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Any Dream Will Do

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Starring John Barrowman, Graham Norton, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Where to watch: BBC America)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 6, age appropriate for kids over 8; suggested age 8.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    UK singing contest stays true to family-friendly musical.

Why We Rated This on for Ages 8 and Up

The good stuff

  • Educational value:

    The show isn't intended to be educational, but young viewers will learn a few things about the inner workings of musical theater and the show Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat.

  • Messages:

    The show is less catty and drama-oriented than many other reality competitions, and it seems to value passion and dedication to a goal.

  • Role models:

    For the most part, the potential Josephs are hardworking and talented, and many have inspiring personal stories. The pool of auditioners is extremely diverse, with a variety of ethnicities and body types represented -- although when it gets down to the final 12, the overall look is pretty homogenous (think "slim," "attractive," ... and "white").
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence & scariness:

    Not an issue.

  • Sexy stuff:

    Appearing shirtless is a requirement for the role, so viewers will see some bare chests and hear a few sexually charged comments (like "I think you'd look marvelous in a loin cloth!" and "You're ripped!") from the female judges.

  • Language:

    Not an issue.

  • Consumerism:

    The show's not-so-subtle aim is drumming up interest (and selling tickets) for an upcoming production of Joseph, which goes up four months after auditions begin.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Any Dream Will Do

Parents need to know that this British reality competition already ran its course in the U.K. So even though it essentially functions as a commercial for the musical it's promoting (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat), it's unlikely to affect your wallet -- unless your kid insists on buying the soundtrack. The good news is that, since Joseph is a family-friendly show, you won't have to worry about graphic language, violence, or sex. There are a few shirtless scenes (a requirement of the musical) and saucy comments, but nothing too racy for kids.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about how a series like this helps the musical's producers promote their show and sell more tickets. Why open up the field to amateurs instead of hiring a professional actor?
  • Why do contestants have to sing pop songs in addition to songs from the show? Do you think the finalists the judges chose are the best candidates for the part?
  • Parents and kids can also research the biblical story of Joseph and his coat of many colors, upon which the musical is based.
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