'So You Think You Can Dance' comes to UK

Nigel Lythgoe's talent show So You Think You Can Dance has been brought to the UK and will air on the BBC in 2010.

The former Popstars judge will be joined by Strictly Come Dancing's Arlene Phillips on the panel of industry experts who will be trying to find Britain's Favourite Dancer.

So You Think You Can Dance, which has had five series on Fox in the US, is produced by Simon Fuller's 19 Entertainment.

"I began my career as a dancer on the BBC in the '60s. Now, I'm back as a judge of dancers - I believe I've made a full circle back to television's home of dance here at the BBC," said Lythgoe.

"I couldn't have imagined that dance would become a global phenomenon that would ultimately be responsible for this, my very special homecoming. It's good to be home."

The winner will take home a cash prize and a to-be-confirmed, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Auditions for the show will take place across the UK during October. Professional and amateur dancers can compete and will be taught different dance styles such as hip-hop, jazz, lyrical and contemporary each week. The judges and viewers will have the power to vote for their favourite dancer in each episode.

Controller of BBC One Jay Hunt added: "I am thrilled that the channel that brings audiences Strictly Come Dancing will now also host the ultimate nationwide competition to find the UK's favourite dancer. It's an exciting addition to the Saturday night lineup."