Looking Back: Why So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 Still Holds Our Hearts

Ezekiel Dickens 24 Jul 2025

Do you ever think about those moments that just stick with you, the ones that truly move your spirit and make you feel something real? For many of us who love dance and compelling stories, that feeling often comes back to a particular season of a beloved show. We're talking, of course, about So You Think You Can Dance Season 10, a chapter in television history that, honestly, felt like a vibrant, living piece of art. It was a year that truly captured the imagination of so many people, bringing incredible talent right into our living rooms.

It's almost been a decade since that incredible run, and yet, the memories of those breathtaking performances and the journeys of those young dancers remain so incredibly clear. There was something truly special about that particular group, a certain magic in the air that made every Tuesday night feel like a celebration. You just couldn't wait to see what amazing artistry would unfold next, could you?

This article is a bit of a trip down memory lane, a chance to revisit what made So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 such a pivotal and unforgettable part of the series. We'll explore the moments that stood out, the people who made it happen, and why, even now, it continues to resonate with fans across the globe. So, let's remember why this season was, in a way, a pure joy to watch.

The Format That Kept Us Glued
The Judges and Their Insights
The Dancers Who Left Their Mark
- Amy Yakima and Du-Shaunt "Fik-Shun" Steuart
- Other Unforgettable Performers
Iconic Routines That Defined the Season
The All-Stars Who Returned
The Impact and Legacy of Season 10
Frequently Asked Questions About SYTYCD Season 10
The Enduring Rhythm

The Format That Kept Us Glued

The structure of So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 felt, in some respects, quite familiar, yet it brought its own special energy. Contestants from all sorts of dance backgrounds, from hip-hop to ballet, jazz to contemporary, came together to show their versatility. They had to learn new styles every week, working with world-renowned choreographers. This challenge really pushed them, and we got to see them grow before our very eyes. It was a testament to their dedication, you know, seeing them master something completely new in just a few days.

The audition rounds were, as always, a fascinating part of the show. We saw so many hopefuls, some with raw talent, others with stories that just touched your heart. Then came "Vegas Week," a notoriously tough part where the field narrowed down significantly. This intense training period really separated those who were truly ready for the spotlight from those who, perhaps, needed a bit more time. It was, quite frankly, a whirlwind for everyone involved.

Once the Top 20 were chosen, the live shows began, and that's where the magic truly happened. Each week, dancers were paired up, often with someone from a completely different style, which always led to interesting combinations. The audience, of course, played a huge role, voting for their favorites. This interactive element, honestly, made us feel like we were part of the journey, too.

The Judges and Their Insights

A big part of what made So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 so compelling was the panel of judges. Nigel Lythgoe, as a matter of fact, was always there, offering his sharp critiques and deep knowledge of the dance world. Mary Murphy, with her famous "hot tamale train" scream, brought so much energy and passion to the table. Her enthusiasm was, quite literally, infectious, and you could feel her joy when a dancer truly nailed a performance.

Throughout the season, guest judges also joined the panel, bringing different perspectives and expertise. People like Adam Shankman, Jesse Tyler Ferguson, and Paula Abdul, just to name a few, offered valuable insights. Their varied backgrounds meant that the dancers received feedback from all angles, which, in a way, helped them improve even more. It was, you know, a very well-rounded group of people offering their thoughts.

The judges' comments weren't just about technical skill; they often spoke to the emotional connection and storytelling aspect of the dance. They looked for that spark, that genuine feeling that could move an audience. This focus on both technique and artistry is, arguably, what makes SYTYCD stand out from other competition shows. They really cared about the whole package, so to speak.

The Dancers Who Left Their Mark

Season 10 was absolutely packed with memorable talent. Every single dancer in the Top 20 brought something unique to the stage, and it was often hard to pick favorites. However, a few truly stood out and captured the hearts of viewers, leaving a lasting impression. Their dedication was, quite honestly, inspiring to watch.

