I really hate season 6 of So You Think You Can Dance very much, it’s been twisted so much. This evening’s finale performance has again been shortened to a one-hour time slot, what the ****!

Because there is only one hour, so there is no solos, no girls’ or men’s group dance. Still, each contestant has to dance three times, with different partners. Here’s how the night goes down:

First on stage, Kathryn and Ryan, Samba, by Jason Gilkinson. I really hope that Jason will get more choreographs in the future seasons. He’s done another incredible job of presenting us a tribal-like samba. Ryan is of course great in his style, while Kathryn has very great control in all her movements. Great start of the night, if they could have shown a bit more emotions it’s be perfect. Adam Shankman even commenting that the show should be renamed “The rise of Kathryn.”

Second couple, Jakob and Ellenore, Broadway, by Tyce Diorio. Another fantastic choreography. Both dancers’ strengths and personalities are shown amazingly. There is no doubt that these two are the best technical dancers of the six, and you’ll never disappointed with anything they’ve performed. The combination of Jakob’s flexibility and Ellenore’s smoldering look amazes everyone. You can’t criticize them with anything.

Third, Ashleigh and Russell, lyrical jazz, by Sonya. Russell’s growth is really unbelievably impressive. Having never been formally trained, his talent is just so extraordinary. As the judges say, there is no denial that Ashleigh is a great dancer and performer, BUT Russell completely owned this piece. His extensions and pointed toes look just like professionals. Mary Murphy even cries for she has “never watched someone grow as much as Russell has.”

Fourth, Ellenore and Ryan, Jazz, by Gary Stewart. This is a weird robot dance, and I think it might do some harms to both of them in the voting. As for me, I could not find myself liking the dance. Both of them performed this number as well as they could, but it’s not connected to me. Ryan’s still a strong partner, but there are times that he does not fully straighten his legs or really get himself into the character. On the other hand, Ellenore is completely into her character.

Fifth, Ashleigh and Jakob, Fox Trot, by Jean Marc Generaux. I agree with Nigel that they are a better couple than Ryan and Ashleigh. Their chemistry is so strong that you would think are the real couple. Jakob has always supported Ashleigh in every moves, making her shine. This is not a better performance than some others of the night, still it’s a great routine. And I believe both of them will get many votes.

Sixth, Russell and Ellenore, Paso Doble, by Jason Gilkinson. This is a dance all about passion, and both of them show their passions from beginning to the end. Ellenore’s silhouette move in the dark, and the fire in Russell’s eyes, if you say that’s not passion, you are blind. Though this style is way out of their comfort zones, and they could have improved in some areas. The attention that they commands in their movements and facials will make you forget to look at their steps.

Seventh, Kathryn and Jakob, Contemporary, by Dwight Rhoden and Desmond Richardson. I am full of emotions at the end of this dance, and I’m not the only one. This is the best routine of this season, without any question. It has brought on the first and only standing ovation of the season. They are just amazing, there is nothing that you can criticize them. Never have we seen such sincere and emotional dance as this. I really hope that Jakob will take Nigel’s advice to join a company after the show, and hopefully Kathryn will get a chance too.

Eighth, Ashleigh and Ryan, Contemporary, by Travis Wall. Finally, this married couple gets a chance to dance together as a couple. And what’s better than a Travis’ piece? Both of them show happiness and sincere emotions throughout the dance. Together, they are beautiful and make an amazing partnership. The husband and wife are brought to tears by the tenderness of this piece, which I think will pull some votes for them.

Nineth, Kathryn and Russell, Hip Hop, by Tabitha and Napoleon D’Umo. Now this is what we’ve expected from this married choreographers. It is HOT. Russell is great in his style, but Kathryn is right up there with him. Both dancers are so hard-hitting and uninhibited that every movement they do is beyond what you’d have expected from them. Great piece to end the night.

Last word, my bet on the winner, I think it would be between Jakob, Kathryn and Ashleigh. We’ll see.

The show begins with the introduction of every contestants, and we all notice that someone is missing, Ashleigh. She is then brought on the stage with her arm in a sling. Bad news, she injured her shoulder earlier in the rehearsal, the doctor would not clear her to perform despite she’s feeling good and begging. Anyway, the audience still have to vote for her if they want her to continue to the finale next week.

