SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE FEVER ON ONE-WEEK HIATUS

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SYTYCD 100TH ANNIVERSARY EXTRAVAGANZA MARRED AS TWO FAVORITE DANCERS ARE SENT HOME

So You Think You Can Dance’s 100th episode extravaganza was all that it was chalked up to be – and also a little bit less.

Actress Katie Holmes’ admirably performed her much touted Judy Garland tribute. Her voice was magical singing “Get Happy,” and her dancing entertained despite its simplicity.

But perhaps the most magical moments of all were the opening performance of Mia Michael choreographed “One” from A Chorus Line, and performances of the three Emmy-winning routines from previous years. The choreography, of course, represented some of the best in the show’s five years – and the dancing seemed flawless.

Lending a sadness to the festivity, though, was the fact that one guy and girl would be sent home – and then the fact that the two dancers who were voted to leave were actually two who had been given high chances of winning the competition to find America’s best young dancing talent. This seemed to highlight the fact that drawing the wrong dance style or the wrong partner -- or simply being handed a less than spectacular choreographed routine -- can send any dancer home.

Voted off the show this week were Janette Manrara, 23, from Hialeah, FL, and Jason Glover, 21, from Fresno, CA.

Early in the show host Cat Deeley announced that two of the “safe” dancers were Melissa Sandvig and Ade Obayomi, who the prior evening had brought judges to tears with an emotional performance intrepreting the effects of breast cancer and the courage of its victims and their friends. Also safe were Jeanine Mason and Evan Kasprzak.

That left Manrara and Glover, along with Kayla Radomski and Brandon Bryant in the Bottom Four. But at this stage of the competition, all of the dancers are impressing the judges and the universe of viewers – so it seemed uncertain who would leave.

And after Manrara’s name was announced, judge Nigel Lythgoe remarked, “You were my favorite. I really wanted you to win. This has ruined the celebration for me. America got it wrong.”

But Manrara voiced that she was feeling fine despite being voted off the show – that she will remember “everyone I have met. This made me realize how much I love to dance – this is what I am meant to do, and I am going to continue doing it.”



After Manrara, Deeley announced that popular dancer Glover would also be leaving the show -- hugging him and remarking that he was “fantastic.” After his name was announced as the guy to leave, he said, “I want to thank everyone who has helped me get to this point – the dancers, the choreographers, the judges – everyone. It has been a great ride.”

The 100th anniversary show was a spectacular display of dancing that, unfortunately, was bittersweet, ending with the sadness of watching two of the most talented dancers bidding their final adieu on the regular show. So the extravaganza was all that it was chalked up to be, but in the end left the judges and probably much of the audience feeling a little let down with the final visions of Manrara and Glover waving their final on-air good-byes.

SYTYCD CELEBRATES TONIGHT!

Wednesday night's So You Think You Can Dance was almost there -- it was the 99th episode, just one shy of the magical 100! Tonight the show will get there -- festive atmosphere abounding and Katie Holmes singing and dancing in her long promised and much touted Tyce Diorio-choreographed Judy Garland tribute!

But for one boy and girl finalist in the search for "America's Favorite Dancer," tonight will also mark the end of their journey and the end of their hopes for wearing the coveted crown.

Last night, on the eve of the 100th episode, SYTYCD celebrated with talk show host Ellen DeGeneres sitting with the panel of judges -- conveniently placed between chronic screamer Mary Murphy and Nigel Lythgoe who generally claims that his ears ring from Murphy's high-pitched scrieks. DeGeneres never professed to have the specialized knowledge to aptly judge the contestants' dancing, but she appropriately complimented all dancers and often quipped, "I can do that" which garnered many hearty chuckles from the show's connections and the audience.

Without a doubt, the highlight of the evening was an emotional performance by Melissa Sandvig and Ade Obayomi. Choreographed by Emmy-nominated Diorio, the beautiful and passionate representation of women living amidst the challenges of breast cancer left the judges struggling for words and choking back tears. Lythgoe slowly and thoughtfully spoke, "We just witnessed one of the most memorable routines on the show, and I cannot think of a better couple to have danced it. Ade, you gave Melissa strength. And Melissa, your maturity carried this routine off."



"I am privileged that I got to witness that," said DeGeneres. "It was the most beautiful thing that I have ever seen."

Murphy's response was equally complimentary, "You danced so beautifully. I don't think that I will ever forget the two of you -- the vertical lifts. Ade, you are a gentle giant. And Melissa, you flew into his arms -- you had full trust."

But the most emotional response was from Emmy nominated choreographer Mia Michaels who was wearing the hat of judge last night. Easily heralded as one of the show's most talented choreographers herself, Michaels, with tears streaming down her face, said that the dance was a "very important piece of work." She related her own thoughts and feelings on the struggles that breast cancer victims and those close to them face -- and the strength required in battling the disease.

And Michaels turned to Melissa and softly spoke, "Melissa, you are an angel. That was a perfect portrait. Thank you."

All other performances of the evening paled in comparison.

But to return to the opening of the dancing competition. Only eight dancers remain this week -- and expectations were obviously high.

The first couple to step onto the stage was Janette Manrara and Evan Kasprzak -- performing a Sonya Tayeh choreographed jazz routine. Nigel called pair "two little stars." And he added, "Evan, you are getting it, and Janette, you are absolutely wonderful." Murphy told the pair, "You did a good job. ... You were spot on." Michaels told Evan that he had made a step in the right direction, but then turned to Janette and said, "You have been my favorite this season."

The second time the pair stepped into the spotlight was to perform a Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin designed rumba. Lythgoe complimented the choreographers and then Janette for appearing smooth and sexy, but turned to Evan, "I don't think that there was anything passionate in your face. ... You needed to open your eyes more."

But the other judges disagreed and jumped to Evan's defense. DeGeneres said, "I love your face, Evan. Your face is so charming." Murphy defended, "Evan, you did a good job. You were there for her. You were on time, very well connected and I loved the lift." Then Murphy called Janette "a Little Hot Tamale!" And Michaels said that she loved what the couple brought to the stage.

Jeanine Mason and Brandon Bryant glided to a Hunter Johnson choreographed waltz that Lythgoe described as so slow that it was demanding and left him feeling, "I didn't get as much as I wanted from two of my favorite dancers. Murphy called the performance respectable, but added, "I wanted to be taken to a special place, and it didn't take me away."

For their second routine, the pair, in Rambo-like costumes, performed a Laurieann Gibson designed pop-jazz to "Battlefield." Lythgoe, after lamenting that nearly all contestant's first round of performances were less than he expected, told Jeanine and Brandon, "That is all I am asking for, performances like that." Murphy said their dance was "strong and powerful," and Michaels called it believable.

The third couple in the evening's line-up was Ade and Melissa. Their initial performance was a cha cha choreographed by Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin. Lythgoe said the routine was well done -- Murphy said it was a teeny bit below what she expected -- and Michaels told Ade it was his worst performance of the season, although she thought that Melissa danced well. But, of course, the pair's second dance of the evening became a hallmark moment for the show and for the couple.

