It seems to be top 3-4 plus Japanese fan favorites. C/S have competed at nhk for 3 years straight, won their 4CC bronze in Japan and competed in WTT in Japan. They always say how much they love skating there and the Japanese audience seem to love them. They have a fabulous show program. I'm pleased but not surprised to see them on this list. Glad they will end worlds on a nice note.
Wagner has a somewhat similar history with the Japamese audience with a lot of NHK appearances. Their reaction to her free skate is why she's in the gala.
That said, im sure team Gracie is not pleased.
C/S's gala is pretty awesome! It's one of the more memorable ones. As is Ashley's "Sumertime Sadness" program.