So who is in jeopardy...

Well, I hope Mollee and Nathan are in the bottom, but their performances this week might be good enough to keep them safe. They were stronger than usual.

I think Karen and Victor are bound to be in the bottom. I don't think that either of them have a strong following and let's face it, their second piece left a lot to be desired.

I am torn and scared about the third couple. I think Noelle and Russell might be in the bottom despite their fabulous performance to Tyce's contemporary choreography.

However, Ellenore and could also grab one of the bottom spots. Both of their dances were good, but I don't think they were as memorable as some of the other pieces tonight.

Regardless, Ashleigh, Jakob, Legacy and Kathryn should be safe... I will be really upset if we see any of them in the bottom.

I guess we will see tomorrow!

Ashleigh and Jakob perform a Cha Cha by Jean Marc

Oh ballroom hands, how I hate thee. Your broken wrists and stressed fingers drive me nuts.

I really like Ashleigh and you know that Jakob is my favorite, but this piece was just OK for me. Maybe it was the repetitive nature of the music, but I was not thrilled by it. I know, the judges loved it. They performed really well... I just wasn't bowled over. Sorry.

Russell and Noelle perform a Contemporary piece by Tyce

Ok. There were tons of stunning technical moments, but they all faded into the intention of the movement which was beautiful. I don't want to see the high legs or the big jumps or the 50 turns. I want to feel the those moments because of the emotion of the piece, the intention of the choreography. I shouldn't lose focus of the artistry because of the tricks and technical elements. In this piece, I didn't. Great choreography and concept Tyce!

Russell and Noelle did a fantastic job with the piece. This was a great moment for both of them.

Mollee and Nathan perform a Can Can by Tyce

Mollee + Nathan + Can Can = CHEESE

However, surprisingly, this routine was less cheesy from than other pieces that they have performed. This performance actually annoyed me less than their performances usual do.

There was a whole lot of pink on that stage though. Wow. Pink pants... really? really...

Nathan's turns in second were beautiful and his control to sustain the extension after his final rotation was phenomenal!

Karen and Victor perform a Hip Hop by Laurie Ann

Eh. I am not a big fan of their fake "hard" faces. Their unison movement lacked synchronicity at times and their performance appeared forced. I think their only saving grace was the lyrical quality of the sustained movement. Eh.

Legacy and Kathryn perform a Viennese Waltz by Jean Marc

I loved their transition from the baby doll hold to the floor. Super dramatic.

How amazing to see Legacy get emotional about the message of hope. How powerful.

So, according to Mary their technique needs more work which I could see (kinda), but their performance was really beautiful in sentiment. I really enjoyed how genuine and sophisticated their facial expressions and emotions were. You could see a real connection between the two of them.

Ellenore and Ryan perform a Broadway piece by Spencer

First, Chicago is one of my favorite Broadway musicals so I am a bit biased. It was interesting to watch choreography to this show that was not of the Fosse style. Cool interpretation and concept. I enjoyed it... however, I am still a purist at heart.

They both performed well. I actually think this character, costume and styling gave a nice roughness to Ryan as a dancer. Nice challenge for him that he met well.

Ellenore is (in the words of Alan Shankman) a ROCKSTAR!

OMG

If I see that horrible "I Can't Believe it's Not Butter" commercial with Megan Mullally one more time I think I am going to scream!

Ashleigh and Jakob perform a Jazz piece by Sonya

dang... Jakob's ponche was freakin' amazing.

I love how Sonya is able to include such demanding and athletic movement while keeping the feeling of the piece so soft and subtle. Some of those lifts and jumps... I can not even imagine trying to do one of them. The two of them made it look easy, but those were super hard.

I loved the music choice and loved the choreography. It was completed unexpected. That piece was beautiful. It was captivating. Their performance was flawless. That was a super memorable piece. That might be THE memorable piece of the season so far.

Russell and Noelle perform a Samba by Tony and Melanie

Boring... boring... boring...

Their performance lacked any depth. It was cheesy and immature to me. I hope they get a chance to redeem themselves in their next piece.

