughly, from the lighting to the timing to every detail of every lift. It doesn't hurt that he got the best couple in the show because they delivered on every level. Again, I totally agree with Nigel when he said it flowed so well that it didn't seem like a "routine" just natural movement and beauty.
Clarice and Jess -
Lyrical Hip Hop w/ Chris Scott
Ok this couple has finally crossed over completely to my good side! I loved this. I was totally thinking Jess couldn't do hip hop, but he totally rocked it! Clarice was fabulous, as per usual, and they were so cute together! Plus, I hated this song before, but this cover was fabulous and I'm pretty sure it contributed to me liking the routine more!
Jive w/ Tony and Melanie
Well her outfit is fabulous for starters. I actually thought they did a good job with this, but I agree with Nigel that it could have used a little more energy at times and Jess' lifts make me nervous. You could tell they got a little tired toward the end, especially in their faces. As far as footwork, they were great and in sync, and I was totally impressed! These two just improve every week, but I'm slightly worried for Jess if he gets to the Top 10...he's really short, who else besides Caitlynn could he dance with?
BOTN: Sasha and Alex's Jazz
B3: Jordan and Tadd, Ryan and Ricky, Caitlynn and Mitchell (by default, I guess)
-Going home: Ricky and Jordan, I don't know why I think this, but I that's my prediction/ hope, even though I really like Jordan
Best Couple: Melanie and Marko - who's surprised? NO ONE.
Best Performance: Clarice and Jess' Lyrical Hip Hop - I really loved this one!
Best Outfit: Clarice's Jive dress
Worst Outfit: Tad's kilt
Biggest Surprise: Alex in the Jazz routine, Jess in the Hip Hop routine
Best Choreo: Tyce's Jazz, Travis' Contemporary
Worst Choreo: Spencer Liff - what happened buddy, I usually like you!
Best Music: Clarice and Jess' Hip Hop
Also, all-stars are announced tomorrow, and assuming there will not be repeats from last season, here is my wish list:
- Alex Wong
- Jakob Karr
- Mollee Gray
- Gev
- Heidi (yeah right that will never happen)
- Dmitry (doubt he can do it with DWTS)
- Phillip
- Kayla
- Evan
- Katee
They must be doing 2 routines each this week because the video packages start right away! Yep, they are, here we go!
Sasha and Alex -
Pasa Doble w/ Tony and Melanie
Yes ballroom! And then it's a dance that could be so smoldering if it wasn't Sasha and...Alex. I am so over him, I really think his only role on the show is to follow Sasha around and hold her on some lifts. Sasha was strong and powerful and amazing as per usual. I can not wait to see her with a different partner, it's going to be so awesome! Judges loved her and kinda sorta mentioned that Alex was in the routine but not really.
Jazz w/ Tyce DiOrio
I really liked this! I completely visualized them dancing on the streets of New Orleans or something, and it was just a beautiful, natural, flowy, and fun! As Sonya said, Alex finally broke his shell, and I actually enjoyed watching him dance for the first time this season. Sasha was perfection, and it was nice to see a little bit of a soft side to her for a change. Plus she looked absolutely gorgeous. Well done, Tyce. I approve!
Jordan and Tadd -
Contemporary w/ Travis Wall
Last week, Nigel said Travis really wanted to work with Tad, so what a nice "coincidence" that he gets to this week. Love that the concept is women who take advantage of weak men - so creative, Travis! That was such a different piece than Travis usually does! Dark, creepy, and completely mesmerizing! Tad was fantastic, and Jordan KILLED. The chemistry and connection between them was so believable as well. Love this partnership so much!
Broadway w/ Spencer Liff
I was so excited about them dancing to RENT, but this routine was underwhelming, to quote Sonya. The moves were a it dainty for the rock style of song. I totally agreed with Nigel when he said they could have had more fun with it and been quirkier...it was definitely missing something. I kept waiting for it to build up to something, but it didn't really peak. The judges are pretty right on tonight with their critiques actually.
Ryan and Ricky -
Broadway w/ Spencer Liff
I love Spencer's routines, but the lack of chemistry between the two is truly palpable. They're both such great dancers, but them together does not bring out their individual bests. I would love for Ricky to get the hell outta there so Ryan can truly shine. That's all I got.
