Got a little behind with these recaps, eh? Oops! For completeness sake, I'll finish 'em up now, albeit much later than I had originally planned.
Travis Wall Group Routine: So fun! Loved the light up costumes and the strong choreography.
Evan and Janette:
Sonya Tayeh Jazz - Still loving Sonya's choreography. Janette is a spitfire and I thought she did a great job in the routine. Evan faired well, too, which was a surprise to me.
Tony Meredith Rumba - Hot! I was shocked that Evan really rocked the whole sexy angle and of course, Janette was completely in the moment and commited to the feeling of the routine. Nice piece from both of them.
Brandon and Jeanine:
Hunter Johnson Waltz - Pretty, but a bit of a snooze. It would have been nice to see them in something a bit more lively.
Laurieann Gibson Pop Jazz - Such a strong routine from two very strong dancers. My eye flitted back and forth equally between Brandon and Jeanine as she was more than able to keep up with his hard hitting style. This type of piece can be really difficult because there really isn't a character to fall back on if you're technique is suffering. This is all about feeling the music and the movement and these two did a brilliant job with it. Fabulous choreography and execution!
Ade and Melissa:
Tony Meredith Cha Cha - Just okay. Too slow and not really enough emotion for me.
Tyce Diorio Contemporary - Aaaand they just secured themselves another week on the show. This was the most powerful routine I've ever seen danced on this show, by a landslide. The depiction of a woman with breast cancer was so emotional and heartfelt and I can't think of two better dancers to have performed this routine. A subject matter like this could have easily felt fake or insensitive, but Tyce's amazing choreography combined with the emotional maturity of both Melissa and Ade made for a breath-taking and tear-inducing piece. If you haven't seen this yet, you need to find it on YouTube and watch it. But, be forewarned, have tissues at the ready. It's a tear-jerker.
Jason and Kayla:
Tyce Diorio Jazz - First off, I couldn't agree more with Mia that Kayla needs to be on Broadway if she has any acting or singing talent. The girl looked stunning in this piece and danced it so well! I thought Jason performed admirably, but overall, I just don't think he can keep up with Kayla. Nice routine from Tyce.
Shane Sparks Hip Hop - Finally, Shane Sparks and his kickass choreography is back! I don't know what happened earlier this season, but this latest routine from him was fantastic! I loved the zombie theme and their hard-hitting movies. When Kayla wiped her eyes and smeared black makeup down her face, giving her quite the creepy look, it was a really nice touch to the piece. The ending move was sick! I don't know how they did it, but it was so perfect for the routine and totally creepy. Excellent!
******************Spoiler Alert****************************
This week's results show was the 100th show and from all the promotions, I really thought this was going to be a packed show with guest appearances from previous contestants and lots of old routines performed. Yeah, not so much. Lots of the old cast were back, but the just sat in the audience. Why wouldn't you utilize all of that amazing dancing talent and have more live routines instead of a measly 4 (albeit Emmy-nominated and quite good, but still!) I was really disappointed that they didn't make this show more than it was. :(
As for who was sent home, I was shocked that Brandon was in the bottom 2, but was happy that it was Jason that was sent home. A good dancer, but just not on par with the likes of Brandon or Ade. As for the girls, I was sad that Janette was sent home, but didn't feel like it was the upset of the season. She is quite good, but again, just not on par with the other ladies, at least for me.
Showing posts with label SYTYCD. Show all posts
Showing posts with label SYTYCD. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
SYTYCD - Week 6
Almost caught up! Last week saw everyone breaking from their original partners and forming new couples. As always, some people soared and others fell a bit short.
Evan and Kayla - Tony Meredith Viennese Waltz: Shortest guy, tallest girl and a ballroom piece. I mean, it's kind of funny. I thought the shoe solution was great - I especially like the jeweled fake "T-strap" they attached to Kayla's dance paws. <3 As for the routine itself, I thought it was danced well, but the song and movement was way too fast for a Viennese Waltz. It felt rushed and kind of all over the place. Not the dancers fault though. I was also pleased to see the lifts go so well. Solid performance.
Ade and Janette - NapTab Hip Hop: Great song, cute concept. Ade rocked it out, but I thought Janette fell quite short. Her movement felt forced and didn't flow nearly as well as it should have. I give her credit though for really going for it. Just okay for me.
Jason and Jeanine - Travis Walls Contemporary: I'll try to keep this short, but bear with me. I LOVED THIS!!! And for so many reasons. First, it was great to see an alumni come back and choreograph a routine for the show. Yes, we've seen it multiple times for ballroom numbers, but this is the first time we've seen it with a contemporary dancer. Second, the routine itself was fabulous. The choreography had shades of other choreographers on the show, but it's incredibly physical nature and many fresh elements made it uniquely Travis. Third, Jason and Jeanine danced the hell out of it! Not only did they nail every step, but the passion and emotion that was put into the routine bumped it to a whole other level. Easily, my favorite routine of the night.
Kupono and Randi - Tony Meredith Paso Doble: Oh my. This was just a mess. The costumes, the dancing - it was just not good. I thought the choreography was fine and the song choice very appropriate, but it wasn't executed well at all. :(
Brandon and Melissa - Tyce Diorio Broadway: Brandon is still a chameleon and Melissa is a still a delight to watch. This routine really showcased each of their talents and then blended them together in a seamless routine. Great routine from Tyce and beautifully performed by Brandon and Melissa. Two thumbs up!
Girls Group Routine - Nakul Dev Mahajan Bollywood: How fun!! I absolutely agreed with judges that everyone danced it well and no one stuck out like a sore thumb. I'm such a sucker for the Bollywood costumes as they are total eye candy. I thought everyone looked great and did the routine justice. Also, Nakul has now choreographed 4 routines for the show and they've all looked and felt different from one another and for me, have all been absolute hits. Props to him for doing such a great job!
Guys Group Routine - Jeffrey Page African: I love that we finally got an authentic African dance piece on the show. Strong, powerful and tons of fun to watch. I'm not gonna lie, I was scared for Evan, but strangely enough, he did alright. Like the girls, everyone performed well and it was a great routine. As a side note, I could listen to Jeffrey's accent all. day. long. :)
********************** Spoiler Alert *********************************
The opening group routine from Wade and Amanda Robson was so cool! I loved the colors, set design, concept... all of it! It had a bit of Kill Bill theme, you know, the scene with Lucy Lui and the Crazy 88s. Fabulous.
Bottom 4 time. Kupono and Randi didn't shock me at all, Melissa in the bottom made me sad, but I saw it coming. But, Ade?! What?! I was so confused by that. Makes no sense to me. That being said, it was obvious to me that Randi and Kupono should be the ones to go tonight. They are the weakest of the bunch at this point and as much as I've enjoyed their routines these past few weeks, it was their time to leave. It's getting so hard now, though! Depending on how they do this week, I'm concerned that Melissa and Evan are probably on the chopping block. :(
Evan and Kayla - Tony Meredith Viennese Waltz: Shortest guy, tallest girl and a ballroom piece. I mean, it's kind of funny. I thought the shoe solution was great - I especially like the jeweled fake "T-strap" they attached to Kayla's dance paws. <3 As for the routine itself, I thought it was danced well, but the song and movement was way too fast for a Viennese Waltz. It felt rushed and kind of all over the place. Not the dancers fault though. I was also pleased to see the lifts go so well. Solid performance.
Ade and Janette - NapTab Hip Hop: Great song, cute concept. Ade rocked it out, but I thought Janette fell quite short. Her movement felt forced and didn't flow nearly as well as it should have. I give her credit though for really going for it. Just okay for me.