Yes, next week is the finale of this season. They’ve changed the rule, which is really bad. I want to watch more performances!

The dancers drew new partners this week and perform two routines and a solo as they used to. Here’s how it all goes down.

First couple, Ryan and Kathryn, Disco, by Dorianna Sanchez. What’s great to start a dance show? Yes, a fun, high energetic Disco routine that gets the crowd going. Ryan’s ballroom training background makes him a great partner for everyone. Though this is not the best Dorianna Disco routine, it still delivers what you would expect to see. A good start of the night.

Second, Jakob and Mollee, Viennese Waltz, by Jason Gilkison. Best Viennese Waltz of all seasons, ever. This is the first time that a Viennese Waltz makes me exciting, and I doubt anyone else can choreograph such a beautiful, flawless routine with excitement. The dancing is so breathtaking and flowing that I’d want it to continue for hours.

Third, Legacy and Ellenore, contemporary, by Travis Wall. He just did it again, Travis is really a very talented dancer and choreographer. This a contemporary routine that we won’t see that often. It’s dangerous, angry, aggressive and exciting. Both Ellenore and Legacy dance very well, and they are into their characters. The only thing that worries me is that some people might not get used to the other side of contemporary.

Fourth, Russell and Rachel (Shane’s assistant), Hip Hop, by Shane Sparks. Shane’s back with another great piece. Although only having less than a day with his new partner, Russell hits it out of the park. From beginning to the end, he’s hard hitting and attacks every move. It’s a pity that we could not see the chemistry between him and Ashleigh, which I believe would be amazingly good. Anyway, like Nigel says, I believe he’ll be in the finale as well.

Fifth, Ryan and Kathryn, Cha Cha, by Jason Gilkison. Jason is the man tonight, what a smoking cha cha! There is no doubt that Ryan execute a great performance in his own style. What amazes us is that Kathryn steps it up, like a pro. The movements, steps, and lifts areextraordinary, and they show how great the chemistry is between the two.

Sixth, Jakob and Mollee, Broadway, by Joey Dowling. I have to disagree with the judges on some degrees. This is not a great broadway routine overall, the opening is a bit boring, I only get a bit excited when they take off their coats. Compared to the waltz, this one fails for me. But I believe they will be safe.

Seventh, Legacy and Ellenore, Hip Hop, by Tabitha and Napoleon D’Umo. A weird, alien-inspired piece. Worst routine choreographed by this couple. I love their numbers in previous seasons very much, but this one, not even impresses me a bit. There is no elements of Hip Hop in this dance, and it doesn’t show off anything from the two. I really doubt they would be in great danger.

Eighth, Russell and Alicia (Nakul’s assistant), Bollywood, by Nakul Dev Mahajan. There is no story in this number, it’s just pure dancing. But I still enjoy it very much. Russell’s spirit is very high, which is realy great for such routine. It makes people exciting. Not to mention that with no training background, he manages to execute those steps and lifts very well.

THE SOLOS

No solo for Ashleigh, I really doubt that people would pick up phones and vote for her.
Jackob is technically the best dancer this season. However, he’s lacking a bit of emotions, which might not get him relate to the audience.
Best solo of Mollee, If she could choose some other outfit, it would be perfect.
Legacy always wow us with his movements, this time with a phone, hoping that people would vote him.
It seems that Ellenore tries to get out of her alien world, but she fails.
Russell busts out in a Santa Claus outfit, which makes me laugh. Though he loses his shoe and his strength quite a few seconds later, still, I love him.
Kathryn has grown quite a lot after all these weeks, and as the judges say, she peaks at the right moment.
Ryan’s solo is not that impressive, but he tugs at our heartstrings by begging fans to vote for his wife. How sweet he is.

Starting from this week, the judges will have no say over who are going home, the audience’s got the power. And now it’s more of connect to the audience than technique or skills. Lucky for the 10 contestants, this week the producers decided to make a profile of each one, to showcase where they came from and what inspired them to dance. And most important of all, playing family cards.

Here’s how this evening goes.

First up, Noelle and Ryan, Hip Hop, by Tabitha and Napoleon. This piece is about some kind of sexy office business, and I like it. Both of them are very into their characters. Chemistry is strong between the two. ( I wonder Ashleigh would be jealous or not. ) Noelle has turned from the too sweet character that she’s been criticized into a attractively sexy dancer. If only they could hit harder and be sharper in some movements, this routine would be perfect.

