‘So You Think You Can Dance’ Returns This Summer With Kid Contestants

Gregory E. Miller February 1, 2016, 2:00 pm

So You Think You Can Dance judges - Nigel Lythgoe, Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo — Michael Becker/FOX

JUDGES: SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE: L-R: Resident judges Nigel Lythgoe, Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo on SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE airing Monday, August 31 (8:00-10:00 PM ET live/PT tape delayed) on FOX. ©2015 FOX Broadcasting Co. Cr: Michael Becker

So You Think You Can Dance isn’t kidding around.

Fox has officially renewed the long-running dance competition for a thirteenth season, but with a twist. This iteration, So You Think You Can Dance: The Next Generation will feature contestants between the ages of 8 and 13. Host Cat Deeley and judges Nigel Lythgoe, Paula Abdul and Jason Derulo will all return.

In the show’s new structure, kids will audition around the country before a select group is invited to join “The Academy.” There, they’ll have to impress the judges to make it into the top 10, where they’ll be paired with “all-stars” from previous seasons. The kids will then compete with their partner in a variety of styles, with one contestant sent packing each week until a winner is crowned.

Auditions for the season will kick off Saturday, Feb. 27 in L.A., with stops in Chicago and NYC. Stage moms, you can find more info at sytycdauditions.com. For the rest of you, tune in when the show returns to television Monday, May 30 on Fox.