Mollee and Nathan perform a Hip Hop piece

Nice concept, but it didn't really work for me. I agree with Nigel, their performance was very tween to me. I am very interested to see them with different partners... that is if they make it to next week. So far, they are the weakest couple in my opinion.

Karen and Victor perform a Tango by Tony and Melanie

Really great music choice and choreography. I liked the contrasts in the dynamics of both. I loved the tension that was created in all of the transition moments.

No big surprise that Karen looked great performing this style or being sexy. Right up her alley. Victor did a great job. His attitude totally matched the mood of the piece.

It is nice to hear from Mary that this choreography was more difficult than most ballroom pieces because they were able to execute it perfectly.

PS - I love Mary's top... and I don't usually agree with her fashion choices.

Legacy and Kathryn perform a Jazz piece by Sonya

Awesome choreography. Really unique and rhythmic while maintaining a seductive vibe.

I think both Legacy and Kathryn looked great doing this piece. I love their costuming. I think for the first time this season, Kathryn looks a little edgy instead of sweet. Her technique and body lines are delicious. I am liking her more and more each week.

Legacy did great, but it was hard to take my eyes off Kathryn. Great dance for both of them!

Ryan and Ellenore perform a Lindy Hop piece

Not a big fan of the song, but I will try to not let that influence my opinion of the dancing which I thought was really strong. This style really suited Ellenore's fun personality which cam shining through. It also gave Ryan the opportunity to use his strength to throw Ellenore around bit.

Nice first routine. Hopefully they can keep it up.

I like the Lindy Hop. They don't do it much on SYTYCD... I wish they would do more.

Top 12 Performance Show

Everyone dances twice tonight and with their original partner for the last time this season! Should be interesting...

Channing and Kevin are going home...

It is hard to lose Channing. She is an outstanding dancer. I would kill for her technique. I think this is the result of an introverted personality combined with poor circumstances on the show. I think if Victor and Channing were paired together from the beginning we would have seen greater growth from Channing.

I think Kevin has had a really great run. I am a little bothered by Nigel's comments about Kevin though. Week after week, Nigel and the judges applauded Kevin for his ability to perform all of the dance styles at such a high level as a hip hop dancer. However, tonight Nigel defends sending him home with the idea that Kevin always looked uncomfortable in his duets. Ummm... mixed messages much?

I think we will see Kevin in a commercial or movie. He has too much talent and personality to not spring to something great!

Predictions

Ok - my guess is that Karen and Kevin will be going home this week. However, I could see the judges sending any of them home. I don't think any of these six dancers are favorites of the judges.

Solos...

Mollee, were we just transported to a competition? Mollee is such a strong dancer, she just a strong 16 year old competition dancer... not an adult dancer. She needs more time to mature artistically.

Nathan, hmmmm, what amazing core strength and control. Sure, lets all just do like 8+ rotations, suspend our balance and control our ending while still in posse. Awesome.

Solos...

Oh Karen... you just proved to the judges that you are in fact just a one trick pony. You need to rely on your technique, not your sexiness.

Kevin, that was not your best work. There was not enough put into that solo. Kevin better hope that the judges remember how much they love him when they go to make their elimination tonight.

Channing, that was was pretty nice. There was a lot of substance behind that lyrical solo. I think there was a little too much extension work for such a short period of time but let's face it... I'm just jealous of those awesome long leg lines!

Victor, I wish we have seen more of that from you in your duets. Those turns and technique are to die for.

Results for the last 2 couples

Mollee and Nathan are in the bottom. I know that they had a decent performance last night, but I am not upset that they are in the bottom at all. I think the judges have a total double standard where these two are concerned.

Kathryn and Legacy are safe. Their Paso Doble was super dynamic and passionately performed so they totally deserve to be safe.

PS - Did Cat steal Susan Boyle's wardrobe tonight? What they heck is that?

Results for the next 3 couples...

Ellenore and Ryan are safe thanks to their breath taking piece choreographed by Travis Wall.

Noelle and Russell are safe. I think this is a result of their fan following. They had a great performance, but I think people are voting for Russell's adorableness more than their standout performance.