Second couple, Ashleigh and Legacy, Contemporary, by Gary Stuart. This piece, I believe would leave them in danger. It looks like two warriors are fighting each other, however, I really don’t get the concept of it. What I see is they are just jumping and rolling around the stage. I could understand that those movements takes a lot of physical strength and stamina, and not easy to accomplish. But I don’t see anything that could make me connect to their dance. Although all the judges praise them highly, I doubt the audience feel the same as they do.

Third, Kathryn and Nathan, Broadway, by Spencer Liff. The couple work quite well with this routine, their styles fit into the dance excellently. However, their chemistry is not that good. Kathryn’s movements looks so effortless, yet she still looks elegant. Nathan, on the other hand, looks so nervous that he can not even fake a smile. I believe his fan base is getting smaller and smaller now.

Fourth, Ellenore and Jakob, Quickstep, by Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin. The dreaded kiss of death is not a problem for this perfect couple. Instead, they have knocked this one out of the park. Great performance and fantastic chemistry. There is just nothing that Jakob can not do. As Mary says, they have been given some very tough moves, yet they still make them look very easy to do. They’ve also included a fewe timesteps to honor the three tappers.

Fifth, Mollee and Russell, lyrical/jazz, by Mandy Moore. Leaving away from Nathan has made Mollee much much more mature, and grow up very very much. The two creat very beautiful body lines together, and use their natural chemistry to perfect this routine. Both of them share complete passions and trusts with each other. Everyone’s impressed by them, they even become Mary’s favorite of the night.

Second round.

Noelle and Ryan, Smooth Waltz, JD and Thomas. Ryan is proved to be a good partner again, he’s everywhere for Noelle all the way as they move smoothly across the stage. Their bodies move right in timie with each other, and their performance is extraordinary. All in all, fabulous movement and effortless footwork.

Ashleigh and Legacy, Hip Hop, by Dave Scott. Sorry, but I have to say this creepy vampire routine is the worst Hip Hop routine I’ve seen on this show. And it’s mainly the choreographer’s fault. Even Sonya knew how to incorporate Legacy’s B-boy style into her routine, why the hell there’s not a single B-boy movement in a Hip Hop routine? I can see the concept of this dance, but there are so much elements that have been missing. The judges don’t want to insult the choreographer, so they turn to criticizing the dancers. That have make things worse for them, I have a feeling these two might be going home.

Kathryn and Nathan, Rumba, Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin. Their chemistry still fails to show up, and it’s Nathan’s fault. I don’t see any emotions in his face! They danced well like they are choreographed to do, but the performance is not there. And that is a big failure for a Rumba routine.

Mollee Gray and Russell, Jive, by Anya and Pasha. Welcome back, Anya and Pasha, love to see previous contestants showing up on the show. Both dancers get into their characters very well, giving us a phenomenal performance. This couple looks very promising, their playful and fun relationship has been shown as well. I think the judges would be regreful that they have put Mollee and Nathan together.

Ellenore and Jakob, Contemporary, by Sonya. These two surely is the best couple of the night. They have raised the bar for the show so higher that I don’t think any other couple can reach. Ellenore is simply the best choice for any piece that Sonya choreograph, period. Her weirdness and wickedness are so fit into Sonya’s style. If she choose to be a choreographer in the future, she would be Sonya Jr. Nigel has changed his mind again by saying this is really his favorite, wonder he’ll change again, lol.

Between the 10 couple routines, we also see the Top 10 perform their solos. Here’s what I think of them.

Mollee is the first one to perform the solo, and she has already set the bar very high for the other girls. Her movements are so flexible.
Great to see Russell’s Krump again. There is no doubt that he is so amazing in his own style.
Noelle’s showing her great technique while smiling, great performer.
It’s really hard to judge how well a ballroom dancer perform solo, so is Ryan’s performance. It’s good, but I don’t think is great.
Kathryn’s technique is astonishing, and she looks beautiful when dancing. Her control of her body is extraordinary.
Nathan still haven’t found his emotions. I just could not feel connected to him.
Ellenore is being in her allien world again, which I love her very much.
Legacy’s crab walks finally remind us that he is a B-boy. But is it too late to show his incredible movements at this late moment?
Again is hard to judge ballroom dancers, I can see Ashleigh moves her feet so fast. But something’s dragging me away, her costumes!
Finally, we get to see Jakob perform his solo. And it’s just what you would want to see on him. Passionate, yet beautiful.