Amy Yakima and Du-Shaunt "Fik-Shun" Steuart

The season culminated in a historic moment: for the first time ever, two winners were crowned. Amy Yakima, a contemporary dancer with incredible grace and versatility, shared the title with Du-Shaunt "Fik-Shun" Steuart, a hip-hop dancer whose personality and unique style just lit up the stage. Their journeys were, in a way, very different, but both were equally captivating.

Amy's ability to embody any character and perform any style with such emotional depth was, quite frankly, astonishing. She could be powerful and vulnerable all at once. Fik-Shun, on the other hand, brought an infectious joy and an undeniable stage presence. His isolations and popping were, you know, just incredible, and his smile could brighten any room. They were, genuinely, a fantastic duo to watch grow throughout the competition.

Their victory together felt so right, representing the diverse talent that SYTYCD celebrates. It showed that different styles could both be equally celebrated and appreciated by the audience. And that, in some respects, was a very powerful message for the dance world.

Other Unforgettable Performers

Beyond the winners, So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 featured a host of other incredibly talented individuals who went on to have significant careers in dance. Paul Karmiryan, with his ballroom expertise, showed remarkable growth in other styles. Jasmine Harper, a contemporary dancer, brought such strength and elegance to her routines. Aaron Turner, a tap dancer, showcased a style that often doesn't get enough mainstream attention, and he did it with such flair.

Then there was Hayley Erbert, who demonstrated incredible versatility and power. Makenzie Dustman, with her beautiful lines and emotional performances, also left a strong impression. These dancers, and many others from that season, really proved their mettle week after week. They were, in fact, a truly special group of artists, and their performances were, quite honestly, a joy to behold.

Each one brought their own distinct flavor to the show, contributing to a season that was rich in variety and artistic expression. Their stories, their struggles, and their triumphs were, you know, very compelling to watch unfold. We got to see them, basically, put their whole hearts into every single step.

Iconic Routines That Defined the Season

When you think about So You Think You Can Dance Season 10, certain routines probably pop into your mind immediately. The choreography was, quite simply, outstanding, and the dancers brought these pieces to life in truly unforgettable ways. These performances are still talked about today, and for very good reason.

One such routine was Sonya Tayeh's "The Muse" performed by Amy Yakima and Robert Roldan. This contemporary piece was so incredibly raw and emotionally charged, it left everyone speechless. Amy's portrayal was, honestly, breathtaking, showcasing her ability to connect deeply with the material. It was, in fact, a masterclass in storytelling through movement.

Another standout was Travis Wall's "Puttin' on the Ritz" with Amy and Fik-Shun. This routine, a blend of contemporary and jazz, showed their incredible chemistry and versatility. It was playful, yet technically demanding, and they just made it look so effortless. You could tell they were having a blast, and that joy was, quite frankly, infectious.

Then there was Luther Brown's hip-hop routine, "The Power of Love," performed by Fik-Shun and Allison Holker. This piece was just pure fun, full of energy and amazing isolations. Fik-Shun truly shined in his own style, and his partnership with Allison was, you know, fantastic. It really showed off his unique charm and skill, and it was, basically, a blast to watch.

These routines, and many others, are still available to watch online, and they serve as a powerful reminder of the incredible talent that graced the stage that year. They were, in fact, more than just dances; they were, in a way, moments of pure artistic brilliance that continue to inspire. So, if you ever get a chance, you should really go back and rewatch them.

The All-Stars Who Returned

A really cool aspect of So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 was the return of the All-Stars. These were beloved dancers from previous seasons who came back to partner with the current contestants. This gave the newer dancers a chance to perform with seasoned professionals, which, honestly, must have been an amazing learning experience for them. It also meant we got to see some of our old favorites dance again, which was a very nice bonus.

Dancers like Kathryn McCormick, Twitch Boss, Allison Holker, and Robert Roldan, just to name a few, brought their incredible talent and experience to the stage. Their presence elevated the performances, pushing the contestants to new heights. It was, in a way, a masterclass every week, seeing how these established artists interacted with the rising stars. The energy they brought was, quite simply, palpable.

