So You Think You Can Dance: Season 8, Episode 6 :: Top 20 Perform

Jun 15, 2011

This week, the Top 20 proved that Season 8 may just be the most talented season of So You Think You Can Dance yet! Episode 6 aired on June 15, 2011.

So You Think You Can Dance: Season 8, Episode 6 :: Top 20 Perform

Courtesy of FOX

First, jazz dancer Jordan teamed up with b-boy Tadd for an African Jazz number, choreographed by Sean Cheesman. The piece, which was inspired by lava erupting from a volcano, left the judges with nothing bad to say. Jordan was in her element, and Tadd picked up the style right away.

Next, Sasha and Alexander both picked their style - Contemporary with Travis Wall. Mary said it was a really great routine. While she didn’t necessarily feel a connection between them, she loved the beautiful transitions that Travis is famous for.

Clarice and Broadway boy Jess landed the perfect style...Broadway with Tyce Diorio! Well, perfect for Jess anyway. Nigel couldn’t say enough about Jess, even claiming that it will be hard for the girls to keep up with him this season.

Contemporary dancers Ryan and Ricky landed a Chris Scott Lyrical Hip Hop routine. While Nigel offered some tips on how to better control their facial expressions, he still loved the dancing.

Caitlyn and Mitchell were going to perform a Jazz number by choreographer Sonya Tayeh, but Mitchell injured his elbow. He sat out for the night while Caitlyn danced with Season 7 contestant Robert. Mary, who seems to have a little crush on Robert, loved the performance.

Miranda and “woo man” Robert performed a Latin Jive. Guest judge Megan Mullally - better known as Karen Walker from Will & Grace - said you’d have to be in a coma not to like that. But Nigel warned Robert that his big personality might become really annoying really fast.

Missy and Wadi performed a dark Sean Cheesman Jazz routine in which their characters were “sexy demons.” Nigel said this may have been Sean’s best routine ever.

Melanie and Marko earned the first standing ovation of the season with their Travis Wall Contemporary piece. Mary called their embodiment of statues-come-to-life magical.

Melanie and Marko Perform A Travis Wall Contemporary

Ashley and Chris performed a fun Hip Hop routine, choreographed by Christopher Scott, in which they both caught each other cheating at the same time. Mary called the piece pure entertainment.

Finally, Ivetta and Nick wrapped up the show with the dance of death - the Quickstep! The judges were in awe of how well tap dancer Nick picked up the choreography.

Elimination...or Not?

An interesting turn of events during Thursday night's elimination show kept all six contestants who recieved the fewest number of votes safe from elimination. After watching Jordan and Tadd, Clarice and Jess, and Miranda and Robert all dance for their lives, the judges decided not to send anyone home. However, that adds pressure to next week when two couples will be eliminated.