Cha Cha w/ Louis van Amstel
Well they were supposed to be hot, but I'm not so sure these two can be hot together. Nigel praised Ricky, but I still am not buying him. Unlike Mitchell he can not play the straight man well enough for me. Even my non-dancer butt could tell that this was a fast and intricate cha cha. I loved Ryan's death spiral-esque thing when she was in a vertical split and spun down to the floor - INSANE. I loved that Sonya kept it real for Ryan and basically said she's feeling a lot of pressure and letting it get to her dance. I hope Ryan takes that and uses it to make her stronger because omg is she talented!
Caitlynn and Mitchell -
Hip Hop w/ Chris Scott
This is a routine dedicated to Invisible Children, which is something that hasn't been done before. However, Chris Scott's face after the routine pretty much said it all. It was kind of disappointing. Although Caitlynn's face is really expressive, I didn't really buy her in the hip hop genre. Plus they weren't in sync at all, which was pretty distracting. And I didn't see how the choreo was connected to the inspiration. Pretty much in total agreement with the judges.
Jazz w/ Travis Wall
Well that was totally hot. There were also some crazy lifts, damn Travis! These two dance with such conviction, I just love it! I loved the concept, the moves, the outfits (Caitlynn = hot!), and pretty much everything about it!
Melanie and Marko -
Tango w/ Louis van Amstel
Louis is back, hooray! The tango is pretty much the perfect ance for these two to have, seeing as though they are the only couple with any chemistry. AND THEY KILLED THAT. Seriously, I felt like I was watching a ballroom competition routine. The way they look at eachother is so perfect, they move so well together, and it's impossible to not just stare at them in complete awe. The end lift where she went between his legs, flipped around, and came back down on one knee was so awesome!
Contemporary w/ Dee Caspary
I love that I can tell their choreographer based on what they're wearing right before the break. Does Dee just put all the girls in pink/grey/off-white every time? Dee is seriously the most artistic choreographer on this show - he thinks about everything so thoroughly, from the lighting to the timing to every detail of every lift. It doesn't hurt that he got the best couple in the show because they delivered on every level. Again, I totally agree with Nigel when he said it flowed so well that it didn't seem like a "routine" just natural movement and beauty.
Clarice and Jess -
Lyrical Hip Hop w/ Chris Scott
Ok this couple has finally crossed over completely to my good side! I loved this. I was totally thinking Jess couldn't do hip hop, but he totally rocked it! Clarice was fabulous, as per usual, and they were so cute together! Plus, I hated this song before, but this cover was fabulous and I'm pretty sure it contributed to me liking the routine more!
Jive w/ Tony and Melanie
Well her outfit is fabulous for starters. I actually thought they did a good job with this, but I agree with Nigel that it could have used a little more energy at times and Jess' lifts make me nervous. You could tell they got a little tired toward the end, especially in their faces. As far as footwork, they were great and in sync, and I was totally impressed! These two just improve every week, but I'm slightly worried for Jess if he gets to the Top 10...he's really short, who else besides Caitlynn could he dance with?
BOTN: Sasha and Alex's Jazz
B3: Jordan and Tadd, Ryan and Ricky, Caitlynn and Mitchell (by default, I guess)
-Going home: Ricky and Jordan, I don't know why I think this, but I that's my prediction/ hope, even though I really like Jordan
Best Couple: Melanie and Marko - who's surprised? NO ONE.
Best Performance: Clarice and Jess' Lyrical Hip Hop - I really loved this one!
Best Outfit: Clarice's Jive dress
Worst Outfit: Tad's kilt
Biggest Surprise: Alex in the Jazz routine, Jess in the Hip Hop routine
Best Choreo: Tyce's Jazz, Travis' Contemporary
Worst Choreo: Spencer Liff - what happened buddy, I usually like you!
Best Music: Clarice and Jess' Hip Hop
Also, all-stars are announced tomorrow, and assuming there will not be repeats from last season, here is my wish list:
- Alex Wong
- Jakob Karr
- Mollee Gray
- Gev
- Heidi (yeah right that will never happen)
- Dmitry (doubt he can do it with DWTS)
- Phillip
- Kayla
- Evan
- Katee
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