When fans of So You Think You Can Dance think of iconic contestants, Travis Wall is often the first that comes to mind. He auditioned for the show in 2006 for season 2 when he was 18-years-old and came in second place. Since then, the Virginia Beach native has made quite a name for himself in the dance and entertainment industry. Ahead of the highly anticipated season 17 premiere of SYTYCD, let's take a look at what Travis Wall has been up to.
The dancer-choreographer has stayed true to his reality dance show competition roots and has not only continued to choreograph and mentor on SYTYCD but has also choreographed for Dancing With The Stars. His contemporary pieces are legendary and powerful and have earned him ten Emmy nominations and two wins for Outstanding Choreography (via Emmy's).
Following his SYTYCD success, Travis, along with season one winner Nick Lazzarini, Teddy Forance, and Kyle Robinson, founded the dance company Shaping Sound. The company is an "electrifying mash-up of dance styles and musical genres brought fully to life on stage by a dynamic company of contemporary dancers." Shaping Sound often casts alums from Nigel Lythgoe's SYTYCD. Travis and Shaping Sound even had their own reality show called All The Right Moves, which aired on Oxygen but was canceled after one season.
Travis' choreography has also been seen on tour for pop stars like Justin Bieber and Demi Lovato, as well as in music videos like Carrie Underwood's "Something in the Water." Travis also worked with First Lady Michelle Obama on her Let's Move campaign, which was performed at the White House and on The Ellen Degeneres Show. Travis Wall continues to make appearances and choreograph reality TV competition shows as of 2022. He appeared on two episodes of Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders: Making the Team and also choreographed and gave critiques as a judge on RuPaul's Drag Race. Travis also teaches dance classes around the world, and he's associated with the NUVO dance convention. However, Travis hist some rough waters since his debut on SYTYCD season 2. In 2021, the dancer was accused of sexual misconduct and grooming and subsequently cut from the dance company, Break The Floor's tour; however, Travis denies these allegations (via Avocate.ca)
The new season of So You Think You Can Dance premieres on May 18, and although no choreographers have been formally announced, fans are hoping to catch Travis and his choreography. There's been no word on whether Travis' allegations will impact his future with SYTYCD. Fans will have to wait and see when season 17 premieres next month.
So You Think You Can Dance season 17 premieres Wednesday, May 18 at 9 p.m. ET on FOX
Sources: Emmys, Shaping Sound Company, Advocate.com