We’re so surprised about the new season of So You Think You Can Dance. After all, we’re seeing new judges, new dancers and a whole new show structure, with new challenges every week. Did we mention the contestants’ new living arrangements in front of the camera?
This week, we see the Top 8 compete in a Broadway-themed challenge with the help of some of our favorite musical theater choreographers. As a bonus, we even got a hint at some shows in the works.
If you missed last night’s episode, we’ve rounded up all the best dance and drama for you right here. Break a leg!
Eight of our top dancers spent a week performing in a musical with iconic Broadway choreographers Al Blackstone and Sarah O’Gleby. Unlike last week, they didn’t have any chance of reshoots or redoing. We’re live, folks!
The dancers divided into two groups and began to perform. The first group, working with Al, consists of Anthony Curley, D’Akyla Wilson, Jaylin Sanders and Madison Luger-Alvarado. The second is with Sarah , starring Braylon Bronner, Easton Mariaditi, Mariah Hawkins and Roman Nevinchani – the last of whom admitted he’d never seen the Broadway show before .
But Roman (and the other dancers) had to catch up quickly because the choreographer held nothing back. Sarah started her group singing and dancing– inspired numbers, while Al leads his team through a routine reminiscent of town. Both choreographers emphasized that although the dancers perform as a group, it is important for them to maintain their individuality and stand out.
After learning a chunk of the dance, the dancers took a short break and fanned some performance flames. Back at home, Dacela admits to the other girls that she has a “baby” crush on Anthony, one of the group members. Listen to the screams.
The next day, the dancers transitioned from studio to stage, some struggling. Roman cited the mental and physical challenges of performing on Broadway, but he drew inspiration from fellow Ukrainians and persevered. “The people of Ukraine inspire me tremendously. They will not give up,” Roman said. “I want to make my country proud.”
After the rehearsal, it was time for the dancers to perform. Al’s team moved forward first. The judges seemed to like it, but were concerned that the dancers weren’t emotionally connected enough and that they were a little too silly at times.
Next up is Sarah’s group. In addition to worrying about the timing issues that led to a fight between Braylon and Maria, the judges loved the performance and gave it a standing ovation. Easton even received harsh criticism from judge JoJo Siwa for dancing too hard and causing a wardrobe malfunction. “I have something to say,” Qiaoqiao said. “Unless you split your pants, you’re not giving it your all.”
After that, it’s time for results. The judges selected four dancers who were chosen to be safe, while four others were at risk. Is there a risk of being eliminated? Anthony, Dakela, Roman and Braylen. Like last week, each dancer was given the opportunity to perform a solo in hopes of proving they were worthy of remaining in the competition.
Several solos seemed to impress the judges, although Anthony’s solo was the only one to receive a standing ovation. Ultimately, he and (potential acting partner) Dakayla advanced to the next round. Unfortunately, that means Braylon and Roman are going home.
With that, our Top 8 becomes our Top 6, and we’re one week closer to being revealed for America’s Favorite Dancer.
