Free SYTYCD Newsletter Want to receive the latest news on So You Think You Can Dance sent straight to your email? Join hundreds of other SYTYCD fans who subscribe to Pure SYTYCD for FREE!

SYTYCD Canada Top 20 Results Show – Down to 18

Tonight’s Results Show was disappointing and really came down to Canada’s votes.

But before that, the opening was an amazing Bollywood routine by Slubdog Miilionaire’s choreographer, Longinus Fernandes. I have to say it was absolutely amazing. I will try to post a video for those of you who missed it or don’t get CTV.

Bollywood: “Hadippa” by Pritam & Mika Singh from “Dil Bole Hadippa!”

For now here is a rehersal photosm as CTV hasn’t posted tonight’s photos or details yet.

Results:
Lindsay & Christian – safe
Geisha & Francois – safe
Jordan & Joey – safe
Carlena & Boneless – dance for your life
Yulia & Adam – safe
Denitsa & JP – dance for your life
Melissa & Shane – safe
Shelaine & Matt – safe
Lauren & Rodrigo – dance for your life
Teya & Kevin – safe

What a shock! When it came down to Teya and Kevin or Laurenand Rodrigo I thought for SURE Teya & Kevin would be dancing for their lives… wow!

Solo’s:


Carlena- Jessie J – “Do it like a dude”
Denitsa- (not sure?)


Lauren- (not sure?)


Boneless- “Yea 3x” – Chris Brown


JP- “See You in Everyone” – survivor


Rodrigo- “Hit the Lights” – Jay Sean (ft lil Wayne)

Then two were sent home… Lauren & Rodrigo.

The judges, Rex in particular, mentioned that Rodrigo being sent home was not unanimous, but was based on votes!

What did you think about the results??

It just shows how important voting is, it seems that the dance for your life did not make the decision for the males tonight, it was just who had the lowest votes – too bad!

NOW WE ARE DOWN TO TOP 18:

More random Leah Miller dislike… The way she delivers the news….

“You are…”

-in the Top 18
-in danger
-dancing.. Next week
-dancing.. For Your Life

Its spoken too fast and monotone… Annoying! I get they are supposed to be suspenseful, but Leah doesn’t pull it off. At least her outfit tonight didn’t hurt my eyes 🙂 A cute little black cocktail dress.

July 19, 2011 I Written By

I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com

SYTYCD Canada Top 20 Performances

Tonight was the Top performance show and I have compiled a list of the dancers, choreographers, music and a few thoughts.

I will power rank them at the end of this post – feel free to comment with your own thoughts.

Judges Tonight: Jean-Marc, Tre Armstrong, Rex Harrington, Mary Murphy.

Rodrigo & Lauren
Hip Hip – Luther Brown
“Look at me Now” Look At Me Now (feat. Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes) - Look At Me Now (feat. Lil Wayne & Busta Rhymes) - Single – Chris Brown (ft. Lil’ Wayne & Busta Rhymes)

I really enjoyed this routine. We learned Rodrigo had an injury last week, as he walked on stage to do his solo/dance for his life he actually fell and hurt his neck. He had a minor concussion. He is better now and they two danced really well. It is kind of an awkward song for dance, but Luther choreographed it well and I thought they did a fantastic job.


Christian & Lindsay
Contemporary – Blake McGrath
“1+1” 1+1 - 4 – Beyonce

This was one of my favourites of the night. It was emotional and deep. It was about the importance of touch in relationships and was very sensual. I usually love Blake’s routines and this was no different.

JP & Denitsa
Jive – Danny Arbour (Past contenstent)
“Blue Suede Shoes” Blue Suede Shoes - The Essential Elvis Presley (Remastered) – Elvis Presley

This was a fast moving edurance dance. I thought they both did very well and was impressed to see Danny back choreographing for the show. It was in the middle for me tonight.

Carlena & Boneless
Dancehall – Jaeblaze
“Star Bwoy” Star Bwoy - Star Bwoy Riddim – Mavado

This was fun and had a good vibe. I am not sur ehow I feel about Carlena yet, some days I love her, others I just remember her crap-attitude and unfortunately it really puts that dark cloud over everything she does. Amazing dancer, yes, and hopefully that will continue to shine and cast away the bad attitude I remember. Overall this dance had the swagga’ it needed.


