TV Details
Starring
Genre
More details
See more TV reviews

America's Ballroom Challenge (PBS)

common sense media says

Snipe-free dance competition is fun for all ages.

parents & educators say
Be the first to review it

What parents need to know

Parents need to know that this series offers an educational look at competitive ballroom dancing, skipping the sometimes-snide judging that is the hallmark of similar network competition shows in favor of celebrating the dancers' artistry and athleticism and attempting to make dancing both entertaining and accessible to kids. Female dancers sometimes wear skimpy outfits, and some of the dance moves are a bit suggestive, but they're presented as part of the overall art form.

Positive messages: The series educates viewers on the different types of dances and highlights the artistry and strength it takes to perform at this level. It demonstrates how traditional steps can be performed to contemporary music and shows how classic dancing can be accessible to kids. None of the sniping by judges that marks network dance/performance competition shows.
Violence & scariness: Not applicable.
Sexy stuff: Some costumes are skimpy, especially in the International Latin division.
Language: Not applicable.
Consumerism: Some couples dance to popular music by artists like Eminem and Sarah McLachlan. One couple dances to a Disney song.
Drinking, drugs, & smoking: Not applicable.
Our ratings and reviews are informed by child development guidelines. Learn more.

More on America's Ballroom Challenge

What to talk about

Talk to your kids
Families can talk about why there's been an increase in movies and TV shows that feature ballroom dancing. What does traditional dancing offer to kids today? How can traditional dances like waltzes be adapted to contemporary music? Families can also discuss the stereotypes that society tends to have about dancers. Are dancers really athletes? How much work goes into dancing competitively? What does it take to compete at the national and international level?

What's the story?

What's the story?
AMERICA'S BALLROOM CHALLENGE follows the world's largest annual ballroom dance competition. Hosted by actress/dancer Jasmine Guy and Latin dance champion Ron Montez, the contest features the top ballroom dancers from all over North America. Each pair competes in four divisions: American Smooth, American Rhythm, International Standard, and International Latin. In each episode, the division finalists strut their stuff both in groups and in individual show dances. Each division's winning couple goes on to perform all four dance styles in the final round in hopes of winning the Ballroom Challenge title.

Is it any good?

Is it any good?
 
America's Ballroom Challenge is both educational and entertaining for anyone who enjoys ballroom dancing. But what really makes the show worthwhile is its attempt to present ballroom dancing as something that's both accessible and fun for kids. Some of the competitive performances offer unconventional interpretations of traditional dance styles (like performing Viennese waltz steps to hip-hop music), while exhibition performances featuring kids of all ages highlight the skill, strength, and showmanship that are required to succeed in this challenging art.

That said, the series doesn't have much to offer those who aren't interested in dancing. But if you are, watching America's Ballroom Challenge is a great chance to learn a lot about dance while watching people having fun doing it.

TV themes & details

TV Details
TV Rating: TV-G
Network: PBS
Cast: Jasmine Guy, Ron Montez
Genre: Reality TV
Where to watch: PBS
This review was written by Melissa Camacho
 
 

Review It

 

Review America's Ballroom Challenge

Hang on! You need to be a member to post your review.
A safe community is important to us. Please observe our guidelines.
 

There aren’t any reviews yet. Ask your friends to review this title.

More reviews ...

An independent voice for families
Age-appropriate reviews
Advice on the big issues
 

vote now

Will you see America's Ballroom Challenge?

Won't miss it
We'll try
Change it

Already seen it? What do you think?

I recommend it
It's a pass
 

Great alternatives handpicked by our editors

Browse more TV
About our rating system
ON: Content is appropriate for kids this age.
PAUSE: Know your child, some content may not be right for some kids
OFF: Not age appropriate for kids this age
Our child development rating guidelines