Hip Hop Moves and a Drill Sergeant (My Episode 11, Season 3 Recap)

What was Abby thinking? Nia landed at the bottom of the pyramid while Kendall her duet partner moved towards the top position. Who knew that Abby was giving out a reward for Jill’s selfish tactics in promoting Kendall’s individual interest over that of the duet? Was it silly to think that a duet has two dancers in it not just one? I believe all of the moms want what’s best for their children but aren’t there limits! I disagree with Jill’s methods that all is fair as long as her child moves ahead on the pyramid!  Being devious whether it’s behind someone’s back or in front of his or her face is still devious particularly when it is being done at the expense of your duet partner. Nia danced well last week and yet Kendall benefited from Jill’s duplicity! I don’t agree that being in a competitive environment entitles you to ignore character and integrity just to get an edge. Jill was willing to sacrifice both to get Kendall ahead. What a teachable moment in “what not to do” when you’re part of a team! Rather than being discouraged, Nia knows that hard work and improving her technique are tools she can proudly use to move ahead!

Abby’s laid-back approach is not likely to last. I think it’s an interesting approach but doubt that it is sustainable. Abby likes to win which requires a focused and attentive coach and a well-prepared team. Abby was busy laughing and giggling on the phone during rehearsal time. Our girls need Abby’s undivided attention yet Abby was more concerned with dating this week. Did we have fun with Abby’s date preparation shenanigans? Absolutely, but we soon learned that more time should have been spent preparing the girls for competition rather than their fearless “general” for a date.  

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The girls were competing with a hip-hop dance that is not their specialty. It’s always important to challenge the girls to grow as dancers. Learning something new is generally fun.  Sadly, at some point, Mackenzie got injured. Although speculation swirled about the nature of Mackenzie’s injury, it was clear that she would not be competing in this week’s competition. Mackenzie had a doctor’s note ending the need for any discussion about her injury. Long story short- Mackenzie did not appear to have an injury that required a wheelchair but Abby took the ultimate control and confined Mackenzie to a wheelchair for the entire competition. Unclear whether the wheelchair was a penalty or a precaution! 

The group dance was energetic and fun to watch. The girls were incredibly entertaining and I really enjoyed the hip-hop number. I was surprised at how well the girls performed and they looked great on stage. Was the routine perfect? No, but the routine was a victory for the team and you could see the growth in their hip hop routine performance compared to the last competition season. I was pleased that the girls placed in the top 10 overalls. The hip-hop routine was ambitious but I am glad the team performed during the competition despite the 7^th place finish.  The troops beautifully marched it out!

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