Kevin & Teya
Viennese Waltz – Pierre Allaire
“Good to You” Good To You (Featuring Kate Voegele) - Masterpiece Theatre – Marianas Trench

This was my least favourite dance of the night. It was slow, dull, boring and they really did not have a strong grasp of the steps. Granted, it is supposed to be a calm dance, but they didn’t glide across the dance floor – they kind of stumbled. It wasn’t horrific, and I couldn’t do any better, but it just didn’t entertain me. I predict this will be inthe bottom 3.

Geisha & Francois
Hip Hop – Tucker Barkley
“Roman’s Revenge” Roman's Revenge (feat. Lil Wayne) - Roman's Revenge (feat. Lil Wayne) - Single – Nicki Minaj (ft. Lil’ Wayne)

I enjoyed this routine. The costumes were a bit strange, but the choreo was good and they delivered it well. Compared to the rest of the night, it was about middle rating, but entertaining and fun!

Adam & Yulia
Samba – Gustavo Vargas
“Samba” Samba - Beats Around The Bush – Ganga Giri

This was really really fast. I think Yulia did better than Adam, but together it seemed a little chaotic, frantic and just off. Granted, it was fast, but it went from “fast – wow!” to “fast – what?” and I predict they may end up in the bottom three.

Melissa & Shane
Contemporary – Sabrina Matthews
“This Year’s Love” This Years Love - White Ladder – David Gray

This was amazing! Sabrina Matthews always choreographs such amazing pieces and this one was about a friend helping another friend through HIV AIDS. The topic was emotional, but these two dancers nailed it. THey brought raw emotion and amazing lifts, I was in tears! The judges agreed and got quite emotional connecting the dance to experiences of loved ones lost from AIDS. One of my favourites of the night!

Shelaina & Matt
Hustle – Maria Torres
“Melody of Love” (Wanna Be Loved) Melody of Love (Wanna Be Loved) - Endless Summer – Donna Summer

I usually like Maria Torres’ work and was excited to see a Hustle, but was disappointed. I do not know enough about the genre to say if it was the choreo or the dancing or just the song, but it was really slow and felt almost like it had to be choreographed at half time or something. I was bored besides a few nice lifts and spins. I think it may put them in the bottom three.

Jordan & Joey
Jazz – Sean Cheesman
“That’s Life” That's Life - Nothing But the Best - The Frank Sinatra Collection (Remastered) – Frank Sinatra

By far my favourite of the night! This dance was athletic, comedic, completely in sync and absolutely fantastic! Judges called these two a power couple and I couldn’t agree more. Jordan was an early favourite for me in auditions and tonight I think she quickly became Canada’s favourite! The two of them nailed the facial expressions, comedic moments, dance moves and chemistry! The story was a first date at the movies and the boy wants a kiss and tries to get one… it was so funny – once I find it I will post it for those of you who don’t get CTV to watch… really fantastic!

With that said here are my rankings for the night – please comment if you agree or disagree.

Top 3:

-Jordan & Joey
-Melissa & Shane
-Christian & Lindsay

Middle 4:

-Rodrigo & Lauren (almost top 3)
-JP & Denitsa
-Geisha & Francois
-Carlena & Boneless

Bottom 3:
-Adam & Yulia
-Shelaina & Matt
-Kevin & Teya

We will see if I am right, it is sad because the bottom 3 couples are not necessarily my least favourite dancers, they just didn’t pull through tonight for some reason.

What do you think?
Stay Tuned for Results tomorrow, Tuesday, July 19, 2011 at 8pm Local time on CTV. I will post the results here tomorrow night.

Random Comment: Am I the only one who dislikes Leah Miller? I know I always say it, but she is way too young to have that much botox! Her outfit tonight was so strange! An orange skirt that went up her back and a purple long sleeved shirt that was tied up to show her upper torso? I wish Cat Deely could do our show here too 😉

[Photo Source: CTV]

July 18, 2011 I Written By

I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com

SYTYCD Canada Season 4 Premiere

Tonight was the premiere of So You Think You Can Dance Canada Season 4 on CTV.

For those of you who are not able to watch SYTYCD Canada, I will try to bring you updates each week.

