Common Sense Media Review
By Melissa Camacho
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Alabama dance team fights prejudice with Black queer joy.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
The Prancing Elites Project
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
THE PRANCING ELITES PROJECT features an African American, gender nonconforming dance team from Mobile, Alabama. After getting lots of exposure thanks to a favorable tweet from basketball legend Shaquille O'Neal, the Prancing Elites got a local talent agent and performed their dance routines, called J-setting, around the country. But when they returned to their hometown and danced in the popular Alabama Semmes Christmas Parade, they became a subject of controversy and continue to face bigotry and discrimination. Despite the rejection, they're committed to keep dancing, performing, and showing the world that they're strong enough to rise above.
Is It Any Good?
This exuberant series focuses on a Black and queer dance team as they share their J-setting—a dance style developed by the female dancers of the Jackson State University Marching Band (and made famous by Beyoncé). But it's not all sunshine on The Prancing Elites Project; the reality series deftly balances the joyful performances with the unapologetic scorn, contempt, and judgment the dancers sometimes face in more hostile environments.
There are also both cheerful moments and interpersonal drama on the team itself. The scenes feel honest, allowing viewers to see, through the dancers' eyes, what it's like to be shamed and vilified simply for being who you are are and doing what you love to do. Through it all, the series captures the resilience and infectious spirit of performers who refuse to dim their light.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the prejudice and discrimination shown on The Prancing Elites Project. Why do some people insult and shame people they don't even know? What does that say about them? What's another way to approach people who are different from you?
Many reality shows focus on communities who look, behave, or even think differently from people in the mainstream. Why? Is it possible to portray these communities without relying on stereotypes? Is this show successful at doing this?
Who are some of your favorite dancers from the show? Why are they your favorites? How do they show important character strengths such as courage, integrity, and teamwork?
TV Details
- Premiere date : April 22, 2015
- Cast : Adrian Dlemons , Kentrell Collins , Kareen Davis
- Network : Oxygen
- Genre : Reality TV
- Topics : Arts
- Character Strengths : Courage , Integrity , Teamwork
- TV rating :
- Last updated : October 1, 2025
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