That’s all. As for the elimination round, I think Ashleigh and Legacy might be in danger, along with Nanthan.

This evening is by far the best performance show of this season. Some of the dancers have nailed their styles extraordinarily. Maybe it’s because this could be their last performance as a couple, so everyone have pull everything they’ve got.
Here’s how each does.

First up, Ryan and Ellenore, Lindy Hop, by Carla Heiney. Lindy Hop is back, though I could not remember when or who did the last one. However this one surely would be remembered. Both of them work very well, they are fully into their characters and full of energies. The lifts and turns are flawless. We are told that Ryan hurt his back during rehearsal, but you’d never know that watching him performing. What a professional!

Second, Kathryn and Legacy, Jazz, by Sonya. Oh, Sonya, what a fabulous job of merging these two dancers’ different styles into this routine. Both Legacy’s B-boy skills and Kathryn’s lines are truly shown off,that’s what a great choreographer does. This dance is really fascinating to watch. Nigel even says this is his favorite.

Third, Karen and Victor, Tango, by Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin. First week as a couple together, but we could already feel the chemistry between them. This is Karen’s style, so there is no doubt that she rocks it.Victor aides her in every steps and positions quite well, making the piece fluently. If only Victor could be more elegant, this routine would be perfect.

Fourth, Mollee and Nathan, Hip Hop, by Jamal Sims. Mollee is too lovely in this piece, which is not good in a hip hop dance. She does put effort into making it looks like hip hop, but she doesn’t hit hard enough, been struggling all through the routine. She’s not enjoying the dance. Nathan, does a better job,enjoy the dance. Still, the two are not sync quite right with each other, making this piece looks unexcited.

Fifth, Noelle and Russell, Samba, by Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin. This is not their safe zone, especially for Russell, who has no formal training ever. That said, both of them do the right steps, which most other people failed. However their performances are not good enough. Noelle is shaking her hips uncomfortably, the expression is written on her face. Overall, it’s an OK job for them.

Sixth, Ashleigh and Jakob, Lyrical Jazz, by Sonya. Another fantastic job by Sonya (Nigel changes his mind that this is indeed his favorite). These two are just perfect for each other (sorry, Ryan, you are out), their chemistry is so amazing.Their dancing styles are integrated together extremely well. Their lines are gorgeous, the lifts are effortless, the whole piece is very beautiful to watch. Without question, these two make the best couple of the top 20. Sadly, we’ll see these two break up next week.

Second round.

First, Ellenore and Ryan, Broadway, by Spencer Liff. Another puppet routine, another excellent job by the two. Ellenore is so into the character that would make most people believe she is really a puppet, not a lot of people can achieve that. Ryan has pull off a great performance as well, despite his back injury. Both of them have made the charactersreal to watch. Great job.

Second, Kathryn and Legacy, Vietnamese Waltz, Jean Marc Generaux. This routine is about Kathryn as Legacy’s guardian angel, helping him through life and making sure he keeps hope. And Kathryn does help him throughout this whole routine. Legacy’s steps are not right, his face seems to be a bit tense. But the routine is passionate and inspirational to watch.

Third, Karen and Victor, Hip Hop, Laurieann Gibson. This piece is about moving their own personal mountains. Another bad hip hop routine of the night. Their chemistry is lost, right from the beginning, they are not in sync with each other. Though it’s up to the audience to decide their fate, I doubt they’ll be safe.If they dance switch the order with their Tango, it might be better for them. And if they are in the bottom three, which would be the third time for them, they are doomed.

Fourth, Mollee and Nathan, Can Can, by Tyce Diorio. There is only one thing that makes this perfect couple for this style looks dreadful, the wardrobes they wear! (I really think that Fox should fired those people working for that.) This is a piece that requires so many energies andenthusiasms that only they have. Their techniques and strengths are all well showcased throughout the piece, some movements are really amazing that I doubt anyone else could do. Like Nathan’s eight fouettes. However, the wardrobes just ruin it! Hopefully their fans will pickup phones for them this time.

