The question about dance TV shows and COVID-19 is one that is really hard to answer given the day-to-day nature of the pandemic and the varying guidelines in each country, state and city. Yet a new report about Strictly Come Dancing might offer a bit of insight. While the BBC has yet to confirm the news from The Daily Mail via The Daily Star, but if the network can get a fall season together, a few major elements will be missing: •No studio audience •No group dances •Blackpool weekend canceled
Dancing with the Stars fans should look at Strictly as a model for what could happen in the fall if ABC can work its magic to make a season happen. In the U.S., there are a few other issues that could be a sticking point for the season to return. While California is slowly easing its restrictions, Los Angeles County public health director Dr. Barbara Ferrer has extended the stay-at-home order for L.A. indefinitely. Is that one more month or five more months? That is a key piece to puzzle in getting production to resume. The other crucial aspect is that SAG-AFTRA, along with the other crew unions, will have to sign off on any health and safety precautions for the cast. Since dance is a contact sport, DWTS has a lot of challenges ahead.
More: Choreographers & Creatives Get Real About The Impact of COVID-19 If a fall season does happen for DWTS, the absence of a studio audience is almost certain. That was one of the first measures Hollywood took before the lockdown began — show after show canceled their in-studio audience. While it would be disappointing not to see big opening numbers this season, viewers would probably rather have a DWTS season rather than wait months or a year before they see the show again. It's also a sure bet that travel will be out of the question for pros and the contestants. The days of a pro flying all over the U.S. or overseas to ensure the talent are rehearsed are over. The talent will most likely have to stay local if a fall season gets locked into place.
DWTS fans will have to remain patient with ABC as they navigate uncharted territory and figure out a way to salvage a television season, while adhering to state and local ordinances, in addition to union requirements. It's not an easy path to take.
For weekly dance insight that goes beyond the surface, join our Patreon page for weekly dance news, twice-a-week podcasts and dance-industry analysis: Patreon.
Need a gift idea for a dance lover? Check out my Amazon page for gift ideas.
If you make a purchase using the link included, we may earn a small commission.
Comments