Jason and Jeanine - Travis Walls Contemporary: I'll try to keep this short, but bear with me. I LOVED THIS!!! And for so many reasons. First, it was great to see an alumni come back and choreograph a routine for the show. Yes, we've seen it multiple times for ballroom numbers, but this is the first time we've seen it with a contemporary dancer. Second, the routine itself was fabulous. The choreography had shades of other choreographers on the show, but it's incredibly physical nature and many fresh elements made it uniquely Travis. Third, Jason and Jeanine danced the hell out of it! Not only did they nail every step, but the passion and emotion that was put into the routine bumped it to a whole other level. Easily, my favorite routine of the night.
Kupono and Randi - Tony Meredith Paso Doble: Oh my. This was just a mess. The costumes, the dancing - it was just not good. I thought the choreography was fine and the song choice very appropriate, but it wasn't executed well at all. :(
Brandon and Melissa - Tyce Diorio Broadway: Brandon is still a chameleon and Melissa is a still a delight to watch. This routine really showcased each of their talents and then blended them together in a seamless routine. Great routine from Tyce and beautifully performed by Brandon and Melissa. Two thumbs up!
Girls Group Routine - Nakul Dev Mahajan Bollywood: How fun!! I absolutely agreed with judges that everyone danced it well and no one stuck out like a sore thumb. I'm such a sucker for the Bollywood costumes as they are total eye candy. I thought everyone looked great and did the routine justice. Also, Nakul has now choreographed 4 routines for the show and they've all looked and felt different from one another and for me, have all been absolute hits. Props to him for doing such a great job!
Guys Group Routine - Jeffrey Page African: I love that we finally got an authentic African dance piece on the show. Strong, powerful and tons of fun to watch. I'm not gonna lie, I was scared for Evan, but strangely enough, he did alright. Like the girls, everyone performed well and it was a great routine. As a side note, I could listen to Jeffrey's accent all. day. long. :)
********************** Spoiler Alert *********************************
The opening group routine from Wade and Amanda Robson was so cool! I loved the colors, set design, concept... all of it! It had a bit of Kill Bill theme, you know, the scene with Lucy Lui and the Crazy 88s. Fabulous.
Bottom 4 time. Kupono and Randi didn't shock me at all, Melissa in the bottom made me sad, but I saw it coming. But, Ade?! What?! I was so confused by that. Makes no sense to me. That being said, it was obvious to me that Randi and Kupono should be the ones to go tonight. They are the weakest of the bunch at this point and as much as I've enjoyed their routines these past few weeks, it was their time to leave. It's getting so hard now, though! Depending on how they do this week, I'm concerned that Melissa and Evan are probably on the chopping block. :(
SYTYCD - Week 5
This week the group was whittled down to the Top 10!
Ade and Melissa:
Doriana Sanchez Disco - Fast, but not nearly as frantic as most of the disco numbers on the show, which I liked. They looked like they were having fun and I thought the lifts and spins were great. Solid performance.
Ron Montez Waltz - Nice and pretty, but nothing terribly memorable.
Kupono and Kayla:
Mia Michaels Contemporary - Hands down, my favorite number of the night. I had chills through the whole routine and started to tear up at the end. The emotion and strength that was shown in the routine was amazing. I love how they completely became their characters from the get-go. Just amazing!
Joey Dowling Broadway - It was okay. I'm not sure that either of them really has the personality to pull off that type of Broadway routine, one that requires a big, fun stage presence. And Joey Dowling still scares the crap out of me.
Jason and Caitlin:
Tony Meredith Foxtrot - Well, they looked beautiful, but I wasn't buying the emotion and chemistry. Nice routine, but a bit stale for me.
Mandy Moore Contemporary - Beautiful choreography, great song, but I would have preferred to see someone else dancing this routine. I just don't buy the chemistry between Caitlin and Jason, which is quite sad. As far as strict execution of moves, they did well. But, there has to be that emotional connection for a piece to really come alive and I just don't think they have it.
Phillip and Jeanine:
Youri Nelzine Russian Folkdance - Oh dear. This was just a bit of train-wreck, wasn't it? I'm guessing the producers are kicking themselves for having this on the show, especially this week. Just a rough routine all around. Moving on.
Tony Meredith Jive - Things didn't get much better with this routine. Jeanine is a spitfire and I love watching her. Phillip, though, is fading fast. So very sad.
Evan and Randi:
NapTab Hip Hop - Hmmm. Well, I like the song choice and choreography, as I think it tried to play to the fact that Evan and Randi are about as far removed from being hip hop dancers as you can get. I think they danced it fairly well, but it was far from fabulous.
Pasha/Anya Samba - Oh boy. Awk-ward. This was pretty uncomfortable to watch. I was a bit surprised that they couldn't bring the sexy for this number, as they did a great job with Mia's The Butt piece earlier this season. Much as I like both of them, they're starting to fade a bit.
Brandon and Janette:
Miriam/Leonardo Argentine Tango - Holy Crap!! This was HOT!!! Brandon is a straight-up chameleon - he seamlessly becomes whatever the routine requires of him. And Janette has done a beautiful job of keeping up with him. Fabulous number!
Wade Robson Jazz - So quirky. So cool. Loved how wacky Wade can be and how Brandon and Janette really made this routine come alive. I think this is one that could have easily fallen flat had the dancers not given it their all. Obviously, this wasn't the case. One of my favorite routines of the night.
*******************Spoiler Alert**************************
Another great group routine by NappyTab. They are firing on all cylinders this season, seriously. I felt like they really wobbled back and forth between genious and What the hell were you thinking?, but this year I've really enjoyed all of their work. Two thumbs up!
I was surprised that Melissa and Ade were in the bottom, as I thought it should have been Randi and Evan instead, but the other two couples made sense to me. Jeanine still has the best solos out of all these contests, in my opinion. I think Caitlin going home made sense. As much as I think she is a beautiful dancer, she never seemed to really get it all figured out on the show. She started off so strong with Bollywood the first week, but I think she has been fading ever since. It's really too bad. For the guys, much as I love him and his crazy poppin' ways, Phillip just wasn't progressing as quickly as he should and was having more and more trouble keeping up with increasingly difficult choreography. But, I will say that I'm happy to hear both will be alternates for the tour. At least there is an upside to all of this.
One last note - I cannot tell you sad I was that they were not able to get the rights to MJ's songs to do a tribute episode. Like, so sad! Can you imagine the possiblities?! I mean, you have a group of incredibly talented choreographers on the show who really respect MJ and all he did for music and dance. You know they would have come out with both guns blazing for something like this. I'm incredibly disappointed that we won't be able to see what they would have produced. :(
Ade and Melissa:
Doriana Sanchez Disco - Fast, but not nearly as frantic as most of the disco numbers on the show, which I liked. They looked like they were having fun and I thought the lifts and spins were great. Solid performance.
Ron Montez Waltz - Nice and pretty, but nothing terribly memorable.
Kupono and Kayla:
Mia Michaels Contemporary - Hands down, my favorite number of the night. I had chills through the whole routine and started to tear up at the end. The emotion and strength that was shown in the routine was amazing. I love how they completely became their characters from the get-go. Just amazing!
Joey Dowling Broadway - It was okay. I'm not sure that either of them really has the personality to pull off that type of Broadway routine, one that requires a big, fun stage presence. And Joey Dowling still scares the crap out of me.
Jason and Caitlin:
Tony Meredith Foxtrot - Well, they looked beautiful, but I wasn't buying the emotion and chemistry. Nice routine, but a bit stale for me.
Mandy Moore Contemporary - Beautiful choreography, great song, but I would have preferred to see someone else dancing this routine. I just don't buy the chemistry between Caitlin and Jason, which is quite sad. As far as strict execution of moves, they did well. But, there has to be that emotional connection for a piece to really come alive and I just don't think they have it.
Phillip and Jeanine:
Youri Nelzine Russian Folkdance - Oh dear. This was just a bit of train-wreck, wasn't it? I'm guessing the producers are kicking themselves for having this on the show, especially this week. Just a rough routine all around. Moving on.