Fifth, Noelle and Russell, Contemporary, by Tyce Diorio. Another beautiful routine to watch. Both of them move so elegant and beautiful, the use of painting has made the dance looks like pictures. Everyone has forgotten that Russell isa krumper, the effort that he puts on making people believe in him is outstanding. I believe they will be in the top 10.

Sixth, Ashleigh and Jakob, Cha Cha, by Jean Marc Generaux. Finally we get to see Ashleigh in her own style, and it’s just what you would expect, fabulous. Jakob is everywhere for her, allowing her toshine in her own world. They are still the best couple of the season. You can’t ask any more of them.

Finally, it’s time for the audience to vote for their favorites. Season 5 dancers who are on tour also join the audience this evening. And, there is no more chair for Abul, great!

The show starts with introducing the top 16 dancers, some of the costumes they choose are very awful, especially the red cha cha fringe pants of Ashleigh.

This evening, we are also greeted by quite a few new faces in the choreograhpers’ panel. The dances are as follow.

First couple, Kevin and Karen, Hustle, by Maria Torres. New style, and new choreographer. But that can’t stop Kevin and Karen. They are still on the Tamale Train. Great performance, great reviews from the judges. If they could pull off a contemporary routine next, I believe nothing could stop them till the top 10.

Second, Ashleigh and Jakob, Jazz, by Mandy Moore. One of Mandy’s best routine, Nigel even compares it to the “table dance” performed by Neil and Sabra in season three. The dance is a trio between Ashleigh, Jakob and their cane. Both dancers commit to the characters, the cane’s doing its job quite well too. Amazing performance, and convincing chemistry. The judges should be thankful to the girl that turned down the position of top 20, Ashleigh has improved continuously in this whole show.

Third, Peter and Pauline, Quickstep (kiss of death), by JT and Thomas. This is the first time that we see a story in a Quickstep routine, this is a story about a Navy man becoming entranced with a Hawaiin Hula dancer. Technically, they are dreadful. But the performance has made us forget about the missteps. It’s joyful to watch them.

Fourth, Kathryn and Legacy, Broadway, by Andy Blankenbuehler. Broadway is a style that requires lots of energies to get hold of the audience, otherwise it’s a bit boring to watch. This one, however, fails because of Kathryn. She is adorable, but there is no chemistry in this piece until they kiss at the end (it seems like there are a lot of romance going on in this season’s dancers?). Legacy, is praised by the judges of his growth though, calling him an “inspiraton to choreographers” of his ability to adapt and incorporrate his own style.

Fifth, Channing and Victor, Contemporary, by Stacey Tookey. This is their own style, so everyone’s expecting much more from them. But they fail. There is no doubt of their great techniques. However, the lack of chemistry and failure of committing in the characters make the dance emotionless. It’s a good dance, not great.

Sixth, Ellenore and Ryan, Hip Hop, by Lil’ C. This surely is not both dancers’ safe zone, they are too nice to get into the “dirty” Hip Hop. This piece needs timing, swagger and synergy to work. But right from the beginning, everything’s not working. Ryan can’t bend his knees and get low to the ground, both fail to hit harder, certain spots are not synchronized. They both worked great in other styles, but it’s not enough this evening.

Seventh, Mollee and Nathan, Salsa, Gustavo Vargas. Worst dance of the night. Both seem to be uncomfortable in this dance, their weaknesses are exposed when they are struggling to perform. Poor techniques, bad performance. Mary even says the dance is “French fried” instead of “sexified”. If their fans can’t make them to the safe zone, I’d guess they’ll be sent home.

Last couple, Noelle and Russell, Afro-Jazz, by Sean Chessman. Russell is definately the best choice for this routine, his raw style works amazingly in it. Both of them manage to pull on each other’s strengths and weaknesses to form an impressive dance. (Kudos to Sean, we want more Afro-Jazz!). What’s great to hear is that Russell’s got put on the Tamale Train. Congrats!

Before the voting starts, Cat Deeley asks the judges who they think would be in danger. Nigel picks Ellenore and Ryan, while Adam and Mary choose Mollee and Nathan.

