Parents' Guide to

Superstars of Dance

By Emily Ashby, Common Sense Media Reviewer

age 8+

Families will get a kick out of international competition.

TV NBC Reality TV 2008
Superstars of Dance Poster Image

A Lot or a Little?

What you will—and won't—find in this TV show.

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age 10+

Based on 2 parent reviews

wolfepac8
wolfepac8 Parent of 8, 8, 8, 8, 8 and 8-year-old
January 12, 2009
age 17+

I am not pleased with it

I watched the first two episodes of Super Stars of Dance and I think that some of the judges who are on the panel sure don't know what good dancing is. For instance they gave the Irish dancers a very good mark for repetitive steps and yet gave the American tap dancer low marks for a very challenging and good technical performance. She was right to tell the judges what she thought. I don't even know this girl, but I thought she was very good. My grandaughter who is a tap dance teacher also thought the same thing. I will not be watching the show from now on due to the very poor judging. They keep someone like Robert Morain who is a contortionist???? I just don't get it.
jmanabat
jmanabat Adult
January 5, 2009
age 2+

I was irrirated the way the judging is done

See all 2 parent reviews

What's the Story?

SUPERSTARS OF DANCE pits country against country in a competition that showcases various international dance forms in an energetic battle for bragging rights. Hosted by famed Irish stepper Michael Flatley, the series features performances by soloists, duets, and teams from eight different countries. Each dance is judged by a panel of representatives from the participating countries; the teams' numbers are combined to eliminate the lowest-scoring competitors at the end of each round. Winners are chosen in each category (solo, duet, and team), and the highest-scoring county is named the overall winner.

Is It Any Good?

Our review:
Parents say (2 ):
Kids say (1 ):

This high-stepping show has something for everyone -- drama, athletics, and artistic expression. With dances ranging from traditional Indian solos to Latin ballroom duets to a contemporary American style called "popping," each performance offers something unexpected, and viewers will gain new respect for the world's cultural and artistic diversity as expressed by the dancers. Brimming with high-energy entertainment, this unique series is a fun choice for families to enjoy together.

Unfortunately, while the dancing hits a high note, the show loses footing in its overall format. Flatley can't quite command a microphone like he does a dance floor, and his hosting style feels unnatural and rehearsed. The judging process is rushed and doesn't allow the panel members to offer feedback to performers to qualify their scores -- which often leads to loud complaints from the crowd and confusion for viewers who disagree with the judges' assessments. But if you can see past the pitfalls, this series is a fun way for your family to gain exposure to lesser-known dance styles, as well as a variety of far-flung cultures.

Talk to Your Kids About ...

  • Families can talk about the perseverance and athletic strength that it takes to become a world-class dancer. Did watching this show change how you viewed dancing as a sport? Which dancers in particular impressed you? Why? How does this show compare to other dancing shows you've seen? Which do you like better, and why? Families can also discuss the different cultures represented on the show. What did you learn by watching? Do you think the performers and dances accurately represent their cultures, or does the show feel commercialized?

TV Details

Did we miss something on diversity?

Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.

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