and the winner is... LAUREN!!!!

Wow! I can't believe she did it. She beat Kent. That is crazy. I would have been happy regardless of who won between them. I bet the judges are happy. Very exciting for her.

I am just sad that the season has ended. I will miss watching amazing dances each week! Well, here is to an outstanding season and to what next season has to come!

Twitch and Ellen perform Outta Your Mind

That was hilarious-ily awesome!!! Way to go Ellen DeGeneres! I can't believe she actually did most of the choreography and did a half decent job at executing it. That was awesome, just awesome!

Encore performances

Billy and Robert take a trip to Bollywood to bring back their celebrated duet. I think we had more Bollywood routines this season than disco. It was the hot, trendy, cultural dance choices for the season.

Kent and Neil perform How it Ends, Travis Wall's controversial back stabbing piece. There are many opinions about the inspiration behind this piece. Some think that it is exactly as how it was presenting on the show... two great friends, one stabs the other in the back. However, others think this piece was about a bad breakup between two guys. Regardless of the inspiration, it gave Travis a reason to choreograph an awesome piece filled with emotion and artistry.

Encore performance

Lauren and Twitch perform a Nappy Tabs piece. With Nappy Tabs having a ton of encore performances of their pieces it makes me think that SYTYCD needs to diversify in their selection of choreographers.

Alex and Alex's performance to Hallelujah was revisited via video due to Alex's injury, but it was still outstanding. Tear... I miss Alex... why did he have to get injured!?!? Why!?!?

Robert takes 3rd place

No shock here. Robert should be super proud of finishing in third place this season. I mean, he beat Billy Bell and well, um, Billy is A-MA-ZING. He didn't look surprised by the results so I think Robert knew that he couldn't compete with Kent and Lauren's fan bases. REMINDER ALERT... Robert was in the bottom three almost every week. He defied all logic to make it to the finale.

UK SYTYCD Winner performs with Neil

First, Surrender is one of my favorite pieces of music. So great selection Stacey!

Second, Charlie is clearly classically trained. Her technique oooooozed out of every move that she made. Beautiful performances from her and Neil, but I could have used a little more grit behind that gorgeous technique. It was just a bit too pretty for my taste.

Encore performance

Jose and Dominick bring back their sword and the stone b-boy piece, the first ever b-boy duet on SYTYCD. Fun piece, I still like Dominick's performance better than Jose.

Encore performances

Lauren and Pasha perform an Argentine Tango by Miram and Leonardo... DRAMA... but I don't remember this piece at all.

FIX YOU!!! Robert and Allison melted my heart again with their performance. This should definitely earn Travis an Emmy award for choreography. Best piece of the season. Without a doubt.

Cool Foot Luke

That 7 year old is a wicked tap dancer! He is unbelievable! I want to meet his dance teacher. He has got to be home schooled because he must be studying tap like 10 hours a day. I mean, I am usually impressed when a 7 year old has a clean double time step. Little 7 year old Luke is my new hero.

Encore performance

Robert and Dominick perform Scars, another Nappy Tabs piece. This was probably my second favorite hip hop piece of the season. I think it is the dark quality of the dramatic concept. I didn't like the more subtle make-up on Robert this time around though. I'm sure they kept it simple so that he could make a quick change for his next piece, but the lack of crazy, dark make-up made this performance not as strong as the debut performance for me.

Encore performances

AdeChike and Comfort perform Fallin', choreographed by Nappy Tabs. I think this dance capitalized on AdeChike's strengths and was his finest performance outside of his comfort zone.

Kent and Anya perform my My First Kiss, a cha cha choreographed by Jean Marc and France. I don't remember this as being one of the best routines from the season and I don't think all of the judges were fans of Kent's performance. I am really surprised that they decided to bring this dance back for the finale.

Encore performances

Kent and Neal started us off with a repeat performance of Shoeless Joe which was just as fun as it was the first time around.

Billy Bell and Ade brought back Stacey's Mad World... the depth of that dance still astounds me. Billy is so darn talented; how did he go home after performing that piece?

Yes, the top 3 are outstanding dancers but watching Mad World makes me feel like we are missing two dancers that should be in the top 3... Billy never should have left us and it is so unfortunate that Alex got injured.

FINALE!!!!!

What an energy-charged opening number for the finale! Amazing choreography by Christopher Scott. He did an excellent job of weaving different styles of dance into a cohesive piece. Did you see Billy Bell whip out some crazy flexibility tricks? It was awesome to see Alex worked into the piece. Nice use of a chair on wheels.

Has anyone ever noticed that all of the girls standing in the front of the audience are always wearing cute, trendy dresses? Do you think SYTYCD mandates a "costume" for their audience members?

So, what now?