Due to the World Series, there is still no voting this week, the judges will simply cut one guy and one girl on their performances.

Paula’s seat is still empty, great! It’s time to give it up, Nigel. We’ve got some good news though, Billy Bell will return for next year’s Top 100 in Vegas, and Brandon is allow to enter the show again.

Here’s how the dances take place.

First up, Russell and Noelle, Hip Hop, by Jamal Sims. This routine is like a tennis match, fun to watch and enjoy. Both of them do well, though they kind of get lost at the end. It seems that they are not quite used to use objects in their dances. The judges are a bit harsh on them, saying they get swallowed up.

Second couple, Ashleigh and Jakob, Viennese Waltz, by Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin. Passionate, and hot. Wonder how Ryan would feel when he sees his wife kissing another man. Both of them have grown as time goes by, especially Ashleigh, she was criticized of her fake performance when she first auditioned, but now all looks to be real. As the judges said, if she could manage to not let the Latin Ballroom techniques get into the dance, it would be perfect.

Third, Bianca and Victor, Broadway, by Tyce Diorio. Church dancing? I don’t see it there, though I don’t know what real church dancing is. It just doesn’t feel like one. And the judges agree too, they think the two fail to tell the story and fully grasp the concept of this piece.

Fourth, Nathan and Mollee, Bollywood, by Nakul Dev Mahajan. When dancing Bollywood, I’d always like to compare how good they do with Joshua and Kattie. Though this dance can not match up with Joshua and Kattie’s, it’s still well nailed. Both execute and place their hands and fingers in the right place, Nathan’s control of his body is also excellent. They are the youngest couple, but they seem to be more mature than some other contestant. Mollee has grown quite a lot.

Fifth, Channing and Phillip, Samba, by Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin. There are many many lifts in this dance, and both of them struggle a lot. Their faces, their footworks, all clearly indicate they have trouble of get the dance done. One thing we love Samba though, it’s the girl get to dress as little of she can.

Sixth, Karen and Kevin, Hip Hop, by Tabitha and Napoleon D’Umo. Karen’s still on the train, and Kevin gets on the Hot Tamale train in two weeks, great for him. This number is dirty, and they both get into their characters. As a ballroom dancer, Karen has done it exceptionally.

Seventh, Kathryn and Legacy, Contemporary, by Stacey Tookey. This piece, with Legacy acting as Kathryn’s fear, is somewhat like Mia Michael’s Addiction. And these two have nailed it. The choreography is so remarkable, especially in combining Legacy’s strengths into the dance. Legacy, has transformed himself as a dancer quite a lot.

Eighth, Pauline and Peter, Jazz, by Wade Robson. Wade’s pieces are always weird or freaky, just like Sonya, in different styles. The problem is that the audience might not buy it, luckily, there is no voting this week. This piece is a story of the imaginary people from Van Gogh’s “Starry Night” painting, being tormented and taking it out on Van Gogh for not including them in the painting. Both dancers committed to the characters and give it all.

Last but not least, Ryan and Ellenore, Tango, Miriam Larici and Leonardo Barrionuevo. Despite the malfunction of her wardrobe, Ellenore’s dress caught on the bottom of her heel half of the time, this is the best dance of the night. And most dangerous dance, those lifts are so insane, it’s so unbelievable that they nailed it in such situation. Great partnering, technique and performance, all three judges stand on their feet.

Then it’s fight for your life time, Russell and Noelle, Bianca and Victor, Channing and Phillip are called out and told they are the worst three couple this evening. Then Russell and Channing are called to stay back, leaving the other four in the danger zone.

Both girls don’t do that well, but it’s clear that Noelle outshines Bianca. And so is Victor over Phillip.

Sadly, two Tap dancers are sent home.

Good luck with everyone next week.

This week, the top 20 performance and elimination are packed into one episode. Because they’ve done an episode of showcasing all the contestants in their own styles.

And we are shown a chair with Paula Abdul’s name on it, it seems that the show’s very desperate for her. I haven’t watched American Idol before, but based on some criticisms on her, I’m not that fond of having her as a judge.

Then, before the performances start, we learn that Billy Bell is ill and can no longer take part in the competition, damn! Noelle Marsh has injured her knee, so she can’t perform this evening as well.

Then the performances begin.

