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On Monday, Dougie Baldeo, 11, will take his talents to FOX as a featured artist on the third episode of “So You Think You Can Dance: Next Generation,” where he will show off his talents against other dancers between the ages of 8 and 13-years-old.
Although he couldn’t divulge much about his episode, Baldeo - who is a jack of all trades, with dance moves in a myriad of styles - said that he was nervous, and hoped to make a good first impression on celebrity judges that include Nigel Lythgoe, Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo.
“I can’t say much, but (anyone who watches) is going to see a lot of amazing talent,” he said. “There was really a lot of amazing kids that have technical abilities and bright personalities. It was a really fun experience.”
Baldeo began jazz and tap dancing five years ago, when he was six. In order to earn a spot on the popular show, he had to send in an audition tape of him dancing, and only found out that he was taking a trip to film two days before he was to audition for the producers of the show.
“I was extremely nervous, I’m a really big fan of (the show), and never thought they would have a kid’s version,” he added. “I fell in love with dance and music five years ago and soon found out it was my passion.
“I learned that I have to be and stay on task and know what I’m doing, because if I don’t then I’m going to get eliminated. I learned that I have to pick up choreography really fast, which I’m thankful is something I have an ability for.”
Although the competition was tough, Baldeo said that he believes he made some lifelong friends during the audition. He added that the entire experience taught him several things as he continues to pursue dancing as he gets older.
“It was really fun, none of us knew each other when we got there, but 10 seconds later we were all talking and FaceTiming and chatting with each other like we’d been friends forever,” he continued. “All in all, the whole experience was just really fun and we all still stay in touch.”
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