Top 20 Finalists Revealed
Top 20 Finalists, Season 6
This Monday you will have a chance to meet the Top 20 in an all-new special. Top 20 Finalists will then compete as couples, and two finalists will be eliminated in a 2-Hour performance show on Tuesday. Full-profiles of all of the Top 20 contestants will be posted next week on Fox.com/dance.
After thousands of auditions across the country and the Las Vegas callbacks, the judges of SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE announced Season Six’s Top 20 finalists. The top girls include Channing Cooke, Ariana Debose, Ashleigh Di Lello, Mollee Gray, Karen Hauer, Noelle Marsh, Pauline Mata, Kathryn McCormick, Bianca Revels and Ellenore Scott; and the top guys are Phillip Attmore, Billy Bell, Ryan Di Lello, Russell Ferguson, Kevin Hunte, Jakob Karr, Legacy Perez, Peter Sabasino, Victor Smalley and Nathan Trasoras.
For the first time ever, the Top 20 dancers will make their debut performances on SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE: MEET THE TOP 20 airing Monday, Oct. 26 (8:00-9:00 PM ET/PT). This special episode will showcase each of the dancers in their own style and genre and will feature group numbers choreographed by some of America’s favorite choreographers. Additionally, viewers will get a chance to learn more about the dancers. Then at the end of the hour, judges Nigel Lythgoe, Mary Murphy and Adam Shankman will match the Top 20 with partners for the first performance show airing the following evening.
The competition begins Tuesday, Oct. 27 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) when the Top 20 dance for the judges and America on the season’s first two-hour performance show. The finalists will work as partners with a world-renowned choreographer on a dance routine chosen at random from a number of dance genres. At the end of the episode, the judges will deliberate and then eliminate the first two dancers from the competition. The following week, on Tuesday, Nov. 3 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT), the Top 18 will perform and the judges will send another two dancers home.
On Tuesday, Nov. 10 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT), the Top 16 will take the stage in another two-hour performance show. Beginning this week, after each Tuesday performance show, the phone lines will open and the fate of the finalists - one of whom will be named America’s Favorite Dancer - will be left up to the voting fans. Tune in the following night, Wednesday, Nov. 11 (8:00-9:00 PM ET live/PT tape-delayed) when two finalists are sent home on the first live results show.
Girls:
Ariana Debose
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Newbern, NC
Currently Resides: Wake Forest, NC
Age: 18
Ariana Debose has been dancing since she was 3 years old and loves to express her creativity through dance. She also enjoys scrapbooking and playing the clarinet. Her goal is to attend college and study musical theatre.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “All of this is so incredibly new and exciting, but it is still surreal. It’s a blessing to be involved in this craziness.”
Ashleigh Di Lello
Hometown: Orem, UT
Currently Resides: Orem, UT
Age: 26
Ashleigh Di Lello graduated from Brigham Young University in Utah with a degree in political science and served as a congressional intern in Washington, D.C. She and her husband, Ryan Di Lello, used to compete against each other in local ballroom dance competitions and became dance partners a week before they were married.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “Today is a dream come true and an amazing opportunity. I’m very, very grateful, and especially grateful to be here with Ryan.
Bianca Revels
Dance Specialty: Tap
Hometown: Detroit, MI
Currently Resides: Los Angeles, CA
Age: 20
Bianca Revels appeared on “Showtime at the Apollo” and considers it to be one of her most memorable moments. In addition to dancing, she competes in beauty pageants, paints, swims, sings and plays the piano.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot: “I’m feeling really glamorous.”
Channing Cooke
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Haverhill, MA
Currently Resides: Haverhill, MA
Age: 18
Channing Cooke grew up competing in local dance competitions around her hometown. She loves animals, especially cats, and likes to watch auto racing and football with her dad. Cooke once won a national lawn mower obstacle course competition.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “I feel like I am a fierce girl with fierce high heels on!”
Ellenore Scott
Dance Specialty: Contemporary/Jazz
Hometown: Santa Cruz, CA
Currently Resides: Brooklyn, NY
Age: 19
Both of Ellenore Scott’s parents are dancers and serve as her inspiration. She describes her personal dance style as “lockerina,” or a ballerina who locks. She speaks Japanese, loves to paint and cook and one day hopes to own a family restaurant.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “I feel famous.”
Karen Hauer
Dance Specialty: Latin Ballroom
Hometown: Valencia, Venezuela
Currently Resides: Queens, NY
Age: 27
Karen Hauer was born in Venezuela and came to the U.S. with her parents when she was 8 years old. She has been dancing for 19 years, and currently works as a professional dancer and personal trainer.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “I’m feeling fantabulously, amazingly, extraordinarily good!”
Kathryn McCormick
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Augusta, GA
Currently Resides: Burbank, CA
Age: 19
Kathryn McCormick has been dancing for 15 years, and competed in dance team competitions during middle school and high school. With her parents’ support, she recently moved to California to pursue a career in dance. McCormick admits that before she performs she gets extremely nervous, but can’t stop dancing once the music starts.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “Ready, set, go!”
Mollee Gray
Dance Specialty: Jazz
Hometown: Orem, UT
Currently Resides: Upland, CA
Age: 18
Mollee Gray has been dancing for 15 years and has appeared in all three “High School Musical” films. She has a hearing impairment in one ear, but doesn’t let that stand in the way of her love for dancing. Gray’s interests include singing, acting and gymnastics
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “This is definitely going to be a lifetime, memorable experience.”
