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Westchester Youngster Stars, Advances On 'So You Think You Can Dance'

MOUNT VERNON, N.Y. - After wowing a panel of celebrity judges during his audition, Mount Vernon preteen Dougie Baldeo has advanced to the “Academy” on “So You Think You Can Dance.”

Mount Vernon star Dougie Baldeo on "So You Think You Can Dance."

Photo Credit: Black Westchester
Mount Vernon native Dougie Baldeo wowed during his debut on "So You Think You Can Dance" Monday night.

Mount Vernon native Dougie Baldeo wowed during his debut on "So You Think You Can Dance" Monday night.

Photo Credit: Contributed

The 11-year-old Baldeo made his silver screen debut this week, where he dazzled during his routine, punching his ticket into the second round, which will air at 8 p.m. on FOX on Monday.

“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.”

Following his audition, the judges marveled at Baldeo’s moves, with Paula Abdul saying that the Mount Vernon product was “born to dance.”

“If this was called ‘So You Think You Can Perform,’ you would win hands down,” judge Nigel Lythgoe mused.

Baldeo began jazz and tap dancing five years ago, when he was six. In order to even earn a spot on the popular show, he had to send in an audition tape of him dancing, and only found out he would audition for the judges two days before filming.

“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.”

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