March
HBCU docu celebrates perseverance, teamwork, and Black joy.
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March
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this TV show.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that March is a docuseries exploring HBCU (historically Black colleges and universities) culture at Prairie View A&M University. Produced by Cheryl Horner McDonough (Parkland Rising) and Jamail Shelton (Love & Hip Hop: Atlanta), it explores the legacy and culture of the award-winning band, and the students and staff who work tirelessly to maintain its prestige. Members of the "Marching Storm" act with emotional intelligence and compassion toward their bandmates. Young people watching this series will see strong examples of teamwork, perseverance, and accountability. The band members and staff are mostly Black; they thrive in a culturally safe and supportive environment. Of the students profiled, one comes from a low-access community, one is a young parent, another identifies as trans/non-binary. Young Black women are in leadership positions, young Black men express their emotions and ask for help. When an interpersonal conflict arises among members affecting the morale and cohesion of the band, the director holds boundaries around the consequence.
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What's the Story?
MARCH is an eight-part series documenting members of the prestigious Prairie View A&M University's marching band, the "Marching Storm", and the historic legacy they seek to uphold. As the energy of a new school year takes off, students prepare for their first homecoming performance since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. Braiding interviews with video footage, the students share aspects of their personal lives, peer relationships, and academic responsibilities, describing the pressures of navigating life at the top of their skill sets.
Is It Any Good?
Representation matters, and this documentary provides in a fun watch, with just enough personal drama, cultural context, and historical content to keep the interest of teens and their caregivers. In March, the musicianship and endurance exhibited in this series inspires. The band members provide clear character examples of empathy, perseverance, accountability, and more. The musicians, drum majors, and dancers are experts in entertainment; the joy and energy from their performances will charm and delight.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the purpose of HBCUs. Viewers can use this opportunity for conversations around the history of segregation in the American South.
Why is it important for students of color to see other minorities succeeding in higher education and the arts?
What are some examples of teamwork and perseverance that stood out to you?
TV Details
- Premiere date: January 24, 2022
- Cast: Cheryl Horner McDonough, Jamail Shelton
- Network: CW
- Genre: Reality TV
- Topics: Arts and Dance, Friendship
- TV rating: NR
- Last updated: April 7, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
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