Noelle Marsh
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Sanford, NC
Currently Resides: Sanford, NC
Age: 18
Noelle Marsh is a small-town girl who grew up on a farm. She recently graduated from high school in Sanford, NC, where she now teaches contemporary dance.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “It’s kind of weird. I feel so special. I’ve never had this before. It’s all totally new and completely rewarding, and kind of a reality check.”
Pauline Mata
Dance Specialty: Jazz
Hometown: West Covina, CA
Currently Resides: West Covina, CA
Age: 19
Pauline Mata teaches dance at Dellos Dance Studio in Walnut, CA. Aside from dancing, her interests include singing karaoke and eating.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “I am feeling amazingly overwhelmed.”
Boys:
Billy Bell
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: West Palm Beach, FL
Currently Resides: New York, NY
Age: 19
Billy Bell currently studies dance at The Juilliard School. He considers working with Liza Minnelli and Joel Grey on “Back to Back to Broadway” one of his greatest accomplishments. He is trained in everything from hip hop to classical ballet, and enjoys skiing and grocery-shopping.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “I feel like the lion from the Wizard of Oz. It’s fun to be taken care of for the day.”
Jakob Karr
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Windermere, FL
Currently Resides: New York, NY
Age: 19
Jakob Karr is a sophomore at Fordham University in New York. In 2008, he was named New York City Dance Alliance’s National Senior Outstanding Dancer. In addition to dancing, he also enjoys scuba diving.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “I am so excited. This is the first time I’ve ever done a real photo shoot. The glitz and glamour is so exciting and I can’t wait to get in front of the camera.”
Legacy Perez
Dance Specialty: Hip Hop/B-Boy
Hometown: Miami, FL
Currently Resides: Los Angeles, CA
Age: 28
Although Legacy Perez has no formal dance training, he has appeared in the film “Stomp The Yard” and has performed on tour with Gwen Stefani. His interests include writing poetry, making music, video editing and playing soccer.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “I feel like I’m walking on air. With all of the cameras and makeup it makes you feel glamorous, important, and like you have a job to carry out!”
Kevin Hunte
Dance Specialty: Hip Hop
Hometown: Brooklyn, NY
Currently Resides: Brooklyn, NY
Age: 23
Kevin Hunte has been dancing for nine years and cites Michael Jackson as his inspiration. He has performed with Lil Mama and Beyoncé. Hunte also models and has appeared in fashion shows.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “I feel like a celebrity. This feels great!”
Nathan Trasoras
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Downey, CA
Currently Resides: Downey, CA
Age: 18
Nathan Trasoras began dancing at age 10 and trained at the West Coast School of the Arts in Costa Mesa, CA. His other interests include playing the trumpet and table tennis.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “It is inspiring.”
Peter Sabasino
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Currently Resides: Philadelphia, PA
Age: 22
Peter Sabasino has been dancing for 16 years and is trained in various dance styles. He has been teaching dance in Philadelphia since 2001 and was a featured dancer in the city’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. His other interests include playing the drums and doing impressions.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “I wouldn’t change it for the world.”
Phillip Attmore
Dance Specialty: Tap
Hometown: Pasadena, CA
Currently Resides: Los Angeles, CA
Age: 25
Phillip Attmore has performed on stage in “White Christmas,” “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” “Fosse” with Ben Vereen and “Stormy Weather” with Leslie Uggams. In addition to dancing, he enjoys singing, acting and writing poetry.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “Here we go!”
Russell Ferguson
Dance Specialty: Hip Hop/Krump
Hometown: Boston, MA
Currently Resides: Boston, MA
Age: 20
Russell Ferguson started dancing when he was 3 years old and began dancing professionally at age 6. He trained at the Boston Art Academy and has worked with Boston City Lights. His interests include acting, singing, drawing, rapping and making music.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “To sum it up: side-street.”
Ryan Di Lello
Dance Specialty: Ballroom
Hometown: Springville, UT
Currently Resides: Orem, UT
Age: 28
Ryan Di Lello was first introduced to dancing by his mother, who is a dancer and dance-studio owner. When he is not dancing with his wife, Ashleigh Di Lello, he enjoys snowboarding, skiing and wakeboarding, and would love to be an action-film star.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “This is fun, fun, fun. I’m having a lot of fun. I’m just enjoying it.”
Victor Smalley
Dance Specialty: Contemporary
Hometown: Miami, FL
Currently Resides: Miami, FL
Age: 21
Victor Smalley has been dancing for five years. Although his first passion was art, he was inspired by his mother to start dancing. He loves to eat and considers himself a fast-food junkie.
How did it feel on the recent day with the press and photo shoot? “Fierce.”
Remember to come back to see profiles of all of the Top 20 contestants next week on Fox.com/dance.
157 Comments | Add Yours
157 Responses to “Top 20 Finalists Revealed”
PAULA DIDN’T MAKE IT!? SOOO STUPID
nice so the first two weeks it will be up to the judges and before the performance show we will first see them dance in their own styles and be introduced to them. I think I like this new direction the show has taken!
i thought they said that russell, the krumper had no formal training?
or was it just for the show?
I love the idea of the dancer showcase on Monday. This is a great way to level the playing field for the dancers who received less camera time than others, or who auditioned early in the season and are not as fresh in viewers’ minds. This is the kind of structural improvement that makes SYTYCD my favorite contest on TV.
I’m not in love with the idea of not being able to vote for the first two eliminations, but we’ll see how it goes. Please clarify: starting with the Top 16, will judges still be making the “dance-for-your-life” elimination decision, or will elimination be based solely on viewer votes?
Billy Bell “enjoys skiing and grocery-shopping.” Funny.