Tony Meredith Jive - Things didn't get much better with this routine. Jeanine is a spitfire and I love watching her. Phillip, though, is fading fast. So very sad.
Evan and Randi:
NapTab Hip Hop - Hmmm. Well, I like the song choice and choreography, as I think it tried to play to the fact that Evan and Randi are about as far removed from being hip hop dancers as you can get. I think they danced it fairly well, but it was far from fabulous.
Pasha/Anya Samba - Oh boy. Awk-ward. This was pretty uncomfortable to watch. I was a bit surprised that they couldn't bring the sexy for this number, as they did a great job with Mia's The Butt piece earlier this season. Much as I like both of them, they're starting to fade a bit.
Brandon and Janette:
Miriam/Leonardo Argentine Tango - Holy Crap!! This was HOT!!! Brandon is a straight-up chameleon - he seamlessly becomes whatever the routine requires of him. And Janette has done a beautiful job of keeping up with him. Fabulous number!
Wade Robson Jazz - So quirky. So cool. Loved how wacky Wade can be and how Brandon and Janette really made this routine come alive. I think this is one that could have easily fallen flat had the dancers not given it their all. Obviously, this wasn't the case. One of my favorite routines of the night.
*******************Spoiler Alert**************************
Another great group routine by NappyTab. They are firing on all cylinders this season, seriously. I felt like they really wobbled back and forth between genious and What the hell were you thinking?, but this year I've really enjoyed all of their work. Two thumbs up!
I was surprised that Melissa and Ade were in the bottom, as I thought it should have been Randi and Evan instead, but the other two couples made sense to me. Jeanine still has the best solos out of all these contests, in my opinion. I think Caitlin going home made sense. As much as I think she is a beautiful dancer, she never seemed to really get it all figured out on the show. She started off so strong with Bollywood the first week, but I think she has been fading ever since. It's really too bad. For the guys, much as I love him and his crazy poppin' ways, Phillip just wasn't progressing as quickly as he should and was having more and more trouble keeping up with increasingly difficult choreography. But, I will say that I'm happy to hear both will be alternates for the tour. At least there is an upside to all of this.
One last note - I cannot tell you sad I was that they were not able to get the rights to MJ's songs to do a tribute episode. Like, so sad! Can you imagine the possiblities?! I mean, you have a group of incredibly talented choreographers on the show who really respect MJ and all he did for music and dance. You know they would have come out with both guns blazing for something like this. I'm incredibly disappointed that we won't be able to see what they would have produced. :(
Thursday, July 9, 2009
SYTYCD - Week 4
There has been a lot more going on in my world than just SYTYCD (as evidenced by this post being well over a week late), but I haven't had time to sit down and upload pics and write it all up. Soon though. Hopefully.
Brandon and Janette - Jean Marc Genereux Cha Cha: Holy smokes! Hot Hot Hot!! Spicy little number that kicked off the show on the right foot. They are such a fun couple to watch because they bring it every single week. Another routine nailed.
Kupono and Kayla - Sonya Tayeh Contemporary: I really loved this one. I thought the concept was great, the choreography was spot on and the dancing was fierce. I wasn't a huge Kupono fan at first, but I'm really coming around to him, especially being paired with Kayla. Having a stronger partner appears to be bringing out more and more from him each week. Awesome routine. And Kayla's legs are still unreal.
Evan and Randi - Joey Dowling Broadway: I know the judges poo-pooed it a bit, but I was entertained and thought they looked good. I admit that I haven't seen Sweet Charity - the inspiration for the piece - but my co-worker, who has seen it, said that the fist punches just didn't hit hard enough compared to the original. Fair enough. Joey Dowling looks like she is a great choreographer, but she sort of scared me a bit in the intro piece. Eeek!
Jason and Caitlin - Brian Friedman Pop Jazz: Alright, I'm gonna just say it, this was a hot mess. Okay, sure, Jason and Caitlin danced it alright, I guess, but the costumes and inspiration were a big Fail. If I'm being completely honest, while it was technically fine, I didn't think they brought much in the way of bringing the characters to life. Not good dude.
Phillip and Jeanine - NapTab Hip Hop: Cool concept, they danced it well, but the chain was a bit distracting. I still love their chemistry and how she really brings it every week.
Ade and Melissa - Thordal Pas de deux: Chills. It absolutely gave me chills. I'm so happy that they were able to showcase Melissa's classical training and have a dance performed en pointe during the show. Was it rigged that they got this number? I'm sure it was. But, that did nothing to diminish the beauty and feeling this routine offered. They make such a beautiful partnership and I love watching them dance together.
Vitolio and Karla - Jean Marc Genereux Quickstep: Lackluster and a bit boring. I tend to really enjoy quickstep routines, but this one did nothing for me. Every week and I keep expecting Vitolio to bust out his personality on stage and each week I'm disappointed. I think he has really stalled out in the competition. Same thing for Karla.
***********************Spoiler Alert*******************************
I was hoping for one heck of a tribute routine to MJ and well, was anyone else a bit disappointed that it wasn't more MJ? Don't get me wrong, I liked the group routine, but I was just hoping for something less subtle and more "hit you over the head, this is honoring MJ's contribution to music and dance" sorta thing. :(
Getting harder and harder to figure out the bottom three couples each week. I was shocked Caitlin and Jason weren't in the bottom, couldn't believe Kupono and Kayla were in the bottom, but thought Vitolio and Karla definitely deserved to be there.
Let's talk solos for a minute. I loved Phillip's and while it was a bit frantic, I still thought it was solid. Vitolio and Kupono were really weak. Kupono's strong performance this week and in previous weeks saved him as it should have, but he really needs to get the solo thing together. Otherwise, when they go to singles, he'll be an easy choice to leave early. It was definitely Vitolio's time to leave. Much as his story is inspirational, that passion and personality just isn't translating to the stage. Sad, but true. I wish him well.
And now the girls. Jeanine was INSANE! That might be one of the best solos ever on SYTYCD! A complete, short routine that was beautifully put together and techinally amazing. Loved it! What happened to Kayla's quirky cute solos from auditions?! I'm so confused. She has to bring that quirk factor back because that is what got her here in the first place. Karla's solo was fine, but again, a lack of spunk and fire in the past few weeks made her the obvious choice to go home tonight.
I can't believe we're already down to 12!
Brandon and Janette - Jean Marc Genereux Cha Cha: Holy smokes! Hot Hot Hot!! Spicy little number that kicked off the show on the right foot. They are such a fun couple to watch because they bring it every single week. Another routine nailed.
Kupono and Kayla - Sonya Tayeh Contemporary: I really loved this one. I thought the concept was great, the choreography was spot on and the dancing was fierce. I wasn't a huge Kupono fan at first, but I'm really coming around to him, especially being paired with Kayla. Having a stronger partner appears to be bringing out more and more from him each week. Awesome routine. And Kayla's legs are still unreal.
Evan and Randi - Joey Dowling Broadway: I know the judges poo-pooed it a bit, but I was entertained and thought they looked good. I admit that I haven't seen Sweet Charity - the inspiration for the piece - but my co-worker, who has seen it, said that the fist punches just didn't hit hard enough compared to the original. Fair enough. Joey Dowling looks like she is a great choreographer, but she sort of scared me a bit in the intro piece. Eeek!
Jason and Caitlin - Brian Friedman Pop Jazz: Alright, I'm gonna just say it, this was a hot mess. Okay, sure, Jason and Caitlin danced it alright, I guess, but the costumes and inspiration were a big Fail. If I'm being completely honest, while it was technically fine, I didn't think they brought much in the way of bringing the characters to life. Not good dude.
Phillip and Jeanine - NapTab Hip Hop: Cool concept, they danced it well, but the chain was a bit distracting. I still love their chemistry and how she really brings it every week.