The final couple in the line-up was Kayla Radomski and Jason Glover -- who first treated the audience to a jazzy Broadway routine choreographed by Tyce Diorio. Nigel said that their dance was the best of the first round. Murphy said the number was "fabulous" -- and after calling Jason suave, and then gave Kayla the first scream of the evening and a first-class ticket on the Hot Tamale Train. Michaels loved the piece -- and told Kayla that if she ever decides to give it a whirl, she "will take Broadway by a storm."

And their final routine was a Michael-Jackson type of hip-hop in which Jason played a monster and Kayla a zombie. Lythgoe expressed disappointment with the hip-hop routines of the season, and said that this one was "fantastic." DeGeneres laughed, "Keep dancing like that and someday you will have your own talk show." Murphy screamed, saying they had "hit it hard." And termed it one of her favorite of the pieces that the couple had performed on the show.

Tonight's 100th episode anniversary show will undoubedly be filled with big names, as well as lots of glitz and fanfare. But which dancers will be sent home -- seemed something that becomes harder and harder to decide. The one thing that would seem certain -- that Melissa and Ade will be safe. But with fans holding complete control now -- and voting often based on popularity as much as or more than performance, anything can truly happen tonight!

KATIE HOLMES PREPPED FOR SYTYCD

Katie Holmes, in preparation for her much touted Judy Garland tribute that will be a highlight of the SYTYCD 100th show celebration, has been taking private dance lessons, according to newspostonline.

Holmes' lessons were at Jason Coleman's Ministry of Dance studio, according to the source -- that added that her daughter Suri has been with a minder while Holmes rehearsed at the SYTYCD judge's studio.

The lessons apparently occurred prior to Holmes' trip to Australia for the filming of Don't Be Afraid of the Dark.

WILL PAULA ABDUL LEAVE IDOL TO BECOME A GUEST JUDGE ON SYTYCD?

Paula Abdul fans have been adamant -- they want Paula back on American Idol! Idol judge Simon Cowell says he wants Paula sitting next to him at the judges' table next season -- and host Ryan Seacrest says that he wants her there too. Former American Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe wrote on Twitter that Fox would be crazy not to bring her back. And fans have been bombarding Twitter with #keeppaula messages to make their sentiments known!

If American Idol executives really want Abdul back, though, they may need to step up to the plate and show it because So You Think You Can Dance producer (former executive producer of American Idol) Lythgoe, who has supported her all along, has voiced that he would happily consider Paula as a guest judge on his popular dance competition show.

"We would certainly consider (Abdul as) a guest judge," Lythgoe confided to the NY Daily News -- "Without question." Abdul, besides making a strong mark as a singer, has also enjoyed a noted dancing and choreography career, working with such noted artists as Janet Jackson.

"I'd never been involved in negotiations when I was with the show (American Idol)," Lythgoe told the Daily News, "but having spoken with (Fox president of alternative programming) Mike Darnell, I know Fox wants to keep Paula. The figures that have been quoted for Simon (Cowell) and Ryan (Seacrest) are great figures. I don't know if they're true, but Paula seeing those figures would make her pretty upset."

Darnell declined to comment on Tuesday -- except to tell the Daily News that, "They will talk and try to iron things out, and if they don't come to an agreement, then Paula will move on. At the end of the day, that program is bigger than any indiviual. Even Simon."

Rumors are spreading like wildfire that Abdul wants $20 million to come back -- and her tv executive bosses only want to cough up half of that amount.

Still, with Seacrest recently inking a $45 million contract -- and Cowell rumored to want $100 million to return to Idol when his contract runs out after this next season, does $20 million seem unreasonable for Paula? Not only is she the sweetest and kindest judge, but she also provides the balance for Cowell's sometimes harsh assessment of contestant's performances. And if there is one thing that can be said for Paula, it is that she is always interesting!

Again, given the fact that execs handed Seacrest a $45 million contract, it seems unlikely that their coffers are so empty that they cannot find less than half of that amount for Paula -- of course, assuming that rumors are correct and $20 million is what she actually wants.

But it appears that if American Idol executives and Abdul cannot reach a meeting of the minds in contract negotiations -- there is some possibility that she might actually join SYTYCD!

A HALLMARK WEEK FOR SYTYCD

This is the week -- the week that So You Think You Can Dance host, Cat Deeley, and judges Nigel Lythgoe and Mary Murphy have been billing as the big one! It is the week that Fox chose to air SYTYCD instead of President Obama's 8 p.m. press conference, delegating Obama's talk instead to Fox's cable outlets! It is the week of SYTYCD's 100th episode!

Talk show host and dance fan Ellen DeGeneres will sit at the judges' table -- and on the Thursday elimination show, actress Katie Holmes will perform her much-touted Judy Garland tribute! Holmes, a founding member of the Dizzy Feet Foundation, will with her song and dance routine draw attention to the Foundation. And there are all of the rumors, the so-called "spoilers." Among the rumors -- appearances by Mark Kanemura and Joshua Allen, and perhaps Ivan Kooumaev and Allison Holker.

But with all of the fanfare, it is unlikely that the real focus of the show will be lost -- because this is, in fact, a dancing competition with high stakes for the still-in-it dancers.

And with only eight dancers remaining, another two will be sent home this week -- moving fans ever closer to the crowning of a new So You Think You Can Dance champion! Who will it be? Remaining are Jeanine Mason and Jason Glover, who have already been called "stars" by the shows regular judges Lythgoe and Murphy. There are Melissa Sandvig and Ade Obayomi who narrowly escaped elimination when placed in the bottom two last week -- but have previously garnered some exemplary reviews. And there are Kayla Radomski and Evan Kasprzak who have also gotten their fair share of high praise.

In discussing the show on Twitter, DeGeneres revealed that the show's audience will not get to experience her dancing moves, but instead fans will see her sitting at the judges' table. She wrote, "I'm a guest judge on 'So You Think You Can Dance' this Wednesday night on Fox. They don't call me the Polka Queen for nothing!" Perhaps quite amazing is the fact that as SYTYCD observes its 100th episode this week, DeGeneres' own show just filmed its 1000th episode last Friday!

EMMY NOMINATED SYTYCD CHOREOGRAPHERS SHARE THEIR SWEET MEMORIES

What could be more exciting for a choreographer than an Emmy nomination? The answer might be an Emmy trophy!

Four of six Emmy nominations in the choreograph category have been awarded to SYTYCD choreographers. And they truly are excited. When they all got together after the big news, there was a lot of hugging and exchanging of congratulations!

SYTYCD nominees are Tabitha D’umo and Napoleon D’umo for Bleeding Love; Mia Michaels for Mercy; Tyce Diorio for Adam and Eve and Dmitry Chaplin for A Los Amigos.

The moment that the news was delivered and the circumstances of the special dance routines will likely remain memories for these choreographers forever.