This season`s top twenty is one of best groups. I love Russell and Bianca is part of it. I love Ryan and Ashleigh will doing it together, will they pair together? I love Mia`s new hairstyle and I am sorry Mary`s past troubles.
I am very happy with the top 20 this season! Good luck to everyone !
WOW! I’m very excited to see,that this season’s Top 20 are going to be the strongest ones yet on So You think You Can Dance History.
Mary Murphy,I love you very Extreamly much.You are my inspiration,with Fun & Excitment.I’m Making Mary Murphy a Cd & It’s Definetley gonna be HOT HOT HOT!
God Bless You,
Nick Rivera
Middleburg,Florida
My money is on either Russell or Billy - those guys have some serious talent. Can’t wait for Monday!
BEST best best most talented top 20 yet!! GO RUSSEL!!! We just love you!!
Paula did make it, silly.
She chose not to take the spot.
only beautiful people. oh God!
Hey Bre! Paula did make it. She turned it down because she was offered a part in a movie. That is how Ashliegh made the top 20.
paula actually did make it, but she turned them down. she got an offer for a movie. thats why ashley got in.
Bre- Paula WAS chosen, but couldn’t participate because she was offered a movie contract. So Ashleigh took her place. It was on the show last night. I am SUPER excited for this season- I was disappointed with Season 5, so this is a shot for redemption
Hey Bre! Paula did make it. She turned it down because she was offered a part in a movie. That is how Ashliegh made the top 20. I can’t believe she did that!
Paula made it. She turned them down for some movie offer.
Let’s GO RUSSSELLLLL!
WE’RE ROOTIN’ FOR YOU ALL THE WAY!
HOLD IT DOWN FOR BOSTON & BAA!
What happened to Ryan Kasperack?? I must have missed an episode. Was he cut or did he have an injury??
So glad to see that someone from my hometown has made the Top 20. Way to go Noelle!!
I am so glad to see Bianca made it. I was her tap instructor in Detroit at Center for Creative Studies when she was just starting out. I was in tears! You go Bianca!
Paula did make it. She had attitude like she did last season and “declined” their offer for a movie deal. Yeah…. O.K. She couldn’t have quit before? Whatever.
and I totally want to know the answer to one of the above asked questions… I thought Russell had no training? So he’s not just some prodigy… he’s trained in ballet? ahhh….. gotta love scripting
@ Bre…Wasn’t Paula the one who made it but turned them down because of a movie contract?
To Bre, Paula did make it, but she had to decline because she signed on for a movie contract.
I love the idea of the ‘Meet the Top 20′ show too and can’t wait to see the group dances! I’m also nervous about the judges getting to eliminate the first 4 dancers without any votes. .
Paula did make it, but turned down the opportunity for a Movie contract. Ashley was her replacement.
I love 14/20 of these dancers already!!! I can’t waiiiiiiit!
i am so excited that i dont have to wait until next summer to watch SYTYCD again
and even more excited to see my boy LEGACY in the top 20. for those of you who dont know..be ready to get BLOWN AWAY!
@ Bre, Paula made it, but then had to turn them down because she had just been cast in a movie.
paula made it but she turned them down , she got a movie contract so she’s not going to stay .
Paula did make it, but she turned them down because she got a movie contract.
[...] Here are the rest of the top 20. Published by Tonya in Dance on Television. Tags: American Rhythm, Billy Bell, Iveta Lukosiute, Jacob Karr, Karen Hauer, Matthew Hauer, Season 6 Top Twenty, So You Think You Can Dance, SYTYCD, Tyler Angle, Victor Smalley. « CEDAR LAKE CONTEMPORARY BALLET OPENS ITS FIRST JOYCE SEASON [...]
[...] to the SYTYCD blog, Pauline Mata is from West Covina and “enjoys karaoke and eating”. It doesn’t say [...]
11 people have told Bre that Paula made it, I think that’s enough… I guess you guys only read the first comment?
I don’t know how great that contract is but I’d rather see her dance on tv, I can tell you right now I’m not gonna go watch Burlesque the movie but I am gonna watch this show. What’s up with waiting til the last second to tell people? I don’t know how long ago this was taped and edited before the results but I guess it’s why she wasn’t really shown much, they knew she was gonna ditch it in the end and didn’t want to get too invested. Though I was totally psyched for her from her really short audition clip. Super disappointed.
And what’s up with Russell’s dance history? I totally liked him but now I feel betrayed by the “underdog” status they made him seem like… The boy went pro at 6!
I’m rooting for Ellenore right now!
I agree… it’s so stupid that Russell said he had no formal training and then we find out here that he’s been apart of the Boston Art Academy and Boston City Lights… liar! Ryan got cut because there were too many other stronger dancers. I think Legacy shouldn’t be in this group… you cry you make the top 20… they guy admitted that he can’t learn by watching someone do choreography… his poor partner! A guy should win this season… I think it should be either Billy, Nathan, or Jakob…. I think Nathan is amazing!
Ryan wants to act? He would make a great “Jared” for the upcoming hit movie “The Host”, taken from the novel written by Stephenie Meyer. Go Ryan!!
All right, here we go! Our Top 20 has been chosen. I really hope that the jidges and the viewers will get it right this season.
It appears that for the first two weeks this season, the viewers do not have any say in determining who is eliminated, so here’s my opinion on who should stay:
For the girls, I think that Channing, Ashleigh, Bianca, Mollee, Noelle, and Kathryn do not need to be eliminated this early.
For the guys, I think that Ryan, Legacy, Phillip, and Nathan do not need to be eliminated this early.
