The drama is heating up in episode three of Dance Moms season 3, and Abby Lee Miller is about to make some game-changing decisions! This week’s episode was a rollercoaster, and the tension was palpable as Abby had to decide who would stay and who would go. Let’s break down the most AWESOME and AWKWARD moments, especially focusing on the arrival of a certain dance prodigy: Sophia.
The AWKWARD Return of the Old Guard
We all knew the original Dance Moms team members would eventually make their comeback, but the way it unfolded was undeniably uncomfortable. The episode starts with the “new” team (minus Ally, who was apparently scared off by moms Marsha and Flo – yikes!). In a swift and somewhat harsh move, Abby kicks Marsha and Flo out of the studio, leaving Bella and Kaeli in the dust. It feels a bit abrupt, even for Abby. You can’t help but wonder, was this just to clear the stage for someone else?
Dance Moms original team returns to the studio
Enter the original dance moms and their daughters, waltzing back into the ALDC studio after a dramatic (and slightly forced) standoff. Even Kelly is back in the mix! While the return is welcome – who doesn’t love the original cast dynamic? – the whole scenario felt a little staged and definitely awkward for the ousted new moms and their kids. And let’s be honest, we missed Mackenzie Ziegler’s adorable presence.
AWESOME Sophia Lucia: Stealing the Spotlight with Skills
Okay, let’s talk about Sophia Lucia. Yes, she’s definitely shaking things up and maybe even stepping into Maddie Ziegler’s former “star” role, but it’s hard to deny – Sophia is incredibly talented. This girl is a dance machine! 54 turns? A six-pack… scratch that, a twelve-pack? Her technical skills are simply mind-blowing.
Sophia Lucia showcasing impressive dance technique
Sophia’s fouetté turns are mesmerizing, and she consistently delivers performances that are technically brilliant. However, even with her undeniable talent, there’s room for growth. While her technique is off the charts, her choreography could use some diversification. We see the incredible turns, but we’re eager to see more range and artistry in her routines.
AWKWARD Brooke Hyland’s Short-Lived Return
Remember all the hype about the Hyland sisters returning to the team? Well, Brooke’s comeback was unfortunately short-lived. Barely five minutes after rejoining, Abby unceremoniously cuts Brooke from the group routine. The reason is vague – perhaps a school dance conflict, or maybe just manufactured drama for the show. Whatever the reason, it felt like a letdown for Brooke and the fans who were excited to see her back. We definitely missed seeing Brooke’s unique style in the group number.
AWESOME “Red Carpet Special” Group Routine: Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Despite the Brooke drama and the limited rehearsal time, the group routine “Red Carpet Special” was surprisingly polished and entertaining. Even when Mackenzie faced a prop malfunction with the red carpet, she handled it like a true professional, maintaining her performance and adorable “kissy face.” The reunited team pulled it together and earned a well-deserved first-place win! This routine showcased the strength and resilience of the original Dance Moms team, even with the added pressure of Sophia’s arrival.
AWKWARD The Moms’ Mean Girl Behavior Continues
The Dance Moms are back to their old tricks, and this week they set their sights on new mom Jacqueline. Their behavior is reminiscent of middle school bullies, making fun of Jacqueline for being “too gorgeous” and “too nice.” The snarky comments and thinly veiled jealousy are uncomfortable to watch. The moms even escalate to joking about putting something in Jacqueline’s drink – a comment that Christy actually said out loud! This level of cattiness and immaturity is a recurring awkward theme on Dance Moms.
AWESOME Chloe Lukasiak’s Emotional Performance and Award
While Sophia’s arrival seems to have thrown some of the girls off their game, Chloe Lukasiak delivered a beautiful and emotionally resonant solo. Despite the pressure and Abby’s comments favoring Sophia, Chloe shone. Christy, surprisingly, makes a valid point – Sophia might have the technical prowess, but Chloe has a unique ability to connect emotionally with the audience. Chloe’s performance was recognized with an “Expressive Heart” award – a somewhat vague but definitely positive acknowledgment of her talent and stage presence. It’s a testament to Chloe’s artistry and her ability to convey feeling through dance.
QUOTE OF THE WEEK:
“Miss Abby kept saying how much better Sophia was than all of us. But that just gave me a purpose, to show Miss Abby that one day I will be as good as Sophia.” —Chloe
Chloe’s mature and positive reaction to the Sophia situation is truly admirable, especially compared to the drama surrounding her. Her determination is inspiring, and it’s clear why fans love and root for Chloe.
Tune in next week for more Dance Moms drama, and to see how Sophia continues to impact the ALDC! What were your favorite and most cringeworthy moments from this episode? Let us know in the comments!
