After just two episodes this season, it's clear that the best thing on broadcast TV this summer is, by several leagues, So You Think You Can Dance.
Some of the finest art in all of the land is being presented on the SYTYCD stage, and because of that, SYTYCD transcends its roots as a chintzy reality talent competition to become genuine TV magic.
As such, brace yourself for a summer of SYTYCD reporting, recaps, video and general merriment.
To begin, let's run down the highlights (and lowlights) of the Miami-Memphis auditions!
Highlights
- Evan Kasprzak's Gene Kelly-inspired musical number was utterly delightful! Ditto his brother Ryan Kasprzak's Whoopee Cushion tap. Every time he approached the Whoopee, the audience was expecting something gross, and every time the actual whoop was just hilarious. Three cheers for mom and dad Kasprzak, who must be joyful people ready and able to pass along a sense of humor to their kids.
- Janette Manrara and Romulo Villaverde had a ridic salsa routine at the Miami auds. Love that this show has replay so the judges could break down the finer points of their absurdly complicated routine, which most of us can only label as that flippy thing...and then with the kick, and then the pretzel!
- Where else on television are you going to learn about Memphis jooking, a regional dance style influenced by Elvis and smooth hip-hop, complete with graduate lecture on style by Lil C? Lord god, this show is triumphant.
Lowlights
Needs more Cat Deeley. Mama Cat will be back in full force once competition begins, but for now, voiceovers are just not enough! (BTW, watch this video to check out Cat's rapidly improving dance skillz at the season six auditions in Boston.)
Mixed Decision
- Is anyone else made uncomfortable by Nigel Lythgoe's critiques of beautiful young female dancers when he emphasizes their beautiful young femaleness? Obviously it's part of their general appeal as performers, but it also feels, somehow, improper and invasive. Am I too sensitive?
- OK, so what's your feeling on Tyce Diorio's judge work? I personally adore him (reminds me of the dearly missed Brian Friedman) and find him frank and fascinating, but I understand that my love may not be universally felt. What are your thoughts?
Take our poll below about Tyce's judging, and then share your thoughts about last night's installment of SYTYCD in the comments. What did you love? Did you have a favorite sister act? The (dance) floor is yours!