Great Dance Crew 2 (2023)

The season where it literally live to its title "Great Dance Crew".

Season 2 of "Great Dance Crew" truly outshines its predecessor in several key areas, particularly in the caliber of competition and production quality. The only minor shortcoming, in my opinion, was the early involvement of Jessica as a mentor. While Jessica is a prominent figure, she struggled to match the energy, expertise, and synergy of the other mentors, especially when it came to guiding her chosen crew. This disconnect was evident early on, and I couldn't help but feel sympathy for her team as they faced an uphill battle from the start.

One point of contention for me has been the debate over whether "Great Dance Crew" should remain a "girls-only" platform, as it was in the first season. Given that the show's title isn't gender-specific, unlike "Street Woman Fighter," I believe including diverse crews and mentors adds richness to the competition. This season, by welcoming crews from renowned dance studios across China and inviting powerful teams from East Asia, the show feels more aligned with its universal title, celebrating dance without unnecessary gender limitations.

The format this season: having six mentors vote, negotiate, and select two crews to form a team for stage performances, has made for some exciting dynamics and strategic partnerships. It emphasizes both the competitive nature of the show and the collaboration required for teams to succeed on the big stage. Including international dance crews also adds a layer of excitement, raising the bar for performance quality.

What I love most about this season is the emphasis on the creativity and choreography showcased on stage. Each crew brings something fresh and distinct to the table, and it’s a joy to see how their unique styles blend in the performances. Among the mentors, my personal favorite is Santa. His thoughtful and profound feedback consistently pushes the crews to grow, even when they don't win. His impact isn't just about victory in the finale, he achieves something much more valuable. Santa helps his team members step out of their comfort zones, embrace versatility, and deepen their connection to the art form.

He is a breath of fresh air in the dance show landscape, offering more than just technical critique. His insights reveal the artistic and emotional dimensions of dance, making the show accessible even to those unfamiliar with the art form. This season’s true strength lies in its ability to bridge that gap, breaking boundaries and making dance an experience appreciated not only by enthusiasts but by a broader audience.

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