Ade and Melissa - Thordal Pas de deux: Chills. It absolutely gave me chills. I'm so happy that they were able to showcase Melissa's classical training and have a dance performed en pointe during the show. Was it rigged that they got this number? I'm sure it was. But, that did nothing to diminish the beauty and feeling this routine offered. They make such a beautiful partnership and I love watching them dance together.
Vitolio and Karla - Jean Marc Genereux Quickstep: Lackluster and a bit boring. I tend to really enjoy quickstep routines, but this one did nothing for me. Every week and I keep expecting Vitolio to bust out his personality on stage and each week I'm disappointed. I think he has really stalled out in the competition. Same thing for Karla.
***********************Spoiler Alert*******************************
I was hoping for one heck of a tribute routine to MJ and well, was anyone else a bit disappointed that it wasn't more MJ? Don't get me wrong, I liked the group routine, but I was just hoping for something less subtle and more "hit you over the head, this is honoring MJ's contribution to music and dance" sorta thing. :(
Getting harder and harder to figure out the bottom three couples each week. I was shocked Caitlin and Jason weren't in the bottom, couldn't believe Kupono and Kayla were in the bottom, but thought Vitolio and Karla definitely deserved to be there.
Let's talk solos for a minute. I loved Phillip's and while it was a bit frantic, I still thought it was solid. Vitolio and Kupono were really weak. Kupono's strong performance this week and in previous weeks saved him as it should have, but he really needs to get the solo thing together. Otherwise, when they go to singles, he'll be an easy choice to leave early. It was definitely Vitolio's time to leave. Much as his story is inspirational, that passion and personality just isn't translating to the stage. Sad, but true. I wish him well.
And now the girls. Jeanine was INSANE! That might be one of the best solos ever on SYTYCD! A complete, short routine that was beautifully put together and techinally amazing. Loved it! What happened to Kayla's quirky cute solos from auditions?! I'm so confused. She has to bring that quirk factor back because that is what got her here in the first place. Karla's solo was fine, but again, a lack of spunk and fire in the past few weeks made her the obvious choice to go home tonight.
I can't believe we're already down to 12!
Friday, June 26, 2009
SYTYCD - Week 3
Alright, almost caught up! Whew.
But, before we start, can I say how much Toni Basil is a waste of space on the show. Seriously, I fast-forward through everything she has to say. With all the other great people they rotate through that 3rd judges chair, I'm not sure why they keep bringing her back. Sigh.
Jonathan and Karla - Dave Scott Hip Hop: Good choreography, liked the hat tricks and stuff. However, while I thought Karla could move and did a good job looking comfortable in the routine, Jonathan looked soooo uncomfortable with everything. It really wound up being pretty messy at the end of the day. Not good.
Vitolio and Asuka - Mandy Moore Jazz: For me, this was another case of good choreography and bad execution by the dancers. Asuka and Vitolio were both back to bland, no personality mode, which made the whole routine feel very boring and meh. Put Melissa/Ade in that routine and it would have popped off the screen. Blah!
Ade and Melissa - Tony Meredith Rumba: Hot, hot, hot!!! Both of them were incredibly strong and gave each other something to play off of. Their chemistry is absolutely believable to me and I love watching them dance together. Can I also just metion how Melissa is ripped?! Good lord! Quite nice with Ade's abs, dontcha think? ;)
Brandon and Janette - Dave Scott Hip Hop: Finally! A routine that shows off their dancing skills! I thought this routine was super fun and showcased both of their talents very well. Who knew Brandon was so freaking great at hip hop? I was very impressed. Great choreography and Brandon and Janette absolutely sold it. Fabulous!
Kupono and Kayla - Jean Marc Genereux Viennese Waltz: Lord knows this has been a hot mess before on the show, but this routine was very pretty. It felt a bit fast for me for being a Viennese Waltz, but they danced it well. I would agree that's it not something that I think will cause people at home to jump up and down, but it was a good solid performance. And Kayla is still just a ridiculous dancer.
Evan and Randi - Mia Michaels Contemporary: One of my favorite choreographers paired with one of my favorite couples? Holla! Oh and it was quite a match, wasn't it? I love me some kooky and crazy Mia characters and this fit the bill. Evan and Randi were fantastic in executing the dance steps and really bringing the characters to life. I was worried though, when she started the dance in 5 inch platform stilettos (broken ankles, anyone?), but I thought the way they became part of the props for the routine was very cool. LOVE this routine. LOVE IT!!
Jason and Caitlin - Jean Marc Genereux Paso Doble: I wasn't a fan of this routine. The music was a bit much, the choreography felt rushed and Jason and Caitlin looked sort of frantic performing it. Not my cup of tea.
Phillip and Jeanine - Tyce Diorio Broadway: How fun! I really like "Moses Supposes" anyways, but I liked the routine Tyce choreographed around the song and was pleased to see the couch was a large part of it - a nod to the original number. I know the judges thought Phillip needed to up his game, but I thought they were both quite good and brought lots of energy and Broadway charm to the number. Super cute!
********************************Spoiler Alert*********************************
Anyone else LOVE the collaboration between Dimitri and NapTab for the opening group number? I'm a huge fan of hip hop/latin fusion to begin with and this number was a beautiful blending of both dance styles into a number that was sexy and fun and worthy of a music video. A+!
Bottom 3 - made sense. All 3 numbers had problems and I was happy with who was chosen for the bottom this week.
For the girls, I really wasn't sad to see Asuka go. I totally agree that she doesn't seem to be growing at all and think it was her time to leave. For the boys, Jonathan had to go. He's only had one really good routine and his solos are incredibly weak. That said, Vitolio and Jason aren't fairing much better when it comes to solos and I think they're going to really have to step it up if they want to stay around much longer. I do hope, though, that being paired with Karla will bring out some personality in Vitolio already. We shall see.
But, before we start, can I say how much Toni Basil is a waste of space on the show. Seriously, I fast-forward through everything she has to say. With all the other great people they rotate through that 3rd judges chair, I'm not sure why they keep bringing her back. Sigh.
Jonathan and Karla - Dave Scott Hip Hop: Good choreography, liked the hat tricks and stuff. However, while I thought Karla could move and did a good job looking comfortable in the routine, Jonathan looked soooo uncomfortable with everything. It really wound up being pretty messy at the end of the day. Not good.
Vitolio and Asuka - Mandy Moore Jazz: For me, this was another case of good choreography and bad execution by the dancers. Asuka and Vitolio were both back to bland, no personality mode, which made the whole routine feel very boring and meh. Put Melissa/Ade in that routine and it would have popped off the screen. Blah!
Ade and Melissa - Tony Meredith Rumba: Hot, hot, hot!!! Both of them were incredibly strong and gave each other something to play off of. Their chemistry is absolutely believable to me and I love watching them dance together. Can I also just metion how Melissa is ripped?! Good lord! Quite nice with Ade's abs, dontcha think? ;)
Brandon and Janette - Dave Scott Hip Hop: Finally! A routine that shows off their dancing skills! I thought this routine was super fun and showcased both of their talents very well. Who knew Brandon was so freaking great at hip hop? I was very impressed. Great choreography and Brandon and Janette absolutely sold it. Fabulous!
Kupono and Kayla - Jean Marc Genereux Viennese Waltz: Lord knows this has been a hot mess before on the show, but this routine was very pretty. It felt a bit fast for me for being a Viennese Waltz, but they danced it well. I would agree that's it not something that I think will cause people at home to jump up and down, but it was a good solid performance. And Kayla is still just a ridiculous dancer.
Evan and Randi - Mia Michaels Contemporary: One of my favorite choreographers paired with one of my favorite couples? Holla! Oh and it was quite a match, wasn't it? I love me some kooky and crazy Mia characters and this fit the bill. Evan and Randi were fantastic in executing the dance steps and really bringing the characters to life. I was worried though, when she started the dance in 5 inch platform stilettos (broken ankles, anyone?), but I thought the way they became part of the props for the routine was very cool. LOVE this routine. LOVE IT!!