First of all the basics:

Our judges are Jean-Marc Genereux, Tre Armstrong and Luther Brown.
We often have guest judges. Tonight it was Mary Murphy and Rex Harrington.

The procedure during auditions are the same, they dance then get a ticket to the finals or go to choreo or get sent home.

Our host is Leah Miller. She is not nearly as amazing as Cat Deely and to be honest, gets on my nerves almost as much as Jean-Marc.

Choreo is run by Blake McGrath, called “Blake Boot Camp”

Any questions?

Tonight were the Toronto Auditions

I have listed the dancer, the music if I could figure it out and then any details I could. Feel free to comment if I missed anything important or let me know what you think.

Daniel Keith Morrison
Hip hopping in his thatched hat appeared to be a joke but busted out some serious (and goofy) moves.
Sent to finals.

Jordan Clarke
“Firework” Firework - Teenage Dream (Deluxe Edition) – Katy Perry  (montage)
“Fall at Your Feet” Fall At Your Feet (Acoustic) - Back to Bedlam – James Blunt (audition)
Sent to finals.

Cassandra Flammini
“Fever” Fever - The Best of Peggy Lee – Peggy Lee
Jazz Dance
Tre said she had“delicious toes” while others called her “Cassexy”
Sent for choreo – made it through

Joey Arrigo – 18
“A Drop in the Ocean” A Drop In the Ocean - Daylight – Ron Pope
Stunning contemporary
Sent to Finals

Rodrigo Basurto
“Pressure” Pressure (feat. Ginuwine) - Pressure (feat. Ginuwine) - Single – Belly
B-boy
Sent to Finals

Sarah Vance
“Bleeding Love” Bleeding Love - Acoustic Sessions, Vol. 2 – (acoustic)
Sent to Choreo – made it through

Marivic De Vera
Tahitian Dancer
Sent Home

Adam Lopapa  – 18
“Feeling Good” Feeling Good - It's Time – Michael Buble
Sent to finals

Jennifer Abbey
“Perfect” F**kin' Perfect - F**kin' Perfect (Perfect) - Single – Pink  (montage)
“Only Girl” Only Girl (In the World) - Loud – Rihanna (audition)
Very heartbreaking story, quite emotional

“Can’t Touch This” U Can't Touch This - Greatest Hits – MC Hammer – warm up routine / mid-day montage

Lisa Frias
“The Way I Am” The Way I Am - Girls and Boys – Ingrid Michaelson
Sent to Choreo – made it through

Jordan Davis
Very fun hip hop
Sent to finals

Jena Singh – 19
Salsa dancer
She had been a partner for someone auditioning during season 2 but was too young until now to audition herself. Her shoe came undone during her routine but she still rocked it.
Sent to choreo – made it through

Melissa Mitro
“S&M” S&M - Loud – Rihanna – (montage)
“Say You Don’t Want It” Say You Don't Want It - One Night Only – One Night Only (audition)
She is so muscular and athletic, she joked about her “guns”

She actually made it to the finals in season 1 but did not show up, because she was committed to competition dance with a team and did not want to let them down.
Sent to finals – hope she makes it this time, I like her!

Jean-Marc returned, he had been at a ballroom competition. I honestly, prefer when he is NOT there, his voice and the way he hits on all the hot ladies gets on my nerves.

Yara Casconcelos
Sent to finals

Shandal Lee Williams
Crump – Hard-hitting, spasms and throwing himself on the floor doing Contortions. The judges were more fearful he was going to hurt himself than anything. Was told to calm his aggression.
Sent to Choreo – did not complete choreo

Matthew Cuff
“Sexy Chick” Sexy Chick (feat. Akon) - One More Love – David Guetta
Voguer – He auditions every year, but his ‘flamboyant’ style is not well recieved typically. Tonight he had fun and had improved a lot.
Sent to Choreo – made it through

Andrew Chung
“We No Speak Americano” We No Speak Americano - We No Speak Americano (Remixes, Vol. 1) – Yolando Be Cool
B-Boy who auditions every year. Decided to focus on locking this year to take it to the next level. He almost made Top 20 last year and I predict he will make it this year after judges compliments on how much cleaner and confident he is.
Sent to finals.