I actually think Lauren is going to take this one. Maybe I am falling victim to the shameless marketing by the judges but I think she is going to give Kent a run for his money. One thing is for sure... you better vote for your favorite because I think it is going to be a close one!

Kent and Robert perform a Malevos (sp?)

What the hell was that? I found most of it to be awkward and weird. There were a couple cool moments like Robert's slow motion punch as Kent did a dramatic back bend under strobe lights. Otherwise, I was not into it.

Lauren and Pasha perform a ballroom piece by Tony and Melanie

Well, who doesn't loose control when they see Pasha?

Sexy, hot, amazing lifts... whoa. That was a pretty awesome performance by Lauren. Like Nigel, I am not a ballroom expert but her performance appeared to be on point to me.

Mia to Lauren... "if I was still dancing, I would want to dance exactly like you." Is there a higher compliment you could receive from Mia Michaels? I am pretty sure that Lauren could loose tomorrow night and still be happy after receiving that praise. WOW!

Robert and Kathryn perform a Broadway piece by Spencer

I LOVED this original interpretation of West Side Story's Cool. I usually HATE non traditional interpretations of Broadway pieces, but it was a lovely surprise. Kathryn is amazing and Robert is pretty darn great himself. I found the interchange between the two of them to be filled with tension and suspense. Robert's shoulders were a bit tense and lifted in the beginning perhaps in an attempt to capture his character, but I was able to look past that after the intro and got lost in their connection.

Robert split the seam of his pants right up the butt! Thank goodness he had some dark undies on beneath.

Lauren's Solo

Great control on her frozen arabesque, but as with the other solos... the same as previous solos. Good, but eh. At least they are all in the same boat.

Kent and Allison perform a Contemporary piece by Stacey

I loved how this choreography really illustrated a dialogue between the two dancers. Stacey does such an incredible job of bringing out intensity and turmoil in contrast to the soft music. It makes the movement speak instead of the lyrics. Really amazing effect.

Gorgeous dancing by both Kent and Allison. Artistically fabulous. Allison has really lucked out this season and has gotten to perform several amazing contemporary pieces.

Robert's Solo

Great solo, but again... remarkably similar to previous solos by Robert. Good, but eh.

Kent and Lauren perform a Jazz piece by Mandy Moore

Huey Lewis makes me have a flashback to Back to the Future. I have to say, I am super surprised that Mandy choose piece of music from the 80s. That is so out of character for her.

I found Lauren's performance to be a bit cheer-i-rific for my taste. Kent's performance had a bit more character behind the movement.

I agree with the judges, there just wasn't much to this choreography. This dance could have been performed by 2 seven year olds. There was no challenge. It was a bit of a waste of this dynamic duo's talent.

Lauren and Robert perform a Contemporary piece by Dee

Beautiful choreography by Dee! I adored the prop study with the pillow. What an unconventional prop for a dance piece. It become a bit of a "dance about a pillow" which I think distracted me a little from the beauty of the dancers. At the same time, I was entranced by the continuity of their movement. It was milky and thick with gooey body lines like Lauren's opening ponche and emotional bursts from their personal connection. I would also like to commend Dee on his primarily instrumental musical selection. It was refreshing to watch a dance filled with emotion and artistry that was not explicitly defined by the lyrics of the song.

Kent's Solo

Great solo, but it was remarkably similar to past solos. Similar tricks, jumps, leaps, turns and intimate moments. I wish that their solos for the finale were choreographed professionally. They deserve a big, moving solo moment and these 30 second bits are become redundant and uninspiring. Good, but eh.

Robert and Mark perform a Jazz piece by Tyce

Robert and Mark looked almost like twins dancing together. I have always been a fan of Mark's and think that he is an incredible dancer, but I think Robert out danced Mark in that piece. He did an excellent job emphasizing the cookiness of the of the choreography. I love how he dances beyond his natural body perimeter. His energy shoots out through every body line. He did an excellent job providing a crisp ending and fluid transition to the movement. Yes, Robert has grown by leaps and bounds this season but he is not a contender for the title. Sorry Robert!

Lauren and Twitch perform a Hip Hop piece by Nappy Tabs

Interesting political debate concept by Nappy Tabs. Very unexpected. I agree with the judges, Lauren did an excellent job with this piece. She brought energy, precision and athleticism to this piece. The judges seem to be campaigning for Lauren to win this competition. Mia thinks that Lauren hasn't had a bad performance all season... that might be true, but I remember a few performances from early in the competition that did not win over the judges and cause them to ooze with compliments. Are we forgetting that Lauren lacked maturity and was a prime example of a competition dancer? Perhaps that is more support for Lauren because she has definitely experienced outstanding growth, especially in recent weeks.

Well, it should be interesting to see how she does in future pieces. Will she show that she is indeed super consistent as Mia claims or will she open the door for one of the men to steal the show?