Jason and Caitlin - Jean Marc Genereux Paso Doble: I wasn't a fan of this routine. The music was a bit much, the choreography felt rushed and Jason and Caitlin looked sort of frantic performing it. Not my cup of tea.
Phillip and Jeanine - Tyce Diorio Broadway: How fun! I really like "Moses Supposes" anyways, but I liked the routine Tyce choreographed around the song and was pleased to see the couch was a large part of it - a nod to the original number. I know the judges thought Phillip needed to up his game, but I thought they were both quite good and brought lots of energy and Broadway charm to the number. Super cute!
********************************Spoiler Alert*********************************
Anyone else LOVE the collaboration between Dimitri and NapTab for the opening group number? I'm a huge fan of hip hop/latin fusion to begin with and this number was a beautiful blending of both dance styles into a number that was sexy and fun and worthy of a music video. A+!
Bottom 3 - made sense. All 3 numbers had problems and I was happy with who was chosen for the bottom this week.
For the girls, I really wasn't sad to see Asuka go. I totally agree that she doesn't seem to be growing at all and think it was her time to leave. For the boys, Jonathan had to go. He's only had one really good routine and his solos are incredibly weak. That said, Vitolio and Jason aren't fairing much better when it comes to solos and I think they're going to really have to step it up if they want to stay around much longer. I do hope, though, that being paired with Karla will bring out some personality in Vitolio already. We shall see.
SYTYCD - Week 2
I've been out of town this week, which is why this is so horribly late. Vacation recap to come sometime next week. Highlights include some kickass pictures of a jaguar mid-meal, jumping dolphins and a bunch of monkeys. :)
Evan and Randi - Louis van Amstel Jive: It was, wait for it, FUN! ;) In all seriousness, I thought it was good. Upbeat, lots of energy, good choreography. I agree that Evan wasn't quite as sharp and intense as I was expecting him to be, but overall, a good way to start the show.
Ade and Melissa - Sonya Tayeh Jazz: I LOVE this couple. I would never have put them together, but they are perfect with each other. Sonya's choreography is quirky and weird and they performed it with reckless abandon. I also love that Melissa is a) the "grandma" of the show at a whooping 29 (old married hags unite!!) and b) a ballerina that can actually move. One of the best routines of the night.
Jason and Caitlin - Shane Sparks Hip Hop: Oh, this just made me sad. As most of you know, I am a huge Shane Sparks fan. Huge! But, this piece just wasn't good. And it was made worse by the fact that they dancers totally missed the mark. Painful to watch, like I cringed through the whole thing. Ugh. Not good dude. :(
Brandon and Janette - Doriana Sanchez Disco: I should fess up now, I'm not a huge fan of any of the disco routines. They usually seem rushed and frenzied, which I know is disco, but personally, I just don't think it translates well for this show. That being said, I think Brandon and Janette brought a ton of energy to the routine and danced it well. Not memorable, but enough to keep them safe.
Vitolio and Asuka - Louis van Amstel Waltz: This was quite lovely. It was nice to see a bit of personality from both Vitolio and Asuka for a change. Beautiful choreography and they did justice to it. Very nice.
Max and Kayla - Brian Friedman Pop Jazz: So happy Brian Friedman is back! This routine was fun and out there, but I was worried that it might not go over so well with the folks at home. :/ While I think Max did a good job, Kayla was fabulous. Her lines and extension are sick and I really love watching her. Nice.
Jonathan and Karla - Stacy Tookey Contemporary: Love this new choreographer. The routine itself was absolutely breathtaking, but the chemistry between Jonathan and Karla feels fake to me. I would love to have seen Evan and Randi or Melissa and Ade perform this routine instead - I think it would have brought the feelings in the routine to a whole other level. As it was, A+ for choreography, B for performance.
Phillip and Jeanine - Tony Meredith Tango: Well, this was rough, wasn't it? Jeanine looked stunning, but poor Phillip. Not much flow and the undercurrent of terror on his face didn't help matters any. Looks like it could have been a good routine, but there were too many distractions for it to really pop. I like this couple, but this wasn't their week.
Kupono and Ashley - Shane Sparks Hip Hop: Argh! What the hell is going on with Shane Sparks! Seriously, he is breaking my heart. :/ The choreography was just not that good and again, the dancers didn't help matters any. This was just kind of a mess. Not a good night for hip hop. :(
****************************** Spoiler Alert ******************************
Let's start off by talking about the group number from Mia Michaels. LOVED IT!!! So awesome. And Ade?!? For me anyways, he totally stole the spotlight when all the boys were dancing together at the beginning. I'm telling you, he is fabulous!
As for the bottom 3, I don't think it was quite right. Much as it pains me to say it, Phillip and Jeanine probably should have been in the bottom instead of Max and Kayla. For the girls, I think sending home Ashley was right. Her solo wasn't strong compared to the other girls and I think overall, she is probably the weakest dancer of last week's bottom 3 girls. Still sad to lose her as she didn't really have a chance to even get started.
As for the boys, I don't get how they sent home Max and not Kupono. Don't get me wrong, I like Kupono, but I think his solo was quite weak and his performance in the hip hop routine wasn't anything to write home about. I didn't agree with the decision, but it is what it is.
Up next, recap of Week 3.
Evan and Randi - Louis van Amstel Jive: It was, wait for it, FUN! ;) In all seriousness, I thought it was good. Upbeat, lots of energy, good choreography. I agree that Evan wasn't quite as sharp and intense as I was expecting him to be, but overall, a good way to start the show.
Ade and Melissa - Sonya Tayeh Jazz: I LOVE this couple. I would never have put them together, but they are perfect with each other. Sonya's choreography is quirky and weird and they performed it with reckless abandon. I also love that Melissa is a) the "grandma" of the show at a whooping 29 (old married hags unite!!) and b) a ballerina that can actually move. One of the best routines of the night.
Jason and Caitlin - Shane Sparks Hip Hop: Oh, this just made me sad. As most of you know, I am a huge Shane Sparks fan. Huge! But, this piece just wasn't good. And it was made worse by the fact that they dancers totally missed the mark. Painful to watch, like I cringed through the whole thing. Ugh. Not good dude. :(
Brandon and Janette - Doriana Sanchez Disco: I should fess up now, I'm not a huge fan of any of the disco routines. They usually seem rushed and frenzied, which I know is disco, but personally, I just don't think it translates well for this show. That being said, I think Brandon and Janette brought a ton of energy to the routine and danced it well. Not memorable, but enough to keep them safe.
Vitolio and Asuka - Louis van Amstel Waltz: This was quite lovely. It was nice to see a bit of personality from both Vitolio and Asuka for a change. Beautiful choreography and they did justice to it. Very nice.
Max and Kayla - Brian Friedman Pop Jazz: So happy Brian Friedman is back! This routine was fun and out there, but I was worried that it might not go over so well with the folks at home. :/ While I think Max did a good job, Kayla was fabulous. Her lines and extension are sick and I really love watching her. Nice.
Jonathan and Karla - Stacy Tookey Contemporary: Love this new choreographer. The routine itself was absolutely breathtaking, but the chemistry between Jonathan and Karla feels fake to me. I would love to have seen Evan and Randi or Melissa and Ade perform this routine instead - I think it would have brought the feelings in the routine to a whole other level. As it was, A+ for choreography, B for performance.
Phillip and Jeanine - Tony Meredith Tango: Well, this was rough, wasn't it? Jeanine looked stunning, but poor Phillip. Not much flow and the undercurrent of terror on his face didn't help matters any. Looks like it could have been a good routine, but there were too many distractions for it to really pop. I like this couple, but this wasn't their week.
