Dance Moms

So You Think You Can Dance, Dance Life, and Taking the Stage are just a few of the many reality shows based around dancers and their lives. These shows are entertaining, give performers the opportunity to show off their talent, and gain exposure in the industry. That is what those shows are meant to do, but there is a new breed of reality show revolving around dance. This new series is called ‘Dance Moms’ and it shows what goes on behind the scenes of competitive dance. The show follows a group of moms set to make their children stars. The Abbey Lee Dance Studio in Pittsburgh is the setting where all the drama takes place. These mothers are fierce, competitive, and will stop at nothing to have their child be the best. This determination causes tons of drama in the studio and the cameras are there to document all of it.

 There have been criticisms claiming the show is completely staged but I wanted to see it for myself. After watching the show and knowing what goes on behind the scenes at dance competitions, it was easy to conclude that although there are dance moms everywhere, the events were a bit exaggerated. Many of the events that happen in the show are things that I have seen, but they are never taken to extremes like they are in the show. In my opinion, this show is a poor portrayal of the dance world and the parent/adults involved in it. I will admit though that I do continue to follow it for the entertainment factor and it is always good for a laugh. Below are a few clips of the show so you can see for yourself what ‘Dance Moms’ is about!