Channing and Victor are in the bottom. I am surprised because I think they both had a good night last night. Unfortunately, their show history might be negatively effecting them. Channing and Victor have both had previous partners which I think has prevented them from developing a strong following of fans. They both also have subtle personalities which also might be hurting them a bit.

Results for the first 2 couples...

Ashleigh and Jakob are safe as expected. Their performance was strong and Jakob is my favorite so they would have to be safe.

Karen and Kevin are in the bottom. No surprise there. Their Broadway routine left a lot to be desired.

November 18 - Results Show!

14 will be narrowed down to 12 tonight.

Amazing opening number by Wade and Amanda Robson. Their creativity is absolutely endless. I adore how they are able to bring a unique concept to life with such artistry. I almost feel like their choreographic style should become a dance style of its own.

Till tomorrow!

I agree with the judges, Karen and Kevin are going to need their fans to stay up late voting tonight to keep them out of the bottom but sometimes comments like that is exactly the help that the couple needs... We shall see!

Mollee and Nathan perform a Pop Jazz piece by Laurie Ann Gibson

I have mixed feelings about this couple. They both have so much potential, but it is not coming together completely. I kinda think Nathan is being held back by Mollee. Although this was a good style for both of them, I don't think that Mollee is mature enough for this competition. Clearly they can both perform at this level from a physical stand point, but holistically, they are just not there. I think Nathan has the ability to hold his own and grow to the same level as the other contestants, but I don't think he can do it with Mollee as his partner.

I think Alan's comment speaks volumes about them as a couple. If he needs to give them the advice to look at the couples that the judges are praising and see what they can learn, doesn't that say something? They are talking to them and treating them like they are children. The judges aren't acting that way with any other couples...

Ryan and Ellenore perform a Contemporary piece by Travis Wall

Really incredible piece. I loved the song choice and the athleticism of the choreography. Travis really put them through the ringer physically and emotionally and they held up to the challenge. They both showed every ounce of their training in practically every movement. Travis continuously asked them to move through strenuous moments with fluidity and grace. I loved Travis' creativity in choreography. You could feel the underlying driving beat of the music pulsate through their emotional exploration of movement and storyline. Incredible.

I was expecting great choreography from Travis, but I wasn't expecting much from Ryan and Ellenore and they both surprised me. They will definitely be safe. Ryan surprised me in his ability to perform this style at such a high level of integrity. Ellenore is a powerhouse! Where did that come from? As a couple and as individuals, they needed this dance tonight. This performance, Travis' unexpected and demanding yet artistic choreography, helped them make a name for themselves. They definitely bounced back after last week's horrible hip hop "experiment."

Kathryn and Legacy peform a Paso Doble by Tony and Meredith

Kathryn really sold this piece for me. She had power, passion and performance quality. I think this gave her the chance to show that she is not as soft and delicate as she first appears.

Legacy did a good job too, but there is something about his placement that bothered me. In an effort to be strong, he came off stiff. It wasn't bad... it was just a little forced in my opinion.

Channing and Victor perform a Jazz piece by Tyce

Really interesting and fun choreography by Tyce. I love the way he interpreted the rhythmic idiosyncrasies of the skat singing and music. I don't know if it was the choreography or the performance, but they appeared to sort of go in and out of bird movements and "regular" movements. I found this a little distracting. Perhaps it was the intention, but it interfered with the development of the story for me.

Both of them clearly illustrated what physically strong and well trained dancers they are. They are well-suited for each other.

Noelle and Russell perform a Fox Trot by

Ok - yes, Russell is very good, but a foute into a double turn does not amaze me considering that he was a dance student a the University of the Arts in Philly! I think Russell has more classical training than we have been led to believe.

They both danced well and their ballroom technique has clearly improved (according to Mary) which is great, but I don't think the dance had enough youth-appeal to keep them safe. If they are safe, it will be the result of a strong following not their performance.

Karen and Kevin do a Broadway piece from Sweet Charity by Spencer

Hmmmm... ok... I liked the choreography. It was very true to the art of musical theater. However, it was a boring performance. I think they both danced well, but there was something missing. I was impressed by Kevin's ability to articulate the choreography without looking like a Hip Hop dancer trying to perform Broadway. His performance wasn't great, but I would like to give him credit for that.

