Photo by Valeria Munoz
The Mira Quien Baila Semifinals brought the heat this week with its special guests. Puerto Rican singer Lunay opened the show with a mix of his recent hits “Aventura” and “Soltera.” The 19 year old singer completely owned the stage and had everyone dancing before the show began. As far as musical guests, his performance and choreography was my favorite of the day.
Puerto Rico’s Miss Universe of 2018, Kiara Liz started the night with a sensational samba to Maluma’s “Corazon,” with her choreographer Jean. Despite her charismatic and spirited performance, Kiara Liz received mixed critiques from the judges. Casper Smart pointed out minor details and the necessity to incorporate levels. As for judge Dayanara Lopez, she loved Kiara’s confidence. Broadway veteran, Bianca Marroquin gave constructive criticism cautioning Kiara to be careful with her spotting when turning.
Next up was the only male contestant on the show, Adrian Lastra who performed a disco number to “Boogie Shoes” by K.C. and the Sunshine Band. His choreographer, Jayme Dailey incorporated popping and locking styles as well. He got the majority of positive comments from the judges who were impressed with his changes of tempo. Although, he seemed a bit stiff in certain moments of the choreography and you could note his anticipation for the difficult lift.
To everyone’s surprise there was a dance battle of boys against girls with actress and host, Alejandra Espinoza leading the girls and Turkish actor from Amor Eterno, Kaan Urgancioglu representing the men. This was actually Kaan’s first appearance in the U.S. and the audience embraced him wholeheartedly a bit more than the hosts and contestants who struggled to pronounce his name. The boys ended up winning and had the brief participation of dancer Pedro Moreno and Chef Yizus, who despite being a chef could also hold his own on the dance floor.
Photo by: Valeria Munoz
Fan favorite and choreographer Jonathan Platero performed a rumba with contestant Sofia Castro to a Pedro Infante tribute by actor and comedian, Omar Chaparro. Then, Venezuelan actress, Kimberly Dos Ramos danced despite her injury for her contemporary routine to Marc Anthony’s song “Ahora Quien.” In terms of the storyline, this dance did not disappoint and it featured dancers Pedro Moreno and Francois Pruneau. Although she was able to communicate the story really well through movement, Kimberly was eliminated due to her injury.
With Kari Liz, Adrian Lastra, and Sofia Castro advancing to the finale, the results were followed by a musical performance from Prince Royce of his newest singles “Curame” and “Morir.”
The highlight of the show for me was definitely Jonathan and Oksana Platero’s duet. Known for their choreography and So You Think You Can Dance, the couple awed everyone with an effortless contemporary piece and of course, amazing lifts. The routine was set to another Pedro Infante tribute, and even featured a mariachi band. It was truly a beautiful piece, and pros Jonathan and Oksana moved judge Bianca Marroquin to tears.
Photo by: Valeria Munoz