10 Shows & Movies Like Dance Academy

Description: Follows students at a performing arts high school as they navigate the challenges of honing their craft while dealing with personal and professional obstacles.

Fact: The movie inspired a TV series, a remake, and a stage musical. The iconic 'Fame' song became a hit and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Description: A welder by day and dancer by night dreams of joining a prestigious dance academy, capturing the grit and determination required to chase one's dreams.

Fact: The movie's iconic water splash scene was improvised by Jennifer Beals. The soundtrack, featuring 'What a Feeling,' won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.

Description: A rebellious ballroom dancer challenges the rigid conventions of his sport, blending traditional and contemporary styles in a heartfelt underdog story.

Fact: The film was director Baz Luhrmann's debut and the first in his 'Red Curtain Trilogy.' It was inspired by a short play Luhrmann wrote in college.

Description: A young woman pursues her dream of becoming a songwriter while working at a bar where the staff performs choreographed dance routines, blending music, dance, and ambition.

Fact: The film is loosely based on the real-life Coyote Ugly Saloon in New York City. The bar's founder, Liliana Lovell, served as a consultant on the movie.

Description: A ballet dancer finds new inspiration in hip-hop after moving to a new city, exploring themes of cultural fusion and personal growth through dance.

Fact: Julia Stiles trained intensively in ballet and hip-hop for her role. The film's soundtrack was a commercial success, featuring artists like DMX and Aaliyah.

Description: A film that delves into the lives of ballet students at a prestigious academy, focusing on their rivalries, romances, and the sacrifices they make for their art.

Fact: The movie features real-life American Ballet Theatre dancers in key roles. The iconic final dance sequence was choreographed by Susan Stroman, a Tony Award-winning choreographer.

Description: A story of two dancers from different backgrounds who come together through their shared passion, illustrating how dance can bridge gaps and transform lives.

Fact: The film launched the successful 'Step Up' franchise. Channing Tatum, who starred in the movie, had no formal dance training before filming and learned on the job.

Description: Centers on a ballet school and the relationships between students and their mentor, showcasing the highs and lows of pursuing a career in dance with humor and heart.

Fact: The series was created by Amy Sherman-Palladino, known for her sharp, fast-paced dialogue. It was canceled after one season but gained a cult following for its unique blend of drama and comedy.

Description: A drama-filled series about a dance studio where young dancers compete and form close bonds, highlighting the dedication and passion required to succeed in the performing arts.

Fact: The show was originally created as a mockumentary-style series, blending scripted drama with real dance competitions. Many of the cast members are professional dancers in real life.

Description: This series revolves around young athletes striving for excellence in a competitive world, focusing on their personal and professional struggles, much like the journey of aspiring performers in a high-pressure environment.

Fact: The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of gymnastics and the intense training regimens athletes undergo. It was filmed at the same gym used by Olympic gymnast Shawn Johnson.