Maybe next season, the viewers will get to vote once the Top 20 has been chosen, like usual. For this season, we’ll just see how the Top 20 and Top 18 eliminations play out.
I hope that once the Top 16 is chosen, the jidges will still have the final say in determining who is eliminated, just like usual.
I said before that I hope there will be some kind of change to the elimination rules, especially once the Top 10 has been chosen.
Good luck to the Top 20. Of course, they’re going to bring out the Hot Tamale Train, and of course, this show wouldn’t be without Mary’s trademark screams! Until then, I’ll be there next week!
The new group looks great! Glad all of the tappers made it. Mia Michaels (or Meana Michaels as I call her) should stick to choreography. I hate listening to her opinions of the dancers!! Plus she thought Brandon shouldn’t be in the top 20 last season and he almost won!
GO KASSIE (Kathryn) WE LOVE YOU BACK HOME IN AUGUSTA! WE KNOW YOU WILL DO GREAT! YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL AND SO AMAZING! GOD HAS BLESSED YOU IN SO MANY WAYS! WE LOVE YOU!
This show has put on spotlight on dance like no other! I stand before the television every time I watch with my jaw dislodged and dropped to the floor, then I scoop it back up so I can scream and shout as I applaud the performances. Every season they make me want to be THAT great! Brava! Bravo! SYTYCD!
P.S. I just saw the Season 5 Tour at Nassau Coliseum and it was brilliant. Chocolate covered amazeballs!
I still think season 3 was the best. Danny was the best dancer I’ve ever seen on this show. I hope to see more of this seasons dancers played out as I love this show. So far I’m impressed with Victor.
WE ALL LOVE YOU ARIANA!!! <33 YOU’RE DOING WONDERFULLY!
I LOVE RUSSELL!
alright kids. i think bre gets it after like a thousand comments. lets establish that paula turned it down cuz she got a movie deal. k? I LOVE MOLLEE
I missed a few episodes, what happened to Evan’s brother??? He was amazing!!
Phillip—I am so excited for you….we danced together a million years ago at Academy 331! Break a leg!
I think the top twenty is okay, but didn’t Kaitlyn’s (from last year’s top twenty) sister try out? Did she get cut or something????
i could do without the husband wife team… and also could do without legacy (he has passion when dancing, but i don’t think the raw skill set for other genres was there yet)
i’m rooting for Russell this year
Hello from Russia!
Can I quote a post in your blog with the link to you?
Go Noelle!!!
I love the majority of the guys this season,RUssell,Billy,Jakob,Kelvin.
Mollee is very cute baby, which is good.
However I am so sad that they cut Amber…
This has got to be the most exciting season yet in terms of talent and range of styles. But I’m a little bummed that there isn’t a person representing ballet this year.
I’m sad about Paula giving up this chance, but this way she can come back next season and try again. Hopefully the movie she does becomes a hit and does not become ‘the-bomb-that-held-her-back’.
Russell totally lost me vote though. I was excited to hear that they had someone with raw, untampered talent. They sorta made him the sympathy story of the season. Good thing I read this all here before the season started; I’d hate to give my vote to an undeserved sob story.
With that said, I hope every one lives up to our expectations and makes this the best damn season of SYTYCD? ever!
Bre, Paula made it but she turned it down. she said she can’t do the show because she has a contract on some movie.
Jakob blew my MIND with his audition, I can’t wait to see how he does! He and Billy are definitely my initial favorites.
yeah, where’s caitlin’s sister? I’m wondering if maybe she didn’t want a big deal made out of her so people wouldn’t think it was just because she was caitlin’s sister. But any real info would be nice. Also, so far I’m all about Russell and Mollee. But we’ll see how it goes after the first performances. Congrats to all those who are representing new genres on the show!
The guys seem to be stronger than the girls this season.
I definitely think billy and ellenore are gonna go far!
Can’t wait to see Noelle Marsh show the world how talented she is!
I’m ready for some girls from North Carolina to show everyone that the South KNOWS they can dance!
LETS GO ARIANA DEBOSE! NC is rooting for you!
She is an AMAZING contemporary dancer…Mia Michaels was AWED at her performance and she had no trouble with any of the genre’s. Awesome Awesome…Can’t wait to see her in more performances. This girl is a triple threat… sing, act & dance…i’ve seen all three!
I thought that when they asked Russell if he could do anything else and said they hoped that he could, he answered “I’ve done ballet, hip hop, jazz, all sorts of styles.” That was what I remember him saying.
So You Think You Can Dance rocks! Please show more of Ariana DeBose. I’ve been in New York with her and she is fierce! The world needs to see what a dazzling star she is. I’m dying to see her dance!!!
nathan is by far the best dancer this season!!
can’t wait to see what else he can do!!!
Exciting top20, but I want to see more of Ariana. She is AMAZING!!!
I love Ariana Debose!!!!!!!!!!! She is the best and I can’t wait for her to win!!
When the judges asked Russell about his training, he tells them he has trained in all those disciplines. I recently saw a clip of his audition and question-answer time with the judges.
From the looks of it, Legacy is the one “with no formal training”… and I really feel sorry for whoever gets paired up with him. He just rubs me the wrong way.
I find it interesting to see information on dancers who already have careers as dancers… High School Musical… dancing on Broadway….
I think I’ll be voting for ‘the little guy’.
