If you haven’t noticed, I’m really excited about Season 14 of So You Think You Can Dance. I am so ready to share some stories with all of you about The Academy and the Top 10 contestants you will experience later this summer.
In the meantime, FOX is doing a great job of mixing up the auditions this season. We aren’t getting the ridiculous auditions of people who show up for their 15 minutes of fame. We are getting genuine contenders in a variety of genres where only 10 of them can make the show.
A few weeks ago, I was tipped off that Blessin Giraldo had auditioned for SYTYCD this season. While that name might not ring a bell to you yet, it might later this summer. Giraldo is a part of the documentary, Step, which will be released on Aug. 4 — only three days before the live shows begin for SYTYCD. The distribution company is Fox Searchlight Pictures.
FOX didn’t mention the film in her audition last night, but they did use clips from the documentary, which was a hot property at the Sundance Film Festival in January. The story follows three seniors on a step dance team at The Baltimore Leadership School for Women — including Giraldo — who are looking to become the first members of their families to attend college.
Nigel Lythgoe gave us the biggest clue of all last night, though. “I would love to see your team. Let’s put them on the show or something,” he said. So I am going to guess they will perform at some point this season.
Before anyone gets all up in arms about this subtle cross-promotion, this movie is doing a world of good. Director Amanda Lipitz told Deadline earlier this year that “allowed for proceeds from the sale [of distribution rights] go towards scholarships for each of the 19 girls on the step team that came to Sundance as well as a generous donation to the school so that it can continue to transform Baltimore one young woman at a time.”
Dance brings so many gifts to all of us and just by watching the trailer, you will see the impression it has made these young women who are aiming to be leaders in their community.
“Step taught me if you come together with a group of powerful women, the impact will be immense,” explained one dancer in the clip.
The film wants you to embrace the motto that #StepIsLife.
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