Taking the Stage

I am totally in love with this new MTV show called Taking the Stage. Yes, it's a reality show, and I don't care what that connotes, because it's awesome.

Basically, the show follows a few "main characters" who attend the Cincinnati School for Creative and Performing Arts (SCPA), so basically a reality Fame. The show's greatest strength is its portrayal of school-wide talent. One of the main characters is a music major, others study dance (ballet or hip-hop), and most are multi-talented singers/performers. It's completely addictive, and there have only been 3 episodes. T.t.S. does lack some high quality drama. I mean, come on, these are high school students. So, of course, the gossip revolves around Tyler trying to get with Jasmine while secretly flirting with Mia, which Shaakira and Malik totally saw coming. But seriously, what else constitutes drama in reality tv?

MTV admits that some of the scenes are re-shot reality. As in, they sometimes have to "re-enact" important moments or stage conversations in more concise snippets for sake of pacing. I don't really mind that in principle, but these kids are not actors. Usually you can tell what is being re-shot vs. what is actually happening real time. This does give the show sort of a fakey veneer, at times. But honestly, the showcase of talent and creative challenges far outweigh the poor "un"-script. Check it out -- you'll be glad you did.