Chapin recalled that one of the show’s executive producers telephoned him at 7 a.m. to congratulate him – but when the call came, he could not imagine why that person would call so early in the morning. “Why is he calling me? I was sleeping,” he recounted to tvguidemagazine. "But he kept calling and finally I picked it up and he said, “You’ve been Emmy nominated.” Chapin said that he asked, “Who’s Emmy?” It was, after all, very early in the morning!

Tyce Diorio thoughts traveled to the way his choreographed Adam & Eve routine impacted one of the dancers. “I had this girl, Jessica King, who wasn’t a favorite on the show," he recalled for tvguide. "(She) was very unblanced with her partner, Will, because he was so much stronger. So when I got her, I took her aside and I said, ‘You’re going to do this.’ … She ended up blossoming beautifully, and here we are.”

And Mia Michael’s recalled that “Mercy” actually presented a new side of her. "I remember that it made me so happy because I’m always about doing relationship pieces, drama pieces,” she recalled in speaking to to tvguide. “This was a joke about a male and female psyche, a parody. I remember Twitch, Katie and I laughed more than anything else. It was so enjoyable to create.”

SYTYCD JUDGE NIGEL LYTHGOE CHIMES IN ON PAULA ABDUL'S CONTRACT SITUATION

Former American Idol executive producer Nigel Lythgoe posted a message on Twitter early Sunday morning: "On my way back from UK to US. I assure all you wonderful Paula fans FOX wants to keep Ms. Abdul for 'A1." They would be crazy to let her go."

On Friday Abdul's manager David Sonenberg had revealed to the Los Angeles Times that Abdul had no contract proposal -- adding that he had contacted both 19 Entertainment and Fox and told them that "Paula would love to be back on the show." Fox's response, he said, was that he would hear from them -- but since then no proposal has been received.

"She's (Abdul) hurt," said Sonenberg. "I find it under these circumstances particularly unusual; I think unnecessarily hurtful. I find it kind of unconscionable and certainly rude and disrespectful that they haven't stepped up and said what they want to do."

And Abdul's fans, who definitely believe that American Idol would suffer from her absence, have jumped into action with a heavy Twitter messaging campaign. Among those sending #keeppaula Tweets are American Idol finalists Danny Gokey, Matt Giraud and Anoop Desai.

Abdul, emotional over the outpouring of support, sent her thanks to fans.

"I'm actually moved 2 tears upon reading the enormous amount of tweets showing me your kindness, love,&undying support," wrote Abdul. "God bless all of you!" And then she continued, "If it weren't for you, this specific time and situation would feel a whole lot worse! xoP"

SYTYCD FANS SEND RANDI AND KUPONO HOME

Thursday evenings are heartbreaking -- because dancers who have entertained for weeks and even begun to feel like family are sent home. This week, it was Randi Evans and Kupono Aweau who were eliminated from the competition.

In a change of format, the judges no longer have the final say of which boy and girl is eliminated based on their season-long performance and a solo dance. Instead, that decision is completely the hands of fans.

This week the SYTYCD evening began with a contemporary presentation to Janet Jackson's "So Much Betta." Wearing Japanese-style costumes in dramatic blacks, reds and whites, the dancers consumed the stage with movements that were crisp, deliberate and electrifying. There was power, strength and -- oh, such flair! Front-row tickets to the most popular professional dance shows in New York or Hollywood could not provide better entertainment!

But the pleasure became strained with the reality that two popular dancers would bid a final farewell to their fans -- and their dancing shoes would no longer add life to the show's dancing stage.

Host Cat Deeley first called the five remaining girls -- Jeanine Mason, Melissa Sandvig, Kayla Radomski, Randi Evans and Janette Manrara. One by one, she issued the fans' verdicts. Jeanette, who had performed a hip-hop routine with Ade, was safe. Randi, who danced a paso doble with Cupono, was in danger. Jeanine, who performed a contemporary dance with Jason, -- and Kayla, who hip-hopped with Evan, were both safe. But Melissa's Broadway routine with Brandon left her as the second girl in danger of leaving the show.

For the boys, it was the same procedure. Jason and Evan were safe. But Kupono was not. Ade also was safe. But Brandon had been voted into the Bottom Two.

The four "in danger" dancers repeated their solo performances of the night before, but the fans' had already spoken with their votes -- so the solos would not impact the final outcome. It was simply another chance to showcase their talents, hoping that it would not be their last on the show.

Judge Mary Murphy told Randi, "Every week you do something fabulous. If you make it through to next week, you need to take chances." To Kupono, she said, "You are such a great dancer. ... Bring power and strength next week."

Choreographer and judge Debbie Allen advised Melissa, "I think America got spoiled. You need to go to another level, need to give more." And then Murphy spoke to Ade, saying, "This young man is a star! I don't know what to tell you to do differently."

After a lively performance by Black Eyed Peas, the moment had come to send two dancers home. Deeley stood with Randi and Melissa -- and announced that the girl with the lowest number of votes was Randi. "You have been fabulous," Deeley exclaimed as they viewed video highlight of Randi's weeks on the show.



Next Deeley faced the two "in danger" boys, Kupono and Ade -- and announced that it was Kupono with the fewest votes.

"They (Kupono and Randi) have been wonderful on the show," enthused Deeley. "Randi and Kupono, they will be so missed."

The show was over. Ten dancing contestants were narrowed to eight. And next week it will happen all over again.

As judge Nigel Lythgow has often remarked, the dancers in the competition this year are probably the most talented in the history of the show. Every dancer is truly "brilliant." There is no shame for a dancer in being sent home -- because every dancer topped thousands of other dancers to make it this far. They are the cream of the crop.

Only one dancer can ultimately wear the So You Think You Can Dance crown, but all of these dancers are winners. Quite likely, SYTYCD has created the foundation and springboard -- and the best is yet to come!

Randi and Kupono -- see you on tour!

SYTYCD CROWNS TWO 'STARS'

With So You Think You Can Dance contestants already whittled down to the Top Ten, dancers pulled out all stops as they whirled, twirled, dipped and soared on the popular show this week. Despite this being perhaps the most talented crop of young dancers ever, the Mary Murphy Meter dial nearly blew off the top of the meter for one couple – Jeanine Mason, 19, of Pinecrest, Florida and her new partner, Jason Glover, 21, from Fresno California.

Mason and Glover performed a Travis Wall choreographed contemporary dance to “If It Kills Me.” Mason, prior to the dance, described it as an interpretation of best friends in a situation where the girl wants to be more than best friends, but realizes that they are not ready for that yet.

Neither the audience nor viewers were kept waiting to learn the judges’ assessment of the dance because as quickly as it ended, all three judges were on their feet giving the pair a hearty, passionate standing ovation! This third dance of the evening was clearly a best-of-the-season and perhaps even best-ever performance -- and by the show's end it had easily outdistanced the other performances in judges' praise.

