The First Season of Step It Up and Dance concluded last night. I was very impressed by all four of the final contestants. Each one truly had their own unique style and I enjoyed everyone’s choreography.
Cody won, and I definitely wasn’t surprised. He has been the most consistent throughout the season technique-wise and in handling all the challenges. His solo was stunning. He moves like a cat– very fluid– and at times looked like he was flying.
At the same time, he was the most predictable winner. Miguel takes the most risks both artistically and generally (as evidenced in the flawless job he did on the sprained ankle). His style is unique and entertainment/tv-wise he has something really interesting to offer. I don’t doubt we’ll be seeing him on tv again soon.
I enjoyed Mochi and Nick’s solos a lot– nothing bad to say and lots of good things to say– but this wasn’t their night. Perhaps, even though they took a lot of personal risks, they were too safe in the end. Mochi got an awesome consolation prize of winning a spot in Akon’s next music video. Nick would be completely at home on Broadway.
I enjoyed this show moderately and I hope they do it again, with some of the issues ironed out. For example, winning and elimination groups have got to go– everyone, save possibly whoever is immune– needs to be up for elimination every time. Also, less pressure has got to be put on the contestants in terms of choreography. Bring in more guest choreographers– and hopefully not some of the usual suspects. Get some people from the art world that would benefit from the exposure and educate the public about good choreography. Finally, there need to be more opportunities for standard technique to shine in the first episodes.
What are your thoughts on the show– in terms of both the overall show and the winner?

4 comments
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June 6, 2008 at 9:47 am
Doug Fox
Hi maria,
As I wrote on Tonya’s blog, this is first dance show I liked. I saw just about all the episodes.
I agree with you on elimination and winning groups – doesn’t work. But I do like dancers having to do their own choreography. I thought there was good mix of dance styles represented – that was nice to see.
I thought Cody should win but I didn’t think he was going to be chosen because he didn’t win or place at top of last few competitions.
June 6, 2008 at 1:51 pm
Beto
I liked the show as well but totally agree that the winning and elimination groups have GOT TO GO. What’s the point of telling us who’s in danger of leaving the show in the first 10 minutes? Ruins the suspense for me. Also, choreographers should not be allowed to judge their own work. This irked me to no end. On STYCYD, choreographers can judge each other’s work but not their own. SIU&D should follow their lead.
Nancy O’Meara’s criticism was hardly ever constructive. Calling Cody a snob didn’t really seem to help him last week but, then again, he did actually break a smile or two in his awesome solo last night so maybe Nancy ticking him off generated the results we saw from him.
I was rooting for Nick or Mochi to win but, if CBS’s “Survivor” has taught us anything, it’s this: The winner of back-to-back challenges usually winds up losing at the end. That’s what Nick had done and at the end, he didn’t win.
June 8, 2008 at 6:45 am
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January 17, 2011 at 5:14 am
Cebo
Hi.i thnk the show was fabulaous.i didnt thnk micheal should hv bin eliminated sooner though bt then cody definity deserved da win….