Call me the tie breaker if you will BUT.....
Avon - totally innovative, new things, and FRESH to the world class. ABSOLUTELY.
Shen - It was only their FIRST YEAR in the world class. Yes, sometimes they go with a more lyrical piece and spin spin spin... the "formula" as you call it. Why not - they are elegant, talented, classy and that alone makes them "different" in my opinion. BUT even if you disagree that their style is unique.... how can you foget about their WAY out the box shows like Psycho, Origami, and even last year's show with the stage? If you didn't find that innovative - you simply "missed it." It was a build from start to finish through music, staging and equipment. Even I got THAT! And the most OUT THE BOX SHOW ever was that mannequin show from like 3 years ago. What the heck.... 30 foot mannequins flying around the tarp looked like two shows going on from up top. Totally nuts... but they didn't make the final so maybe you missed that show. ??
Whatever. WHether you're Logan, Shen or Flanagan, I don't envy how scrutinized you are once you get to the world class. Can't wait to see you all.