Judge Nigel Lythgoe was almost giddy over the choreography, and then added that the performance was "fabulous, only made better by the people who danced it.” Lythgoe complimented, "Jeanine, that was beautiful. Jason, that was fabulous. Both of you have become stars tonight!"

Next it was Mary Murphy’s turn, but there was only silence as the usually loquacious judge was speechless. Lythgoe, generally the recipient of the full volume of Murphy’s shrill screams, took full advantage of that silence by joking, “Mary is lost for words. Do this same routine every week!”

But Murphy quickly found her voice and volume and shrieked, “You two are stars! Yes, you are. I am so proud of you. I just loved it. Jason, you've a puppy dog face, but don't let anyone under-estimate your power. And Jeanine, you have not missed a step. You keep shining brighter and brighter. You are a star!”

The names of dancers in second place, based on the Mary Murphy Scream Meter, seems almost too close to call, but in the end the edge must be given to Melissa Sandvig, 29, and Brandon Bryant, 19, who grooved to Aquarius from the musical Hair, choreographed by Tyce DiOrio.

The pair’s performance was a trip down memory lane – back to the hippie counter-culture 1960’s when young girl’s wore rings of daisies in their hair and the hand signal for Peace was the sign of the times.

The judges, obviously with fond recollections of the era, joked a bit and then turned to the business at hand.

Lythgoe marveled at the authenticity of the routine – and remarked, “Melissa, I loved the way your ballet was used, and Brandon, I loved that you used your gymnastics.”

Murphy honored the pair with one of her famous screams – and said that the performance “was unbelievable. It was groovy.”

Several “sock it to me” remarks were exchanged by the judges, proof that they indeed did recall the era -- and then it was back to business again.

Missing second place on the Scream Machine Meter by the slimmest of margins were Janette Manrara, 25, and Ade Obayomi, 20, who performed to “Love Sex Magic" with Tabitha and Napoleon Dumo as choreographers. Lythgoe told the couple, “You’ve got funk.” And Murphy screamed, “That was funky. It sure was a lot of fun.”

Raising some doubts as to this exact placement of this couple on the Scream Machine ratings, Murphy termed Janette “a spicy hot tamale." This was not a ticket on the imaginary Hot Tamale Train, but definately a strong kudo for Manrara.

Ranking fourth on the Mary Murphy Meter was the first pair to dance, Kayla Radomski, 18, and Evan Kasprzak, 21. Their Viennese waltz to "Kiss From A Rose", choreographed by Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin, raised a bit of concern pre-dance because of the lifts -- Radomski being the tallest girl in the competition and Kasprzak being the shortest boy. But, while the judges' comments could have been stronger, the routine was fine -- and one wonders if the dance and comments suffered because of couples' difference in size.

Lythgoe, said that the pair looked "fabulous -- the lifts and everything working so beautifully." And he added, "Kayla, I love your lines."

But Murphy came down harder on the pair, saying that at this stage of the game it was about "power, pleasure and pain." She told Kasprzak that she watched his turns with "no movement and power." And she said, "This was not good enough." But toward the end of her comments she offered some praise, saying, "Evan, when you lifted her, it was as if you were six feet tall. You have a class about you." And she told Radomski, "You never disappoint anyone."

Suffering the severest responses from the judges were the final couple of the evening, Randi Evans, 23, and Kupono Aweau, 23, who danced a Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin choreographed paso doble.

Lythgoe remarked that the choreography was strong and passionate, but that he was "not sure that the dancing was as good as the choreography." He told Cupono, "You lost me." And he told Randi that he thought that her wig was a mistake because "some of the chemistry was lost. It just didn't work as a couple."

Murphy was not much kinder with her assessment, "I didn't believe the wig, the dancing or the chemistry." She said that it was all about "going for it" -- and opined that moving on in the competition was going to take a level called "extraordinary."

Third judge Debbie Allen, who had given complimentary ratings to all other couples, concurred, "It is hard not to agree. You needed more time, but we don't have more time."

From this point on in the competition, it is completely up to the fans to decide which boy and girl will receive the lowest number of votes and will head home. The judges will only offer their analysis, but it is up to fans to decide which dancers they like best.

There were new pairings this week -- some that worked well, and others that found dancers struggling to become comfortable with each other.

The first number of the show was actually a Nakul Dev Mahajan choreographed Bollywood number in which all of the girls excelled. It was hailed by all three judges, Lythgoe calling it "incredible" -- Murphy saying that she could see any of the five girls in the final -- and Allen proclaiming, "You are the best five ladies we have ever had!"



And the show ended with the five boys performing a Jeffrey Page choreographed African dance. The dancing was exceptional, but there was a comical element too -- Evan, clearly the palest of the dancers, appeared a bit out of place. But he pulled this off beautifully. Following the routine, Lythgoe laughed to Kasprzak, "Evan, you looked like a dancing milkshake." It was clear that Lythgoe meant a vanilla milkshake. Murphy applauded the dancers and remarked, "Evan, how cute. This clearly is not your genre, but you held your own."

Each of the competitors performed solo routines, but none of the routines separated any of the dancers from the crowd. Perhaps the only solo that might have been meaningful was Kasprzak's -- which seemed to erase any criticism from his couples performance. He clearly looked like a new Gene Kelly!

SYTYCD FIFTH SEASON TOUR DATES

Emmy nominated So You Think You Can Dance has revealed fifth season tour dates -- kicking off on September 20th in Manchester, NH.

Tickets for all shows go on sale July 25th.

Over the course of performances in about forty cities, the popular show's Top 12 dancers will travel from the beautiful autumn foliage of New England -- across the US and into Canada -- ending the tour in the town that claims the largest public marina on the West Coast, Everett, Washington.

Top 12 dancers who will appear on the tour are Kupono Aweau, Brandon Bryant, Phillip Chbeeb, Randi Evans, Jason Glover, Evan Kasprzak, Caitlin Kinney, Janette Manrara, Jeanine Mason, Ade Obayomi, Kayla Radomski and Melissa Sandvig.

"For five years we have seen the popularity of So You Think You Can Dance steadily grow, and we are thrilled to showcase our unique talent for thousands of fans across the country," exclaimed the show's creator, Simon Fuller. "With the show premiering again this fall, the tour creates the unique opportunity for fans to watch the high caliber dancing from their living room one night and then attend a live performance the following night."

The So You Think You Can Dance Tour is being produced by AEG Live, dick clark productions and 19 Entertainment.