AH! Ariana’s gonna TEAR. IT. UP. Trust me:)
why are people basing their vote already on the background stories? shouldnt we wait to see who the good dancers actually are and how they do in their performances? otherwise we’re going to see another season where ‘evan-type’ dancers make it to the top 4 when there are obviously more deserving dancers.
i think its a little annoying that the show made it seem like russell had no formal training (they did the same for josh, season 4). but regardless i’m still totally going to vote for him if he does well. i think he has amazing talent!
hope this season is good!
I am so glad Billy made it to top 20.
I adore him.
I think Ariana is one of the strongest dancers I’ve seen. even though there hasn’t been a lot of footage of her dancing, I have not heard a single negative comment made towards her. She obviously has a lot of talent. In the last episode before the green mile they showed a clip of her dance and it drove Mia Michaels to tears. I just wish they would show more of her dance, but with the talent she has I think she will be on for a while so maybe then we can see more of her.
Obviously, Bree isn’t a real fan of SYTYCD because she would of known about Paula - geesh… okay…. the married couple is cute but kind of annoying… there will certainly be drama there.
I’m voting for Channing Cooke she is certainly the best of all the girls in the top 10, strong and definitely in control of her emotions. She gets my vote!!!!!
I want to see more of Ariana Debose!! She’s amazing!!!
ARIANA IS AMAZING!!! I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE HER DANCE FULL OUT! I’M SURE SHE IS GOING TO WIN THE HEARTS OF ALL AMERICA! I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE MORE OF HER!!!!
Ariana is AMAZING. she gonna win for sure! yeahaaaa!!
Ashleigh Di Lello has no business being in the top 20. She lacks the skill to be given that honor. Her technique is well-below those who were cut. She lacks the personality to stand on her own terms without her husband there. While I understand the show would like to highlight people in all levels of the spectrum, not just technical dancers, Ashleigh is there because SYTYCD was betrayed by a dancer who wasn’t upfront with them.
Paula put them in a bind. She should have told them she had signed the contract the minute she was no longer qualified to take a top-twenty spot. Ashleigh, subpar dancer that she is, owes a giant thanks to Paula for being so dishonest that she put SYTYCD in a bind and trapped them.
Amber would have been a better top 20 choice than Ashleigh any day. But, due to Paula’s lack of forthrightness, she was let go already.
I hope SYTYCD learned to put a clause in their “vegas contract” that they must be notified BEFORE they make cuts of any changes in a dancer’s eligibility!
[...] This Monday you will have a chance to meet the Top 20 in an all-new special. Top 20 Finalists will then compete as couples, and two finalists will be eliminated in a 2-Hour performance show on Tuesday. Full-profiles of all of the Top 20 contestants read more.. [...]
I was disappointed not to get to see more of Ariana. I’ve seen her perform live and she is just knock-your-socks-off good. She played Cassie in a production of Chorus Line in Raleigh, NC last year … a true triple threat.
Plus, she’s not a professional. She’s just a regular kid who loves to perform. I like to use my vote to help an unknown get a break rather than to boost somebody’s resume.
I also do not understand why the judges will be eliminating the first 4 people. I am not sure I like that change. I would like it better if they had safe guards to prevent what happened to Jeannette last year. Jeanette got eliminated because people voted on the choreography instead of the quality of the dance. She never made a mis-step but was eliminated.
That is where I would rather see a change in judging.
I don’t see what’s so great about Legacy .. IMO all he’s shown so far is an amazing ability to do tricks. Tricks are NOT dancing. As is with so many other B-Boys .. the first thing the judges should have done is send him to Choreography and he would have been weeded out in the audition process because so far, he really hasn’t shown a whole lot of ability apart from big tricks. Those tend to get boring after a bit without any substance in between.
They Didn’t Show much of Ariana! I would like to see more of her…. I mean Mia threw a pen at her for Heavens sake!!! Can’t wait to see what Ariana brings!
It so cool that Nathan made it. It makes him the four person to be associated with quest learning center. The others are Ryan, Hok, and Dominic. I just find it cool.
Ready to see more of Ariana DeBose! she is very talented and I feel they need to show more of her dancing! She is the one to follow in the girls group
Soo glad that Ariana is with Peter..their chemistry is awesome. Their serious about their craft & there’s no drama & crying you see with some of the other cast…straight to the point and fabulous dancers!
I have known NOELLE for years and besides being so sweet she is an AMAZING Dancer! I can’t wait to vote for her!
I am so excited about Russell, Noelle, Mollee, Nathan, and Billy! These are my favorites!
i can’t wait to see what Noelle has for us . I feel as though she is going to be the bomb in season 6 and she is also so beautiful..
Noelle rocks!!!
Holy holy holy cow! The men this year are AMAZING. I just hope the female dancers can keep up, or they will easily be outshined. This season looks like the most promising yet. I can’t wait!!
Ariana is extremely talented. I want to see more of her on the show.
Paula WAS chosen for the top 20, but she turned it down because she was offered a contract for a movie. That’s why they let Ashleigh in.
And yeah, it’s a shame, cuz Paula was really, really good! But hopefully the movie experience will be great for her.
I love Victor Can’t wait to see him dance… He is the best
I was SOOOO mad when Ryan Kasprzak was sent home!!!! =( On the pluss side i LOVE Legacy, Russel, and Nathan, and mollee!!!!! Keep up the hard work!! =D
@Emily…thank god I’m not the only one who heard them say Russell had no training. I had told my niece about him having no training, then saw his profile and he has had SERIOUS training.
I am ready to see Ariana dance! Those few clips from the auditions aren’t enough! Can’t wait till next week.
My favorite so far is Legacy. Russel is pretty awesome too, though. I hope the judges don’t cut them too soon! Great Top 20 this year!!