I would be shocked if they were not in the bottom 3 couples this week. I just don't think it was memorable... or good enough... to keep them safe.

Ashleigh and Jakob perform a lyrical Hip Hop piece by Tabitha and Napoleon

That was a really great routine both in choreography and performance. Ashleigh and Jakob did an awesome job keeping the integrity of the choreography while articulating the dynamics of their characters. I agree with Nigel that both of them have grown immensely during this competition.

I think Jakob is probably my favorite dancer at this point. He is amazing. I can't believe how well he is able to perform each and every dance style.

My only complaint about the piece... Ashleigh was clearly trying really hard to do her best and in doing so, I think some of her facial expressions looked contrived, but obviously, I am being really picky to complain about something so minor...

Top 14 Performance Show

With only 7 couples and 2 hours of programming, we are in for an exciting night of lots of filler from the judges and random pre-dance segments. Awesome!

Pauline and Peter head home

I agree with the judges 100% about their criticism of Pauline. Her solo was elementary for an advanced dancer.

Unfortunately, in the past three weeks Peter has not been able to stand out enough in his performances to create a following in the judges or from the audience. Sad to see another taper go though...

Till next week!

My predictions

Ok - for the ladies I think Pauline and Ellenore are both options, but I would have to go with Pauline. I just don't think the judges are going to be impressed by her solo. It lacked any form of artistry.

For the gentlemen I think Peter will be going home. After two tappers went home last week I feel like they might be on a roll clearing the tappers out. If it was me, I would be sending Ryan home, but I think the judges like him too much.

Second three solos...

Peter's solo was awesome. I am glad that he went acapella so that we could really hear his taps clearly. Nice job.

Karen's solo ok for a ballroom solo. It was definitely not as awkward as Ryan's was. She will be safe because the judges totally love her.

Kevin's solo was good. I think the judges love him too so I doubt that he will be going home tonight.

First three solos...

Ellenore's solo was interesting and original. I don't know if it will be enough to keep her safe though.

Ryan's solo was awkward and uneventful. Ballroom solos usually are. I think the judges are really loving him lately so I doubt that he will be going home tonight.

Pauline's solo lacked depth and was more about random tricks and energy... I would be surprised with the judges liked it.

Results for the last 2 couples

Shock... Surprise... Big Upset...

Mollee and Nathan are safe despite their horrible performance. It is amazing what a fan base can do.

Karen and Kevin are one of the bottom three couples. Ouch. They should have been safe.

Results for the next 3 couples...

Jakob and Ashleigh are safe. They had a good night thanks to Mandy's totally awesome 80s jazz choreography. They both performed well and definitely deserve to be safe this week.

Pauline and Peter are in the bottom. I am a little surprised by this result because I thought that their original quick step performance concept and costuming would have made this dance more memorable. I guess they don't have a big fan base?

Noelle and Russell are safe. They had a really original dance that they performed well... their performance stood out and people obviously enjoyed them.

Results for the first 3 couples...

Ryan and Ellenore are one of the bottom three couples - I can't say that I am surprised. Their hip hop performance left a lot to be desired.

Channing and Victor are safe. They had a good night thanks to Stacy's awesome choreography. I think this new couple will have a promising future.

Kathryn and Legacy are also safe. I am a little surprised by this considering their ok Broadway performance. I would guess that Legacy has a pretty strong following that was willing to put in the time to vote last night to keep them out of the bottom.

November 11 - Results Show!

Really cool opening number by Dave Scott. I loved the story and non traditional costuming. I love when the costume and styling does not look like a hip hop piece yet has full integrity with the dance style based on the intention of the concept.

Awesome.

Till tomorrow!

Nathan and Mollee are going to need some serious help... should be interesting to see what happens tomorrow night!

Noelle and Russell perform an Afro Jazz piece by Shawn

Hmmmm... interesting...

I enjoyed it... but I am sort of left speechless. I am not sure really what to say. It was good. Interesting...

