We know D.C. Get our free newsletter to stay in the know.
The reality TV competition So You Think You Can Dance claims to crown “America’s Favorite Dancer.” The Joy of Motion Dance Project, meanwhile, will crown D.C.’s favorite dance company, as picked by voters who watch live in the studios, not TV junkies and tweens voting on Facebook. The 2013 dance project features 12 local troupes competing for a coveted prize: 100 hours of free rehearsal space at Joy of Motion. Contemporary contestants include Nate Bond and Kjerstin Lysne, two dancers who have also performed for another challenger, local choreographer Erica Rebollar. Three hip-hop companies are also in the mix, as is a Broadway troupe. Unfortunately, the most intriguing-sounding entry only performs Saturday night: the SAPAN Performance Company, which will perform a semiclassical Indian fusion piece inspired by the music and lyrics of Justin Timberlake. Maybe it won’t bring bharatanatyam back, but the Dance Project should offer a 360-degree movement experience. The showcase begins at 8:30 p.m. Saturday and 7 p.m. Sunday at the Jack Guidone Theater, 5207 Wisconsin Ave. NW. $12–$15. (202) 520-3692. joyofmotion.org.