ARIANA IS THE SWEETEST GIRL AND ONE OF THE BEST DANCERS I HAVE EVER SEEN!!!! She has such a personality and I love her and miss her to death!!!! GO ARIANA!!!!
Ariana Debose is the most amazing and passionate dancer and friend that I’ve ever known! She deserves all of your votes on Tuesday! Go all the way Ariana! You’re loved back home in WF!
I would love to see more of Ariana. She is an amazing dancer and people need to see what she can do. She truly has star potential and I think America will love her if they would just show more of her.
I have loved this season so far! Great great great, I agree with Mia, season 6 will blow every other season out of the water.
Speaking of Mia, she threw a pen at one of the (now) TOP 10 female dancers… Ariana DeBose? Why haven’t we seen more of her?! If she made Mia cry (let alone throw a pen at her!), she has to be good. I would love to see more of her!
I’m not entirely impressed with the rest of the girls, but hopefully she (Ariana) will live up to the pen throwing & tears!
As for the guys, I’m very excited to see what Billy has to offer. WOW!
I can’t wait to see these amazing top 20!!!!
big fan!!!!!!
Nathan~~~~
SOOOOO PROUD OF ARIANA. she knows her stuff and always puts on a great performance with everything she does.
Can’t wait to see more of Ariana. She is an amazing dancer! AND you should hear her sing!
AWW…I was really looking forward to seeing Paula Van Oppen perform on this show. I KNOW she turned it down for a movie offer, but how big can this movie really be?
It seems like everyone is contemporary here…^0^
Wow Nathan is so cute. I hope he’s an amazing dancer too.
Have you all notice in the group picture that one guy’s hand is in a place where it looks like..it shouldn’t be there?…..the girl in all black, sitting close by the ladder.
GO ARIANA!! WE LOVE YOU GIRLY!!!
OMG i can’t wait for this season to start! My favorite is Molly I think she’ll do well this season.
Looking forward to all this year’s top 20 performance.
Im looking forward to seeing Ariana perform. From what they’ve show she is extremely talented and I’m looking forward to seeing her in action!!
AH!!! I’m in love with Victor and Legacy!!! And im loving eleanor too!!!!
Ariana, is hands down the most well-rounded and PASSIONATE dancer in the Top 20. Passion is what people feel and will always want more of and she will give it! So, let’s see her more, that so she can bless us with her talent! Thanks.
We need to wait until Monday to see all the dancers in their own element and genre… Because they did not showw much of some of the top 20 dancers…. Kevin, Karen etc.. I will reserve judgement until then… Love so you think you can dance being watching since its premiere… Stay tuned for surprises….
YEAHHHH ARIANA!!! we’re so proud of you!
represent for wake forest! we’re all
cheering for you!!
GO ARIANA!! We are all rooting for you here in Greensboro!! Represent the NC!!
I’m willing to bet that Paula did tell them earlier. Revealing it the way they did makes a better story. Also, I don’t think they were “stuck” with Ashleigh. Ashleigh was probably their next choice anyway. The Top 20 announcement doesn’t go out live so if they wanted to get one of the other girls back they would have called her back and edited that announcement in. Nigel is still in charge; there’s no way he’d just let an announcement like that determine what happened on his show, even if it did come as a complete surprise.
There are too many comments for me to read them all, so my apologies if this has been said. In reference to Russell having no training, I went back and re-watched all previous episodes. During his audition, he was very up front that he’s had a lot of formal training. However, during Vegas week (jazz round), he specifically says he has had NO formal training. He lied. I loved him until catching this. That turned me off!!
Anyone else think that Mollee is too immature for this show? I hope she grows up before the first top 20 episode or I may not be able to stomach anymore of her babytalk/”oh my gosh, we are best friends and on the show together!” business. She is adorable and talented, but am interested in how she fares among people who are her age but act way more mature.
I love Nathan!
he is defiantly my favorite dancer hands down.
I remember seeing his audition last year
and i just knew that he was going to make it this year!(:
i hope he does really wel this season ;DD
Nathan and Billy are freaking AMAZING! So long as one of them win I will be so so happy.
YOU TWO ARE UNBELIEVABLE!
[...] probably already know, but I thought I’d put up an fyi post with this week’s schedule, since it’s a bit different (as this whole season’s schedule has [...]
As for Russell’s training: City Lights and Boston Arts Academy are both programs for disadvantaged youth. BAA is an excellent performing arts high school. It was ballroom in Vegas when Russell said he had no training. This makes sense if you look at BAA’s curriculum on their website. So don’t blame Russell for others getting confused. I’m sure there’s a heartwarming back story there for those who really need that to be his fan!!
I am so psyched to see that there are tappers on the show this year. I absolutely love Pete Sabasino. I watched him last year on the season 5 auditions and cant wait to see him perform this year. There is just something about the way he taps.
Ariana Debose is an amazing dancer and an amazing person. I hope she makes it far, because she deserves it! Everyone back in NC is rooting for her! GO ARIANA!
I’m so rooting for Karen Hauer!!! She’s Venezuelan!!! and she’s pretty good.. better than Ashleigh
hehe..
Great top 20 though!!! can’t wait for tomorrow
Legacy?!? Are you kidding?!? He’s not good! He’s actually pretty terrible!
They always pick too many contemporary dancers. According to the listings, of the ones whose dance styles are revealed, nine of the 20 dancers are contemporary artists.
I think the pre-judging for the show is becoming a bit slanted toward contemporary. With all the dance styles and artists out there, with all the people who tried out for this show, how can you account for the fact that half the field (if not more) are from one style of dance?
