It's been so long since we've seen a cast showcased together in a group number on So You Think You Can Dance. These are usually the most creative and fun pieces of the entire series. From these group numbers come no elimination and only performances from each dancer. Interestingly enough after last night's cool Afro-jazz routine, it looks like a heavily influenced African/Mayan style made the cut as the premier group number. It was wild. Russell's krumping was noticeable right off the bat as was Jakob's flexibility and Legacy's intricate moves that sneak into dances with no warning. I feel bad for those that have already gone home. They missed the opportunities to join in all the fun of a large group number. There are actually a few hidden lessons each dancers can learn from watching and dancing with the entire group. No competitive person can keep their eyes completely to themselves while learning the choreography. In the studio you observe how others learn and what personal flair they bring to certain moves - perhaps Ryan's seen something Legacy does that he can add to his repertoire. That is if Ryan survives.

Speaking of Ryan, and Ellenore, they are in the bottom along with Pauline, Karen, Peter and Kevin. I want to send both Ryan and Peter home instead of any ladies. Peter's tap skills might be strong as hell but he's not showing great range. Ryan seems to have no depth at all. On the other hand, in the past Ellenore and Pauline exhibited strong skills as soloists. As they being held back by their partners? Or are they unable to really work with their partners? As for Karen and Kevin, their style likely fell flat for voters.

Mollee and Nathan are safe, much to Nigel's chagrin. He ripped them a new one because he definitely disagreed. Sorry but these two are obviously talented enough with personalities that draw in the text and call hungry tweens. A trainwreck routine isn't enough for them to be kicked off - yet.

Meanwhile, the SYTYCD producers have once again treated the usually stupid Fox viewing audience (myself included) to a shot of actual culture. A fabulous trio performed a tension-filled jazz number that had my eyes glued to the screen. The attention to detail was remarkable - if they weren't running backwards across the stage like a duck swims across water they were hitting sharp arm moves to correspond with their male partner. Special kudos goes to the first female dancer that accented her movements with the song perfectly. More routines like this are needed.

The solos were ok - each person doing their preferred style. It wasn't surprising that Pauline and Peter were sent home. Apparently the quick step still is the kiss of death.


Nigel was pissed off at how boring those "dance-for-your-life" solos were. He went so far as to tell the audience to shut up and they cheered in protest. After watching their routines again, he's right. He's a bit of a jerk about it, but he's totally right. Nigel delivered harsh news to the girls, then the guys, and actually went so far as to call Pauline's solo conventional (i.e. not creative, something you need to be in dance). This show was like watching Daddy scream at Mommy then drive off to a hotel for the night. The reality and conflict was palpable throughout the episode. Hopefully it keeps up with happier results.

Hate: the stupid Dominic K-Mart plug
Love: the Fox Simpsons shout-outs

Grade: A (for drama and the cold hard bitch that is reality!)

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Story by Kate Kostal

Starpulse contributing writer