For most of the performers who go on America’s Got Talent, the show is about using a major platform to get discovered.
Many talented dancers, singers and performers work on their crafts for years and years without any recognition. It takes so much time and discipline to hone a craft and much of that process is a solitary pursuit outside of the spotlight.
When the chance finally comes to show one’s skills to the world, most people want to seize the opportunity and to present themselves in the best light possible.
Then again, some contestants use the stage for… different purposes altogether.
One of the recent performances on the show showed just how differently a dance audition could go.
As it begins, a woman walks out onstage wearing a completely black outfit from head to toe. She’s wearing both sweatpants and a heavy sweatshirt, the latter zipped all the way up so that only her face remains visible.
As she comes out, she introduces herself as Yuriyan Retriever, which she explains is a stage name. She also reveals that she lives and performs in Japan, and that she only respects three things in life: her mom, her dad and Julianne Hough.
At this, Simon Cowell hits his no buzzer immediately!
Even though things are off to a bizarre and rocky start, the crowd is still having a blast.
After the strange introduction is over, Retriever does a silly, seductive walk to the back of the stage. Right after that, she’s taking her pants and her top off to reveal a strange one piece leotard painted in the colors of the American flag.
She strikes a few poses, does some weird dance moves with her hands and looks at the audience intensely. Nobody knows what to make of it… and Simon is the first to give her a no.
Shortly after that, Julianne gives her a no as well—but she continues with full enthusiasm!
Although two of the judges are out, nobody seems to love her more than Howie Mandell does!
Besides the judges, most of the crowd seems to be fully on her side as well. While the dancing she’s doing is definitely not “good,” there’s no denying that she has an incredible stage presence… and one of the most unique performances that the stage has ever seen before.
When it’s all over, Simon asks what everybody was thinking: “What the bloody hell was that?”
Although she didn’t get the yeses she needed, the “performance” still continues after it’s all over.
Shortly after, Retriever starts flirting with Simon… and even gives him her hotel room number.
After that, she even approaches the judges’ bench. She even tries to hit the Golden Buzzer to get herself through… but it doesn’t quite work. Eventually, Terry Crews has to escort her off-stage. As it turns out, the whole performance was most likely an inside joke—because Yuriyan Retriever is a Japanese comedian who is quite famous in her home country!
For anyone doubting this, just check out her Instagram page for more of her sketches.
Although America’s Got Talent is mostly for breaking inspiring new talents, it’s nice to see someone mix it up now and then.
No matter how bizarre it may seem, it’s clear that Yuriyan Retriever has plenty of comedy talent and her audition will definitely not be forgotten any time soon. Even if you weren’t particularly impressed by the dance moves, the off-putting energy of this performance is sure to stick with you.
Salute to Yuriyan Retriever on making Simon Cowell so uncomfortable! Watch the full clip below:
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