The couples have been split up and the Top Ten dancers on So You Think You Can Dance are going solo … and dancing with a group of all-stars. It was a night of stunning dancing with guest judge Neil Patrick Harris offering his critiques and picking out his favorite dancers. Unfortunately, in a week when viewers are voting for individuals, one dancer stood out from the rest and not in a good way.
Marko & Chelsie started the night off with a sizzling samba that was full of energy and precision, and despite the challenges the two faced in rehearsals (Chelsie kicked Marko in the face several times doing some sort of scissor kick), they pulled it off without a hitch and made it all look effortless. In the end, Nigel proclaimed Marko as the guy to beat.
Jordan & Brandon performed a contemporary piece that was sharp and precise with some amazing lifts, and as good as Jordan has been this season — despite being in the bottom three a couple of times — she took control of the dance and let her all-star partner truly bring out the best in her.
Tadd & Comfort did a hip hop number that really didn’t grab me at all. Not that Tadd wasn’t good, but while he was truly performing the piece, I found myself more distracted by Comfort’s booty-popping moves … but not in a good way. Even Nigel had to remark that Tadd actually out-danced his partner.
Mitchell & Melody got stuck with a Broadway number that I really would have preferred to see Jess do. As it was, it came off lifeless and flat, nothing that you would expect a Broadway number that has to be big to play to the balcony and beyond to be. I wasn’t feeling it and neither was Broadway baby NPH. I have to disagree with Mary that it was too overdone — I would say under done — and Nigel went back to his “over egging the custard” metaphor from last week. I’ll be surprised if Mitchell isn’t in the bottom this week, and unless he pulls out a killer solo this will be his last dance.
Caitlyn and Pasha did a tango full of passion, precision, sharp leg kicks and amazing lifts (seen above). This is one of my favorite dances just because of the intricate leg movements and was my favorite dance of the evening. They even got a standing ovation from Mary who said the dance looked effortless and passionate. And then …
Sasha & Twitch came out for the night’s second hip hop number and blew the roof off the place! Where Tadd’s dance lacked any real power, emotion and story, this one had it all and more! It was so powerful, so emotional and it was a great showcase for Sasha … who is a contemporary dancer. The audience, judges and Emmy nominated Cat Deeley all went crazy for this dance, and try as she might, Sasha was not able to wrangle herself a ticket on Mary’s Hot Tamale Train. Instead, she got even higher praise as Mary called her an all-star.
Jess & Kathryn performed a strong contemporary piece with a very emotional story. It also made Jess face his one critical nemesis — lifts — and he pulled them off effortlessly. NPH told Jess he uses his Broadway face too much (i.e. he’s always mugging for the audience), but that he did a great job this time. Nigel thought the lifts were brilliant, and he and Mary both thought this was Jess’ best work to date.
Melanie & Pasha performed a Viennese Waltz that once again asked Melanie to be the “rock” to her male partner. The two glided across the stage into several magnificent lifts that Nigel and Mary pointed out takes years to perfect the timing, and Mary placed Melanie at the top of the list of dancers this season. NPH also said that she’s his favorite.
Ricky & Allison performed a jazz number that was dark, twisted, disturbing and powerful as Ricky became Allison’s “worst nightmare.” The routine also included an amazing one-armed lift that Ricky made look easy, and Nigel felt that he more than matched his partner.
Clarice & Robert ended the night with a vibrant Bollywood number. After Broadway and Tango, I think Bollywood is one of my favorite dance styles just because it’s so showy, yet intricate with the movement and, particularly, the positions of the hands and fingers. Even as the jewelry began to fly off the dancers and across the stage, NPH said that for the first time, Clarice really managed to connect with the audience.
Overall, it was a terrific show and next week, Nigel said there will be new all-stars for the Top Nine while Cat let it drop that director Rob Marshall and some little-known singer, Lady Gaga, will be on the panel of judges. So who do you think should be going home this week?
Clacked by Chuck Duncan 
on Jul 21, 2011 @ 03:38 EST5EDT
