by Sandra Cole

Created on: August 15, 2010   Last Updated: August 16, 2010

If you’ve never watched So You Think You Can Dance, the results show for the Seventh Season illustrated all the reasons why this should be a “don’t miss” show for anyone with the slightest interest in dance.  It featured the judges’ favorite dance routines from the season and showcased the three finalists as well as former competitors and All-Stars.  The wonderfully choreographed numbers included everything from moving pieces about domestic abuse, supporting a mother with cancer, and the break-up of a friendship to manic clowns, a hot Argentine tango and a Bollywood number.  Hip hop and Contemporary dances were included in those chosen.  The sheer variety of forms dance can take was well represented this summer, with fine choreography throughout and moves that made you gasp.

The three finalists were all appealing people:  Kent, the farm kid whose natural appeal entranced many a female viewer; Lauren the bouncy cheerleader who could tackle any dance form brilliantly, and Robert whose classic good looks and dancing talent kept him alive in the competition through several close calls.  The affection they had for each other was obvious and held them in good stead despite the fierce competition.

And it was fierce- with the final competitive show featuring four dances by each of the final three dancers.  The rehearsal shots showed the dancers with the choreographers, falling and stumbling through the learning of each routine, making the amazing final performances seem miraculous.

Guidance is given by the panel of experts- Nigel Lythgow the producer, Mia Michaels a former dancer and choreographer, and Adam Shankman who also danced and choreographed but has worked as a film director and producer as well.  Support is given to the dancers by Cat Deeley, who radiates sincerity as she congratulates those who wowed the judges and bolsters up those who didn’t fare as well.

This year’s roster of dancing competitors was very strong and added to the enjoyment of the show.  By the last evening, each of the three finalists would have been a good choice for “America’s Favorite Dancer.”  Lauren Froderman was the winner who received the most phone-in votes.  But as in other reality competition shows, you can’t count out any of the top eleven.  Many of theseason’s dancers and All-Stars from past seasons will go on tour with the show this summer and some will go on to outstanding dance careers.  They may be among the All-Stars who enhanced this year’s show, or become choreographers such as Travis Wall who appeared on the show five years ago at 18, and now is a world class choreographer.

This Season Seven of So You Think You Can Dance was wonderfully entertaining with amazing dancers moving in ways you would think was impossible.  Be sure you don’t miss Season Eight with its new cast of amazing young dancers chosen from auditions around the country!

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