Behind the Scenes: 'So You Think You Can Dance' 99th Episode

Before I begin, I should admit something: I've never been a huge fan of 'So You Think You Can Dance.' That being said, after attending the taping for the show's 99th episode, I am now.

With all the build-up for the show's 100th episode Thurs., July 23 -- which will feature performances from some favorite past contestants from all five seasons and a special number by Katie Holmes -- this episode's "wow" factor (due in large part to guest judge Ellen DeGeneres) was an unexpected surprise.

Whether or not you've watched (and laughed and cried at) Wednesday night's 99th episode yet, you won't want to miss these interviews with the phenomenal top 8 performers and creator-executive producer-judge Nigel Lythgoe, as well as our sneak peek behind the scenes, with all the stuff they didn't show on TV. -- By Maggie Furlong



*Ellen DeGeneres wasn't just hilarious while the cameras were rolling -- the funny lady lightened the mood during a break after the evening's most tear-jerking performance by dancing up on the judges' stage to Beyonce's 'Single Ladies.' Luckily, the choreographers were seated close by, shouting out moves for her to try.

*There were quite a few celebrity fans in the audience, including: Ellen's wife, Portia de Rossi; 'Without a Trace' beauty Roselyn Sanchez; '90210' alum Gabrielle Carteris and ''Til Death' star Joely Fisher (who both left their seats in the row behind me halfway through the show); and Julie Bowen ('Boston Legal,' 'Lost'), who gave Kayla and Jason a standing ovation for their zombie-schoolgirl dance choreographed by Shane Sparks.

*Not everyone was as blown away with the evening's show. Nigel Lythgoe told me: "I was sort of disappointed with this show at the beginning ... I thought it was a bit flat. Everyone was dancing OK, but they should -- they're the top 8! For me, it really came to life at the end of the show -- the last three or four routines. They've gotta become stars now, not just a top 8. This time last year, I went, 'Twitch, Joshua, Katee!' and they became stars. The top 6 next week -- whoever's there, they've really got to work. I expect it to be better every week."

*Less than an hour before taping began, Emmy-winning choreographer Mia Michaels, who was one of the evening's judges, came rushing in to the wardrobe room to check on her outfit. They were still sewing the brown and turquoise fabric for her to wear that evening. While she waited, costume designer Soyon An piled on the vintage-inspired layered necklaces and had a serious debate: earrings, or no earrings.

*After the futuristic opening group number, the first couple had only 13 minutes to change outfits, hair and makeup before their performance. In TV time, that's a seriously speedy turnaround!



*In case you missed it, guest judge Mia Michaels made a very startling, totally uncharacteristic declaration: she admitted that her favorite dancer on the show is Janette. Janette, appropriately, bowed down to her.

*Jason's brother was in the pit around the stage, and after his solo, Jason went into the crowd of fans to hug him.

*When he's not working hard on 'SYTYCD,' what reality show does Lythgoe call a guilty pleasure? "Guilty pleasure reality show? I was actually watching 'American Idol' last season. Because I wasn't on it ... I was determined not to be interested, and I was. And it annoyed me to a certain degree because I started rooting for Adam Lambert."

*So how does the wardrobe department prevent malfunctions, like the pants rip Phillip had a few weeks back? "We put gussets in all the kids' pants to make sure that they have enough room to do the splits and the kicks," admits wardrobe guru Soyon. "Streetwear is not meant for dancing."

*After Ade and Melissa's touching performance -- a tribute to breast cancer survivors choreographed by Tyce Diorio -- there wasn't a dry eye in the house, including Portia de Rossi, whose pal ran off to grab a napkin for her. Meanwhile, Mia Michaels took time to walk over and give Tyce, who she described as "one of my best friends," a tear-filled hug.

*What was up with all that talk about Evan's droopy eyelids? Nigel had this to say backstage after the show. "As much as I love Evan -- and his droopy eyes -- he's got to bring something else. It sounded like I was having a go at him physically, but I want a performer there."

*Curious about what to expect from the 100th episode? I spotted a stack of felt top hats in the wardrobe room and two ladies rapidly bedazzling the lapels on several ivory tux jackets. Looks like a celebration ensemble to me ...