Dates and locations for the So You Think You Can Dance Tour are:

September 20
Manchester, NH
Verizon Wireless Arena

September 22
Boston, MA
Agganis Arena at Boston University

September 24
Newark, NJ
Prudential Center

September 25
Mashantucket, CT
MGM Theater - Foxwoods

September 26
Trenton, NJ
Sovereign Bank Arena

September 29
Toronto, ON
Air Canada Centre

October 1
Columbus, OH
Nationwide Arena

October 3
Detroit, MI
Joe Louis Arena

October 4
Champaign, IL
University of Illinois Assembly Hall

October 6
Chicago, IL
United Center

October 7
Minneapolis, MN
Target Center

October 9
Milwaukee, WI
Bradley Center

October 10
Toledo, OH
Lucas County Arena

October 11
Indianapolis, IN
Conseco Fieldhouse

October 14
Long Island, NY
Nassau Coliseum

October 15
Baltimore, MD
1st Mariner Arena

October 17
Richmond, VA
Richmond Coliseum

October 19
Charlotte, NC
Time Warner Cable Arena

October 20
Duluth, GA
Arena at Gwinnett Center

October 22
Miami, FL
American Airlines Arena

October 23
Tampa, FL
St. Pete Times Forum

October 24
Tallahassee, FL
Tallahassee-Leon Co Civic Center

October 26
Houston, TX
Reliant Arena

October 27
Austin, TX
Frank Erwin Center

October 28
Grand Prairie, TX
Nokia Theatre at Grand Prairie

October 30
Tulsa, OK
BOK Center

October 31
St. Louis, MO
Chaifetz Arena at St. Louis University

November 1
Kansas City, MO
Sprint Center

November 3
Omaha, NE
Qwest Center

November 5
Colorado Springs, CO
Colorado Springs World Arena

November 7
West Valley City, UT
The E Center

November 9
Los Angeles, CA
Nokia Theatre LA LIVE

November 12
San Diego, CA
San Diego Sports Arena

November 13
Glendale, AZ
jobing.com Arena

November 14
Las Vegas, NV
Orleans Arena

November 16
Sacramento, CA
ARCO Arena

November 17
Fresno, CA
SaveMart Center

November 18
San Jose, CA
HP Pavilion at San Jose

November 20
Portland, OR
Rose Garden

November 21
Everett, WA
Comcast Arena at Everett Events Center

SYTYCD RECEIVES FIVE EMMY NOMINATIONS, ITS HIGHEST EVER

Twenty-two reality television shows have received a total of 63 nominations in today's announcement of the 61st Annual Primetime Emmy Award nominees -- with the number of shows and amount of total nominations representing reality television's highest number ever! The lead went to another dancing reality show, Dancing With The Stars which garnered 10 nominations.

So You Think You Can Dance received five nominations, the highest ever for the show.


Outstanding Choreography:

So You Think You Can Dance • Bleeding Love • FOX • Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Tabitha D’umo, Choreographer
Napoleon D’umo, Choreographer

So You Think You Can Dance • Mercy • FOX • Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Mia Michaels, Choreographer

So You Think You Can Dance • Adam and Eve / Silence • FOX • Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Tyce Diorio, Choreographer

So You Think You Can Dance • A Los Amigos • FOX • Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Dmitry Chaplin, Choreographer

Outstanding Makeup For A Multi-Camera Series Or Special (Non-Prosthetic):

So You Think You Can Dance • Episode #421/422A • FOX • Dick Clark Productions and 19 Entertainment
Amy Elizabeth Strozzi, Department Head Makeup Artist
Heather Cummings, Key Makeup Artist
Tifanie White, Additional Makeup Artist
Marie DelPrete, Additional Makeup Artist

This is the most nominations the show has received in one year. Here are the stats:

So You Think You Can Dance

2009 – 5 nominations
2008 – 4 nominations, 1 win
2007 – 2 nominations, 2 wins

Total: 11 nominations, 3 wins

WELCOME

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SYTYCD ELIMINATED CONTESTANT IS STILL A HOMETOWN HERO

Annapolis, MD folks took a special interest in SYTYCD this season. As one of their own, Caitlin Kinney, 21, danced into the hearts of tv viewers on the popular television show, this coastal community celebrated the success of the girl who had always owned the hearts of her hometown family and friends.

It was with special pride that they watched their “girl-next-door” perform elegant ballroom and lively dance routines. Downtown stores were a gathering place for locals who held viewing parties. And even Annapolis Mayor Ellen O. Moyer hosted a party for Kinney at City Dock.

These folks watched, rooted for and voted for Kinney. They hoped that she would be crowned "So You Think You Can Dance Champion." So, of course, they were disappointed when "their girl" was eliminated this past week. Still, they say they are so proud of the talent that took her all the way to the top dozen contestants -- and proud that she represented herself and Annapolis with style and grace.

On Kinney’s Facebook page, her very family, friends and fans have left messages -- echoing what Annapolis folks have been saying in their living rooms and in shops downtown.

“Caitlin, it’s so great to see such talent in the family!,” wrote one obvious family member. “Keep dancing your heart out.”

“Caitlin – Beautiful grace under enormous pressure,” wrote another lady in support. “We were honored to watch your lovely performances, and we hope to see you on stage somewhere soon.”

And then there was a message addressing Kinney’s elimination from SYTYCD competition this past week. “Caitlin, I’m sooooo bummed you didn’t make it! … I’m so excited you still get to go on tour, but we all know YOU should have won, without question!”

While the show’s fans voted Kinney and her partner, Jason Glover, into the Bottom Three, and the show’s judges eliminated her from the Bottom Three girls, judge Nigel Lythgoe hailed Kinney’s talent when he said that all of the dancers that week, including those being sent home, were “brilliant.”

In fact, Lythgoe said that the level of talent has been so high this season that the audience has appreciated the talents of all of the dancers -- and no one dancer has emerged as a “star”, shining in the eyes of fans above all others.

Acknowledging this, the show took the exceptional step of adding the two dancers eliminated dancers to the Top Ten roster of contestants who will be hitting the road for the SYTYCD fall tour.

But once Kinney’s name was announced as the girl to go home, she displayed her trade-mark grace. Obviously disappointed, she still managed a smile and said, “It’s been everything I could have hoped for and so much more, which is just wonderful.”

Kinney had actually started the SYTYCD process with her younger sister, Megan. The two girls, who were introduced to dancing at C&C Dance Company in Bowie, became the first “sister pair” highlighted by the show when they were both made it through to “Las Vegas Week.” Each sister was the other sister’s biggest supporter. But in the end Megan was cut and Caitlin was invited to perform as one of the Top Twenty contestants.

Kinney, who graduated from Baltimore School for the Arts in 2005 and was an apprentice at North Carolina Dance Theatre for two years, began studying acrobatic dance at the age of 13 and added ballet two years later.

When asked what she would do when her obligations with SYTYCD end, Kinney told a Baltimore Sun reporter that she was unsure. "Most of my training is in ballet," she explained. "But I don't have a traditional body for classical ballet. I'm not stick thin, and I have a very muscular build. I'm happy now with the way my body it, but boy, it takes a long time for any woman to say that. I'm not quite sure yet in what style as a dancer I fit best. That's why I auditioned for So You Think You Can Dance. Never again will I have the opportunity to learn all these different styles compressed into one summer."

Kinney also confided that as children, she and her sisters had dreamed of opening a cominbation dance/acting studio and health clinic. "I honestly think that's one of my long-term goals, but it's down the roadd. I don't want to open a studio before I have knowledge to impart."

