So last Thursday was the season premiere of MTV's new performing arts reality show, "Taking the Stage." Did anyone watch it? What do you all think?

So far, I think the concept is great - viewers are getting a somewhat realistic glimpse into the complicated lives of these aspiring performers, even if there is some producer interference, as it seems. (i.e. Choreographed mass dances in the cafeteria... definitely taking on a kind of "Fame" quality).

But the good thing is this: In American popular entertainment rarely do we see ballet dancers in black leotards and pink tights helping possible love interests with their Sissonnes. (All the dance nerds out there were totally geeking out like, aww how romantic!). The very fact that the American public is becoming familiar with words like "Sissonne" is a good thing in my book. Furthermore, it may help some young people change their preconceived notions about ballet when they see a tough, city kid struggling with this simple jump and, even worse, being one-upped by a girl. All in all, the idea of incorporating REAL dancing into the plot, along with the trials and tribulations that dancers go through on a daily basis, is pretty genius and original, and I give producer Nick Lachey kudos for making it happen.