The live show itself was spectacular. It began with a group number introducing all the dancers, and then alternated between pairs and solo performances. Group performances were scattered throughout, including a delightful interpretation of the classic "Money, Money" from Cabaret. The show was designed to highlight each dancer’s strengths, recreating favorite dance routines from the television program. One of my personal favorites was the hip-hop "escaped convict" routine with Kherington and Twitch dancing to Busta Rhymes' "Don't Touch Me (Throw Da Water On 'Em)." Another highlight was the somewhat comedic Broadway routine with Joshua and Katee dancing to "All For The Best" from Godspell.
The show's winner, Joshua, who was featured in the most dances, showed enormous versatility. He moved effortlessly between styles without missing a beat. His samba with Katee (to Angela Via's "Baila, Baila") was one of several quite sexy routines that displayed what great shape the dancers are in. Everyone seemed at the top of their game and more than prepared to be performing in front of thousands of spectators. The names of the choreographers of each routine were studiously mentioned, giving credit to the tremendous work they contributed.
In addition to dancing, each finalist performed comedic bits to introduce the next act. While it was obviously written dialogue, the bits seemed spontaneous and the audience loved it. This was a reminder that more is required of this type of performer than just being a good dancer. Particularly amusing was the running theme of the beleaguered Gev trying to woo the resistant Courtney. It was nice to see each performer involved with multiple aspects of the staging. It allowed the audience to really get to know each dancer, assuming they weren't already familiar with them. By the end of the show, I knew each of their names and what kinds of things they excelled at - without having followed the television program.
Despite the occasionally corny banter and interplay, dancing was always at the forefront of the show. As part of the wide range of styles on display, types of dance from other cultures were even included. Especially impressive was the Russian Trepak (from The Nutcracker), performed by Twitch and Joshua. Joshua achieved mind-boggling height in his leaps, essentially doing the splits in mid-air several feet off the ground. Twitch displayed a mastery of prisyatki, which is traditional Russian squat work. This routine, perhaps more than any other, brought the crowd to its feet in wild applause.
Article comments
1 - Jcf
A very well-written objective review without any hype. Bravo!