Wherever Kinney's dreams take her, there is one thing for certain. She will continue to dance. She will do herself proud. And she will have the support and pride of the people of Annapolis behind her.

CAITLIN AND PHILLIP, ELIMINATED FROM SYTYCD THIS WEEK, IN THEIR FINAL PERFORMANCES

candj1 12 @ Yahoo! Video

Caitlin and Jason dance to "Minnie the Moocher."



Phillip and Jeanine display Russian folk dancing to "Kalinka" by Barynya.

candj2 12 @ Yahoo! Video

Caitlin and Jason perform a lyrical jazz to "Show Me Heaven" choreographed by Mandy Moore.

jandp2 12 @ Yahoo! Video

Phillip and Jeanine in their final dance together, a jive to "Stuff Like That There."

MARY MURPHY SCREAM METER ONCE AGAIN PREDICTS DEPARTING CONTESTANTS

Tickets doled out on Mary Murphy’s Hot Tamale Train and the volume and number of screams recorded on her Scream Machine meter have given So You Think You Can Dance fans a crystal ball into which dancers would be heading home.

Once again, Murphy, through her awarded train tickets and famous screams, predicted which couples would be placed by fans into the Bottom Three.

CAITLIN KINNEY
Caitlin, 21, and her partner, Jason Glover, drew favorable comments from the show’s three judges for their first routine, a foxtrot, but received only tepid comments on their second performance, a lyrical jazz routine that Murphy termed “not memorable.” The pair received no tickets on the Hot Tamale Train and none of Murphy’s famous screams.

And with no Murphy screams, we had placed this pair lowest on our Mary Murphy Scream Meter.

PHILLIP CHBEEB
Phillip, 20, and his partner, Jeanine Mason seemed almost doomed to be in the Bottom Three after their first performance, a Russian folk dance. While judge Nigel Lythgoe said that the pair danced well, it felt that they never should have been given the dance and predicted that it alone might land them in the Bottom Three couples. Murphy tried to give the number the most positive spin possible, saying that Phillip and Jeanine made the dance look “believable and effortless.”

Their second performance was stronger, with Lythgoe saying that this was Phillip’s strongest showing outside of his own genre, and Murphy screamed and placed Jeanine, and only Jeanine, on the Hot Tamale train.

Despite the stronger second performance, Lythgoe opined that it would not be enough to compensate for the Russian folk dance – and he proved to be correct. And based on Murphy’s overall response to the couple’s performances, we wrote, “This could be an instance where drawing the wrong dance results in excellent dancers falling into the Bottom Three couples.”

THIRD COUPLE IN BOTTOM THREE

And while Melissa Sandvig and Ade Obayomi had never before been in the Bottom Three, our Mary Murphy Meter placed them there this week not because they had failed to perform well – because they did receive screams for both of their dances, but simply because Murphy’s response to their waltz had drawn only a low-volume scream. Other couples had simply scored higher with respect to the Hot Tamale Train and Murphy screams.

CAITLIN AND PHILLIP LEAVE SYTYCD

Clearly “So You Think You Can Dance” has reached a point in the competition where every dancer is a top talent who deserves to stay.

This was highlighted when judge Nigel Lythgoe, for the very first time in eliminations, termed both departing dancers as “brilliant” – and then took the unprecedented step of adding these two dancers to the Top-Ten line-up that continues on to the So You Think You Can Dance Fall Tour.

Lythgoe, also for the first time, did not address each of the three boys and three girls prior to announcing who would go home. He simply asked Caitlin to step forward and said, “Unfortunately, it’s the end of the journey. You have been absolutely brilliant.”




And he turned to Phillip, again hailing his talent, but saying “There is no question that you are unique in what you do. However, in all other genres, we have been disappointed.”

After his elimination, Phillip presented what was probably the most eloquent farewell speech of any elminated contestant. He explained to viewers that he had started the SYTYCD competition without the benefit of a high level of formal training -- so what he would miss most about the show would be the opportunity "to grow." And then he very passionately revealed that his greatest hope was that he has inspired other dancers with the knowledge that even without the benefit having much money, "with passion and creativity, you can do anything you want.”


This week Caitlin Kinney, a twenty-one year old from Aurora, CO, and her partner Jason Glover had performed a foxtrot to “Minnie The Moocher” and a lyrical jazz to “Show Me Heaven.” Following the performances, Lythgoe said that in the fox trot the pair had done “some incredible things.” And Murphy called the performance “cool and elegant.”

But in their lyrical jazz Lythgoe lamented that even though the dancers were technically good, he did not always see chemistry between them. Murphy opined that she saw the chemistry and, while they had performed well, she simply did not find the routine “memorable.”


Phillip Chbeeb, a twenty-year-old from Los Angeles, and his partner Jeanine Mason performed a Russian folk dance to “Kalinka” and a jive to “Stuff Like That There.” After the Russian dance, Lythgoe said that the dance was “too folky,” and Murphy said that “on the good side, you made it look believable and effortless.”

Later Lythgoe said that Phillip, in performing the jive, was the best that he had been outside of his own style, and Murphy had screamed and placed Jeanine on the Hot Tamale Train.

Other dancers voted by fans into the Bottom Three were Caitlin’s dance partner, Jason Glover; Phillip’s dance partner Jeanine and couple Melissa Sandvig and Ade Obayomi.

MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE WILL NOT TAKE PLACE ON SYTYCD

During the So You Think You Can Dance elimination show on Thursday night, judge Nigel Lythgoe said, "There has been a lot of talk about the possibility of a Michael Jackson tribute, and we thought that we would have a tribute. Mia Michaels, Wade Robson and several of the choreographers had agreed to participate. We thought that it would cover all genres."

But Lythgoe said that after SYTYCD approached Sony for permission, they received work back that they were not giving clearance for the tribute.

Lythgoe and others associated with the show referenced Michael Jackson's significant contribution to music and dance and said that they each will honor him in their own way -- but that this would, unfortunately, not be with a Michael Jackson Tribute Show.

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE HOT TAMALE TRAIN HAS BRANDON AND JANETTE RIDING IN FIRST CLASS

The weeks march on – and fans get closer and closer to learning the identity of the next So You Think You Can Dance champion!

Mary Murphy once again played to fans with her trademark screams and tickets on the imaginary Hot Tamale Train – while judge Nigel Lythgoe reminded the dancers that the competition has advanced to a level where each must step up their routines and perform at their very best.

HIGHEST ON JUDGES’ COMMENTS -- AND THE MARY MURPHY HOT TAMALE TRAIN AND SCREAM MACHINE

First, Brandon Bryant, 19, and Janette Manrara, 25, seemed to steal the show – and it would be extremely surprising if they are not safe from inclusion in the Bottom Three couples who will be named on Thursday night.

Their first routine, a very sexy Argentine tango heavy with intricate footwork, ended with a standing ovation from all three judges. Murphy awarded pair a First Class ticket on the Hot Tamale Train, and Lythgoe exclaimed, “That was as close to perfection as I have seen on this stage forever.” The amazing routine “Libertango” was choreographed by Leonardo Barrionuevo and Miriam Laraici.

