Ep 2. Auditions #2: Detroit

In the second episode of So You Think You Can Dance season 12, viewers are taken to the Motor City: Detroit. As the auditions continue, talented dancers showcase their moves in the hopes of earning a coveted spot on the show's top 20. Judges Nigel Lythgoe, Paula Abdul, and Jason Derulo are back to provide feedback and select the dancers who they think have what it takes to make it through to the next round.

The episode opens with a montage of dancers demonstrating their skills in various styles, from contemporary to hip hop to tap. Among the highlights are a group of girls who call themselves the "Detroit Jitterbugs," a trio of ballroom dancers, and a young man who brings a unique interpretive dance to the stage. As always, the judges are looking for technique, originality, and that special something that sets a dancer apart from the rest.

One of the standout performers in this episode is a 21-year-old contemporary dancer named Hailee Payne. She tells the judges that her inspiration comes from her mother, who passed away when Hailee was a child. Hailee's emotional performance to the song "I Was Here" by Beyonce brings the judges to their feet. Both Paula and Jason call it one of the best auditions they've ever seen.

Another highlight is 19-year-old Neil Haskell, who returns to the show after placing third in season 3. He's been working as a dancer since then, but says he's always wanted to come back to SYTYCD. Neil's contemporary routine is powerful and impressive, and the judges are happy to see that he's continued to grow as a dancer.

Ballroom dancers Alexia Meyer and Adryan Moorefield also make an impression with their sassy and energetic cha cha routine. Nigel comments that they may be the strongest ballroom couple he's seen in the show's history. Viewer favorite Travis Wall makes an appearance as a guest judge for this round, and is blown away by the pair.

Aside from the skilled dancers, the episode also features some heartbreaking stories. 23-year-old contemporary dancer Marissa Milele tells the judges about how she was involved in a car accident that left her with a traumatic brain injury. She struggled to re-learn how to walk and talk, and says that dancing has been a big part of her recovery. Her emotional performance to Coldplay's "Fix You" moves the judges and earns her a ticket to the next round.

In the end, the judges invite over 40 dancers to the callbacks in Los Angeles. It's a tough decision, as they comment that this group was one of the most talented they've ever seen. With just a few spots left in the top 20, the competition is sure to heat up in the next round.

Overall, Auditions #2: Detroit showcases an impressive group of dancers and emotional performances. Viewers will be on the edge of their seats as they wait to see who makes it through to the next round and who will be going home.