Katie Arnold
“Marry Me” Marry Me - Save Me, San Francisco (Bonus Track Version) – Train (montage)
“Bleeding Love” The Bleeding - The Way of the Fist – Five Finger Death Punch (Acoustic)
Unsupportive father, emotional intro, but she is nervous and weak and stopped mid-dance
Sent Home

Suzana Garcia
“Errtime” Errtime - The Longest Yard (Music from and Inspired by the Motion Picture) – Nelly (montage)
“Commander” Commander (feat. David Guetta) - Commander (feat. David Guetta) - Single – Kelly Rowland (audition)
Lot’s of compliments on her looks, but that she was needing to bring more precision to her dancing, she was too wild.
Sent to choreo – made it through

Brenner Smith – 18
Everett Smith (tapper from Season 2) is his brother. I LOVED Everett! Brenner is Contemporary though. I really liked him.
Sent to finals

AJ Lopresti
“Shambala” Shambala - Three Dog Night: The Complete Hit Singles – Three Dog Night
Tapper who auditioned as contemporary in the past and did not make it.
Sent to Finals

Kirstie Keenan – 19
“Best for Last” Best for Last - 19 – Adele
Some mixed responses from the judges. I really think she is cute and quirky and fun.
Sent to choreo – did not make it through this year

Esie Mensah – 25
Martial Arts Black Belt in 3 Disciplines. She was unique and hard-hitting and I could just see Sean Cheesman having a hay-day with her.

Captain Canada
After another year of all No’s he announces he is “retiring” This guy has a hat and a Canada Flag Cape… all in fun.

Jordon Barley – 18
“Like a G6” Like a G6 - Free Wired – Far East Movement
He was really awesome. He learned off the internet!!
Sent to finals

Vicky Luo – 23
Chinese Dancer, amazing, made it to finals season 2 and has studied other forms of dancing to prepare for this year.
Sent to Choreo – made it through

Aleksandra Jurevich
“Where I Stood” Where I Stood - On a Clear Night – Missy Higgins
A returning auditioner, she did very well.
Sent to finals.

“I Like to Dance” I Like to Dance - Lovesick Electric – Hot Chelle Rae (montage of dancers sent to finals)

Blake Boot Camp

“Mine” Mine - Ruthless (Exclusive Edition) – Ace Hood (montage of dancers sent to choreo)

*New those who got sent to finals get to go to choreo to see what is to come in finals if they wish*

Montage of sweating dancers making mistakes, saying it is hard and hurts, while Blake says it is not good enough.

“DJ Got Us Falling in Love” DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love (feat. Pitbull) - DJ Got Us Fallin' In Love (feat. Pitbull) - Single – Usher (Blake’s Routine for dancers)

I included choreo results above next to each dancer sent to choreo.

And that was SYTYCD Season 4 Premiere.

What did you think?

Next Episode:
Vancouver, Edmonton, Saint John Auditions next Monday, June 27, 2011.

ï»ż

Photos from Toronto Auditions Here

June 20, 2011 I Written By

I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com

Top 20 Photos SYTYCD Canada

CTV posted some awesome photos:

Guest judge was Mia Michaels and it was an awesome week of performances.

The top 20 became top 18 as Yonni and Bree were sent home this week.


See TOP 20 Photo Gallery at CTV.

September 1, 2010 I Written By

I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com

The Many Faces of Leah Miller

**I started this post in November and forgot about it until tonight….

I was looking at older photos of Leah Miller and she looked much different.

Last season of SYTYCD Canada I couldn’t help but feel like she was in a wind tunnel because her face looked so PULLED back and tight.

She was born in 1981 so she is still VERY young, why is she looking like she has had far too many plastic surgery procedures?

Let’s look at the many faces of Leah Miller….. and tell me what the heck is happening to her face?

   So she starts off fairly normal looking…

 Now, everyone has bad days…. it’s human….

 

But soon it looks like surgery takes over…..


Tonight’s episode was no different, my friend actually texted me to ask what happened to her face saying she looks like a cat… ha ha ha…. I am not a huge fan of Leah (“lay-uh”) anyways, but I almost feel sad for her, to feel so insecure and pressured to change her already young, beautiful face into – – – a plastic cat-like mask… *sigh*

[Image Source: Google Search]

August 23, 2010 I Written By

I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com

SYTYCD Canada Calgary & Halifax Auditions

Tonight was Calgary and Halifax Auditions. Emilie is compiling music lists AJ & I sent her and will post as soon as possible.