For the pair’s second performance, which was actually the final of the evening, Brandon and Janette excelled in a Wade Robson choreographed jazz dance to Roisin Murphy’s “Ruby Blue.” Murphy screamed that the show had “saved the best for last.” And Lythgoe said that if the couple did not draw the highest number of fan votes this week, he would be surprised.

HOT TAMALE TRAIN AND SCREAMS

Garnering lots of praise from the judges, Randi Evans, 23, and Evan Kasprzak, 21, first performed a hiphop to Beyone’s Halo, choreographed by Tabitha and Napoleon Dumo – about a young couple in love and expecting a baby.

Lythgoe found “a number of good things here” and called the couple one of his favorites. Murphy said that she was expecting a train wreck from Evan, but that they did very well. And screaming, she said that Randi is a standout in the competition.

Then the couple moved on to a samba dance to “Ritmo De Bom Bom” choreographed by Pasha Kovalev and Anya Garnis. Evan, Lythgoe said, was “strong” and Randi was “hot.” But he did add that the number was not quite as strong as he would have liked it. Murphy, though, said that while it might not have been hot, “there was a slow sizzle. It was a great routine.” And she placed Randi on the Hot Tamale Train.

Kayla Radomski, 18, and Kupono Aweau, 23, for their first dance, performed a Mia Michaels contemporary routine, depicting addiction, to Sara Bareilles’ “Gravity.” Lythgoe termed this a “powerful piece” – and Murphy hailed the “intensity” and the couples’ ability to stay in the character of the piece, welcoming them also aboard the Hot Tamale Train.

But in their second dance of the evening, a Joey Dowling interpretation to “The Dance at the Gym” from West Side Story, the judges’ comments were not as complimentary. Nigel found their performance “lacking in true emotion” – and Murphy said that she thought that they could have done more, but are nonetheless a “force to be reckoned with.”

Jeanine Mason, 18, and Phillip Chbeeb’s, 20, second dance of the night was a captivating jive to “Stuff Like That There” choreographed by Tony Meredith and Melanie LaPatin. In the number, Phillip is a sailor who has been away – and Jeanine teases him about what he has missed.

Nigel said that in this performance, “Phillip, without question this is the best you have been out of your own style.” And though he also thought that Jeanine was very good technically and “one of our top ten dancers,” he opined that this would likely not be enough to keep them out of the Bottom Three because of their earlier routine. Murphy screamed and placed Jeanine on the Hot Tamale Train.

The couple’s first number was a Russian Folk dance. Lythgoe praised the dancers, but lamented that in the dance “felt a little too folky” – that this gave him the need for a bit of Russian vodka. Murphy said that on the good side, they made it look believable and effortless.

This could be an instance where drawing the wrong dance results in excellent dancers falling into the Bottom Three couples.

SCREAMS FOR BOTH DANCES

Melissa Sandvig, 29, and Ade Obayomi, 20, first performed a disco to Destination’s “Move On Up” which Lythgoe said was so packed with energy that it was “an incredible start to the evening.” Murphy added, “Amen.” And screamed as she said the number gave her a “disco pick-me-up.”

The couple also drew screams from Murphy for a waltz to “A Natural Woman.” “Beautiful,” said Lythgoe, who added that Ade’s upper body strength was tremendous. Murphy agreed that it was beautiful in her eyes too – then gave a fairly light scream and said that Melissa was mesmerizing.

WITHOUT SCREAMS

Caitlin Kinney, 21, and Jason Glover’s, 21, first dance was a fox trot to “Minnie the Moocher.” Lythgoe said that the dancers “did some incredible things” – that Jason’s footwork was very good, and the dance was Caitlin’s style. Murphy found the performance “so cool and elegant.”

And the pair’s second dance, a lyrical jazz choreographed by Mandy Moor to “Show Me Heaven,” drew mild compliments from the judges. Lythgoe explained that technically the pair danced very well and there were some very nice lifts, but that he did not always see the chemistry between the two dancers. Murphy said that she sees the chemistry – and while they did a good job, she did not find it “memorable.”

Neither performance drew Murphy screams and, given that compliments seem tepid, this couple may well be voted into the Bottom Three.

KELLY ROWLAND AND DAVID GUETTA ON SYTYCD THIS WEEK

David Guetta and Kelly Rowland will be performing their hit "When Loves Takes Over" on the So You Think You Can Dance show on Thursday, July 9th.

Their performance will mark the first time that the song will be performed on an American television show.

CAT DEELEY, SYTYCD HOST, IS NOMINATED FOR ZAP2IT BEST REALITY PERSONALITY

Cat Deeley, who befriends dancers and introduces them to the So You Think You Can Dance audience, has been nominated in the Zap2It poll to find the Best Reality Personality.

Deeley, a former fashion model who left full-time modeling in 1997 to become a MTV UK presenter, has been a highlight of the SYTYCD dance competition show since its second season in 2006.

At about 10 p.m. on Tuesday, July 7, 2009 -- American Idol judge Simon Cowell was leading all contestants with about 19.4 percent of the votes.

In total, there are sixteen nominees in the Best Reality Personality category. In addition to Deeley and Cowell, the nominees include Paula Abdul, American Idol; Jeff Probst, Survivor; Tim Gunn, Project Runway; Rob and Amber, Survivor and The Amazing Race; Tyra Banks, America's Next Top Model; Flavor Flav, The Flavor of Love and Jessica Simpson, Newlyweds: Nick & Jessica.

Also nominated for the award are Paris Hilton, The Simple Life; Janice Dickinson, Multiple; Bret Michaels, Rock of Love; Phil Keoghan, The Amazing Race; J. Alexander, America's Next Top Model; Will Kirby, Big Brother 2 and Kathy Griffin, My Life on the D-List.

RUMOR: WADE ROBSON TO PERFORM TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL JACKSON ON SYTYCD

The Rumor Mill is alive and well – the latest is that Wade Robson will dance in So You Think You Can Dance’s tribute to Michael Jackson.

Robson is counted among celebrities known for emulating Jackson’s famous moonwalk – and actually has enjoyed a history with the pop legend.

Robson, who started to dance at the early age of two – had Jackson’s famous Thriller memorized by the time that he turned three-years-old. Later, in 1986, Robson wore a Jackson-like outfit and performed to “Smooth Criminal” on the Australian TV talent show New Faces 4 – winning and collecting the prize which was a chance to meet Jackson. Still later, when the “King of Pop” toured Australia with the Bad Tour, their paths crossed again. Jackson saw Robson’s routines and was so impressed that he asked Robson to perform at the Brisbane concert.

KARLA AND VITOLIO HEAD HOME

Another week, and another couple sent home – this week Karla Garcia, 23, and Vitolio Jeune, 26, who had been placed in the Bottom Three by our Mary Murphy (Scream) Meter. On Wednesday night the two dancers, who competed this week as a couple, performed a lively quick step that actually drew some positive comments from the show's three judges.

