Last week, So You Think You Can Dance Season 8 made history when the judges decided not to send any dancers home. On episode 8, which aired on June 22, 2011, the Top 20 performed again for America’s votes. And this week, the pressure’s on as two couples will be eliminated from the show.
The Performances
First up was Ryan and Ricky who performed a Mandy Moore Jazz routine. They managed to unleash their sexy side, and they received great feedback from the judges.
Next, Caitlynn and Mitchell landed a Contemporary routine, choreographed by Stacey Tookey. The story was about a girl wanting to end her relationship, but having a hard time pulling the plug. Mary commented on their amazing chemistry and flawless dancing.
Wadi and Missy attempted a style that neither of them were familiar with - Cha Cha! The first negative critique of the evening came from Nigel, who said that despite Wadi’s strength, he was missing a lot of technique.
Ivetta and Nick performed the first Bollywood number of the season. The judges responded with good feedback for both dancers; however, if you watched carefully, you could see that Ivetta’s lines and hand movements were very sloppy.
Robert and Miranda performed an amazing Hip Hop routine inspired by woodpeckers, choreographed by Tabitha and Napoleon. Miranda was the shock of the day. Her moves were so sharp and powerful that it’s hard to believe she isn’t a Hip Hop dancer.
Jess and Clarice performed a Stacey Tookey Contemporary piece about a prince and his new bride. Nigel loved their performance when they were dancing separately. However, he didn’t think they worked well together.
Jordan and Tadd performed the Viennese Waltz. Nigel called Jordan a sensational dancer. And Tadd, who is a b-boy, looked like he’d been performing the Viennese Waltz all his life.
Melanie and Marko performed a Mandy Moore Jazz number that had the judges seeing stars. Mary said they were the perfect partnership, and could take on any style given to them.
Sasha and Alexander performed a sensitive Hip Hop routine that hit close to home for many people, especially Mary who was moved to tears. It was about a soldier coming home from war to see his wife for the first time.
Finally, Chris and Ashley closed the show with a Broadway number. It was so hot that Nigel - not Mary - put them on the Hot Tamale Train!
Sasha and Alexander Perform Hip Hop
On June 23, 2011, the judges were forced to decide which two couples would be sent home. This week, the bottom three was stacked with good dancers - Nick & Ivetta, Missy & Wadi, and Ryan & Ricky - making the judges' decision very difficult. In the end, they decided to keep Ryan and Ricky.
Related Stories
- So You Think You Can Dance: Season 8, Episode 6 :: Top 20 Perform
- So You Think You Can Dance: Season 8, Episode 4 & 5 :: Meet the Top 20
- So You Think You Can Dance Contest
