Ep 4. The Big Cut-Choreography Round

The Big Cut-Choreography Round is the fourth episode of season 17 of the popular dance competition show, So You Think You Can Dance. As the title suggests, this episode is all about choreography, as the remaining dancers face some of the most challenging routines of the season so far.

The episode starts off with the judges introducing the choreographers who have created the pieces that the dancers will be performing. These include some of the biggest names in the industry, including Travis Wall, Sonya Tayeh, and Mandy Moore. The dancers are clearly excited to be working with such esteemed professionals, but also nervous about the tough routines they have to learn in a short amount of time.

The first routine is a contemporary piece by Sonya Tayeh, set to the hauntingly beautiful music of Sigur Ros. The dancers are instructed to really connect with the emotion of the music, and to let it guide their movements. The routine is filled with intricate lifts and complex partnering work, and the dancers struggle to get it right in rehearsal. However, when they take the stage, they all rise to the occasion and deliver a moving and powerful performance.

Next up is a hip hop routine by Luther Brown, which provides a stark contrast to the first piece. This routine is all about energy and attitude, and the dancers have to really let loose and show off their swagger. The routine is set to a high-energy hip hop track, and the dancers are decked out in baggy clothes and baseball caps. They really get into character for this one, and the judges are impressed with their commitment to the style.

The third routine is a Broadway-inspired piece by Mandy Moore, set to the classic tune "Luck Be a Lady." The dancers have to put on their best showman faces for this one, with plenty of charisma and theatricality required. The routine is filled with big jumps, high kicks, and some impressive synchronized movement. The dancers look like they're having a blast on stage, and their enthusiasm is infectious.

Travis Wall is up next with a contemporary routine that is easily the most emotionally charged of the night. The piece is set to a haunting cover of "Hallelujah," and the dancers are tasked with conveying a deep sense of grief and loss. The routine is filled with slow, sweeping movements that really highlight the emotional intensity of the piece. The judges are moved to tears by the end of the performance, and it's clear that the dancers have given it their all.

Finally, the dancers have to learn a salsa routine by guest choreographer Anya Garnis. This is one of the most technically challenging routines of the night, with plenty of intricate footwork and fast-paced movements. The dancers are clearly struggling with this one in rehearsal, but they manage to pull it off on stage. The routine is a fun and upbeat way to end the night, and the judges are impressed by the skill and precision of the dancers.

After all of the routines have been performed, it's time for the judges to make some tough decisions. This episode features the "big cut," which means that the field of dancers will be narrowed down significantly. The judges deliberate while the dancers wait nervously backstage, and eventually they call out the names of those who will be moving on to the next round.

Overall, The Big Cut-Choreography Round is a thrilling episode of So You Think You Can Dance that showcases some truly amazing talent. The choreography is varied and challenging, and the dancers rise to the occasion every time. The judges are clearly invested in the success of the performers, and their critiques and feedback are both insightful and supportive. Fans of the show won't want to miss this one!