Izaak Smith

Updated Thu. Nov. 27 2008 11:02 PM ET

Voted off Top 6

People might consider some of 19-year-old Izaak Smith's interests and talents to be rather unconventional for a dancer. He lists medieval combat, video games and trading cards as hobbies. Interestingly, Izaak has also competed nationally with his high school debating team.

A hip-hop dancer since age seven, Izaak has studied at Judy Russell's Enchaînement Dance Centre and attended the North Shore Academy of Dancing. He is also trained in ballet, contemporary, jazz, modern and musical theatre.

Being part of So You Think You Can Dance Canada has reinforced the notion that dancing is Izaak's profession. He feels the show itself is important because it not only highlights Canadian talent but also "puts us on the same stage as the American ones."

The most challenging part of the competition for Izaak has been being away from his friends, family and basic social interactions. "It took a phone call home, and then a few more, just to remind me to be me."

When asked what he has learned about himself during the finals week, Izaak says "I really had no clue about the dance world." In particular, "dancing in the big cities is completely different from dancing in Prince George." Still, he is certainly not ashamed to be from a smaller city. He loves his hometown because "it's small enough that you never feel lost in the city, but big enough to allow you to do anything."

Izaak does not rely on a lucky charm, but does practice a particular ritual that has proven to be effective. "My sister and I do this silly thing that we started as kids. We cross our arms and fingers then cross our legs, toes and eyes. We did this over the phone and I got in so it must work, right?"