College team make history with performance of ‘Smooth Criminal’

The Tiger Girl’s dance team from Louisiana State University stole the attention of the internet with their championship-winning performance of Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal” at the “Super Bowl of Dance.”

The Louisiana State University (LSU) Dance Team has done it again, making history by capturing their fourth title at the Universal Dance Association Hip Hop Competition with another show-stopping performance at the “Super Bowl of Dance.”

At the 2024 event, held in Orlando, Florida, the Tiger Girls delivered a breathtaking Michael Jackson tribute, blending traditional moves with fresh, modern interpretations of the late icon’s legendary choreography.

Dressed in white satin suits, glittering ties, Nike sneakers and classic fedoras, the Tiger Girls appeared as if they had stepped directly out of a Michael Jackson music video. Their stylish attire perfectly complemented their homage to the King of Pop as they delivered a flawless performance of the iconic “Smooth Criminal.”

The chart-topping song, released in 1988 as part of Jackson’s “Bad” album, is famous not just for its catchy beats but also for the physically challenging dance moves featured in the video.

Speaking with Southern Living, head coach Kandace Hale told Southern Living that she didn’t hesitate when the team’s choreographers, Carsen Lowe and Sammy McFadden, pitched the Jackson song: “It’s a classic” she said, adding that the “team is obsessed with Michael Jackson.”

Electric

The LSU dancers, known for their impeccable rhythm and unmatched groove, left no moment unfilled with electrifying energy. The highlight of their routine came when the entire team aligned in a sharp diagonal formation, executing Jackson’s signature hip thrusts in perfect unison.

In an Instagram post that shares the team’s championship-winning performance, the two choreographers share: “To be faced with the challenge to take on an icon such as Michael and bring his essence and star power into the present day is hands down the most difficult path we could have picked.”

The post continues, “But with the village that is this team, the choreographers, consultants and coaches- we know we have no choice but to aim for the highest form of excellence.”

Fans say the team “nailed it” with their “untouchable precision” that was “un-freaking-believable.”

“I can’t stop watching this routine. I am completely addicted!!” writes one netizen in the comments section of the team’s Instagram.

A second shares, “Whoever choreographed this routine deserves a Grammy,” while a third offers, “I got chills watching this. Absolutely amazing!”

Praising her team for the win, Hale says “our theme this year was being ‘undeniably us.’ In today’s world, it’s like everybody wants to be everybody else. We wanted to try to do what we do best.”

Let us know what you think of the team’s incredible moves, and then share this story with your friends so we can hear from them!