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Taking the Stage

(Rated TV-PG, Reality TV, Where to watch: MTV, Online)

  • Is it age appropriate?

    About our ratings

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    Not age appropriate for kids under 9, age appropriate for kids over 12; suggested age 12.

  • Is it any good?

    3.0

  • Common Sense says

    Performing arts reality show could inspire kids.

Themes in this show include:   friendship, growing up

Why We Rated This on for Ages 12 and Up

The good stuff

  • Messages:

    The show emphasizes hard work and striving for your dreams. It plays up the students' talent, rather than any interpersonal drama between them.

  • Role models:

    The school is extremely diverse. And, in general, the students are strong role models for younger kids and serve as an example of how working hard can pay off. That said, Malik seems to be the "bad guy," in that he gives a new student a lukewarm welcome and makes fun of another dance troupe that places third in a school talent show. He's also shown throwing a tantrum when his own group doesn't place.
 

What to watch out for

  • Violence:

    Competing students have a spirited dance-off filled with in-your-face moves, but it's all in good fun.

  • Sex:

    When romantic sparks fly between students, there's some innocent canoodling and flirtation, but nothing tweens and teens can't handle. Another student's boyfriend breaks up with her.

  • Language:

    In one instance, an angry student says, "I've worked my ass off for this." But swearing is genuinely rare.

  • Consumerism:

    Scenes are peppered with popular music from recognizable artists like Danity Kane and Rihanna.

  • Drinking, drugs, & smoking:

    Not an issue.
 

What Parents Need to Know

About Taking the Stage

Parents need to know that there's not much to be concerned about in this performing arts reality series -- and, thanks to the show's emphasis on the students' talents, younger viewers could actually be inspired to pursue their own passions in the arts. Cursing is extremely rare, and when it does happen, it's a pretty minor word like "ass." There's also a bit of boy-girl relationship drama, although the most you'll see is innocent flirtation between male and female students.

Did this review help you decide?

Families Can Talk About

  • Families can talk about the differences between a regular high school and a school like the School for Creative and Performing Arts. How does devoting your energies to a craft like singing or dancing compare to studying subjects like math, science, or English? Which is "easier"?
  • Do you consider these students intelligent as well as talented? Why or why not? Are they good role models?
  • How does a show like this compare to other MTV reality series?
Tools and tips that can help

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