Center Stage

I can't believe this almost slipped off my radar, but never fear, dear readers: I finally did remember that the sequel to Center Stage is airing on Oxygen tonight. And just because this is a made-for-TV movie (the first went to theaters) that will head to DVD in January doesn't mean they're skimping on the good stuff.

For example, Peter Gallagher is reprising his role as artistic director Jonathan Reeves, and accomplished ballet dancer Ethan Stiefel is back as Cooper Nielson. This time around, we'll watch a new generation of dancers tackle the world of New York ballet:

Kate, a talented, self-taught ballerina . . . leaves her Detroit home to audition for the prestigious American Ballet Academy in New York. Despite displaying superior abilities and impressing experienced teacher Cooper Nielsen (Stiefel), Kate is rejected by Artistic Director Jonathan Reeves (Gallagher) in favor of classical ballerina Suzanne. A prodigy from a wealthy family, Suzanne has been trained in classical ballet since the moment she could walk. Kate then meets hockey player-turned-dancer Tommy, who has been accepted to the Academy, but still needs help with his technique. As Kate and Tommy work together, their growing affection inspires a new determination and commitment to achieving their dreams.

Think you'll be checking this out? Were you a fan of the first one? To see a trailer for tonight's sequel, Center Stage: Turn it Up, just read more

What a great hump day! First, Ryan and Rachel rekindle their love and now this: Popwrap is claiming that one of my favorite dance movies of all time will be getting a sequel. They write:

CS: Turn It Up gets a little urban on us this time as Kate Parker, a self-taught prodigy catches Jonathan's eye and makes it into the American Ballet Academy. Sadly things don't go as planned and she's booted from the school — only to meet Tommy, an ex-hockey player and unlikely new ABA student (obviously) who crushes on Kate and gets her a job at a hot NYC nightclub, The Foundry. Well, needless to say, sparks fly and I am sure there is an amazing dance-off to end all cinematic dance-offs.

I totally agree that the dance-off is a guarantee — and I look forward to it. The original Center Stage is hilariously earnest and cheesy, but when dance is involved I have a hard time saying no. Of the original cast only Peter Gallagher and Ethan Stiefel will return. The sequel will premiere on Oxygen in November (don't worry, I'll remind you) and then head straight to DVD (I'll probably remind you then too).

It may not be a masterpiece but it's totally the kind of mindless TV movie sequel I kinda can't resist. I dug up the final dance scene for the original Center Stage, so if you have about ten minutes you'd like to fill with wonderment, just read more