The All-Star pairings often led to some of the most memorable routines of the season. The chemistry between the current contestants and the All-Stars was, in fact, often truly remarkable. It showed how much the show had contributed to the dance community, creating a family of dancers who supported each other. And that, you know, was a very heartwarming thing to witness.

The Impact and Legacy of Season 10

So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 wasn't just another season; it was, in some respects, a landmark. The sheer quality of talent, the emotional stories, and the unforgettable routines cemented its place in the show's history. It truly showcased the power of dance to connect with people on a deep level, regardless of their background or dance knowledge. The impact it had was, quite honestly, far-reaching.

Many of the dancers from Season 10 have gone on to have very successful careers, performing on Broadway, touring with major artists, appearing in films, and even returning to the show as All-Stars or choreographers. This season, basically, served as a powerful launchpad for so many aspiring artists. It proved that the show could, in fact, be a genuine stepping stone to a professional dance career.

The season also contributed to the broader appreciation of dance as an art form. It brought diverse styles into mainstream living rooms, educating viewers about the nuances and beauty of different movements. This exposure, you know, helped to demystify dance for many, making it more accessible and understandable. It really did, in a way, open up people's eyes to what dance could be.

Even today, discussions about the "best" seasons of SYTYCD often include Season 10. Its legacy is one of exceptional talent, groundbreaking choreography, and truly moving human stories. It reminds us that dedication, passion, and a willingness to push boundaries can lead to something truly extraordinary. And that, you know, is a message that still resonates strongly.

Frequently Asked Questions About SYTYCD Season 10

Who won So You Think You Can Dance Season 10?

For the very first time in the show's history, So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 crowned two winners: Amy Yakima and Du-Shaunt "Fik-Shun" Steuart. This was, in fact, a really exciting moment for fans, as both dancers were incredibly popular and talented in their own unique ways. It felt, in some respects, like a well-deserved outcome for both of them.

What were some of the most memorable routines from SYTYCD Season 10?

Season 10 had so many unforgettable routines, it's hard to pick just a few! However, some that really stand out include Sonya Tayeh's "The Muse" with Amy Yakima and Robert Roldan, Travis Wall's "Puttin' on the Ritz" with Amy and Fik-Shun, and Luther Brown's hip-hop piece "The Power of Love" with Fik-Shun and Allison Holker. These performances, quite frankly, captured the hearts of many viewers and are still talked about today. They were, basically, just incredible to watch.

Where are the So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 contestants now?

Many of the dancers from So You Think You Can Dance Season 10 have gone on to have very successful careers in the dance world. Amy Yakima has performed on Broadway and toured with artists, while Fik-Shun has continued to showcase his unique hip-hop style globally. Other contestants like Paul Karmiryan, Jasmine Harper, and Hayley Erbert have also achieved significant success in various performance avenues, from TV to live shows. They've, in a way, really made their mark in the industry.

The Enduring Rhythm

As we look back at So You Think You Can Dance Season 10, it's clear that its impact goes far beyond just a single season of television. It was a period of incredible artistry, emotional storytelling, and genuine human connection. The dancers, the choreographers, and the judges all came together to create something truly special that continues to resonate with fans, even today. It was, in fact, a season that reminded us of the sheer beauty and power of dance.

The memories of those breathtaking routines, the suspense of the eliminations, and the pure joy of seeing dreams come true are, you know, still very much alive for those who watched. It proved that reality television could, in a way, also be a platform for high art and profound human stories. So, if you're feeling a bit nostalgic, perhaps it's time to revisit some of those iconic performances.

What were your favorite moments from So You Think You Can Dance Season 10? Which dancer's journey touched you the most? We'd love to hear your thoughts and memories. Share your favorite routines or stories in the comments below, and let's keep the rhythm of this unforgettable season alive! It's always great to connect with others who feel the same way about such a special show, so feel free to share.

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