Caitlynn Lawson moves in dance competition

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE: Caitlynn Lawson and Mitchell Kelly perform a Contemporary routine to "To Love You More," choreographed by Mandy Moore on SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE airing Wednesday, July 6 (8:00-10:00 PM ET/PT) on FOX. &Copy;2011 Fox Broadcasting Co. Cr: Adam Rose/FOX

by Herald Staff Writer & Steven Wyble
| July 10, 2011 3:15 AM

MOSES LAKE - Moses Lake teen Caitlynn Lawson easily escaped elimination on Thursday's episode of the TV show "So You Think You Can Dance?" after delivering a stunning performance Wednesday.

Lawson, and partner Mitchell Kelly, earned a standing ovation from all four judges Wednesday, who agreed they had the "best performance of the night."

Lawson and Kelly's contemporary routine, choreographed by Mandy Moore, was about falling in love.

Judge Mary Murphy was at a loss for words after the pair performed.

"Caitlynn, you know I think the world of you and you did amazing throughout this thing," she said. "You just defied gravity again."

"The emotion in that routine just grabbed us all, there's no question about that," said judge Nigel Lythgoe.

He complemented the lifts and leaps in the routine.

"The whole routine took my breath away, so congratulations," Lythgoe said. "As Mary said, best routine of the night."

"It was unbelievable. Caitlynn, I feel that you're the surprise for me this season," said guest judge Travis Wall.

"Dance is to be out of yourself, larger, more beautiful, more powerful," said guest judge Carmen Electra. "You guys were all that and even more. Best performance of the night."

Lawson had the opportunity to show off her hometown to viewers on Wednesday's show. She revealed her interest in outdoor activities such as fishing, camping and four-wheeling, noting, "I'm a bit of a tomboy."

The remaining 12 dancers perform again next Wednesday at 8 p.m. on FOX. Viewers can vote online at www.fox.com/dance or call or text numbers displayed during the performance show.

Lawson is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/D8Caitlynn.