Bittersweet | Dance Moms

CATHY BRINGS IT ON (s1 ep10)

This week, the girls are in Hollywood—Los Angeles, California, one of the biggest cities in America, and the center of the entertainment industry. The glitz and glamour of Hollywood are palpable as the team walks through the bustling streets. Everyone's excited to be here, but there's a lot riding on this week. It's not just another competition; this is where dreams are made, and only the best survive.

This is also the week before their nationals in Lake Tahoe, so they have to win this weekend.

Virella was matching with Chloe today, both dressed to impress, but Virella couldn't shake the feeling that there was something different about this competition. Abby seemed extra intense, more than usual.

"Ladies, here we are in Los Angeles, California, for the iHollywood National Finals. And you are in the city of dreams," Abby announces, her voice full of authority. "There are going to be children here you recognize. The kids that are in movies. The kids that are on television. These kids in Los Angeles audition on a weekly basis. They are professionals. And you are going to be among them. You need to be ready for that."

Virella listens closely, nodding but feeling the weight of the moment. For a ten-year-old, this is big. Hollywood is where everyone's eyes are on you, where you have to prove yourself every day. Abby's words sink in, reminding them all that they're not just competing against local talent; they're competing against the future stars of the entertainment world.

"Maddie," Abby continues, her tone sharp, "Your mom's not here again. We all make choices. She chose to be away instead of being with you. Virella, your mother had to take care of your family back in Pittsburgh. They're sick and can't stay with your grandmother anymore. I understand. Life happens."

Virella's heart twinges for Maddie, but she keeps her focus. She knows how this business can be—it's demanding, and sometimes sacrifices have to be made. But it's not easy for anyone, especially when it feels like there are so many expectations and pressures.

"The three of you will be with me this week, and you may get to do some things that other kids might not get to do. But that doesn't mean it's going to be easy. So stay sharp."

Melissa had probably planned to leave Maddie with Abby so she could get some of the special attention that Virella usually gets, but guess what? Elizabeth isn't here either. That changes everything. This week, it's different.

"I'm gonna move on to our lovely pyramid," Abby announces, not missing a beat.

"On the bottom row, I have Paige and Brooke. You will not have solos. You will be in the group number. I've had it with your mother. She has told me that she can find better choreographers. I'm sure she can. This is Los Angeles, not Pittsburgh. But please understand, if you go as an independent soloist, you're out. You're finished."

Paige and Brooke look down, disappointed but silent. It's clear that Abby is holding nothing back this week.

"Next, I have Nia and Mackenzie. You two will be performing a duet this week," Abby says, moving down the pyramid.

"Maddie, you're going to be doing a solo, as well as the group routine. I expect nothing less than perfection from you."

"Chloe, same as Maddie. You'll do your solo and the group number. Don't disappoint me."

"And on top, Virella," Abby says, her voice rising with a mix of pride and expectation. "You're gonna be doing a solo this week. Now remember, you're undefeated. That means you need to win again. And you will. I know you can do it. I've seen you win before, and I know you have what it takes to do it again. People are out to get you. You are the girl to beat."

Virella stands tall, hearing the pressure in Abby's voice, but she doesn't show any signs of doubt. She's heard the same words before, but they never quite lose their weight. Abby's faith in her is both a blessing and a burden. This is the moment that could either solidify her as the top dancer, or risk it all. In Hollywood, the competition is fierce, and there's no room for error.