In the meantime, let’s look at the actual auditions…

Starting in last season’s favourite dancer, Tara-Jean’s home town of Calgary Leah Miller is outside line dancing with locals “yee haw”

Judges – Jean Marc, Tre Armstrong, Luther Brown and guest judge: Stacey Tookey.

Audition Summary:

  • Steven Morton – calls himself a triple threat, loves being on stage, mime, kicks, hilarious, he sang also, which was – interesting. An obvious no, and an odd opening to the show which otherwise had some great dancers.
  • Jo Roy – danced Hip Hop on point, a little different, risky but interesting, “fusion of styles” unique I liked her. She made it right to finals.
  • Devorou Scott – Cutie Patutie crushing on Tre, needs training, was sent to choreo anyways but failed miserably.
  • Christina Schell – From Langley BC, 19, very fun and cute. She was a nice dancer who went to chore.
  • Kevin Howe – Season 1 finalist cut after ballroom, didn’t come back for season 2 because his father passed away, lost 50 pounds and looks great I really like him! He went right to finals!
  • Jera Wolfe – Royal Winnipeg Dance School from Nova Scotia a BBOY turns Ballet dancers, i really liked him alot.
  • Carlena Britch – is from Vancouver and has a funky style. I think he would be good on the show. She went to choreoa nd made it to finals.
  • Angela Benson – Moving Story about Parents in wheelchairs sheis quirky and cute, she went to chore but didn’t make it.
  • Arik Pipestem – Traditional Native Music dancing in his traditional outfit with hoops. He went to choreo and made it – which shocked me. Last time he auditioned he did not make it but he has lost weight since then and trained in other areas, very likable!
  • Arik tried to show Leah Miller, the host, how to dance with the hoops, she had a “fake” tantrum.. she was annoying me as usual, although by the end of tonight’s show I felt differently about her, but we will get to that! It’s her whiney voice that gets on my nerves!!!

    anyways, let’s continue…

  • Julia Harnett and Rufino Rodrigez – danced together, this woman has the most solid calve muscles I have ever seen!! She used to do ballet but now ballroom with him, both go to finals.
  • Nice Montage of bad dancers, again I appreciate that we don’t waste a ton of time on the terribly / joke dancers… though wait for Vancouver, Spandy Andy WILL return….

  • Shelaina Anderson – last year she was the snobby, selfish contestent who let down her group in finals but she is back, with shorter hair and a new maturity. She danced fabulously and I think will do much better this year.
  • Alex Schween – came in doing hip hop and as devestated when Luther Brown criticized her. She went to choreo and made it… I don’t think she will make the show but who knows.
  • Edgar Gilbert – Reyes –I really like this guy. He worked with Blake McGrath in his video. He is Smooth, fun, charismatic, has a nice look, and agood groove
  • Danielle Gardner – Sheis from Surrey, BC (I am bias to BC contestents sorry, Vancouver born and raised) I loved her song (LYKKE LI – TONIGHT) and I remember her from last seasons auditions… she has a Lung condition which leaves her short of breat. Since last season she has started new medication which has improved her condition… she is a beautiful dancer – she opened with a crazy twisted position and just stretched the limits – if she can keep her medical condtion under control I think she will do very well.
  • Gary Benthem – School Counsellor out to show his students you can do anything. He shockingly made it to choreo but not mch further, strong effort and great lesson to his students.
  • The second hour was HALIFAX – Auditions

    Guest Judge: Dan Karaty

    This is Natalie Lyons hometown and where Tara-Jean, Francis and Allie auditioned.