Kent and Lauren perform a Bollywood piece

This Bollywood piece was a more moderate tempo than previous Bollywood pieces which I think allowed Kent and Lauren to hit the choreography consistently throughout the piece. Fun piece. The choreography definitely made good use of Kent's tumbling ability. It was a soft start to the evening, but I don't think it is going to hurt Kent at all.

FINALE WEEK! Top 3 Perform!

So, it is down to Kent, Lauren and Robert... each contestant will dance four pieces and a solo tonight.

Looking back on this season definitely reminds me of all of the great performances we got to see over the past few months. There was a lot of talent on this season.

FINALE NEXT WEEK!

I can't wait! I am looking forward to seeing a lot of repeat performances of this season's best pieces!

Robert is the third dancer in the finale

So AdeChike goes home, as predicted and Robert joins Kent and Lauren in the finale. Well, if you would have asked if Robert would be in the finale back in week 2 I would have said no way. The kid was in the bottom 3 almost every week until recently. Crazy how things end up.

AdeChike should be proud of himself. I really believe that he is going to get some amazing opportunities to dance in an arena that makes him shine.

Flo Rida Performs

This song is so darn catchy. I have had it stuck in my head all day! I really enjoyed watching the All Stars dance during the performance. It is such a fun song it totally makes you want to get up and dance.

PS - I think if I could be any All Star I would want to be Courtney. She is super talented and has a bit of edge to her performance style.

Which All Star would you want to be?

Kent makes it into the finale

Surprise, surprise. The season favorite with tons of personality will be dancing in the finale next week. He is going to be hard to beat.

Robert's Solo

Weirdly similar music choice to AdeChike's instrumental pick, but Robert highlighted a bit more of his strengths in his solo. I found Robert's solo to be more entertaining and technically challenging than AdeChike's.

AdeChike's Solo

Hmmm... nice musicality, but he didn't really show us much. I guess since their fates were decided by the audience and there is nothing riding on this performance the contestants decided to not spend a ton of time on their solos for tonight.

Lauren makes it through

Lauren is the first contestant to make it into the finale. Not surprising that she made it in, but it is a surprise that she had more votes than Kent. Apparently there was only a 2% difference between first and second place. So, maybe Lauren does have a chance to win it all.

Kent's Solo

Clearly Kent came out to have some fun tonight. Really? Dynamite? His choreography lacked originality and was filled with tumbling, but he had fun. I wasn't entertained, but he had fun. It looked like an after thought. He definitely did not take much time preparing this.

Lauren's Solo

Lauren's solo has come a long way. I actually enjoyed her performance this week. It was raw, emotional and not filled with a ton of tricks... but there were still a few tricks. They were just much more artistically presented. Nice work, but who is Kat kidding. This was not Lauren's last performance on the show. Come on. She is totally going to make it into the finale.

The Top 4 become the Top 3

Great opening number by Dee Caspary, but please... can we stop using Florence + the Machine? I know that they are the hottest, under the radar band right now, but please leave some awesome music for the rest of us!

Ok... that's it. I am just going to throw it out there now... this fall I hope to choreograph to Cosmic Love, Falling and the remix of Rabbit Heart. Yes, all three from Florence + the Machine. Please... don't use any them. Please!

But really, awesome routine by Dee. I am so glad that the opening number included the All Stars as well as the remaining contestants. The larger group really brought so much energy to this piece. Plus, the All Stars are kinda awesome.

My prediction

Kent and Lauren will definitely be safe. It is really between AdeChike and Robert. If it is based on tonight's performances alone, AdeChike will go home. If the pattern of the season keeps up, Robert will go home. I hope people vote for Robert because he performed wonderfully tonight. He deserves to stay for the finale in my opinion.

Kent and Neil perform a Contemporary piece by Travis Wall

Stabbed in the back. Ouch!

Wow, Neil threw Kent like 10 feet in the air!

As usual, captivating choreography by Travis Wall backed by a storyline full of depth, emotion and sophistication. Kent and Neil were outstanding together. Their technique and artistry make a killer duo. Brilliant. Wow.

Are you kidding me... I have really missed having Tyce on the panel of judges. Mia was left speechless. No doubt, it was strong yet beautiful.

Robert and Dominick perform a Hip Hop piece by Nappy Tabs

Ok... these are all of the things that I loved about this piece:

1. Concept of creepy hip hop clowns
2. Balloons all over the stage... totally helped set the scene
3. Urban inspired clown costumes with jeans... patches of funky fabrics... awesome
4. Freaky clown make-up and hair... how did they get Robert's hair to do that?
5. Super creative choreography
6. Robert doing Hip Hop... who knew!
7. Robert and Dominick together doing hip hop... really, who knew!

Adam though Robert out danced Dominick and Mia agreed... a little bit. Crazy!

