So You Think You Can Dance Australia came to a spectacular conclusion tonight, as Michael Dameski was crowned the winner during the live Grand Final.
Contemporary dancer Michael, 18, from New South Wales, received the highest number of audience votes and danced off with the cash prize of $100,000. He also has a choice of one of three dance career opportunities including an international season with world renowned ballroom blockbuster, Burn The Floor created and choreographed by our very own Jason Gilkison.
Fellow finalists Lauren Seymour, Renelle Jones and Jay Johns were announced runners up as host Carrie Bickmore revealed the voting results.
Former Billy Elliot The Musical star Michael has wowed the judges and audiences with his stunning technical abilities since the audition stages of So You Think You Can Dance Australia.
His show-stopping solo last week garnered him international acclaim, with show co-creator Nigel Lythgoe tweeting: “One of the best #DanceForYourLife performances I have ever seen on #SYTYCDAU, or anywhere for that matter!”.
Tonight, Michael dazzled Australia when he performed two stunning contemporary routines and a lindy-hop with Top 2 finalist Lauren.
On his win, Michael said: “This experience has changed my life. I never expected to make it this far, let alone become Australia’s Favourite Dancer. I have learnt and grown so much as a performer throughout this journey. The gift of this show, is that it allows you to be recognised for what you have devoted your life to.”
An ecstatic Paula Abdul said: “I knew Michael would win. He’s fearless and ferocious. His commitment to excellence was evident throughout the competition. His performances were like a spotlight at a Hollywood premiere, drawing our attention like a pack of paparazzi.”
In addition to Michael’s victory, the Grand Final of So You Think You Can Dance Australia featured stunning performances by this season’s Top 20 dancers, international dancing and singing sensation Jason Derulo, singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran and rising UK star Sam Smith.
The dancers paid tribute to judge Paula Abdul with a medley of her number one hits, and Aaron Cash traded his judge’s chair for the stage, performing with other members of the original Tap Dogs troupe exclusively for the first time in almost 20 years.
Stay tuned for our interviews with Top 6 – Ashleigh, Sam, Renelle, Jay, Lauren & Michael!!