  • Yuliya Zavadska & Sharone Levit – just got immigration approved and came to audition.
  • Rebecca Morash – went to choreo, good audition
  • Curtis Jean – went to choreo, barely, and struggled. He walked off the stage during choreo in fact
  • Meaghan Deitrich – She had a condition when she was 16 where her knee caps dislocated. She has had surgery and dances ballet beautifully now. She went to finals.
  • Chris Pelrine – Cheesey Tap Dancer who did not make it through.
  • Krista Mitchnick – She was cute and had a good look for the show but seemed too tight for me, the judges sent her to choreo
  • Janaye Upshaw – I really liked her a lot. She talked about her stage mom and she did a tap routine. I thought she was awesome, the judges said she was comfortable. She went right to finals.
  • Catherine Turcotte – She did Ballroom well but her face bugged me, she did this puffy cheek thing. Judges called her “urban” and Last year auditioned with Vincent but this year solo – went to chore.
  • Leah Miller “keep warm” Boot Camp outside had dancers trying to keep warm.

  • Trevor Johnson – I wasn’t paying attention but he walked out of Blake boot camp so *shrugs*
  • Katiana Pare – lost her father and dances out her emotions, was sent right to finals.
  • Roxanne – the cheerleader from Toronto who forgot her routine. She was sent to choreo but didn’t make it.
  • Here is what changed my mind (slightly) about Leah Miller.

    She did Blake Boot Camp!!!!! I was really shocked – I don’t LIKE her yet, but I don’t hate her as much ha!

    Boot Camp Results:
    Catherine – yes
    Roxanne – no
    Krista – no
    Curtis – quit then had muscle cramps and dehydtration
    Rebecca – yes
    Other “yes” to finals – Tyrell, Gabriel, Alison, Alexandra, alex, allie.

    Tomorrow is the one I am most looking forward too – VANCOUVER!

    Spandy Andy will be back (in fact he has an event at a local pub tomorrow to watch SYTYCD Canada with him – I can’t go I have to work)

    If you don’t know who Spandy Andy is I will post on him… he’s quite the character.

    August 16, 2010 I Written By

    I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com

    So You Think You Can Dance Canada Auditions in Vancouver

    I had glorious plans to go down early and see who I could talk to and meet at the Vancouver auditions.

    Those glorious plans, however, failed. After moving December 1st, [and now a week later still living out of boxes] I just didn’t have the time or motivation to go down that early in the cold…

    though I did harass Blake McGrath on twitter and follow the judges tweets to live vicariously through them while they were in my city. I don’t know if I could have been entirely nice to Leah Miller – I just want to tell her how I loathe her…

    I really hope to see some Vancouverites make it onto the show… it’s always nice to have some locals to root for…

    I think this may be Menina Fortunato’s (who I went to highschool with) sister Sante who auditioned last year (and I think should have made it – maybe this year?)

    How many hopefuls recieved a boarding pass? Can’t wait to see the show!

    And who will survive Blake Bootcamp?

    CTV’s Lindsay Zier-Vogel wrote this:

    Aerials out of pirouettes, countless turns, a stage full of flips, explosive jumps and crazy isolations — the solos are full of wild tricks this season and Vancouver hopefuls have brought their A-game, pulling out the most dynamic moves they have.

    “It’s Season 3 so we’re really looking for something new and fresh,” judge and audition choreographer Blake McGrath says.

    So how are the dancers preparing themselves for such mind-blowing moves?

    “I’m a Pilates instructor, so I’m always working on my core,” Vancouver dancer Rachel Wainwright, 29, says. She’s most excited about the turns in her solo — a string of chainĂ© turns, into a pirouette, followed by an attitude turn.

    “You really have to focus on pulling up and staying centred and grounded,” she explains.

    And having a strong core isn’t just for the more contemporary side of dance. Judge Luther Brown insists b-boys need tons of core strength for his favourite move, head spins.

    “I think stalls are overplayed, but I always get mesmerized when someone does crazy headspins!” he says.

    Spinning on your head sounds crazy to many of us, but Luther breaks it down: “It’s all about the balance and you’ve got to be able to control your body.

    “Your core has to be on fire — it’ll take a whole bunch of sit ups,” he insists.

    Isolations

    Vancouver hip-hopper Alvin Arfieza, 20, is most proud of the isolations in his solo. “It looks like I’m taking an object and passing it through my body,” he explains, and demonstrates this popping movement.

    Arfieza insists it takes hours and hours of concentrated practice to be able to move each muscle separately. “I work in front of a mirror first, and then without the mirror so I know what it feels like,” he explains.

    He’s included a lot of isolations in his solo because he likes the rhythmic quality of the movement along with the control it takes to move so specifically.

