The bar has been raised as “World of Dance” moves to the next round: the Duels. And with over 60 acts of talented dancers advancing to this round, some serious dancing will go down before we can begin to contemplate who the winner might be. Though the Qualifiers were a great introduction to talented new faces, let’s face it, the intensity of challenging and competing against a specific dance act makes the Duels one of the most exciting and intense parts of “WOD.” This is where we begin to see what these dancers are really made of. Here are some of the highlights from last night’s sensational performances.
The Fabulous Sisters vs Rascals
These two dance groups were some of the most memorable in the qualifying rounds, so it was thrilling to watch them go to head to head in what seems like a perfect match. The Rascals brought all the swag and some serious attitude to the dance floor, but it was the fierce, syncopated performance of the Fabulous Sisters that won the judges’ hearts. In fact Ne-Yo even went as far as to call their dance “art in motion.” The Fabulous Sisters moved forward with an overall score of 95.7 while the Rascals were cut with an overall score of 94.3.
Luka & Jenalyn vs Karen Y Ricardo
These ballroom dancers gave us quite the show as they tried to one-up each other in hopes of making it to the next round. Watching Karen y Ricardo throw down the gauntlet was truly a highlight of the night. The control with which they executed their tricks brought the judges to their feet in a standing ovation. Derek even commented on how easy they made everything look. But Luka & Jenalyn were formidable dance opponents. Jenalyn started the performance in a straitjacket, ironically making us question her sanity as she did some intense partnering, threading her limbs through partner Luka’s positions. Though Luka & Jenalyn did step up their game with an overall score of 92.3, their execution wasn’t quite clean enough to beat Karen y Ricardo, who were rewarded an impressive overall score of 98.3.
Avery & Marcus vs Eva Igo
This Duel was the most dramatic of the night, with fan favorite Eva Igo returning to the stage to duel contemporary ballet duo Avery & Marcus. Tbh both performances were insane in the best way possible and I don’t even know how the judges determined who would be eliminated. True to her reputation, Eva projected all the feels during her beautiful contemporary number. But the judges felt like they’d seen this side of her before and expected to see more from someone who holds the Junior Division Champion title of last year’s season. Avery & Marcus responded with a breathtaking acrobatic ballet routine featuring some seriously innovative choreography. The biggest shock of the season came when Avery & Marcus advanced to the next round with an overall score of 93.3, while Eva received a 92. We have to admit we definitely didn’t see that one coming.
