THE OPENING PERFORMANCE

This week's opener was a Mandy Moore contemporary piece to "The Rose" by Bette Midler, only one of the most gorgeous songs ever. And the number did not disappoint. I loved the spotlights on the dancers at the very end. The dance was chilling and still and lovely. What did you think?

THE GUEST PERFORMANCES

Okay, the little kid ("Little Demon") was adorable but that solo went on too long. I was like, "this kid is still crawling around the stage?" Let's be honest, despite his tininess, adorableness, and evident talent, he should have got the "So You Think You Can Dance. Dance Dance. Dance." hook after about thirty seconds. I loved Cat picking him up and talking to him. She's so sincere, a refreshing contrast to Seacrest douchebaggery.

I guess I'm not up on my pop music anymore. Lady GaGa was confusing, especially the part with the glowing rock. She reminded me of Gandalf from Lord of the Rings with that thing (except not in a good way). That costume too was like someone dressed a Barbie doll with all random pieces. I've got these strappy shoes from UFO Barbie. And I've got these sunglasses from Mad Max Apocalypse Barbie. And I'll use the leotard from Workout Barbie and pair it with the red coat from Equestrian Barbie.

THE SOLOS

Courtney danced to "Almost Lover" by A Fine Frenzy. She's a lovely joyful dancer, but her solos are getting a bit stale. I think that's more an indication of her not being the best choreographer, rather than her not being the best dancer. I feel like she throws in a turn, falls to the floor, throws her body into a layout when she's on her knees and it's over. But, I will say that choreographing solo after solo for this show has got to be difficult.

Mark danced to "Wind It Up" (Original Neptunes Version) by Gwen Stefani. That's right he danced to a Gwen Stefani song. I've said he was effeminate before and I'll say it again. If you still don't agree with me after watching that solo, then we'll just have to agree to disagree. He's kitschy and quirky and his style has a definite female quality. You'll see when he gets cast as the star of Cabaret on Broadway. If he can even carry a tune, he would be perfect for it. By the way ... loved the suspenders. Loved them.

Katee danced to "Beautiful Disaster" by Jon McLaughlin. A fine job. She's been very consistent with her solos. But I think she truly shines when she's part of a group dance or when she's dancing with a partner.

Joshua performed to "I Can Make You Dance" by Zapp. He was okay. Yeah, just okay. I'm spoiled, I know. It was more of his great musicality and isolations but none of his cool tricks. This may be a little harsh considering all the fantastic work he's done on the show but this solo was on par with a New Orleans street performer, not a professional dancer.

Chelsie danced to "Girls Gone Wild" by Travis Tritt. "It sucks," Chelsie said of having to do solos when she's so used to dancing with a partner. Well, she didn't suck by any stretch. But, I don't know how smart it was to do more of Jive routine when her greatest strength is very clearly Latin ballroom. What did you guys think of it?

Twitch performed to "Don't Worry, Be Happy" by Bobby McFerrin. Great song. It lent itself well to Twitch's comedic style and finally, the glasses made sense!

THE ELIMINATIONS

Katee [SAFE]
Joshua [SAFE]
Courtney [SAFE]
Twitch [SAFE]
Chelsie [ELIMINATED]
Mark [ELIMINATED]

I think it was Mark's time. Actually it was Mark's time before it was Will's time. But let's not open up old wounds. Mark was a great performer and an interesting dancer, but I think America made the right choice by putting Twitch and Joshua in the finale. As for Chelsie, I was undecided. I don't like going into a finale without ballroom being represented. But, Courtney has been a joy to watch so I'm psyched for her.

My pick for the winner? Joshua.