As a dancer, it’s gratifying to see the many different dance shows on mainstream TV (including PBS’s real-life American ballroom competitions). The
“Dancing With the Stars” is probably the most pathetic of the shows, with its ageism (“not bad for a 60-or-70-or this season an 80-year-old”) and its sexist insistence on conflating role/gender – as in leading/men and following/women. The cross marketing is getting a bit tired, too. However, it has given an incredible boost to professional Ballroom and Latin American dancers who are tasked with turning a gaggle of B-listers into Pavlovas. For a professional partner dancer, being on “Dancing With the Stars” brings a level of celebrity and wealth never before available in their field.
All of which goes to prove my life theory that achievement is more about opportunity than talent. But that, as my friend says, is another story.
Randy Jackson – of “American Idol” fame – is the producer and Mario Lopez (who was robbed when he came in 2nd in 2006 on “Dancing With The Stars”) is the MC. The stylish show introduces the amazing world of street crews to American TV viewers and there is no denying the artistry, athleticism and innovation of this movement. This year’s crop of
But why not check them out yourselves? This irresistible clip shows the whole “Usher” round in less than five minutes by eliminating all the chat, judges and commercials and showing you only the brilliance. Enjoy.
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