Kupono and Ashley - Shane Sparks Hip Hop: Argh! What the hell is going on with Shane Sparks! Seriously, he is breaking my heart. :/ The choreography was just not that good and again, the dancers didn't help matters any. This was just kind of a mess. Not a good night for hip hop. :(
****************************** Spoiler Alert ******************************
Let's start off by talking about the group number from Mia Michaels. LOVED IT!!! So awesome. And Ade?!? For me anyways, he totally stole the spotlight when all the boys were dancing together at the beginning. I'm telling you, he is fabulous!
As for the bottom 3, I don't think it was quite right. Much as it pains me to say it, Phillip and Jeanine probably should have been in the bottom instead of Max and Kayla. For the girls, I think sending home Ashley was right. Her solo wasn't strong compared to the other girls and I think overall, she is probably the weakest dancer of last week's bottom 3 girls. Still sad to lose her as she didn't really have a chance to even get started.
As for the boys, I don't get how they sent home Max and not Kupono. Don't get me wrong, I like Kupono, but I think his solo was quite weak and his performance in the hip hop routine wasn't anything to write home about. I didn't agree with the decision, but it is what it is.
Up next, recap of Week 3.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
SYTYCD - Week 1
SYTYCD is one of my favorite TV shows as is painfully obvious to anyone who knows me well. I really wanted to do a weekly recap last year, but was too busy with moving and other stuff to sit down and do it. I'm going to give it a shot though for Season 5. No spoilers until the end, and I'll put a big spoiler alert up before I reveal my thoughts about who was sent home.
Phillip and Jeanine - NapTab Hip Hop: What a way to kick off the real meat of the show! Obviously, Phillip is a master at his particular style of hiphop, but I loved how Jeanine kept up with him and Phillip didn't try to outshine her. The mark of a real partnership right there. Loved them, loved this number!
Vitolio and Asuka - Tyce Diorio Broadway: How can two people with so much personality off-stage be completely flat on-stage? Tyce gave them a cute routine to work with and their lack of personality left it totally flat. Disappointing.
Jonathan and Karla - Tony Meredith Salsa: It was alright. They both showed a lot of energy, which was good, but I thought it was really unmemorable. We didn't know much about either contestant before tonight and this didn't do much to make me want to pick up the phone and vote. Meh.
Evan and Randi - Tyce Diorio Jazz: Completely believable - they are another brillant partnership in the making. I totally agree with Adam Shankman in that they dance like they're 8 feet tall. Tyce gave them a beautiful and difficult routine and they danced the hell out of it. Gorgeous lines, stunning lifts. Loved it!
Tony and Paris - NapTab Hip Hop: Huh. Well, the choreography was good, but the dancers didn't sell it. It was just okay, nothing memorable. Meh.
Jason and Caitlin - Nakul Dev Mahajan Bollywood: After the amazing Bollywood routine Katee and Josh performed in season 4, these two had a lot to live up to. I wouldn't go so far as to say that it was better than last season's routine, but it was pretty awesome. Great choreography, fun song and they really went for it. Loved their energy and the connection they had with each other. I also really liked that they utilized Caitlin's gymnastic ability and had her do an 8 count upside down. So cool! Two thumbs up.
Brandon and Janette - Louis van Amstel Foxtrot: Not the most fiery routine, but I thought they did a beautiful job with giving it as much personality and flare as they could while still maintaining the structure and feel of the dance. The lifts they performed were hard, but them definitely made them look easy - a real tribute to Brandon's strength and Janette's flexibility. Good solid performance.
Kupono and Ashley - Wade Robson Jazz: So quirky and cool. Loved it! Maintaining a character like that for an entire routine and making it believable is hard, but they killed it! Even with all that makeup, Ashley is delightful to watch and her personality came through bigtime. Kupono did an excellent job being quirky cute as well. I think part of the reason why it was so seamless was that not only did they stay in character, but they danced it perfectly. So awesome.
Ade and Melissa - Mandy Moore Contemporary: Gorgeous. That was such a difficult routine, especially the lifts, and they executed it beautifully. Another great partnership in the making. Loved it.
Max and Kayla - Louis van Amstel Samba: Okay, so this was fiery! ;)I wasn't quite as in love with it as the judges, but they sold it - Kayla was especially impressive seeing as how she has had no previous ballroom training. Nice choreography that showed off both of their strengths.
Overall, I think this might be the strongest group of contestants right out of the gate. I feel like everyone, the choreographers and dancers, are really bringing their A game, which makes this show so fun to watch.
**********************SPOILER ALERT*******************************
I think America absolutely got it right on who was in the bottom 3. As for the solos, frankly, I wasn't impressed with any of them. I don't know if it was nerves or what, but they're gonna have to dance a helluva lot harder than that if they're in the bottom 3 next week. I think it's pretty crummy that Paris basically got sent home because the other contemporary dancers are better than her, instead of strictly comparing her to Asuka and Karla, although none of them really had me fired up. I figured that if Paris was going home, then Tony would follow. They tend to send home whole partnerships in the early weeks, and since none of the guys were all that great, it made sense that Tony would be out of there.
Meh. Not too upset by the cuts this week. I predict that it'll start getting particularly tough come week 4 or 5.
Phillip and Jeanine - NapTab Hip Hop: What a way to kick off the real meat of the show! Obviously, Phillip is a master at his particular style of hiphop, but I loved how Jeanine kept up with him and Phillip didn't try to outshine her. The mark of a real partnership right there. Loved them, loved this number!
Vitolio and Asuka - Tyce Diorio Broadway: How can two people with so much personality off-stage be completely flat on-stage? Tyce gave them a cute routine to work with and their lack of personality left it totally flat. Disappointing.
Jonathan and Karla - Tony Meredith Salsa: It was alright. They both showed a lot of energy, which was good, but I thought it was really unmemorable. We didn't know much about either contestant before tonight and this didn't do much to make me want to pick up the phone and vote. Meh.
Evan and Randi - Tyce Diorio Jazz: Completely believable - they are another brillant partnership in the making. I totally agree with Adam Shankman in that they dance like they're 8 feet tall. Tyce gave them a beautiful and difficult routine and they danced the hell out of it. Gorgeous lines, stunning lifts. Loved it!
Tony and Paris - NapTab Hip Hop: Huh. Well, the choreography was good, but the dancers didn't sell it. It was just okay, nothing memorable. Meh.
Jason and Caitlin - Nakul Dev Mahajan Bollywood: After the amazing Bollywood routine Katee and Josh performed in season 4, these two had a lot to live up to. I wouldn't go so far as to say that it was better than last season's routine, but it was pretty awesome. Great choreography, fun song and they really went for it. Loved their energy and the connection they had with each other. I also really liked that they utilized Caitlin's gymnastic ability and had her do an 8 count upside down. So cool! Two thumbs up.
Brandon and Janette - Louis van Amstel Foxtrot: Not the most fiery routine, but I thought they did a beautiful job with giving it as much personality and flare as they could while still maintaining the structure and feel of the dance. The lifts they performed were hard, but them definitely made them look easy - a real tribute to Brandon's strength and Janette's flexibility. Good solid performance.
Kupono and Ashley - Wade Robson Jazz: So quirky and cool. Loved it! Maintaining a character like that for an entire routine and making it believable is hard, but they killed it! Even with all that makeup, Ashley is delightful to watch and her personality came through bigtime. Kupono did an excellent job being quirky cute as well. I think part of the reason why it was so seamless was that not only did they stay in character, but they danced it perfectly. So awesome.
Ade and Melissa - Mandy Moore Contemporary: Gorgeous. That was such a difficult routine, especially the lifts, and they executed it beautifully. Another great partnership in the making. Loved it.
Max and Kayla - Louis van Amstel Samba: Okay, so this was fiery! ;)I wasn't quite as in love with it as the judges, but they sold it - Kayla was especially impressive seeing as how she has had no previous ballroom training. Nice choreography that showed off both of their strengths.
