So You Already Know You Can Dance

Summer brings with it one of my favorite shows. As with most reality shows, SYTYCD is of course a formulaic creation, the All-American, the underdog, and of course the villain. The more drama, the higher the ratings.

Last season's villain was Blake McGrath, a truely (well, as true as TV allows) dispicable personality. In addition to his exaggerated cocky attitude, Blake brought with him an extensive professional resume. Beyond being a dancer on several concert tours (Britney, Destiny's Child, Aaron Carter), McGrath had also danced with SYTYCD Judge Brian Friedman in his 2004 instructional dance video.

This season's villains have less bite and more American cherry pie. The wholesome local favorite Travis Wall has previous experience in his mother's VA Beach dance studio and a few Broadway performances under his belt. Fresh-faced favorite and West Coast Swing king Benji Schwimmer is returning to the dance scene after a 2 year missionary hiatus. Benji's class clown attitude and incredible flexibility as a solitary and partner dancer puts him as an early favorite for America.

I wonder though, if you're an established dancer, why would you want to worry yourself with a piddling Fox publicity stunt? Let a dancer who actually needs the opportunity make the most of it.
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On a more positive note, one of my favorite East Coast Swing/Lindyhop/Prep Step groups performed an abbreviated version of one of their award winning routines on the show tonight. For the full length high flying act, check out the New York based Hop, Swing, and a Jump.