First up, is Channing and Phillip, dancing a Jive, choreographed by Jason Gilkison. Jive is a fast footwork style, Phillip’s Tap dancing skill does help him a bit in the footsteps, but his upper body couldn’t catch up, it’s a bit awkward to see. Channing does a better job, however, the chemistry between them is not there. The judges say they are a bit lazy at the end.

Second couple, Ashleigh and Jakob, Broadway, by Tyce Diorio. To my surprise, their chemisty is very good. Without question, Jakob is very talented (Nigel even says that he and Billy are the two most gifted dancers the show has ever seen). His movement is incredible. Ashleigh is left behind a bit, but Jakob makes that up. I believe this couple will go a long way to the top 10.

Third, Ariana and Peter, Hip Hop, by Tabitha and Napoleon. This is definately not their comfort zone. Footworks are messy, bodies are a bit stiff. Though their chemistry is great, overall, it’s bad.

Fourth, Russell and Melanie Lapatin (Standing in for Noelle Marsh), Fox Trot, by Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin. Russell does a great job considering he had to switch partner at the very end. Though it’s a bit weird to watch these two dance together, it’s like mother dancing with her son. I think ballroom dances might be Russell’s weakness, judging from his performances through Vegas’ week. Hopefully he can catch up with a realy partner.

Fifth, Bianca and Victor, Contemporary, by Travis Wall. Travis proves himself to be a talented choreographer again! This piece is stunning, if not let down by Bianca a bit, it’d be one of the best dances of the show. Victor is much better than Bianca on technique. But both of them show great confidences and chemistry.

Sixth, Karen nd Kevin, Cha Cha, by Tony Meredith and Melanie Lapatin. This is Karen’s comfort zone, and she surely shines on it, we have our first passenger on the Hot Tamale Train this season! Kevin works very good on this piece as well, their parnership starts strong and reliable.

Seventh, Ryan and Ellenore, Contemporary, by Sonya Tayeh. This is Sonya, and we know it’s going to be weird, mysterious. They are dressed in some kind of feathered ancient men get-up. This routine is about Darkness overtaking the Angel, and they are really into it. As a ballroom dancer, Ryan’s movement is effortless.

Eighth, Pauline and Brandon. Smooth Waltz, by Jason Gilkison. Only given 1 and a half days notice is a big disadvantage for Brandon, the lack of pratices make this piece a disaster for them. Brandon is struggling all through the whole dance. Pauline’s charm to look at though. Overall, the worst performance of the night.

Ninth, Kathryn and Legacy, Hip Hop, by Dave Scott. As a B-boy, this is Legacy’s safe zone. But Kathryn surprises everyone by holding herself right along with him. They are dressed as cavemen, both of them hit the floor hard. They dance precisely and right on the beat of music, great job. If Legacy could pull himself through other styles, they have a long way to go.

Last but not least, Nathan and Mollee, Disco, Dariana Sanchez. Dariana has brought quite a few pieces of energetic Disco to us, and this one’s no exception. Sliding across the floor, lifts, everything’s phenomenal. As Nigel says, these two are a dream team. They are both adorable, energetic, and together with their chemistry combines, perfect couple.

Then it’s time for the judges to pick four dancers to dance for their lives. Ariana, Brandon, Pauline and Russell. What a shock to hear they pick Russell! But anyway, judging from their perfomances and solos, there is no doubt Russell will stay. As for the girls’ solos, both of them have great techniques, but Ariana lacks emotions when she’s dancing.

Decision time, the judges send Ariana and Brandon home. However, though the rules forbid anyone perform in the top 20 to come back for future seasons, Nigel says he will talk with Fox to give Brandon a second chance next season. Good luck.

Well, finally top 4 performance. After the next day’s finale, this season ended. We’ll have to wait till September for Season 6.

First up, was a Pop group routine by all four of them, about two football players and two cheerleaders. Fun to watch, and showed everyone’s personalities.

The first couple was Jeanine and Evan, performed a Jazz routine by Sonya. I love Sonya’s weird routines very much, when she goes natural. But this one, was just soso. They danced well, Jeanine stood up as the judges said. Evan was put into a not so favored position, he’d got only a few chances to show us his face. In a routine like this, people will remember Jeanine much more than Evan.