Mollee and Nathan perform a Salsa

There was a serious lack of chemistry between them this week. That was horrible. There is something about Mollee that bothers me. She is awkward... maybe it is her immature movement. The performance was chopping, fumbly, awkward, and amateurish. Nothing was synchronized. That was really bad. If they are not one of the bottom couples I will be disappointed.

Ryan and Ellenore perform a Hip Hop piece by Lil C

Boring. I think it was really good that they had such extreme costumes that sort of hid them a bit so that you could watch their movements and separate them from the person. I think it helps being objective. I don't know if it was the moderate tempo or the not-so-comfortable performance, but it was boring to me. They both tried. Ryan was better than I thought he would be, but it just didn't work. I think they are going to be in trouble.

Interesting to hear Nigel and Adam debate hip hop... no really, go on... I want to hear more...

Channing and Victor perform a Contemporary piece by Stacey

For being a new couple, I think the two of them showed a good amount of chemistry. I think having Contemporary probably put them both at ease and allowed them to focus on growing together. I enjoyed the choreography, but like Mary, I was not incredibly moved by it. It was a beautiful piece, but it didn't pull at me. I was also distracted a little by the costuming. The ultra pedestrian quality of Victor's costume contrasted too much with Channing's ice skater-like dress. the contrast does not look like a purposeful or artistic choice. The awkward length of Channing's skirt made her look really short and broke her lines. Their costumes looked like an after thought to me.

Kathryn and Legacy perform a Broadway piece by Andy

Really cute choreography. Adorable performance. As usual, I agree with Adam... I don't know if their performances clearly communicated their character. Their characters lacked depth... it was very shallow and on the surface, but it was still cute. I think they will be in trouble.

Pauline and Peter perform a Quick Step

I think the characters and song selection really helped the two of them make this work. Like Adam, I can't talk about the technical elements, but I agree that the strong performance helped them hide some of their technical issues. However, the majority of the audience is not going to be evaluating their technique... so, I would guess that they too will be safe... unless the rest of the couples all rock it... then they might end up on the bottom.

Asleigh and Jakob perform a Jazz piece by Mandy Moore

Mandy Moore loves herself some 80s music. I am cracking up at bit an Ashleigh's shiny high waisted stretch pants, slouchy socks and high heels... nice faux mullet pony tail.

I enjoyed the choreography and use of the cane. They both did a great job working with each and staying in character. They have a great relationship and chemistry developing. They sold the rhythmic precision and sharp body lines of the choreography. I was not a big fan of Ashleigh's in the beginning, but I am starting to warm-up to her. I think they will both be safe.

Karen and Kevin do the Hustle

Nice shoulder action there Kevin! hahaha!

Well, Karen definitely visibly sold the piece, but I think Kevin did well too. It wasn't as smooth as I would have liked, but there were several really nice moments. I really liked the smaller lift when Karen was in a back attitude against Kevin's hip and he was rotating. Her leg line was beautiful and they both made it look effortless. Nice job, I think they will be safe.

Top 16 Performance Show

Top 16 perform tonight and for the first time this season, the audience will vote for their favorite dancer. Should be interesting...

Bianca and Phillip go home

Two tappers bite the dust. It was great to see tappers make it this far in the competition, but I agree with the judges decision.

It was an ok night on SYTYCD. So far, I am not super impressed or excited about season 6. Let's hope things get better next week!

Solos...

I thought Noelle danced with passion and grace. Beautiful!

Victor demonstrated great power her solo, but it sort of came of as a cheap imitation of Brandon's Carmina Burana solo from last season.

Bianca is a really talented tapper. Great musicality and articulation. I just wish she could transition into other styles better.

Phillip is also a really talented tapper. Hmmmm... maybe Victor will be going home instead.

Noelle, Bianca, Victor and Phillip are in danger

I am not completely by the result, but I think that I would have switched Noelle and Channing maybe... I would guess that Bianca and Phillip will go home...

Ryan and Ellenore perform a Tango by Miram and Leonardo

Smooth transitions. Dramatic moments. Elegant and effortless lifts. Beautiful lines. This was a great performance for both of them. Ryan was an excellent partner. Ellenore was beautiful. They had amazing chemistry that made the piece work. Otherwise the quiet sophistication of the mid tempo piece would have left the audience bored and unengaged.