Contemporary dance in itself reminds me a lot of abstract art. In which I mean that you can tell the artist may be very talented, but the art itself seems lacking. To me, it’s a very dry sort of dance. The kind of motion that seems to lack a purpose. Kinda like a ballet form of “krumping”. Don’t get me started on krumping.
To be clear, I am not knocking the dancers. They work hard at what they do. It’s that particular style of dance that is just like nails on a chalkboard for me.
From what I can see, this is going to be a season of choreography of self important teachers using some of the dancers to relay some sort of (inner) message through contemporary dance. Apparently this year they have much to say.
Since this season is cast, can I ask for a more diverse group for next year’s show? Maybe some dance styles who can actually challenge the choreographers and judges?
Paula just wanted to know if she made the top 20 or not because last season the stupid judges cut her. if anything she probably did tell the producers but because of this news they wanted to think of some twist to entertain the viewers ad not tell the judges and the other contestants. she cant pass up a movie besides she could always come back next season.
Aside from Arianna and Billy and Nathans given awesome talents.. dont over look Pauline and Peter cause they are very unique and explosive. Hoping that Paulines injury doesnt hold her back. Legacy is okay.
im rooting for the underdogs.
I think it’s a great group of dancers with the exception of Ashleigh.
I won’t miss her when she’s gone.
What the heck happened to Mia’s hair ??
Victor Smalley is the definition of FIERCE!
cant wait for tonite but its gonna be hard to top season 5(the best season ever). i already love nathan and jakob
I LOVE NATE!!!!
i think more relief by to learn russell real dance history.
it show he has a MUCH better chance of winning
Billy Bell has pulled out of the show due to illness. He’s been replaced by hip-hop dancer Brandon Dumlao. Have no idea who he is.
boo.
Billy has pulled out due to injury. i hope he’s ok. I wanted to see him dance.
What is the name of the song, and by who, the 3 guys danced to in the second number of the night??
I like this format for the simple fact that we see the dancers dance before the judging begins how excellent!
WTG Bianca! FINALLY! Your determination and perseverance paid off! You should be very very proud of yourself for not giving up! You are truly an inspiration!
i think that the dance and choreography to “Viva la Vida” was awful!! They cut and destroyed the song and the style of dancing made no sense for the song. They were doing spins and other random stuff like that, which made made no sense for the up beat, personal song. It would have been good if the dance was to the words and meaning of the song rather than random good dancing. The dancing was great, don’t get me wrong, the song choice just made no sense for what they did.
being a tapper i was a little bit disappointed with the tap piece tonight… if us tappers want to gain an appreciation, then why not pick a more up beat song? And not to mention that the steps were fairly basic, just fast, could’ve been better…
Regarding Russell–first of all, nowhere does it indicate that he has trained in ballet. Are you people hallucinating or just making this up as you go? The Boston Arts Academy is a public HS for visual and performing arts that serves a diverse population. Boston City Lights is a “practical education program for disadvantaged youth” that allows kids to earn money performing. Again…this is hip hop, not ballet. Do your homework, people, before you go disrespecting someone and calling him a liar. GO RUSSELL!
Nigel made a statement that sytycd couldn’t have tap in the dance program because it can’t be taught in such a short time. Well on SYTYCD Canada a couple did theater and they did a tap number the girl(tara jean) a contemporary dancer and her partner (evertte) a tapper, she did a good job if she can learn a simple tap number then why not have tap as a dance pick.
J the name of the song the three guys danced to was “Beggin”( bydistrict 78 remix) byMadcon
I would like to see more of Pete Sabasino. He seems very intriguing and I think he has a great performance quality. He seems very genuine and I can’t wait to see what else he can do.
I enjoyed the tap piece last night. I thought that Pete Sabasino stood out and was the best one in that number. I wish we would see more of him in the group rountines, I hardly saw him at all in Wade’s number. I can’t wait to see what he can do this week and for all the other weeks to come!
ARIANA DEBOSE!are you kidding me! from day one when we started performing together i told you you would be famous and look at you! you are absolutely amazing! the world will finally see how truly talented you are!
everyone should vote for her. she is genuine and hard core and you will never see someone as talented as she is. she is a triple threat not only an amazing dancer, but an unbelievable actress, and stunning singer. it has been an honor to say i have performed on stage and went to school with you and had you as a friend.
im voting for you girl! make us all proud here at home!!! SYTYCD show ariana some more!! show what she can really do!
LOVE YOU ARIANA!
Why can’t I see recent full episodes of So You Think You Can Dance on the Fox site? Ever since TV went digital I have problems with the signal shifting when I’m timer recording. I had such a problem Monday night and have an unwatchable tape of the special. I would really love to see it! Does anyone know a site where the show might be available for viewing?
I’m not so sure that I’m a fan of this season. SYTYCD needs to go back to their roots. The Kodak theatre holds more people but the stage isn’t necessarily as good for dancing as the old theatre was. Also, it should be more about the dancers and not so much the choreographers. They are bringing professional dancers into the show when the show is about growth. They should be selecting people who need a bit of work!
Top 20
Favourites:
Jakob Karr
Channing Cooke
Karen Hauer
Billy Bell
Victor Smalley
Peter Sabasino
Pauline Mata
Ellenore Scott
Nathan Trasoras
Phillip Attmore
Ariana DeBose
Mollee Gray
Dislike:
Russell Ferguson
Kevin “K-Bez” Hunte
Noelle Marsh
Jonathan “Legacy” Perez
Ryan Di Lello
Ryan Di Lello
Bianca Revels
Ashleigh Di Lello
Kathryn McCormick
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE NOOOOOOO PAULA!
