My take:
- TV is not going to spotlight crews criticizing the establishment. That doesn't make the crews' dance moves any less athletic or artistic
- These crews ARE authentic -- they formed years before ABDC first aired in 2008. The crews honed their craft in both dance studios and on street corners. I've watched a lot of street-style dance over the years and believe that many of the ABDC crews are extending the form with innovative moves and combinations. Also, unlike all the other TV shows, these crews do their own choreography, which makes the show so much fresher than any other dance show around.
- Yeah, there are a lot of gimmicks and superficial identities on ABDC. That makes it fun. There's also solid dancing behind the masks and skates.
- I applaud MTV for exposing people to hip-hop dancing. I've talked to NY City street crews who are working it more now that more people are stopping and watching (and dropping coin). The exposure can also lead to a larger audience for more innovative and controversial choreographers.