Solos were performed by each of the dancers that had been placed by fans into the "Bottom Three" couples -- Garcia who danced to “Blackbird” and Jeune who performed to “Here Comes Goodbye”, Kayla Radomski and Kupono Aweau and Jeanine Mason and Phillip Chbeeb.

In the elimination, judge Nigel Lythgoe explained to Vitolio, “You always present yourself brilliantly, but you don’t deliver at the end of the day.” And he told Karla that she had just not captured “that star quality.”

Lythgoe also said that the decision of which dancers to eliminate was unanimous.

KATIE HOLMES TAKES HER DIZZY FEET TO SYTYCD TO BENEFIT DANCE AND YOUTH

Katie Holmes will perform a Judy Garland tribute on the 100th episode of the popular So You Think You Can Dance television show, announced the show's co-creator and judge Nigel Lythgoe.

In the midst of the show's competition on Wednesday night, Lythgoe announced that the non-profit Dizzy Feet Foundation, launched to raise and improve the level of dance, will provide scholarships and assistance to "underserved youth."

Lythgoe said that Dizzy Feet founding member Katie Holmes will perform a special Garland number, "Get Happy" on the show's 100th episode to "introduce the foundation to the public."

"I think it's important for children to experience music and dance," said Holmes. "Every child should have the opportunity to discover what it is they like and have access to the very best in that pursuit."

Lythgoe said that the Dizzy Feet Foundation's "mission is to provide scholarships an grants to talented dancers, choreographers and/or teachers working at or through accredited dance studios; to establish national standards for dance education and an accreditation program for dance; and to develop, provide an support dance education programs for underserved children by working through and with community organizations.

Further information about Dizzy Feet Foundation

MARY MURPHY METER PLACES JANETTE AND BRANDON IN FIRST-CLASS ON THE HOT TAMALE TRAIN

Mary Murphy’s Hot Tamale Train pulled into the So You Think You Can Dance television studio once again, and welcomed into the first-class car were the first pair of dancers of the evening, Janette Manrara, 25, from Hialeah, Fl and Brandon Bryant, 19, who hails from Salt Lake City, UT.

A hot little cha cha cha danced by Janette and Brandon to The Pussycat Dolls’ “Hush Hush Hush Hush”, and choreographed by Jean Marc and France Genereu drew high praise from all three of the judges, Nigel Lythgoe, Mary Murphy and choreographer Mia Michaels.



Lythgoe termed the performance “the best (cha cha cha) that I have ever seen on this show” – and he called Brandon the “Michaelangelo of the dance floor.”

Murphy immediately handed “two first-class tickets” on the Hot Tamale Train to the pair – and additionally rewarded them with three of her famous screams. Michaels called the performance, “Brilliant.”

Next to dance, Kayla Radomski, 18, and Kupono Aweau, 23, also drew praise from the judges. Their contribution to the evening was a Sonya Freya choreographed contemporary performance to Blue Foundation’s “Eyes On Fire.”

Lythgoe called the dance “fabulous,” and explained, “There are so many good things to like, so much technique. It was tremendous.”

Murphy enthused, “These two are alive and kicking. It really was tremendous, played to your strengths. … And the chemistry between you had an electric feel.”
Michaels agreed and told Kupono that “every week you get better and better.”

The evening continued as Randi Evans, 23, and Evan Kasprzak, 21, moved the audience into a ‘Broadway’ mood with their Joey Dowling choreographed performance to “Rich Man’s Frug.”

Lythgoe thought that the couple performed well, but said that he was just a little disappointed. Murphy echoed Lythgoe’s sentiments, “It was your style, and you did it very well. It could have been a little better, but it was entertaining.” And Michaels added, “You have to that it to the next level because of your height. I expected more.”

Jason Glover, 21, and Caitlin Kinney, 21, donned some “strange” costumes for a Brian Friedman pop-jazz number that had Caitlin in the role of an alien looking to procreate with, Jason, the last man on earth.

Several of the judges found this number weird. But Lythgoe told the pair, “You have to commit 100 percent to a number, and you did.” Michaels theorized that Friedman simply wanted them to have fun. And Murphy, “I think that Brian is out of this world right now. It did not play to your strengths, and did not sit well with me. I love the two of you to pieces and hope that you will not be in trouble.”

Jeanine Mason, 18, and Phillip Chbeeb, 20, were chain-bound, literally, in a Tabitha and Napoleon hip-hop to Kayne West’s “Love Lockdown.” They twisted and whirled, all the while in danger of becoming entangled in the long chain – but in the end accomplished the entire number with no difficulty.

Lythgoe “really liked them. If you keep dancing like that, you should be chained together for life.” Murphy hailed the choreography as “absolutely, incredibly creative” – and she told the dancers, “You absolutely take my breath away.” Michaels felt distracted by the chains, but complimented the pair on doing a great job.

And in one of the most captivating moments of the evening, Melissa Sandvig, 29, and Ade Obayomi, 20, presented the show’s first ever Classical pas de deux to Romeo and Juliet. Choreographed by Thoral Christiensen, the pair exhibited flowing beauty and physical control in their character roles.

Lythgoe said it was “wonderful, beautifully done.” Murphy said that she “loved it. The chemistry was flawless.” And in describing Melissa, she said, “She had wings. I didn’t want to wake up.” Michaels opined that it is impossible to fake classical ballet – and that Melissa was a “true ballerina.”

The final couple, Karla Garcia, 23, and Vitolio Jeune, 26, returned a lively atmosphere with a Jean Marc and France Genereux choreographed quick step to “Puttin’ on the Ritz.” During the number, Karla, with a swifty flip of the hand, completely changed the appearance of her costume – and the couple proceeded with the confidence of seasoned ballroom performers.

Lythgoe termed this entertaining and filled with good footwork. Murphy issued compliments that included a “bam boom.” And Michaels told Karla, “He needed you, and you did step up.”

Our Mary Murphy meter placed Janette and Brandon, in their first-class Hot Tamale Train seats, atop the evening’s Murphy leaderboard. They were followed by Kayla and Kupono who also had seats on the train. Next in line were Jeanine and Phillip, and Melissa and Ade.

And appearing most in danger of being named into the bottom two couples were Randi and Evan, and Jason and Caitlin – with the added couple most probably being Karla and Vitolio.

BIG ANNOUNCEMENT TONIGHT -- LIKELY A MICHAEL JACKSON TRIBUTE

The So You Think You Can Dance television show reportedly will make a big announcement to night!

Rumors are swirling, but the consensus is that the announcement will be further details on a Michael Jackson tribute that has been in the works.

Earlier in the week producer and judge Nigel Lythgoe explained that the show still needed to secure rights to Jackson's music, but he expected that the tribute will happen.

Paula Abdul expected to be lead choreographer for the project -- with the show's other choreographers participating as well.