    “It’s like telling a story with your body,” he explains, hoping the judges will appreciate the entertainment value of his moves.

    Jean Marc’s reverse rolls

    Judge Jean Marc Genereux says the hardest move he ever did when he was competing as a ballroom dancer was reverse rolls in a samba, a movement that has the dancers traveling and covering the stage, while rotating the upper body in large, complete circles.

    “The samba is crazy fast so it takes connectivity with your partner. You need to be exactly in synch,” he says, adding humbly that he and his partner and wife, France Mousseau were known for their reverse rolls.

    “You have to make sure your frame is amazingly strong and that you’re holding each others’ backs,” he explains. “That frame has to be operational because if it’s not, it’ll be a catastrophe. It’s a lot about dynamics.”

    Letting go of the fear factor

    Contemporary dancer Moses Layco, 24, admits he doesn’t have any fear when it comes to dancing. He’s a self-taught tumbler and loves filling his solos with as many acrobatic tricks as he can.

    “I tend to flip a lot when I panic,” he laughs. To keep himself in tumbling shape, he drives out to North Vancouver to the gymnastics gym.

    He can’t wait to show the judging panel his most fabulous trick: “I do a pirouette, at least three turns, but hopefully four, and then I extend my leg and go right into the aerial (hands-free cartwheel).”

    Calgary’s Louise Hradsky, 23, says she too is fearless on stage. “I’m an aerial circus artist, so I don’t mind being up high and falling really quickly. I love stunts!”

    So what’s the most challenging trick in her solo? “I do a double turn into a jump, but instead of landing the jump on my feet, I land all the way on the ground. It adds a little bit of drama,” she says.

    But how do you fall and not hurt yourself? “I think there’s always a risk of hurting yourself,” Hradsky says, admitting that she is currently sporting a huge bruise on her left elbow.

    “But if you have good body awareness and a strong centre, then you have control of your limbs and you can be exactly where you need to be.”

    She believes the best training for dancing is dancing — especially ballet class. “But I also do a lot of non-dancing to keep myself in shape.”

    She heads to the gym often and runs a 10 kilometre route along the sea wall five days a week. “I’ve done a couple of half-marathons too,” she says. “I find the cardio and endurance always helps — I don’t ever get tired on stage!”

    December 10, 2009 I Written By

    I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com

    So You Think You Can Dance Canada's host Leah Miller wins Gemini Award

    CTV REPORTS:


    The 24th Annual Gemini Awards were presented in a glitzy event held in Calgary [ November 16th ]weekend and Leah Miller, host of So You Think You Can Dance Canada, beat out Canadian Idol’s Season 6 winner Theo Tams and 2009 Juno Award host comedian Russell Peters to receive the Gemini Award for best performance or host in a variety program.

    The Gemini Awards honour the best in Canadian television as determined by members of the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television and other industry professionals.

    Earlier in October, So You Think You Can Dance Canada Season 1 won a Gemini for Best Music, Variety Program or Series. In 2008, Miller received the Viewers’ Choice Gemini Award for Hottest Canadian Female.

    What?

    Well, this was shocking news. I am not a fan of Leah Miller and I am quite surprised she beat out Russell Peters who is hilarious and even Theo Tams, who is adorably charming.

    I find Leah to be so condescending. SYTYCD Canada as a whole is a super show so in that sense it doesn’t surprise me that it’s host would win, but I can’t help but think it is more the success of the show overall than anything particular about Leah Miller.

    That’s just my opinion, what do you think?

    November 22, 2009 I Written By

    I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com

    So You Think You Can Dance Canada Season 2 – Top 4

    It feels like this season flew by.

    I apologize for my lack of posts and power rankings last week but I was unable to post, despite having watched and taken notes for a post – I just didn’t get time. I can say I was shocked Melanie Mah went home, as she was a fave from day one for me and I was not surprised Emmanuel went home, as I felt he had gone as far as he could and should have gone home the week previously instead of Cody.

    That being said – let’s focus on our Top 4 – – – wow!

    There is so much chatter from the judges that the girls are the stars and that a female will win it, I can’t help but wonder if this is suggestive from the judges to try and make it a female since Nico won last year…. maybe I am just a conspiracy theorist…. but I think the men are equally talented as the women and it will be a tough season finale to watch.

