E: These are the things we know about the way the show picks the Top Twenty:
The dancers are, of course, ridiculously talented.
They are also, in their different ways, ridiculously decorative.
Now, if it were just about dancing on a stage, those two factors might be enough – especially when combined with aspect we don’t see as much of, like attitude and work ethic and the ability to play well with others. But this is about casting a TV show, so there are other obvious factors.
E: 4 days. 6 rounds. 159 dancers in the toughest, most merciless audition process most of them will ever experience.
And because they’re dancers, guess what most of them say about it? They loved it. Even through tears and the injuries and the humiliations, they’re grateful for the chance to work and learn. You have to love that attitude, seriously. As always, some of that was extremely disappointing – for the dancers who we didn’t get to see, yes, but mostly dancers who were cut. And in a couple of cases, those cuts were extremely disappointing. In better news, we were reminded of some outstanding dancers from the auditions and from years past. We laughed. We cried. Sometimes at the same time. Let’s get down to business, dance fans!
E: I have to admit it. I am really, really excited about Season 10. When I think about all the dancers I’ve seen through the last few week, and the ones we just saw in Memphis? Yeah. This is going to be good. Are you ready for the latest – and last – batch? I am!
Also, I remember why I used to be such a fan of Wayne Brady’s before he got so over exposed and game show-y, even if he’s not particularly qualified to judge a dance competition.
E: Now that’s what I’m talking about! Great street dancing, great ballroom, great contemporary, great tap – I am loving season 10! Welcome to my backyard, the wicked awesome city of Boston, strong, resilient and home of Season Six champ Russell. This year’s auditions take place at the gorgeous Boston Opera House, where the Boston Ballet performs its magnificent Nutcracker, so it’s already filled with magical dance memories for me. Let’s make a few more, shall we?
Hey, have I mentioned that ham-in-a-can Adam Shankman guests with Nigel and Mary this week? I’m beginning to think he’s the only dance industry professional we’re going to get for the auditions this year, which bugs me, to be completely honest with you. But I’ll gripe about that later, if at all; now I’ll just grab a box of tissues and be happy to see the only judge who cries more than me.
E: Hullo, dance fans! Two hours, two cities, two celebrity superfan judges, and some really smokin’ dance. Not too shabby for a Tuesday night.
