Kate's Note: L.A. Magic

Last spring, I got the chance to go to L.A. for a taping of “So You Think You Can Dance.” From the moment I walked onto the FOX lot, I felt the tug of Hollywood.

 

It was thrilling to see the choreographers parade in to take their seats, the cameras swirling around, gorgeous Cat Deeley and the charismatic celebrity judges. But it was the dancers who gave me chills. These previously unknown young talents, who had been thrust into the spotlight, were already such pros.

 

The November issue of Dance Spirit celebrates our new relationship with “So You Think You Can Dance.” As part of the Season 5 (and Season 6, which is airing now and hopefully more after that!) prize package, the winner lands a cover of DS.

 

I was spellbound watching the dancers during the show. I was rooting for them as they attempted unfamiliar styles and then stood in front of America to be judged. I couldn’t help but imagine the pressure they were feeling and admire how well they all dealt with it.

 

DS
believes in “SYTYCD.” The show celebrates all forms of dance, from Bollywood to krumping to ballet. It’s making mega-stars out of its cast members and choreographers. It’s bringing dance into the homes of millions of viewers each week and is helping to make the art form we love more popular than ever.

 

So, want to know what it’s like to take the title of America’s Favorite Dancer? In “Small Screen Sweetheart” (p. 64), Season 5 winner Jeanine Mason talks with DS contributing editor Jen Jones about how she got on the show—and what it was really like once she was there.

 

For those of you dreaming of a commercial career, “L.A. Confidential,” (p. 70) is full of advice from top LA-based choreographers and dancers including Tony Testa, Tabitha and Napoleon D’umo and Tucker Barkley. They tell you where to take class, what you need to know to book gigs and tips for navigating the sprawling city.

 

Then, for those of you who know you’re not L.A. bound but still dream of dancing out west, “Go West, Young Dancer” (p. 78), takes a look at five hot dance cities and their resident choreographers.

 

And because no matter where you end up dancing, you always want to look your best onstage, turn to our 2010 Costume Preview (p. 50) to find 39 new looks on five of the most stunning dancers around: Courtney Galiano, April Giangeruso, Autumn Guzzardi, Tanairi Sade Vazquez and Jacqueline Green.

 

When you’re done delving into this issue, go to class! Whether you want to make it on the east or west coast, or even on TV, you need to do the work first. So practice, practice, practice. Hollywood is waiting.

 

–Kate

 

Don’t forget to watch this season of “SYTYCD” and phone in to vote for your favorite. The winner will land on the cover the March 2010 issue!