So You Think You Can Dance

Definition

So You Think You Can Dance is a competitive dance reality television series that showcases a variety of dance styles and talents, featuring dancers from across the country who compete for the title of America's favorite dancer. The show has played a pivotal role in popularizing dance within mainstream culture, bringing attention to various forms of dance, including hip-hop, ballroom, and contemporary. It has significantly impacted the way dance is perceived and appreciated in America, bridging gaps between different dance genres and encouraging viewers to engage with the art form.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The show first premiered in 2005 and has since become one of the most influential dance shows on television, garnering a dedicated fanbase.
2. Contestants come from diverse backgrounds and training experiences, which helps to showcase the wide range of talent in the dance community.
3. Each season culminates in a live finale where the winner is determined by viewer votes, emphasizing audience engagement in the competition.
4. Judges on the show include renowned choreographers and dancers, who provide critical feedback and mentoring to contestants, shaping their development.
5. The success of So You Think You Can Dance has inspired numerous spin-offs and similar dance competitions across various countries.

Review Questions

• How has So You Think You Can Dance influenced the perception of hip-hop dance in popular culture?
  • So You Think You Can Dance has significantly influenced the perception of hip-hop dance by showcasing it alongside other dance forms in a prestigious competitive setting. The show's platform allowed hip-hop dancers to gain recognition and respect as legitimate artists within the broader dance community. This exposure has led to increased acceptance and appreciation of hip-hop as a serious art form rather than just a street style, helping to elevate its status in popular culture.
• Analyze how the variety of dance styles represented on So You Think You Can Dance contributes to the overall understanding of dance as an art form.
  • The inclusion of multiple dance styles on So You Think You Can Dance illustrates that dance is a multifaceted art form that encompasses various cultural influences and techniques. By presenting styles such as ballroom, contemporary, jazz, and hip-hop side by side, the show encourages viewers to appreciate the nuances and artistic expressions inherent in each style. This diversity not only educates audiences but also fosters an environment where dancers can learn from one another and grow as artists.
• Evaluate the impact that audience participation through voting has on contestants' performances and overall experience on So You Think You Can Dance.
  • Audience participation through voting significantly impacts contestants' performances by adding a layer of pressure and accountability that influences how they approach their routines. Knowing that viewer opinions can determine their fate creates an environment where dancers must consistently deliver high-quality performances to win support. This dynamic shapes not only their technical execution but also their emotional connection with the audience, ultimately enhancing their growth as performers while providing viewers with a sense of involvement in the competition.

Related terms

Reality Television: A genre of television programming that documents unscripted real-life situations and often features competitions among participants.

Choreography: The art of creating and arranging dance movements and sequences for performances.

Dance Styles: Various categories of dance characterized by unique movements and techniques, such as hip-hop, ballet, jazz, and contemporary.