    I loved seeing the 4 dance together, then the 2 males and 2 females. Plus couples dances and solo’s made an action-packed evening.

    We had some awesome judges (yes I am biased-ly in love with Blake McGrath & his blue jacket!)

    Leah looked less “wind-tunnelled” (yes, that is as close to a compliment as she gets…. she is too young to have a face that looks it’s had plastic surgery)

    Top 4
    Melanie LaPatin and Tony Meredith.
    Cabaret

    Sexy, Hot, Loved the entire thing to bits!

    Top 2 Men
    Show-Tyme
    Hip Hop

    This was so fast, I really enjoyed it, I thought Everett picked it up better, perhaps from his tap skills?

    Tara-Jean & Everett
    Sean Cheeseman
    Jazz

    This was so moving, it made me love these two most of the top 4… powerful, emotional, despite a tumble…Best / Fave Routine of the Night

    Top 2 Women
    Melanie LaPatin and Tony Meredith.
    Mambo

    This was good, Jayme Rae outshone Tara-Jean (in my opinion) but the “salt & pepper spice” comment by Blake and the mini-lap-dances from the girls to the judges was cute & fun.

    Jayme Rae & Vincent
    Stacey Tookey
    Contemporary

    This was an awesome routine also – my 2nd fave of the night I think… though at Top 4 they are all amazing aren’t they?

    Tara-Jean & Vincent
    Maria Torres
    Hustle

    Her dress was stunning and they moved so well together, it was entertaining and awesome

    Jayme Rae & Everett
    Kelly Lannan & Eric Caty
    Samba

    Everett is such a showman and Jayme Rae has such an appeal – I just love watching these 2 dance. Look at this photo – what an ending!!!

    Solo’s

    Jayme Rae – She became a fave early on and has remained strong. I find her entertaining and alluring and I think people will vote for her. If she wins, Canada will have voted well.

    Tara-Jean – Pretty and quiet, she never stood out for me, I often predicted she’d go home but she is still here and she always shows us why. Her solo was full of flips and jumps that impressed me.

    Vincent – His solo’s are always amazing. Although I wasn’t a huge fan in the start and even thought he’d go home earlier on, he seems like an easy win based on his following.

    Everett – His tapping just captivates me. He is the underdog in my opinion, but if he won it I’d be happily pleased. He is like the Evan of SYTYCD last season in my books.

    My Picks

    I’d like to see Everett or Jayme Rae take it… but I feel like Vincent or tara-Jean might. I know I am copping out of predictions… I jsut think they are all so wonderful.

    [Photo Source]

    October 22, 2009 I Written By

    I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com

    So You Think You Can Dance Canada Top 8 Results Show

    The opening routein by Tyce Diorio was awesome. I am a little upset with the camera men I felt like I was missing a lot of awesome moves because they were zoomed in on certain people.

    Also, Next Tuesday Mia Michaels is choreographing the group routine….. exciting! I did my Power Rankings this week but was off quite a bit. Here are Tonight’s Results.

    Girls

    Jayme Rae – Safe (As I predicted)
    Kim – Not Safe (Not as I predicted)
    Tara-Jean – Safe (Not as I predicted)
    Melanie – Not Safe (Not as I predicted)

    Boys

    Cody – Not Safe (As I predicted)
    Vincent – Safe (As I predicted)
    Emanuel – Safe (Not as I predicted)
    Everett – Not Safe (Not as I predicted)

    I was way off with predictions this week.

    Solos

    Kim – Sexy, hot, hard hitting
    Melanie – Pretty, passionate, full
    Cody – cute, quirky, fun
    Everett – Pure talent, entertaining

    Good-Bye

    Kim & Cody


    Final Thoughts

    If you had asked me a couple weeks ago I would not be upset if Kim went home but I was really starting to like her and so it was sad to see her leave. Cody I adore but I knew he wouldn’t make it to the end. I am plesantly surprised Melanie is still here, she was my favourite from day one. Final 6 … this will only get more difficult!

    October 7, 2009 I Written By

    I am a blogger and reality tv lover. I blog here for SYTYCD but mostly the Canada version, since I live in Vancouver BC. I also blog about other reality tv shows on my own blog www.mandysmind.com