So You Think You Can Dance??

I thought it may be kinda fun to start a blog this summer because I have all this free time. My plan was to make this blog into a review of books, movies, shows.... things like that. I love to write reviews and then compare my opinions with other people.

I personally am sick of reality tv shows and like most of America still watch them anyway. Since I am a dancer, my favorite is the popular show, So You Think You Can Dance. For those of you who don't know, it is a spin-off of American Idol.... only better. The judges are far more insightful, giving constructive criticism, instead of embarrassing remarks that are meant to boost ratings and create dramatic tension. What also is unique about this show is that it showcases many different types and styles of dance, forcing the dancers to be as adaptable and versatile as possible. The dancers on this show are truly talented. I know how hard it is to be trained in classical ballet and then be asked to perform a hip-hop piece. It should turn out a mess, but most of the time the dancers pull it off quite well. They grow and improve on this show. I'm happy to see they've gotten away from dancers purely doing tricks and gymnastics, and tried to emphasize personality and technique.

What also is unique about this show is the choreographers are put on the line as well. The pieces are what is meant to showcase these dancers, and if they do poorly it can be reflected back to the choreography. It is also one of the flaws of this show. A waltz could be done beautifully, but it is almost always out-voted by hip-hop routines and sexy tangos, purely because of the different entertainment value. It's hard to watch a good couple leave because they pulled the fox trot or because one of the partners let the other one down.

It is refreshing to see a show that is finally letting the public see what I consider "real" dance to be. I'm not saying it doesn't have its faults (Mary's obnoxious scream being one of them,) however, it most definitely is a step in the right direction.