For those of you who don't know, DWTS is the ABC networks's Dancing With The Stars, and the season premier was last night.
I watch the show because I am fascinated with the art of dance and the incredible prowess of the professional dancers. Occasionally there will be a 'star' that I root for, but, for the most part, I simply enjoy the entirety of the program. The host is a quick-thinking man of many talents who seems to find witticisms at the tip of his tongue whenever needed. His co-host is a pretty face who gets to ask the inane questions that most viewers probably groan over. The judges are never boring and many of the stars come up with comments or statements that make viewers like myself cringe.
And, so it was, that American viewers were drawn once again, for another season, back under the spell of fast feet, bare chests, skimpy costumes and tanning spray. There were two last minute 'fill-ins' due to injuries and the now-predictable star-cast ensemble of players: The famous singer who can't find bodily rhythm, the unheard of Latin hunk who can dance, the NFL player, the obnoxious actor who speaks before he thinks and gets paid for it, the knock-dead gorgeous (usually female) celebrity who has two left feet, the geeky nerd who gives it his all, the comedian who thinks he is funny, and other assorted personalities who are famous for reasons known only to the universe. There is usually one charming stand-out and this year is no exception. She is a recent gold medalist who is the youngest participant to ever compete in DWTS. Seemingly without guile, she smiled, danced well and charmed the judges. Her professional partner treated her with respect and deference - which hopefully will put her parents, who were in attendance, at ease.
I realize that by watching DWTS no logarithms will be solved, no Nobel Laureates will be born, no peace treaties signed, no job losses regained, nor Wall Street rebounds realized. But for millions of viewers, maybe a mindless, brief, and weekly relief from the constant beat of negative drums, stories about the ever-failing economy, and tales of greed and avarice.
I'm ready for the respite. How 'bout you?
Acora imparo
