As a die-hard “So You Think You Can Dance” fan, I’ve never been a follower of “Dancing with the Stars”-I thought it could only be a gaudy version of my favorite dance show. However, after tuning into the semifinals last week, I’m hooked.
Flashy costumes, upbeat pop music, enthusiastic judges, a witty host and musical guests are already a recipe for reality-TV success as both shows have proven. But as I recently discovered, mix in more sexy dance routines performed by celebrities finding their inner dancing divas, and you’ve got one hell of a good time.
With just four celebrity teams remaining, consisting of Iraq vet-turned actor J.R. Martinez, soccer star Hope Solo, former talk show host Ricki Lake and reality star Rob Kardashian, this round was intense. Judges and audience members had the power to decide which team would go home. Teams performed three back-to-back dances with their coaches, including a sexy samba, a tasty tango and the Argentinean cha-cha.
Unlike the dancers on “SYTYCD,” our stars have no dance training. Though this leads to some less-than-spectacular performances, it also allows audience members to feel involved and critique what they see. I’m no dance major, but I felt like one, intensely counting missteps and jerky landings.
After a recap of each dance and listening to the comments behind stage, the audience waited with bated breath to see the results, and in the meantime enjoyed performances by guest stars the Muppets and Cobra Starship. After calculating collective points, judges wished Solo farewell. With the remaining three teams anticipating a fierce battle, we can only wait to see who will win the Mirrorball trophy!
While “SYTYCD” appeals to more experienced dancers, or at least those able to appreciate technique, “Dancing with the Stars” appeals to a more mainstream crowd. In addition, if you’re not already sucked into “DWTS'” emotional and inspirational stories of celebrities who are determined to overcome personal challenges – from low self-esteem to physically handicapping injuries – through dance, you soon will be.
Tune in to ‘DWTS’ Mondays at 7 p.m. on ABC.
– Sanjana Shankar
