I’ll admit that when news first broke that “So You Think You Can Dance,” was coming to Canada, I was a bit apprehensive and ready to be disappointed. Canadian versions of American reality shows have a history of never being as good (ahem, “Canadian Idol”). I wasn’t sure what to expect.

Permanent judge Tre Armstrong, who recently stared in “How She Moves,” and alternating third judge Luther Brown –who choreographed the movie ‘Honey’ with Jessica Alba–were joined at last night’s two hour series premiere by guest judge Mary Murphy — also best known as the “Queen of the Scream” on the U.S. version of the show.

With MuchMusic’s Leah Miller hosting the show, the very first set of auditions kicked off in Toronto. Those who prove they can dance are given a ticket to Toronto while those who the judges believe have potential are asked to stay for choreography. Then, of course, there are those unfortunate performers who lack rhythm, beat and technique altogether and their dreams of winning the prize of $100 000 and the title of Canada’s first ever “favourite dancer” are squashed.

But for those who do have a chance at winning the golden prize must first prove that they are worthy. For the most part, Toronto either has really good dancers or the judges just love Torontonians. An hour into the show and only one unlucky contestant was not given the sought after ticket to Toronto.

Some of the best performers of the night were Mongolian refugee Manuel Dos Santos who popped to Classical music(something that neither I nor the judges have seen before) and Jessie Catibog — a hip-hopper who moved to Disco with creativity and finesse.

So while the judges had the necessary experience needed to judge a dance show, could they be as entertaining as their American counter-parts? They gave their advice and even left some words of encouragement to rejected competitors, proving yet another stereotype that Canadian reality show judges are incapable of being mean for no particular reason. Those that were told they were not right for the show bowed their heads, expressed their gratitude, and left the stage. Even Canadian competitors take defeat with grace.

The first rejected, self-nicknamed contestant was ‘Jaguar’ who summed himself up as a ‘wild baby.’ After 15 seconds of his performance, I begged to differ. While entertaining, Jaguar couldn’t dance. His dancing skills were reminiscent and comparable to the singing abilities of William Hung from ‘American Idol.’ Funny to watch but that’s as far as it goes.

Aside from Murphy’s countless declarations of love for Canada, the series premiere showed promise that it might just be better than expected. Although the judges have proven their unwillingness to criticize competitors just for the sake of high ratings, the show has the potential to really entertain those who love the American version.

The audition tour hits Vancouver and Halifax this Sunday, September 14th at 8pm ET on CTV!






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