Pauline and Peter perform and Jazz piece by Wade and Amanda Robson

An earlier draft of van Gogh's Starry Night... interesting Wade... what are you on? How does your mind work?

You can tell that Wade is a true lover of music with his ever diverse music selections. I like how they animated the background. I think it really accented the energy of the piece and complimented the concept.

I really enjoyed it. It wasn't technical... it was rhythmic... it was filled with subtle nuances... it had lyrical moments juxtaposed with precise accents. It took a lot of talent for the two of them to pull this off despite the lack of technical elements. I liked it, but I wouldn't be surprised if audience members were left confused. I appreciate Wade's creative evolution of movement and inspiration!

Kathryn and Legacy perform a Contemporary piece by Stacey Tookey

I loved it! Great choreography by Stacey Tookey. Great, unexpected music choice. Great performances by Kathryn and Legacy. I agree with Adam, Legacy was really transformed during that piece. He showed great maturity of movement. They both articulated lyrical nuances and emotional abandonment with subtle power. Kathryn has beautiful body lines and great strength. I think this is going to be the memorable piece of the evening... I think this will be one that we will remember throughout season 6.

Kevin and Karen perform a Hip Hop piece by Tabitha and Napoleon

I don't know how I feel about a song called "Ice Cream Paint Job." A couple inappropriate moments of choreography Nappy Tabs... woah!

Karen definitely missed some little moments here and there, but overall I think she held her own with Kevin. They worked really well together, sold the concept and kept the energy pumping. Great work to both of them. They are safe this week.

Phillip and Channing dance a Samba by Tony and Melanie

Clumsy, abrupt, awkward... yuck. That was not good for either of them. They really struggled. That lift was horribly awkward. The ending was super clumsy. Ouch. They tried really hard, but couldn't make it happen. At least they aren't in denial about their performance.

Molly and Nathan perform a Bollywood piece by Nakul DevMahajan

I loved the opening and closing silhouette, however the background of the Taj Mahal was a bit much. Artistic lighting would have been better.

I think this was good for both of them, but I think this was really good for Molly. I think that she had to concentrate so much on the style that she was able to abandon all of her immature bad habits and cheesiness. The two of them worked really well together, kept their energy up and appeared to articulate the style of Bollywood well.

Bianca and Victor perform a Broadway piece by Tyce

Bianca definitely got the flavor and style of the choreography and musical, but her technique leaves much to be desired. I just pray that she learns how to roll through her feet and extend through her lines. She was moving through her movement with FLAT FEET! Eek!

I agree with the judges. The performance was too placed and stiff. Neither of them got lost in the character. Victor definitely has technique, but it looked like the trained ballet dancer trying to dance another style. The energy from the music and spirit of the musical overwhelmed the dancers... they just couldn't pull it off. I think they are in jeopardy! Nice choreography though Tyce.

Ashleigh and Jakob perform a Viennese Waltz by Tony and Melanie

First, Jakob's impression of bad dancing was pretty funny!

Ok, onto the dance... I love this song by Etta James! What a beautiful classic. The choreography had a nice balance between classic elegance and intimate moments. I am rarely a fan of the ballroom pieces, but I really enjoyed it. Jakob's turning switch leap was beautiful! I agree with Adam Shankman that it was a bit tricky... however that might have been what caused me to like it. It had more entertainment value than the usual ballroom piece. I can't believe I liked the tricky-ness of it... my dance students know that I HATE random tricks without an intention behind the movement more than anything... I must be losing it!

Russell and Noelle perform a Hip Hop piece by Jamal Sims

Interesting contrast between a preppy sport like tennis and hip hop. I don't know if the concept matched the music for me. I think Russell and Noelle both sold the piece as much as they could, but I don't think this was a great performance for either of them. This is a disappointment considering that this is Russell's comfort zone. I love a good story line and a solid concept, but I was just not feeling this one. It was ok... I think they will be safe though because it sounds like the judges are ok with it overall.

Top 18 Performance and Selection Show

I am excited to see that Noelle is able to dance! I am looking forward to tonight's dances!