Kayla and Brandon took a Broadway soon after. Kayla’s personality finally shined on the stage. Nothing to critique their technique, though they lack of some chemistry.

Brandon and Evan, Pop Jazz. This wasn’t a routine for them, both of them are far too cute to be nasty, esp Evan. Again, Evan had been put into the unfavored zone.

Kayla and Jeanine, contemporary. Now, this was a dance for a top 4 performance, that showed the nature of both girls. The two had danced their best.

Kayla and Evan, Jive. I had to disagree with Adam Shankman, that this wasn’t finale worthy. They could have done it better, technically. But still, it’s energetic and fun. Kayla stood out again, which made me worry about Evan.

Jeanine and Brandon, Paso Doble. Best dance of the night, possibly best Paso Doble of all five seasons.

As for the solos, Jeanine’s was the best, while Kayla and Evan just repeated their movements once again. Brandon could not top his last performance in the top 6.

My bet for the result, Evan’s out for sure, but his personality might gain him some more votes than the fourth place, which is Kayla. Jeanine peaked at the right moment, but could she better Brandon, I’m unsure.

This was the last chance the contestants had to prove they deserved a spot in the finale.

First up, were the male trio, to perform a Jazz routine by Sonya. Strange, but beautiful, it showed the strengths of all three. As the judges said, Evan stood up, and met the power of Brandon and Ade.

Then the first couple, Jeanine and Ade, danced a Samba. They looked energetic, but as a new couple, their chemistry wasn’t good. Mary criticized their techniques. Not a good start for them.

Melissa and Evan, Broadway. This couple looked a bit weird to me. Evan’s personality shined in this routine, but was it enough to make people pick up the phone? Not sure.

Kayla and Brandon, contemporary. They nailed this one, although they lacked a bit of chemistry, it seemed Kayla did not trust Brandon completely. But overall, this was the best routine of the first three dances.

Jeanine and Ade backed with a Hip Hop. They did go for it in this routine, but it was not enough for me. Ade could be in danger.

Melissa and Evan, Quickstep. Poor them, this wasn’t their night. They did try hard, but…

Kayla and Brandon, Disco. Though not as better as the one Brandon and Janette pulled off before, it was still one of the best routine this season. They had very high energies, and they found their chemistry finally.

Last but not least, the girls trio. Again, choreographed by Sonya, about some superhero females. Not as strong as the male group, but it was good. Melissa was a bit left behind though.

My guess for the last two being cut, Ade and Melissa.

Ellen Degeneres appeared as a guest in the judge panel, and it was a really fun night, her jokes had made the contestants and us forgot some of the judges’ mean comments.

The night started with a group performance choreographed by Travis, we all loved it. It’s good to see a former contestant grow up.

First up, was Evan and Janette, Jazz. Not the typical Sonya weird routine, not as good as the pieces she did before. But still, they did it good. The judges loved it. Mia even said Janette was her favorite, which should fly her up in to sky .

Jeanine and Brandon, Waltz. Had to blame the choreography on this one. This one’s the slowest Waltz I’ve seen on this show, a bit boring to watch. Hopefully people saw their potentials in other sides and vote for them.

Melissa and Ade, Cha Cha. Not a good reunion on this one. They had very great chemistry before, but after two weeks departure, it seemed they failed to get to it. They might not be safe this week.

Jason and Kayla, Broadway. A solid performance. Jason had finally showed why he deserved to be in the top 10 for me.

And, second round.

Evan and Janette, Rhumba. It’s weird to see Evan dance in this routine, he did try hard, but still…

Jeanine and Brandon, Pop Jazz. Laurieanne Gibson, first appearance on the show, she’s very tough. But that tough paid off, it was a very powerful routine, should make people forget about the boring Waltz.

Melissa and Ade, Contemporary. Through out the whole five seasons, only a few routines got me emotional, including this one. The judges were lost in words, even Nigel had cried. It was one of the most memorable routines. Tyce did a great job, Melissa and Ade did a great job. ‘Nuff said.

Jason and Kayla, Hip Hop. Awesome routine by Shane Sparks. Jason’s definitely on the uphill. Kayla was as good as she used to be.

It’s really hard to predict the results of this night. I think Jeanine and Brandon, Evan and Janette might be in the danger zone as both performed not that well in one routine.