I hate hate hate that the judges get to just choose without the audience vote. This is a horrible addition!!!!!!! I don’t wanna give it away but a fan favorite and incredible dancer is gone! She was one of the the best and the best bet for a minority girl to win and now she’s out. This really sucks- the judges have no understanding of the audience preference- this was evident. I HATE their choice. It was sooooo wrong!!!
How could it be that Russell was in the bottom. I am not sure what the judges were seeing but I am watching one of the most versatile, charismatic, talented, compassionate person on stage. He certainly did not belong there. I am a huge fan of this show and have watched it from the beginning. Please note that if the fans were voting, he would have never been there. I don’t like how this is being done. For the judges to pick who they want to go home. Russell did not deserve to be there….ever!!!
I AM VERY UPSET. NIGEL I DO NOT AGREE WITH GETTING RID OF ARIANA. Your show has been about integrity until now. I do not care if Baseball takes over the station. Someone needs to work it out with the station to wait another week. Fans have always been able to vote the bottom three and then they dance for their lives. This week the judges picked the bottom 4 and then dismissed 2. First, Ariana is a great dancer, and there were others that completely sucked. IT IS VERY RARE YOU ALL GET AN AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN to represent on the show. YOU HAVE JUST GOTTEN RID OF ONE OF THE BEST DANCER REGARDLESS OF HER COLOR. The women that did hip-hop did not do a great job. She was not hitting it like you all stated. Ariana was a better dancer then her and a few others. THE FIRST TIME I AM UPSET WITH YOUR SHOW. The respect I had was gone. MY OTHER ISSUES IS HOW DARE YOU PUT RUSSELL IN THE BOTTOM 4 he had a partner that he could not lift (although I am glad she stepped in) and that was a complete disadvantage. IF you do not allow us to vote then I have to assume your decisions were completely biased. YOUR SHOW HAS CREATED DIVERSITY. Why would you get rid of a wonderful dancer. YOUR EXCUSED THAT SHE DOES NOT EXPRESS HERSELF IS COMPLETELY RUBBISH. I am sorry to say that your show just proved to me that you are no different (as I had believed it not so prior to this). IF YOU HAVE A GOOD DANCER KEEP THEM. Let us vote. When you choose it leaves room for fans to think that you all have a biased opinion. I AM SORRY YOU ALL DID NOT MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE, BECAUSE YOU TOOK IT OUT OF OUR HANDS. If Ariana would have been dismissed by the voters, I would not be typing this. IF NOEL IS NOT WELL TO COME BACK, ARIANA SHOULD BE GIVEN THE SAME OPPORTUNITY EVERYONE ELSE WOULD GET, AN AMERICAN VOTE. If you do not stand up you are telling American’s that someone can vote on our behalf, even in the political arena. I AM WRITING THIS TO GIVE US BACK THE POWER TO VOTE, if Ariana gets voted off, then I will respect that. OTHERWISE I WILL ASSUME THAT ANOTHER AFRICAN AMERICAN WOMEN FELL VICTIM TO INJUSTICE AGAIN.
AN ACTIVISTS FOR EQUALITY AND FAIRNESS
NANA
Loved Peter Sabasino tonight! Very impressed with the hip hop routine. I thought the judges didnt give him the credit he deserved. he was very entertaining and I thought the chemistry between him and his partner Arianna was great. Can’t wait to see more of him
i just watched the show tonight and i felt like it was confusing and had lots of shocking things goin on,like they brought up in brandon coz billy bell was pulled out due to his accidental injury but i hope he’s ok i just been really disappointed that he cant continue dancing in this season which i thought he’s 1 by far has the possibility to win this competition and actually 1 of my early favorite male dancer,and then they’ve paired up russell with choreographer melanie who substitute on noelle spot which is for me it did’nt really makes any sence,then the judges cut off 2 dancers which actually america will get to start voting next week so it felt like it was’nt fair for those 2 who been sent home especially for ariana which i thought stronger than pauline in any ways.i dont know what’s been going on but it was really confusing and shocking as much as i like the show last night but tonight show is not that noisy and lifeless…i wish it will be better next week goodluck to everyone!!!
Loved Peter Sabasino last night. Think he is great. I thought he executed that Hip Hop routine and I cant wait to see more of him. He is fun to watch and easy on the eyes
How cute boys ! I love Jacob and legecy.
Good luck to Seanson 6 .
JAKOB AND CHANNING FINALE TWOO!
then victor,nathan,molle (:
I thought this was supposed to reveal America’s favorite dancer? The judges already got us to top 20, why do they get to choose the top 10 too? It’s our turn! I loved Bianca and Phillip… voters could have gotten them to the top!!! So mad…
Season Six! The new show Intro is smart, full of energy and well designed. A new theatre setting has added dimension and stability to the show. Cat Deely looks great when best use is made of her incredible body in classic but edgy fashion and soft hair. With her proportions simple is better in my opinion, and stay away from too “hard looking” hair and make-up. The array of dance talent harvested for this show is rich in diversity and talent and training are again outstanding beyond belief. The judges comments are astute and particularly helpful for real dancers watching the show who can take the notes and apply them to their own development and movement/theatre vocabulary. New choreographers are making the show very exciting each week, having lost a mainstay gives other creative and able choreographers such as Tyce Diorio (e.g. Bobbie McFerrin - Blackbird Singing in the Dead of Night) a chance to showcase the future of Dance in America.
I’d sweetie to ascertain that too!