AdeChike's background

Grew up in "the hood" of Brooklyn. Had to defend his love of dance throughout his life. Went to the LaGuardia Arts High School. AdeChike receive a prestigious award from the high school in '05... Arthur Mitchell, founder of the Dance Theater of Harlem, was the first person to win the award.

AdeChike with Kathryn perform a piece by Desmond Richardson and Dwight Rohden

Ok, I was not expecting a musical selection by Melissa Etheridge. That was a surprise.

I did not love this piece. I am not sure about the choreography... which I feel super guilty saying because of the amazing choreographers. There was just a bit of awkwardness about the whole thing.

I would like to thank Tyce for trying to celebrate AdeChike's achievements in the midst of so much constructive criticism of his performance. AdeChike is an amazingly talented dancer, he just needs more time to grow and the other contestants... mainly Kent and Lauren (but Robert somewhat too) have taken things to another level. AdeChike just needs some time to catch up.

Lauren and Ade perform a Jazz piece by Sean Cheesman

That was one fierce cat suit that Lauren had on. Damn... she looked HOT!

What was that hanging reverse back bend over Ade's shoulders? Crazy awesome choreography from Sean Cheesman. It was strong, sexy and creative. I agree with Tyce, I too would have preferred a stronger ending from Lauren. A killer strong pose at the end would have put the period on the end of the sentence.

Also... did anyone else notice the fumble in choreography that occurred about 30 seconds in? There was a definite moment of unintentional non-unison movement.

Ok... I have always thought Lauren was good, but tonight she is winning me over a bit, but I haven't made any final decisions yet.

Kent's Background

Country boy from Wapakoneta, lives on a farm in a super small town. Also plays soccer, but quit soccer junior year of high school in order to focus on dance. The Mayor of Wapakoneta said that Kent is known as a dancer and if he is ever in a show the whole town shows up to support him. How adorable!

Kent and Courtney perform a Disco piece by Doriana Sanchez

Interesting twist, a disco piece to contemporary club music. Although I really enjoyed the piece, I missed the traditional music. Fun choreography as usual from Doriana.

Kent is simply amazing. He totally lights up the stage. He has a performance quality that you can't teach. You either have it or you don't. However, Mia found it to be Kent's worse performance this season and Adam agreed. Adam found it too cheesy and not suave enough. I can see it, but I really liked his performance. It was super fun... It's disco people, not contemporary. It is supposed to be cheesy and fun.

My favorite interchange between a judge and Kent after the piece...

Nigel: How many lifts did you lose in that piece Kent because I only counted two and Doriana usually has 7 or 8?

Kent: Um, yeah... I'm just not big... but I got her up there.

Robert's background

Parents divorced when he was in middle school, mother remarried and his step father has had a really positive impact on him. Moved to the LA area after high school and currently lives with season 6 contestant Channing Cook.

Robert and Anya perform a Viennese Waltz by Jonathan Roberts

I have to admit, I have a soft spot for this greatly overused piece of music. I found the choreography to be just as soft, beautiful and intimate as the music. Robert and Anya were beautifully romantic together.

I think Robert did an excellent job with this piece. From Nigel's comments, it sounds like his ballroom technique was even on point. Robert was a perfect partner and was never overshadowed by Anya... not easy to do!

AdeChike and Lauren perform a Afro Jazz by Dave

There is something so joyous about African drumming. Great music and really fun choreography.

Lauren out shined AdeChike in stamina and performance quality in my opinion. As Tyce expressed, AdeChike did a good job, but he is capable of more. All of the judges shared the feeling that AdeChike needs to release his tremendous control and get lost in the piece. Right now, the control and center that make him so strong and technically excellent is holding him back from going to the next level. Technique should be at the core, but artistry has to take over... he is just not getting there yet. Overall, it was a good piece, but it was also a bit disappointing.

Lauren's background

Cheerleading, dance line, elementary education teaching club, vice president of her class... just graduated from high school...

Lauren and Pasha perform a Tango by Miriam & Leonard

I really enjoyed the slow, sultry quality of this piece. I think Lauren and Pasha really connected to create a dramatic performance full of tension and intensity. It is 10x harder to make a slow dance interesting than a quick one... and they did a great job of capturing the attention of the audience. You could hear a pin drop in that theater it was so quiet. Great choreography!

The judges are glowing about Lauren... Tyce's "um, ah, ooh and umpf" couldn't have been more descriptive of Lauren's exceptional performance.

Top 4 perform a Broadway piece by Tyce - Guys and Dolls

Eh. It was ok. I was kind of bored by it. I expected more from the lot of the them. Perhaps there wasn't enough storyline in the choreography?

I agree with Tyce... Kent definitely does stand out in this classical Broadway style.

Top 4 Perform Tonight!

Only one person will go home this week... the last week before the finale!