I’ve been a fan of So You Think You Can Dance since season 3 in 2007. I am amazed every season to see what new talent comes out to audition. Thousands of dancers from around the country vie for 20 finalists spots. They go through hell and back to make it through Vegas week before they can make it onto the So You Think You Can Dancestage.
One dancer, in particular, has emerged out of the woodwork. 25 year old Tadd Gadduang, from Salt Lake City, identifies himself as an “urban style” dancer. To the public eye, that is basically categorized as a bboy. He, along with fellow top 10 contestant Marko Germar, 22, are of Pilipino descent and have become fast friends on the show. They are not the only Pilipinos who have made it to the top 20. Other Pil-Ams from past seasons include Melody Lacayanga , Ryan “Ryanimay” Conferido (season 1), Dominic “Dtrix” Sandoval (season 3), Karla Garcia (season 5), Nathan Trasoras, Ellenore Scott, Pauline Mata, Brandon Dumlao (season 6), and Alexie Agdeppa (season 7).
Gadduang got his start in Pilipinos cultural dancing. He is very proud of his Pilipinos heritage, as mentioned in the rehearsal footage that airs before his performances.
“A lot of people are taking pride in the fact that I’m Pilipino. And I’m here to represent the Pilipino community.”
Gadduanghas been praised for his all around ability. In past seasons, the judges have mentioned that many hip hop dancers struggled with other styles since they are out of their comfort zone. Gadduang has surprised everyone each week, and is one of the current favorites to look out for.
*Photo courtesy of FOX.com