Overall, I think this might be the strongest group of contestants right out of the gate. I feel like everyone, the choreographers and dancers, are really bringing their A game, which makes this show so fun to watch.
**********************SPOILER ALERT*******************************
I think America absolutely got it right on who was in the bottom 3. As for the solos, frankly, I wasn't impressed with any of them. I don't know if it was nerves or what, but they're gonna have to dance a helluva lot harder than that if they're in the bottom 3 next week. I think it's pretty crummy that Paris basically got sent home because the other contemporary dancers are better than her, instead of strictly comparing her to Asuka and Karla, although none of them really had me fired up. I figured that if Paris was going home, then Tony would follow. They tend to send home whole partnerships in the early weeks, and since none of the guys were all that great, it made sense that Tony would be out of there.
Meh. Not too upset by the cuts this week. I predict that it'll start getting particularly tough come week 4 or 5.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Odds and ends
I'm sure you will all be shocked to hear that we're still dealing with house stuff. :P Lots of packing and cleaning have been going on in the apartment. We also went in this morning to sign the loan papers, which is one step closer to closing. We're still on target to close on the 8th and at this point it can't come soon enough! We're ready to move already!!
I'm too mentally exhausted to write paragraphs that flow into one another, so I'll do the rest of this bullet-point style:
* Pictures of the new place are coming... just not for awhile. The listing with pictures is still easily found online and while it sounds crazy, I just don't want anyone in the internet world to put two and two together and figure out where we're living. If I know you IRL, I'll be sending you an email with pics soon. Promise!
* We spent HOURS looking at and measuring patio furniture this weekend. Frankly, I'm sick of it. However, I think we found something that will fit in the miniscule area around the pool, will be bright and summery enough to cheer up the current "concrete jungle" look of the backyard and won't put us into the poor house.
* As if looking at patio furntiure wasn't thrilling enough, we also starting looking at paint for the bedrooms, bathroom and basement. They are currently lovely shades like deep lilac, light orange, yellow and, my personal favorite, chartruse. Blah! Jim and I obviously see colors a bit differently, because even though we are in agreement that the rooms should be painted neutral colors, we still had issues deciding on the right shades of "white." :/ This one was too yellow, this one was too green, this one was just too... ew. Good times folks, good times.
* Our DVR at the apt has died. :( Although, I guess this is excellent timing seeing as how a) it's summer and there isn't all that much on tv and b) we're moving in 2 weeks. Although, it also means that I'm chained to the tv Wednesday nights from 8-10 and Thursday nights from 9-10 so I don't miss any SYTYCD. It's the one show I'm completely obsessed with this summer and they don't rerun the episodes or have them online.
* Speaking of SYTYCD, how great are the guys this season?!? I'm loving Josh, Will, Twitch and Mark so much! I'm also loving Chelsea, Kaytee and Carrington, however, I worry that I only love these gals so much because their partners are so amazing. Oh, and that lyrical hip hop routine that Chelsea and Mark did last week... I got goosebumps and almost started crying. Granted, the subject matter hit home, but still. So great. [I truly could go on and on about some of the amazing performances already from this season, but I'll save that for another post]
* I've had my eye out for a simple empire waist jersey dress for casual weekends for months. However, everything I try on is either too clingy, too short, makes me look pregnant, etc. I was passing by NY & Co. last week before dinner with my inlaws and remembered R saying she sometimes finds work clothes there. I popped in for a minute and while I didn't find anything for work, I did find the perfect (for me) summer dress and it was on sale! Sleeveless, flattering v-neck, can wear it with a regular bra, hits right above the knee, heavy enough fabric that it doesn't cling, straight enough cut that I don't look pregnant ... see, basically perfection! I picked it up in brown in the store and then proceeded to order 2 more online in bright summery colors. I kid you not, I'm totally living in this thing this summer. :)
So yeah, I guess the last couple of weeks haven't been all that exciting. I'm looking forward to getting all this house stuff settled and getting back to a routine of some sort. One more week, one more week....
I'm too mentally exhausted to write paragraphs that flow into one another, so I'll do the rest of this bullet-point style:
* Pictures of the new place are coming... just not for awhile. The listing with pictures is still easily found online and while it sounds crazy, I just don't want anyone in the internet world to put two and two together and figure out where we're living. If I know you IRL, I'll be sending you an email with pics soon. Promise!
* We spent HOURS looking at and measuring patio furniture this weekend. Frankly, I'm sick of it. However, I think we found something that will fit in the miniscule area around the pool, will be bright and summery enough to cheer up the current "concrete jungle" look of the backyard and won't put us into the poor house.
* As if looking at patio furntiure wasn't thrilling enough, we also starting looking at paint for the bedrooms, bathroom and basement. They are currently lovely shades like deep lilac, light orange, yellow and, my personal favorite, chartruse. Blah! Jim and I obviously see colors a bit differently, because even though we are in agreement that the rooms should be painted neutral colors, we still had issues deciding on the right shades of "white." :/ This one was too yellow, this one was too green, this one was just too... ew. Good times folks, good times.
* Our DVR at the apt has died. :( Although, I guess this is excellent timing seeing as how a) it's summer and there isn't all that much on tv and b) we're moving in 2 weeks. Although, it also means that I'm chained to the tv Wednesday nights from 8-10 and Thursday nights from 9-10 so I don't miss any SYTYCD. It's the one show I'm completely obsessed with this summer and they don't rerun the episodes or have them online.
* Speaking of SYTYCD, how great are the guys this season?!? I'm loving Josh, Will, Twitch and Mark so much! I'm also loving Chelsea, Kaytee and Carrington, however, I worry that I only love these gals so much because their partners are so amazing. Oh, and that lyrical hip hop routine that Chelsea and Mark did last week... I got goosebumps and almost started crying. Granted, the subject matter hit home, but still. So great. [I truly could go on and on about some of the amazing performances already from this season, but I'll save that for another post]
* I've had my eye out for a simple empire waist jersey dress for casual weekends for months. However, everything I try on is either too clingy, too short, makes me look pregnant, etc. I was passing by NY & Co. last week before dinner with my inlaws and remembered R saying she sometimes finds work clothes there. I popped in for a minute and while I didn't find anything for work, I did find the perfect (for me) summer dress and it was on sale! Sleeveless, flattering v-neck, can wear it with a regular bra, hits right above the knee, heavy enough fabric that it doesn't cling, straight enough cut that I don't look pregnant ... see, basically perfection! I picked it up in brown in the store and then proceeded to order 2 more online in bright summery colors. I kid you not, I'm totally living in this thing this summer. :)
So yeah, I guess the last couple of weeks haven't been all that exciting. I'm looking forward to getting all this house stuff settled and getting back to a routine of some sort. One more week, one more week....
Friday, May 23, 2008
SYTYCD... again
This blog post sums up my thoughts and feelings about the show so well! I really couldn't have said it better myself.
note: There are a few spoilers in there from last night's episode, so if you haven't seen it and want to be surprised, I'd advise waiting until later to read it.
note: There are a few spoilers in there from last night's episode, so if you haven't seen it and want to be surprised, I'd advise waiting until later to read it.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
SYTYCD!
Season 4 starts tonight folks! Easily the best show of the summer. If you're not already an avid viewer, tonight's the night to become one. :)
Thursday, August 9, 2007
All it takes is a Spark
As some of you know, I love to dance. I started taking lessons at a small studio in Northern CA when I was 6 and stayed with it til I left for college at 18. I was definitely a big fish in a small pond though, so when I got to college I took a couple of classes, but for the most part I didn't keep it up. Great dancers are a dime a dozen in LA and competition is fierce, even in small laid back classes. Fast-forward several years and I was missing the fact that I wasn't dancing regularly anymore. I started taking the odd class here and there and have been dancing somewhat consistently ever since. I've lucked out in finding instructors and classes that are challenging, but also welcoming to newcomers and those that aren't professional dancers, but who are just there to have fun.
Three years ago, So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD) debuted over the summer and I couldn't have been more excited! Being able to watch great dancers and choreographers each week was such a treat and it's been the highlight of my summer TV watching for the past 3 seasons. Shane Sparks has been one of my favorite choreographers from the get go and I always look forward to seeing what he comes up with each week. Late last month, I stumbled across an announcement that he was teaching hip hop twice a week in LA at a large, well-known studio and started toying with the idea of taking one of his classes. Crazy, right? I mean, this is a man that draws upwards of 100 folks per class he teaches and is so good that celebs like JT and Missy Elliot will just drop in to work on their moves. After much hemming and hawing and a good pep talk from another dance instructor, last night I finally made the drive out to Millenium to take his class. Eeek!
I was really nervous yesterday leading up to the class, but once I actually got there I was suprisingly calm. I paid and signed in and then watched the 17 and under class Shane was teaching to scope out the choreography and judge how in over my head I was going to be. About 20 minutes later, the kids were finished and it was a mad dash by the adults to get into the room and get a good spot on the floor. To say it was a packed class would be an understatement. If there was one person, there had to be 80, easy. But instead of being nervous, I started to get excited. This was going to be fun!
His assistant put us through a quick 5 minute warm-up and then it was time to start dancing. The rules were laid down quickly: this is an adult class, it's going to move fast, so keep up. We learned the first 4-eight counts of choreography (to a remix of Ciara's 'Get Up'), drilled it a couple times and then were asked to assemble ourselves into groups of 5. I thankfully found myself paired with 2 talented young guys and girls (yes, I was the old married hag of the group) and we were then taught the opening 6-eight counts that included formation changes and a lot of freestyling. So far so good.
From there, 2 groups at a time were asked to come to the middle of the floor to perform. I was shocked at how supportive the group was --- hootin' and hollerin' for each other, totally into watching each other dance. It was amazing that a group this size could feel so intimate, but it did. And then it was our turn. I think we did well and went full out and overall I was pleased with our performance.
After everyone had a turn, Shane announced that it was getting late and that we couldn't get through everyone again, so he was going to ask 2 groups to come back and perform one more time and then he was going to call it a night. The first group called back was spectacular the first time around and everyone was excited to see them again. Talk about totally playing with the choreography and making it their own. Awesome!
Then there was a pause, he looked around and next thing I know... my group is headed back to the dance floor!!! No freaking way!!! I only had a second for it to register and my first thought was "O. M. G! I am going to be dancing in front of f'ing Shane Sparks with only 4 other people on the floor with me!!!" And instead of getting nervous, my next thought was "Okay, let's do this!"
That 1 minute on the dance floor was so beyond exhilirating, I can't even try to describe it. I think it is basically what people would describe as a natural high. After we finished, he thanked everyone for coming and then the class disbursed. A lot of the students had come in from all over the US for a dance intensive workshop with Millenium, so a line of girls was forming around him to take a picture with him before they left. I, on the other hand, just wanted to go say thank you. I managed to get up to him before the line of girls started getting antsy and was able to make eye contact.
I think I had a grin on my face from ear to ear as I thanked him for an amazing class and told him that I had an awesome time. He must have said thanks or maybe good job or something... my mind is a little fuzzy on that part because at the same time he leaned in and gave me a big hug! [thud] O. M. G. Even just remembering it puts that silly grin back on my face! My feet were literally not touching the floor as I walked out of the studio and back to my car. The whole experience could not have been more perfect if I had planned it all out myself.
It took me over 25 years to get to a point where I would go and try something new without wondering what people would think of me; of being so fearful of doing it poorly that I wouldn't try it in the first place. That stops here though. The whole class was fun, but beyond that, it was such a boost to my self-confidence. I might now have been the best in the class, but I was definitely able to keep up. I can't wait til I can go back and take his class again. And who knows, I might just start sampling other classes there as well!
Three years ago, So You Think You Can Dance (SYTYCD) debuted over the summer and I couldn't have been more excited! Being able to watch great dancers and choreographers each week was such a treat and it's been the highlight of my summer TV watching for the past 3 seasons. Shane Sparks has been one of my favorite choreographers from the get go and I always look forward to seeing what he comes up with each week. Late last month, I stumbled across an announcement that he was teaching hip hop twice a week in LA at a large, well-known studio and started toying with the idea of taking one of his classes. Crazy, right? I mean, this is a man that draws upwards of 100 folks per class he teaches and is so good that celebs like JT and Missy Elliot will just drop in to work on their moves. After much hemming and hawing and a good pep talk from another dance instructor, last night I finally made the drive out to Millenium to take his class. Eeek!I was really nervous yesterday leading up to the class, but once I actually got there I was suprisingly calm. I paid and signed in and then watched the 17 and under class Shane was teaching to scope out the choreography and judge how in over my head I was going to be. About 20 minutes later, the kids were finished and it was a mad dash by the adults to get into the room and get a good spot on the floor. To say it was a packed class would be an understatement. If there was one person, there had to be 80, easy. But instead of being nervous, I started to get excited. This was going to be fun!
His assistant put us through a quick 5 minute warm-up and then it was time to start dancing. The rules were laid down quickly: this is an adult class, it's going to move fast, so keep up. We learned the first 4-eight counts of choreography (to a remix of Ciara's 'Get Up'), drilled it a couple times and then were asked to assemble ourselves into groups of 5. I thankfully found myself paired with 2 talented young guys and girls (yes, I was the old married hag of the group) and we were then taught the opening 6-eight counts that included formation changes and a lot of freestyling. So far so good.
From there, 2 groups at a time were asked to come to the middle of the floor to perform. I was shocked at how supportive the group was --- hootin' and hollerin' for each other, totally into watching each other dance. It was amazing that a group this size could feel so intimate, but it did. And then it was our turn. I think we did well and went full out and overall I was pleased with our performance.
After everyone had a turn, Shane announced that it was getting late and that we couldn't get through everyone again, so he was going to ask 2 groups to come back and perform one more time and then he was going to call it a night. The first group called back was spectacular the first time around and everyone was excited to see them again. Talk about totally playing with the choreography and making it their own. Awesome!
Then there was a pause, he looked around and next thing I know... my group is headed back to the dance floor!!! No freaking way!!! I only had a second for it to register and my first thought was "O. M. G! I am going to be dancing in front of f'ing Shane Sparks with only 4 other people on the floor with me!!!" And instead of getting nervous, my next thought was "Okay, let's do this!"
That 1 minute on the dance floor was so beyond exhilirating, I can't even try to describe it. I think it is basically what people would describe as a natural high. After we finished, he thanked everyone for coming and then the class disbursed. A lot of the students had come in from all over the US for a dance intensive workshop with Millenium, so a line of girls was forming around him to take a picture with him before they left. I, on the other hand, just wanted to go say thank you. I managed to get up to him before the line of girls started getting antsy and was able to make eye contact.
I think I had a grin on my face from ear to ear as I thanked him for an amazing class and told him that I had an awesome time. He must have said thanks or maybe good job or something... my mind is a little fuzzy on that part because at the same time he leaned in and gave me a big hug! [thud] O. M. G. Even just remembering it puts that silly grin back on my face! My feet were literally not touching the floor as I walked out of the studio and back to my car. The whole experience could not have been more perfect if I had planned it all out myself.
It took me over 25 years to get to a point where I would go and try something new without wondering what people would think of me; of being so fearful of doing it poorly that I wouldn't try it in the first place. That stops here though. The whole class was fun, but beyond that, it was such a boost to my self-confidence. I might now have been the best in the class, but I was definitely able to keep up. I can't wait til I can go back and take his class again. And who knows, I might just start sampling other classes there as well!
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